Law Council of Australia

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Law Council Update

The Law Council produces a fortnightly e-newsletter which features highlights on advocacy, media, submissions, and events the legal profession would be interested in. To subscribe please email: subscription@lawcouncil.au.

You can read the past editions below. 

  • LCA Update - 6 December 2024
    In this edition, read about the Law Council’s 2024 Gala Dinner. The event was marked by a series of engaging speeches, including the annual presidential address by Law Council President, Greg McIntyre SC; and keynote speeches from the Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC; the Attorney-General of Australia, the Honourable Mark Dreyfus KC MP. 
    In addition, find out who the Law Council’s 2025 Executive are; read updates on legal issues such as anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing and migration bills; and who won this year’s 2024 President’s Award.

  • LCA Update - 22 November 2024
    In this edition, the Law Council welcomes some of the amendments proposed to the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Amendment Bill 2024 in the report of the Senate the Legal and Constitutional Affairs Legislation Committee, but it is disappointed that it failed to heed the serious concerns raised in relation to the legislation’s potential to undermine access to justice. Other key advocacy updates include submission work in relation to the independent statutory review of Part IIIAAA of the Defence Act 1903 (Cth), and a submission to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority in relation to its consultation on a draft revised approach to addressing complaints relating to superannuation death benefits.

  • LCA Update - 8 November 2024
    In this edition, read about Law Council’s recent public hearing appearance in relation to the Anti-money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Amendment Bill 2024, where the Law Council raised concerns about the Bill’s provisions which would require Australian lawyers to report on their clients. In addition, the Law Council also appeared before the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security to give evidence about the Review of the Cyber Security Legislative Package 2024. Other key advocacy updates include submissions on Enhancing Civil Protections and Remedies for Forced Marriage, Aged Care Bill 2024, and the Privacy and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024.

  • LCA Update - 25 October 2024
    In this edition, read about the Law Council President’s attendance at the 37th LAWASIA Annual Conference which took place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, which he participated as a panellist in a session on Economic, social and cultural rights and technology and moderated a session on Directions in indigenous rights movements: country reports, constitutional recognition, and native title. In addition, read an opinion piece on youth justice by Law Council President and the Australian Medical Association, President, titled ‘Here's what you get when you call for more cops and longer jail sentences’. Stay informed on the recent submissions made in relation to Education Services for Overseas Students Amendment (Quality and Integrity) Bill, Family Law Amendment Bill 2024 and a response to a proposals paper titled ‘Introducing mandatory guardrails for AI in high-risk settings’.

  • LCA Update - 11 October 2024
    In this edition, read about recent international engagements and the speech delivered by Law Council President, Greg McIntyre SC, at the Opening of the Legal Year in London. In addition, read about the Law Council’s roundtable which brought together senior policy makers and civil society representatives to discuss the National Children’s Commissioner’s report ‘Help Way Earlier’, and a joint statement calling for universal abolition of the death penalty for all people.

  • LCA Update - 27 September 2024
    In this edition, read about the Law Council President’s recent attendance to the International Bar Association Conference 2024, held in Mexico City. During the Conference, President Greg McIntyre SC represented the Australian legal profession at the IBA Bar Issues Commission Bar Leaders Open Forum held on 18 September and the IBA Council Meeting on 19 September. In addition, learn about the recent updates to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s guidelines for administering and monitoring court enforceable undertakings, and read the Law Council’s Public Leadership Statement on Sexual Harassment and Discrimination.

  • LCA Update - 13 September 2024
    In this edition, read the LCA President's Message, which emphasises important updates regarding the National Access to Justice Partnership, Youth Justice matters, and several submissions to parliamentary committees. Additional updates include a media statement welcoming the release of proposals to amend the AML/CTF regime and details about a public hearing related to the inquiry into family violence orders.

  • LCA Update - 30 August 2024
    In this edition, read the Law Council President's op-ed titled ‘Deporting social problems not the right path’ which calls for moderation in the debate about deportation of non-citizens with criminal records. Get informed on recent advocacy activities including a joint statement from the Law Council and the Australian Medical Association on Youth Justice, following the release of the National Children’s Commissioner’s report ‘Help way earlier!’ How Australia can transform child justice to improve safety and wellbeing. The LCA and AMA continue to advocate the need to raise the minimum age of criminal responsibility to 14 years. Other advocacy updates include the ‘Access To Justice For All’ campaign, a submission to the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Social Policy and Legal Affairs in response to its Inquiry into Family Violence orders, and more.

  • LCA Update - 16 August 2024
    In this edition, read the Law Council's submission in relation to the Criminal Code Amendment (Deepfake Sexual Material) Bill 2024 that seeks to strengthen offences that deal with the non-consensual sharing of sexually explicit material online, including material created or altered using deepfake technology. The Law Council continues to advocate for more funding for the legal assistance sector through its ‘Access To Justice For All’ campaign. Other advocacy updates include the Law Council’s appearance before the Senate Standing Committee on Education and Employment, where LCA representatives provided evidence on provisions of the Education Services for Overseas Students Amendment (Quality and Integrity) Bill 2024. Furthermore, the LCA also welcomed the announcement of the appointment of nine new Judges to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA) (Division 2).

