The Law Council of Australia has paid tribute to the Hon Chief Justice Susan Kiefel AC who has announced her upcoming retirement as Chief Justice of the High Court of Australia.
"Chief Justice Kiefel is a highly respected and outstanding jurist and has been an exceptional leader of the nation's highest court," Law Council President, Luke Murphy said.
"On her appointment as Chief Justice, then Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull noted her story as one that is an inspiration and I heartily agree with that".
"Throughout her career, from leaving school at 15 through to her term as the 13th Chief Justice of the High Court, Chief Justice Kiefel has demonstrated her skill and commitment and has been an inspiration to all in the legal profession," said Mr Murphy.
"As the first female Chief Justice of the High Court of Australia, as well as presiding over the Court's first female majority bench, Chief Justice Kiefel has shown exemplary leadership including by commissioning an independent investigation into sexual harassment complaints made against a Judge of the Court.
"I particularly commend Chief Justice Kiefel for her unwavering support of the legal profession. Despite her heavy workload she has always given up her time to share her expertise and experience," said Mr Murphy.
The Law Council looks forward to Chief Justice Kiefel giving the keynote address at the 2023 National Access to Justice and Pro Bono Conference, which will be co-hosted by the Law, Australian Pro Bono Centre and the Queensland Law Society, next Thursday 22 June in Brisbane.
"I know I speak on behalf of the entire legal profession when I congratulate Chief Justice Kiefel on her wonderful career and wish her all the best in retirement," Mr Murphy said.
