Debra Mortimer has been appointed the next chief justice of the Federal Court of Australia, becoming the first woman to take on the role since the court was established in 1976.
Justice Mortimer was appointed by the Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus and will succeed Chief Justice James Allsop, who is retiring.
She has served on the Federal Court since 2013, and according to Dreyfus, is recognised for her legal acumen, intellectual capacity and judicial leadership.
“The Government congratulates Justice Mortimer on her appointment and looks forward to her distinguished contribution to the justice system as she leads the Federal Court,” Dreyfus said in a statement.
“The Government is grateful to all members of the legal profession who provided nominations and assisted with its consideration of candidates for this very important role.”
Dreyfus thanked outgoing Chief Justice Allsop, who he said had served on the federal court with geat distinction. His term expires when he is due to turn 70 in April
Justice Mortimer will become the fifth chief justice on Australia’s Federal Court, beginning in the role on April 7.
The Law Council of Australia President Luke Murphy congratulated Justice Mortimer on her appointment.
“The Law Council is delighted with Justice Mortimer’s appointment, the first female Chief Justice since the Federal Court was established in 1976,” Murphy said on Friday.
“Justice Mortimer is well known and highly respected in the legal community. In 2011, when her Honour was at the Victorian Bar, she was awarded the Law Council of Australia President’s Medal for her outstanding work that embodied the very best traits of the legal profession.
“I also pay the Law Council’s respect and thanks to Chief Justice James Allsop AC for his outstanding 10 years of service as Chief Justice, and wish him well for the future.”