  • LCA Update - 2 August 2024
    In this edition, learn about the LCA’s newly launched 'Access to Justice for All' campaign, which aims to increase funding for Australia's legal assistance sector. Dive into an opinion piece titled 'Shameful as vulnerable being turned away from legal aid' by the Law Council President. In addition, read updates on recent advocacy work in relation to the inquiry into economic self-determination and opportunities for First Nations peoples, and the Nature Positive Bills.

  • LCA Update - 19 July 2024
    In this edition, read the LCA’s submission on the Statutory Review of the Online Safety Act 2021, which emphasises on strengthening protections to ensure users of online platforms, especially children, are safeguarded from abusive, or harmful, content. Other advocacy updates include submissions on Indigenous cultural and intellectual property rights and the Government’s Humanitarian Program for 2024/25. In addition,  Law Council President-elect, Juliana Warner, attended a ceremonial sitting at the Federal Court of Australia in Sydney to welcome the Honourable Justice Jane Needham as a new judge of that Court.

  • LCA Update - 5 July 2024
    In this edition, the Law Council welcomes the final report of the Independent National Security Legislation Monitor’s review of Commonwealth secrecy offences and calls on the Government to promptly act on its findings. It also highlights the United Nations Human Rights Council statements presented by Law Council President regarding issues on the ‘Extrajudicial killing of lawyers in the Philippines’ and ‘Weaponisation of the legal system in Myanmar’. Furthermore, read the submission to the Attorney-General’s Department in response to the proposals set out in the Reforming Australia’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Regime, as well as the recently published ‘National Legal Profession Anti-Money Laundering & Counter-Terrorism Financing Guidance’.

  • LCA Update - 21 June 2024
    In this edition, read the LCA President's Message which features key updates on the National Legal Assistance Partnership and Federal Budget, along with updates on AML/CTF and international engagements. Read about the LCA President's recent visit to Hong Kong and attendance at the Presidents of Law Association of Asia (POLA) Summit. Additional updates involve the Law Council providing a submission to Treasury in relation to its review of tax regulator information gathering powers and to the Department of Home Affairs' in response to it discussion paper, ‘Reviewing the points test’.

  • LCA Update - 7 June 2024
    In this edition, read about the Law Council's meeting with a Ministerial delegation from Malaysia. The delegation’s visit to Australia was part of a multi-jurisdictional study tour examining separation of powers in government. Other key articles include discussions on advancing Australia’s human rights framework at the federal level; the Law Council welcoming the passage of the Modern Slavery Amendment (Australian Anti-Slavery Commissioner) Bill 2023 (Cth); and a submission on the inquiry into the opportunities and impacts arising out of the uptake of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in Australia.

  • LCA Update - 29 May 2024
    In this edition, read about the International Bar Association Bar Leaders Conference and Mid-year Meetings and the Law Council President's meeting with UK Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Justice), Mike Freer MP. Furthermore, the Law Council welcomed the comprehensive review of the National Legal Assistance Partnership (NLAP) and the passage of Legislation to establish the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART). Other updates include the Law Council’s appearance before the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security to discuss the Counter-Terrorism Legislation Amendment (Declared Areas) Bill 2024 and supplementary submissions on the Administrative Review Tribunal Bill 2023 (Provisions) and related bills.

  • LCA Update – 10 May 2024
    In this edition, delve into the Law Council President's op-ed discussing youth justice titled "Punishment after the event rarely works," along with an interview on the Migration Amendment (Removal and Other Measures) Bill.Read updates on the Senate Legal and Constitutional Affairs Committee report - Crimes Amendment (Strengthening the Criminal Justice Response to Sexual Violence) Bill 2024; the Administrative Review Tribunal Bill 2023 and related bills public hearing; and the Exposure Draft of the Family Law (Superannuation) Regulations 2024 submission. In addition, read about the Law Council welcoming the release by the Attorney-General’s Department of the consultation paper, ‘Reforming Australia’s anti-money laundering and counter terrorism financing (AML/CTF) regime’.

  • LCA Update – 26 April 2024
    In this edition, read the Law Council President's Address delivered at the inaugural meeting of the Legal G20 Summit. Stay informed with updates on the recent public hearing concerning the Migration Amendment (Removal and Other Measures) Bill 2024 and the Inquiry into Greenwashing. Additionally, tune in to the newest episode of the BLS Report – Episode 16: Exploring the development of the new climate disclosure laws.

  • LCA Update – 12 April 2024
    In this edition, read about the Law Council President’s recent visit to the New Zealand Law Society and other engagements. Furthermore, read about the public hearings on the Treasury Laws Amendment (Tax Accountability and Fairness) Bill 2023 and the INSLM's review of the secrecy offences in part 5.6 of the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth). In addition, the ‘Commentary on the Australian Solicitors’ Conduct Rules 2022' is now published on the LCA website.

  • LCA Update – 28 March 2024
    In this edition, read about the highlights from the Immigration Law Conference; the Law Council’s concerns in relation to the Migration Amendment (Removal and Other Measures) Bill 2024, and key outcomes from the inaugural meeting of the Australia – United Kingdom Legal Services Regulatory Dialogue. Furthermore, stay informed with the latest developments on submissions relating to the Department of Home Affairs’ 2023–2030 Australian Cyber Security Strategy: Cyber Security Legislative Reforms Consultation Paper and the review of the secrecy offences in Part 5.6 of the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth).

