It has been a busy period in the lead up to Christmas. On 16 November the Executive Director and I met with the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. At that meeting we flagged with the Chief Justice the immense pressure the profession is under in terms of work load and short staffing. We also discussed the issues of the court backlog.
On 25 November we travelled to Canberra for the Law Council of Australia Gala Dinner and meetings. It was an excellent opportunity to meet with the Presidents and CEOs from the other jurisdictions.
On 30 November the Executive Director and I met with the Secretary of Department of Justice, Ginna Webster & Deputy Secretary, Kristy Bourne. We discussed similar issues as those raised with the Chief Justice. Interestingly they agreed that the government sector are having very similar issues with recruitment throughout the Department of Justice, which inevitably has flow on effects in the Court’s ability to deal with matters expeditiously.
You will notice in the update that the Award nominations are open for the President’s Award, Young Lawyers’ Award and Outstanding Pro Bono Legal Award. If you think of a practitioner who fits the categories I would encourage you to nominate that person.
I am pleased that we will be back at the Henry Jones Art Hotel for the Opening of the Legal Year Dinner and look forward to seeing you all at that event.
Amanda Thompson
PRESIDENT