List A congratulates Dr Matt Collins AM QC on being elected as president of the Australian Bar Association (ABA), which represents Australia’s 6000 barristers. .
Dr Collins said:
‘It is an honour to have been elected President of the ABA. I pay tribute to outgoing President, Matthew Howard SC, who has skillfully led the profession through two of the most challenging years in memory, during which the justice system and legal profession have had to adapt to lockdowns, working from home, and the suspension of jury and in-person trials in much of the country. Matt’s leadership during this difficult period has been admired throughout the whole of the sector.
‘As we look forward to a brighter 2022, there is much to be done in promoting the indispensability of Australia’s 6,000-plus barristers to the administration of justice. Barristers play a critical role in safeguarding the rule of law by ensuring that Australians have access to fearless and independent representation before the nation’s courts and tribunals. The ABA’s Council has adopted an ambitious program for the year ahead, prioritising enhanced professional standards for barristers; fostering a collegiate, inclusive and diverse national profession; and advocating publicly for the importance of an independent judiciary and legal profession dedicated to the service of the Australian people.’