  • LCA Update – 15 March 2024
    In this edition, read the statement given by Law Council President, Greg McIntyre SC, urging the release of Dr Yang Hengjun; recent meeting between Law Council representatives and Parliamentarians; and the legal services regulatory dialogue between Australia and United Kingdom. In addition, submission updates on the Review of Division 3 of Part III of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation Act 1979 (Cth), a new Aged Care Act Exposure Draft, and more.

  • LCA Update – 1 March 2024
    In this edition, read about the Commonwealth Law Conference, and recent engagements between the Law Council and Malaysian Bar and the Law Society of Singapore. In addition, submission updates on the Statutory Declarations Amendment Bill 2023, Modern Slavery Amendment (Australian Anti-Slavery Commissioner) Bill 2023, and more.

  • LCA Update – 16 February 2024
    In this edition, read about the LCA's position on the Competition Review Taskforce’s consultation on Australia’s merger review processes, along with updates on the Administrative Review Tribunal Bills and the Attorney-General’s Portfolio Miscellaneous Measures Bill 2023.

  • LCA Update – 2 February 2024
    In the first edition, read about the Law Council President’s Priorities and aspirations for 2024; the Law Council calling for more funding to legal assistance services for the upcoming 2024-25 Budget; and updates from the 2024 Fiji Law Society Annual Convention. In addition, read the Law Council’s latest policy position on ‘Admission of Experienced Foreign Legal Practitioners’.

  • LCA Update - 15 December 2023
    In the last edition of 2023, read about the Law Council’s 90th Anniversary Gala Dinner, which more than 230 guests attended the historic occasion. In addition, find out who the Law Council’s 2024 Executive are, read updates on the closing the gap and the LAWASIA Conference in India, and who won this year’s 2023 President’s Award.
     
  • LCA Update - 4 December 2023
    In this edition, the Law Council provides an update on the Migration Amendment (Bridging Visa Conditions) Act 2023 (Cth) and the Family Law Amendment Bill (No. 2) 2023 – Exposure Draft. In addition, find out who the Australian Young Lawyer Award winners were for 2023 and read an exclusive interview with past president, Ms Anne Trimmer AO.
     
  • LCA Update - 17 November 2023
    In this edition, the Law Council provides an update on the 2023 International Bar Association (IBA) Annual Conference, the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, various judicial appointments, and farewells as well as an exclusive interview with a past president, Gerry Murphy AM.
     
  • LCA Update - 3 November 2023
    In this edition, the Law Council provides an update on the Identity Verification Services (IVS) Bill 2023, the Identity Verification Services (Consequential Amendments) Bill 2023 and the Inquiry into Australia’s Human Rights Framework. It also features an interview with past President, Magistrate Pauline Wright.  
     
  • LCA Update - 20 October 2023
    In this edition, read about a new report on anti-money laundering, Vulnerabilities Analysis—Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing: The Australian Legal Profession. The report shows how the Australian legal profession is proactively working to mitigate the risk of being a party to money laundering. Other highlights include the Opening of the Legal Year in London and the farewell ceremony for Chief Justice Susan Kiefel.
     
  • LCA Update - 6 October 2023
    In this edition, the Law Council of Australia encourages Australians to ensure they are fully informed about the proposed constitutionally enshrined Voice and its implications before the 14 October Referendum. It also highlights the Disability Royal Commission Final Report and updates on the Privacy Act Review Report, and features an interview with immediate past President, Tass Liveris.
     
  • LCA Update - 22 September 2023
    In this edition, read about the Law Council’s UN Statement on the Death Penalty presented at the 54th Human Rights Council and President Murphy’s attendance to the PacLII Regional Stakeholder Summit on Maintaining and Enhancing Free Access to Law in the Pacific Region held in Port Vila, Vanuatu. From a domestic perspective, read about the Parliamentary Friends of Ending Violence Against Women and Children panel event and key highlights from the LCA Joint Section Seminar 2023.
     
  • LCA Update - 8 September 2023
    In this edition, the Law Council of Australia highlights its upcoming webinar ‘2023 Referendum: The role and value of a constitutionally enshrined Voice’ and invites members of the Australian legal profession to attend. In addition, as part of the Law Council’s 90th Anniversary, the Law Council had the honour to interview the Hon Alex Chernov AC KC, who served as President in 1990–1991. Also read about key updates on the Family Law Amendment Bill 2023 (Cth) and a media statement on judicial immunity.
     
  • LCA Update - 25 August 2023
    In this edition, the Law Council of Australia welcomes the new Chief Justice of the High Court, Justice Stephen Gageler AC. In addition, the Law Council appeared before the Senate Legal and Constitutional Affairs Committee in relation to the Migration Amendment (Strengthening Employer Compliance) Bill 2023 and appeared before the Senate Legal and Constitutional Affairs Committee in relation to the Family Law Amendment Bill 2023.
     
  • LCA Update - 11 August 2023
    In this edition, read the Law Council of Australia's media release on the Australian Government’s consideration of reforms with the broad objective of strengthening the integrity of the tax system. In addition, read the Law Council's recent submissions on the Climate-Related Financial Disclosure: Second Consultation; Consultation on proposed reforms to the execution of Commonwealth statutory declarations; and Continuing Professional Development for Legal Practitioners on Coercive Control.
     
