Labor warmly welcomes the appointment of The Hon Susan Kiefel AC as Chief Justice of the High Court of Australia, and the appointment of The Hon James Edelman to the High Court.

Justice Kiefel’s appointment, as the first female Chief Justice, is a momentous one. Her journey from secretary to barrister, to Queensland’s first female Queens Counsel, and now to the highest judicial office in the land should inspire girls and women throughout the country. 

Justice Kiefel has had a stellar career in the law and her elevation to the position of Chief Justice will be unanimously welcomed by the legal community in Australia. Labor wishes her well in her new role. 

Justice James Edelman is one of Australia’s foremost legal minds. He was a world-renowned legal academic before joining the Supreme Court of Western Australia at the age of 40, and then the Federal Court. He will make a fine addition to the High Court in the many years ahead. 

Finally, Labor would like to acknowledge the excellent service to our nation by outgoing Chief Justice Robert French, who will retire in January next year. Chief Justice French has led the High Court for eight years with equanimity and skill. He carries a proud and long record of fine work in the Australian judiciary and will be missed. 

TUESDAY, 29 NOVEMBER 2016