Ceremonial - Crennan J - Welcome Melbourne

This matter concerns a ceremonial sitting of the High Court of Australia in Melbourne to welcome Justice Susan Crennan. The proceedings involved addresses from Ms Kate McMillan, SC, Chairman of the Victorian Bar, and Ms Victoria Strong, President of the Law Institute of Victoria, both representing their respective legal professional bodies. The addresses were delivered to formally acknowledge and celebrate Justice Crennan's appointment to the High Court and her first sitting in Melbourne.

The legal issues before the court were not substantive legal disputes but rather the formal recognition and welcoming of a new Justice to the High Court. The addresses focused on Justice Crennan's distinguished legal career, her extensive experience at the Victorian Bar, her international practice, her leadership roles in legal reform, and her prior service as a judge of the Federal Court. The speakers highlighted her skills, intellect, and dedication to the law, as well as her contributions to access to justice initiatives.

The reasoning presented by Ms McMillan and Ms Strong was one of commendation and affirmation of Justice Crennan's qualifications and suitability for her role on the High Court. They applied principles of professional recognition and collegiality, drawing on her past achievements and character to express confidence in her future service. Justice Crennan, in her response, expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and acknowledged her deep connections to the Victorian legal profession and the historical significance of the High Court's presence in Melbourne.