  • LCA Update - 28 July 2023
    In this edition, the Law Council of Australia highlights LCA President, Mr Luke Murphy and Senior Policy Lawyer (International), Ms Charlotte Stubbs’ attendance to the International Malaysia Law Conference and the 33rd Presidents of Law Associations in Asia (POLA) Summit hosted by the Malaysian Bar Council in Kuala Lumpur. In addition, the Law Council welcomes national dialougue on sexual consent lasws and pays tribute to past President, Mr Tim Bugg AM.
     
  • LCA Update - 14 July 2023
    In this edition, read the Law Council’s submission to the Senate Legal and Constitutional Affairs Legislation Committee in response to its inquiry into the provisions of the Family Law Amendment Bill 2023 (Cth). In addition, the Law Council of Australia raised concern regarding arrest warrants issued for Hong Kong Pro-democracy activists.
     
  • LCA Update - 30 June 2023
    In this edition, the Law Council of Australia welcomed the Constitutional Alteration to establish an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament and Executive. In addition, the Law Council also published a comprehensive Guide for the Legal Profession and a series of factsheets for the Referendum for an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice. Check out highlights from the 2023 National Access to Justice and Pro Bono Conference which was held in Brisbane.
     
  • LCA Update - 16 June 2023
    In this edition, read the Law Council of Australia’s recently revised ‘Best Practice Guide for Legal Practitioners in Relation to Elder Financial Abuse’ and its new companion guide ‘Best Practice Guide for Legal Practitioners on Assessing Mental Capacity’. In addition, the Law Council also congratulates Ms Margery Nicoll on her King’s Birthday Honours Award.
     
  • LCA Update - 2 June 2023
    In this edition, the Law Council of Australia hightlights the International Bar Association (IBA) Bar Leaders' Conference which held in Helsinki from 24-27 May 2023 and also features key submissions, which include the 'Review of Commonwealth Secrecy Provisions' and '2023 Workplace Reform Consultations'. 
     
  • LCA Update - 19 May 2023
    In this edition, the Law Council of Australia acknowledged the Federal Budget 2023-24, however there was a missed opportunity to further fund the legal assistance service sector. In addition Law Council President, Mr Luke Murphy, met with Emeritus Prof. Rosalind Croucher AO on 12 May 2023.
     
  • LCA Update - 05 May 2023
    In this edition, the Law Council of Australia featured the National Policy Lawyers' Forum 2023 which was held in Canberra on 27-28 April, also highlighted the Law Council President's attendence to the New Zealand Law Society Board and Council Meeting held in Wellington.
     
  • LCA Update - 21 April 2023
    In this edition, the Law Council of Australia highlighted the President, Mr Luke Murphy, attended a ceremonial sitting for the Honourable Chief Justice Mortimer last Monday 17 April 2023. The Law Council also hightlighted its recent submission to the Attorney-General's Department in response to its consultation on the Privacy Act Review Report.
     
  • LCA Update - 6 April 2023
    In this edition, the Law Council of Australia welcomed the Honourable Justice Debra Mortimer on her appointment as the new Chief Justice of the Federal Court of Australia and highlights Law Council President, Mr Luke Murphy's statement before the Court for the swearing-in of Judge Louise Goodchild and Judge Constantina (Dina) Lioumis. 
     
  • LCA Update - 24 March 2023
    In this edition, the Law Council of Australia highlighted the LCA President's attendence to 2023 Commonwealth Law Conference in Goa, India. The Law Council also highlighted two oral statements presented by the LCA President, the during the 52nd sessions of the United Nations Human Rights Council.
     
  • LCA Update - 10 March 2023
    In this edition, the Law Council of Australia highlighted the LCA President's attendence of the Prime Minister's Cybersecurity Roundtable, leading a session on regulatory reform and harmonisation of laws relating to cybersecurity. The Law Council also featured the submission to the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security's inquiry into the provisions of the the IGIS Bill.
     

  • LCA Update - 24 February 2023
    In this edition, the Law Council of Australia raised serious concerns regarding the Human Source Management Bill 2023 introduced earlier this month. The Law Council of Australia also welcomed reform of metadata retention laws.

  • LCA Update - 10 February 2023
    In the first edition of 2023, the Law Council of Australia highlighted the 2023-24 Pre-budget submission to the Treasury. The Law Council of Australia and its Family Law Section also welcomes the Family Law Reform.

  • LCA Update - 16 December 2022
    In this edition, the Law Council of Australia welcomes Mr Luke Murphy as the 2023 President. The Law Council also highlighted the IBA Conference in Miami.

  • LCA Update - 2 December 2022
    In this edition, the Law Council of Australia was very pleased to be able to hold its first ‘in-person’ annual gala dinner in three years. The Law Council also welcomed the passage this week of the legislation which will establish the NACC.

  • LCA Update - 18 November 2022
    In this edition, the Law Council responded to a report in relation to the National Anti-Corruption Commission and also noted the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia will expand its Lighthouse model to 15 family law registries across the country.

  • LCA Update - 4 November 2022
    In this edition, the Law Council welcomed the investments in the community-led justice reinvestment intiatives and First Nations-led legal assistance services announced in the Federal Budget. The Law Council also highlights Ms Kate Eastman AM SC, Chair of the Law Council's Equal Opportunity Committee, keynote address at the Westpac Equitable Briefing event in Sydney.

  • LCA Update - 21 October 2022
    In this edition, the Law Council provided evidence to a number of Parliamentary inquires this fortnight, including the Joint Seclect Committee on National anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) Legislation. Also, on Monday the 17th October 2022, Mr Tass Liveris has addressed the Court at the ceremonial sitting to welcome the Hon Jayne Margaret Jagot's appointment.

  • LCA Update - 7 October 2022
    In this edition, Law Council welcomes the introduction of legislation in to the Federal Parliament which will establish the National Anti-Corruption Commission. The Law Council also highlights the historic appointment of the Honourable Justice Jayne Jagot as a Justice of the High Court of Australia.

  • LCA Update - 23 September 2022
    In this edition, Law Council President, Mr Tass Liveris. and Senior Policy Lawyer (International), Ms Charlotte Stubbs, represented the Law Council at the LAWASIA ADR Conference held in Denarau, Fiji on 8-9 September 2022. After attending the LAWASIA ADR Conference, Commonwealth Lawyers Association President, Mr Brian Speers, visited Canberra on 14-15 September together with former Law Council President, Ron Heinrich AM.

  • LCA Update - 9 September 2022
    In this edition, the Law Council and the Australian Bar Association highlighed deep concern about attacks on judicial independence in Kiribati. The Law Council also highlights the Aged Care Amendment (Implementing Care Reform) Bill 2022 (Bill).

  • LCA Update - 26 August 2022
    In this edition, the Law Council expressed concern of continued assaults on judicial independence in Kiribati and also has launched a checklist designed to help small legal workplaces and sole practitioners recruit and retain new staff.

  • LCA Update - 12 August 2022
    In this edition, the Law Council welcomed the recommendations of the Australian Law Reform Commmission's review of the laws relating to impartiality and bias. The Law Council also pleased to see communiques published following the most recent Disability Reform Ministers' Meetings committed to review and improve the operation of NDIS and reduce the number of appeals of decisions by the NDIA to AAT.

  • LCA Update - 29 July 2022
    In this edition, the Law Council publicly and strongly condemned the execution of four pro-democracy figures by Myanmar’s Tatmadaw following closed, summary proceedings before military tribunals. In addition, the Law Council is concerned Raising the Minumum Age of Criminal Responsibility.
     
  • LCA Update - 15 July 2022
    In this edition, the Law Council is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr James Popple as its new Chief Executive Officer. Dr Popple will begin his new role on 25 July 2022. The Law Council also highlights the Law Council President, Mr Tass Liveris' attendance at a roundtable discussion hosted by the Attorney-General, the Hon Mark Dreyfus QC MP, on the design of the National Anti-Corruption Commission.
     
  • LCA Update - 1 July 2022
    In this edition, the Law Council addresses the need for the AAT remind independent and adequately resourced. The Law Council also announced the opening of the 2022 Australian Young Lawyer Awards.
     
  • LCA Update - 17 June 2022
    In this edition, the Law Council congratulates all those recognised for their service to the law in the Queen’s Birthday 2022 Honours List. The Law Council also highlights the renewed call for measures that will better protect older Australians on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, (June 15).
     
  • LCA Update - 3 June 2022
    In this edition, the Law Council welcomes the new government ministry, in particular the incoming Attorney-General, Mark Dreyfus QC. The Law Council also highlighs the historic appointment of the first indigenous Supreme Court appointee, Mr Lincoln Crowley QC and paid tribute after the passing of Sir Gerard Brennan AC KBE QC.
     
  • LCA Update - 20 May 2022
    In this edition, the Law Council highlights the Electronic Conveyancing (Adoption of National Law) Amendment Bill 2022 passed by the NSW Parliament. The Law Council and its Constituent Bodies have been long time participants in the development of the national electronic conveyancing system. The Law Council also promotes the upcoming conference to mark the 90th anniversary of Donoghue vs Stevenson 1932 SC (HL) 31 on 26 May 2022, hosted by the Law Society of Scotland.
     
  • LCA Update - 6 May 2022
    In this edition, the Law Council highlights the consultation undertaken with Anti-Slavery Australia to develop a national compensation scheme model for survivors of modern-day slavery. In addition, the Law Council promotes the work undertaken by it's specialist committees in copyright legislation policy and national iteroprability reform, along with highlighting other key submissions.
     
  • LCA Update - 22 April 2022
    In this edition, the Law Council highlights its 2022 Call to Parties document in the lead up to the federal election. The document outlines the key issues of concern to the Australian legal profession and seeks the commitment of the various political parties. In addition, the Law Council provides an update on the President’s recent engagements and events, and highlights its recent submission to the Banking Code Compliance Committee in relation to its Inquiry into banks’ compliance with Chapter 45 of the Banking Code of Practice.
     
  • LCA Update - 11 April 2022
    In this edition, the Law Council highlights key announcements from 2022 federal budget and welcomes appointments to FCFCOA and AAT. In addition, the Law Council circulated a media release in relation to Migration Amendment (Strengthening the Character Test) Bill 2021, outlining its policy position. Find out who won this year’s Young Australian Migration Lawyer of the Year Award and listen to the latest episode of the BLS Report Podcast.
     
  • LCA Update - 25 March 2022
    In this edition of LCA Update, the Law Council urged all sectors of the justice system, including governments, to urgently work together to close the justice gap faced by First Nations peoples and implement the recommendations now made in countless Royal Commissions and inquiries on Aboriginal deaths in custody and over-incarceration rates. The Law Council also welcomes the appointment of Mr Leo Hardiman as the Freedom of Information Commissioner.
     
  • LCA Update - 15 March 2022
    In this edition of LCA Update, the Law Council highlights new data in relation to its Equitable Briefing Policy for 2019-2022 and provides updates on key submission work in response to the draft National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-32 and the Social Media (Anti-Trolling) Bill 2022.
     
  • LCA Update - 25 February 2022
    In this edition, the Law Council provides an update on its recent submissions and advocacy work. In particular the submission to the Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman in response to its inquiry into small business natural disaster preparedness and resilience, and the submission to the Department of Home Affairs in relation to its Discussion Paper on the Reform of Australia’s Electronic Surveillance Framework. Other updates include international engagements and webinars.
     
  • LCA Update - 11 February 2022
    In the first edition of LCA Update for 2022, read an opinion piece by Law Council President, Tass Liveris, on the religious discrimination bill and updates on the Aged Care and Other Legislation Amendment (Royal Commission Response No. 2) Bill, and the review of the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth).
  • LCA Update - 10 December 2021
    In the last edition for 2021, read the Law Council’s Position Paper on ‘Addressing the legal needs of the missing middle’ which seeks to ensure all Australians have effective access to justice. Watch a recording of the ‘Looking downstream: the long-term costs of underfunding legal aid in Australia’ webinar, joined by a panel of eminent members of the legal and economic sectors. Find out which criminal law specialist won the 2021 President’s Award and get to know upcoming Indigenous law students Mr Cameron Downey and Ms Michelle Burchill – winners of the 2022 John Koowarta Scholarship.
     
  • LCA Update - 29 November 2021
    In this edition, the Law Council of Australia welcomes the decision by Australia’s State Attorneys-General to support development of a proposal to increase the minimum age of criminal responsibility (MACR) from 10 to 12 years of age, but believes an opportunity to bring Australia into step with international human rights standards has been missed. The Law Council also provides an update on its latest public hearing appearance in relation to the inquiry into the Corporations Amendment (Improving Outcomes for Litigation Funding Participants) Bill 2021.  
     
  • LCA Update - 12 November 2021
    In this edition, read about the Law Council’s Lawyer Project Report released in early November. The Report aims to increase public awareness of the role of the legal profession, in particular the beneficial contribution of the profession to the community. Also read updates on the inquiry on the adequacy and efficacy of Australia’s anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CTF) regime and the inquiry into Australia’s engagement in Afghanistan.
     
  • LCA Update - 29 October 2021
    In this edition, the Law Council provides an update on the recently passed Security Legislation Amendment (Critical Infrastructure) Bill 2020 and highlights its submission to the Senate Finance and Public Administration Legislation Committee inquiry into the COAG Legislation Amendment Bill 2021. The Business Law Section announces winner for the 2021 Tom Yuncken Australian Young Construction Lawyer Award.
     
  • LCA Update - 15 October 2021
    In this edition, read the Law Council’s revised Policy Statement on the Death Penalty; learn who has been appointed as new Federal Circuit and Family Court Judge and find out more on the Law Council’s newly established a National Security Committee.
     
  • LCA Update - 1 October 2021
    In this edition, read about the Law Council of Australia’s concerns in relation to the COAG Legislation Amendment Bill 2021 and learn about the ‘Digital Treechange’ – a new initiative launched by the Law Council to increase the recruitment of lawyers in rural, regional and remote (RRR) Australia.
     
  • LCA Update - 17 September 2021
    In this edition, read the Law Council President’s media statement on justice system reform to prevent family, domestic and sexual violence, and key updates on Law Council submissions in relation to Use of technology for corporate meetings and the Joint Costs Advisory Committee’s inquiry into scales of costs.
     
  • LCA Update - 3 September 2021
    In this edition, the Law Council highlights concern that recommendations to add crucial safeguards to the Surveillance Legislation Amendment (Identify and Disrupt) Bill 2020 were ignored. Other updates include the public hearing on the PJCIS’s Review of the Migration and Citizenship Legislation Amendment (Strengthening Information Provisions) Bill 2020 and a submission on the CP 345 Litigation funding schemes: Guidance and relief.
     
  • LCA Update - 20 August 2021
    In this edition, read the Law Council’s submission to the Australian Registrars' National Electronic Conveyancing Council (ARNECC) regarding Consultation Draft 7 of the Model Operating Requirements (MORs) and read the joint statement on Afghanistan by the Law Council of Australia and the Australian Bar Association.
     
  • LCA Update - 10 August 2021
    In this edition, the Law Council provides an update on its recent national roundtable on EPOA law reforms and also addresses the Federal Family Violence Orders scheme. Read about the significant changes to Australia’s foreign investment laws, commonly referred to as the ‘FIRB Regime’, which took effect on 1 January 2021.
     
  • LCA Update - 23 July 2021
    In this edition, read the submission on the Treasury Laws Amendment (Measures for Consultation) Bill 2021: Use of technology for meetings and related amendments (Exposure Draft). The Law Council also calls for more clarity about proposed family violence regimes. From an international perspective, Law Council President, Dr Jacoba Brasch QC, presented an oral statement in the Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Myanmar during the 47th UN Human Rights Council.
     
  • LCA Update - 9 July 2021
    In this edition, the Law Council highlights its new Strategic Plan 2021-2026. The five-year Strategic Plan provides a blueprint and delivers objectives for the organisation, recognising that the Law Council of Australia seeks to advance the charter and success of law societies, bar associations and Law Firms Australia. In addition, read about sexual harassment in the legal profession, Indigenous rights and the updated version of the Law Council's Policy Statement on the Process of Judicial Appointments.
     
  • LCA Update - 24 June 2021
    In this edition, the Law Council provides an update on electronic document execution, the announcement that the UK and Australian governments have agreed on the broad outlines of an Australia-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), and rule of law in Samoa.
     
  • LCA Update - 10 June 2021
    In this edition, read about the Business Law Section’s submission in response to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet’s draft Regulator Performance Guide (April 2021) and the Law Council’s recent public hearing appearance before the Independent National Security Legislation Monitor (INSLM) in relation to the review into the operation of section 22 of the National Security Information (Criminal and Civil Proceedings) Act 2004 (Cth) as it applies in the ‘Alan Johns’ matter (a pseudonym).
     
  • LCA Update - 1 June 2021
    In this edition, understand what domestic violence experts from across the country have to say about how the legal profession may re-think its responses to domestic and family violence after convening at a Law Council National Roundtable. Also, read about the Law Council is calling on all governments to take more action in legal and policy reform to ensure that the new targets set out in the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, do not remain aspirational.
     
  • LCA Update - 13 May 2021
    In this edition, read about the Federal Budget 2021-22 and how it will impact the legal profession and legal services. Also updates on two public hearings in relation to the Intelligence Oversight and Other Legislation Amendment (Integrity Measures) Bill 2020 and the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Amendment (Standards and Assurance) Bill 2021.
     
  • LCA Update - 30 April 2021
    In this edition, the Law Council provides an update on the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security’s (PJCIS) public hearing into extremist movements and radicalisation in Australia; and welcomes Indigenous justice announcements by the Australian Government and the Opposition. Check out the new ‘Guidance: Update on AGMs, electronic document execution and digital shareholder communications’, jointly produced by the Governance Institute of Australia, Australian Institute of Company Directors, Australasian Investor Relations Association and the Business Law Section of the Law Council of Australia.
     
  • LCA Update - 15 April 2021
    In this edition, the Law Council calls for a comprehensive national response to address the vastly disproportionate imprisonment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, 30 years on from the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody (RCIADIC). It also welcomes the Federal Government’s engagement with the important issue of sexual harassment as a matter for the national agenda.
     
  • LCA Update - 1 April 2021
    In this edition, read about why the Law Council believes the Australian Government should now respond to the ALRC’s Pathways to Justice–Inquiry into the Incarceration Rate of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Report. Also, watch a video of Law Council President, Dr Jacoba Brasch QC, presenting a statement before the Secretary General’s Special Representative on Violence Against Children within the programme of the 46th Human Rights Council in Geneva. The Statement notes the Law Council’s advocacy for raising of the minimum age of criminal responsibility to 14 years across Australia and discussed the need for a holistic approach to juvenile justice reforms.
     
  • LCA Update 18 March 2021
    In this edition, learn about the Law Council’s Rural, Regional and Remote (RRR) National Strategic Plan 2021-2023 and its new ‘Time for Change: Addressing Sexual Harassment’ webpage - a webpage with resources and measures to address sexual harassment within the legal profession. In addition, read the Law Council’s views on the Surveillance Legislation Amendment (Identity and Disrupt) Bill 2020.
     
  • LCA Update - 19 February 2021
    In this edition, Law Council of Australia President advocates a need for the establishment of a standalone Federal Judicial Commission and notes the government is moving in the right direction. Also, read a joint statement by the Law Council of Australia, Women’s Legal Services Australia, Community Legal Centres Australia and the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Services in relation to the government’s Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia Bill 2019.
     
  • LCA Update - 5 February 2021
    In the first edition of 2021, Law Council of Australia President joined the Singapore and Hong Kong Opening of the Legal Year events virtually due to COVID. In addition, the Northern Territory Opening of the Legal Year was also commenced virtually. Read submission updates on Australia’s Universal Periodic Review (3rd Cycle) and the Bankruptcy Regulations 2021 - Exposure Draft & Discussion Paper.
  • LCA Update - 17 December 2020
    In the last edition of 2020, meet the newly appointed 2021 Law Council Executives. Dr Jacoba Brasch QC will take over the reigns as President and will begin her term on 1 January. Find out which human rights advocate was presented the LCA’s President's Award and who were the winners of the Australian Young Lawyers Awards and John Koowarta Scholarship. Also, learn more about the Law Council Section Executive appointments.
     
  • LCA Update - 3 December 2020
    In this edition, former Family Court Chief Justices say the Family Court merger is ‘undesirable’ for families and the release of the Australia’s National Integrity System: The Blueprint for Action Report, is timely says Law Council of Australia.
     
  • LCA Update - 23 November 2020
    In this edition, the Law Council of Australia highlights the need to reignite the conversation and calls on the Australian Government to implement a federal Human Rights Act. The Law Council also addresses unfair hikes to Federal Circuit Court migration fees and congratulates new Family Law Appointments.
     
  • LCA Update - 9 November 2020
    In this edition, key topics include the Commonwealth Integrity Commission, closing the justice gap and appointments to the High Court of Australia.
     
  • LCA Update - 23 October 2020
    In this edition, read updates on the Family Court merger, insolvency laws and the need for urgent law reform to protect public interest journalism.
     
  • LCA Update - 9 October 2020
    In this edition, the Law Council of Australia pays tribute to Judge Guy Andrew, comments on recent court fundings and the need for review and reform of Commonwealth legislation to protect Indigenous cultural heritage.
     
  • LCA Update - 24 September 2020
    In this edition, learn about the rise in the number of female barristers being briefed on matters over the past three years, according to the latest Equitable Briefing Policy Annual Report 2018-19. Watch Law Council President, Pauline Wright’s UN Statement to the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention and read the Law Council’s ‘Best Practice Guide for Legal Practitioners in relation to Elder Financial Abuse’.
     
  • LCA Update - 10 September 2020
    In this edition, the Law Council says COVID-19 should not be used an excuse to curtail Australia’s personal freedoms that are unrelated to the pandemic. Emergency COVID-19 powers have been used to again extend the powers of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) to detain people for up to seven days for compulsory questioning in relation to terrorism, even though the government proposes to repeal them. Also, read the Law Council President’s opening statement form the Inquiry into family, domestic and sexual violence.
     
  • LCA Update - 27 August 2020
    In this edition, the Law Council provides updates on its Indigenous Incarceration and the Northern Territory Webinar and outlines its view on the revised ASIO Guidelines.
     
  • LCA Update - 13 August 2020
    In this edition, the Law Council announces Michael Tidball as its new Chief Executive Officer and releases a new fact sheet to help businesses understand their reporting requirements under the Modern Slavery Act. The Law Council also provides an update a public hearing in relation to Parliamentary Joint Committee on Corporations and Financial Services’ Inquiry into Litigation Funding and the Regulation of the Class Action Industry.
     
  • LCA Update - 30 July 2020
    In this edition, the Law Council expresses disappointment following the decision by the Council of Attorneys-General to defer the proposal to raise the age of criminal responsibility for at least twelve months. The Law Council also speaks on the Family Court Bomber and enhancing protections relating to the use of enduring power of attorney instruments.
     
  • LCA Update - 17 July 2020
    In this edition, the Law Council provides an update on sexual harassment in the legal profession and what the Law Council is doing to address this issue. Law Council President, Pauline Wright presents an oral statement to the 44th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council.
     
  • LCA Update - 2 July 2020
    In this edition, the Law Council addresses sexual harassment in the legal profession as well as raising concerns over reports that China’s top legislative body unanimously passed new national security law.
     
  • LCA Update - 18 June 2020
    In this edition, read about the Law Council calling on the government to reconsider mandatory minimum sentences, and the new principles developed by the Law Council due to COVID-19. You can also listen to Law Council President speak to Lawyers Weekly on ‘How advocacy from lawyers will evolve post-pandemic’.
     
  • LCA Update - 5 June 2020
    In this edition, the Law Council highlight’s the High Court ruling of unlawful use of force in Don Dale and the government’s new inquiry into family, domestic and sexual violence. Also, learn more about the Business Law Section’s new podcast, The BLS Report.
     
  • LCA Update - 14 May 2020
    In this edition, the Law Council welcomes the Australian Government’s additional $63.3 million injection for frontline legal services to support people impacted by COVID-19. The Law Council also provides on update on the COVIDSafe tracing app and information about what defines an ‘essential service’ and who classifies as an ‘essential worker’ through its COVID-19 Fact sheet – Essential Services, produced together with the Australian Medical Association.
     
  • LCA Update - 16 April 2020
    In this edition, read about the Law Council’s new biosecurity fact sheet titled ‘Rights and Responsibilities under the Biosecurity Act’, and what measures the government is implementing to keep Australians safe from infectious diseases. Law Council President says these measures should be proportionate and should not outlast the crisis. Also, find out who won this year’s Mahla Pearlman Award for the Australian Young Environmental Lawyer of the Year award.
     
  • LCA Update - 18 March 2020
    In this edition, the Law Council provides an update on the COVID-19 outbreak and its operations. Meet the Law Council’s new Chief Executive Officer, Michael Tidball, and read about the Law Council’s recent appearance before the Joint Select Committee Inquiry into Australia’s Family Law System. The LCA calls for holistic reform to the family law system and for solutions to be developed to benefit Australian families.
     
  • LCA Update - 5 March 2020
    In this edition, learn about the Biosecurity Act 2015 (Cth) and the exceptional powers under the Act, how the principles of open justice must be protected and the Australian Government’s Public Consultation Paper on the National Action Plan to Combat Modern Slavery 2020-24.
     
  • LCA Update 20 February 2020
    In this edition, the Law Council welcomes the landmark High Court decision confirming that the Australian Parliament cannot use the “aliens” power to make laws for Aboriginal Australians and comments on the latest Closing the Gap Report.  
     
  • LCA Update - 7 February 2020
    In the first edition of 2020, new figures from the Productivity Commission show delays across the family law system are reaching alarming levels. Law Council of Australia President, Pauline Wright, said the concern was the increase in the number of cases more than a year-old waiting to be heard. Other key updates include submissions on Corporate Criminal Responsibility and Religious Freedom Bills - Second Exposure Drafts.

Last Updated on 21/06/2024

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