Ceremonial - Kirby, Hayne JJ - Welcome Perth CER

This matter concerns a ceremonial sitting of the High Court of Australia in Perth, Western Australia. The proceedings involved welcomes extended to Justice Kirby and Justice Hayne, who had recently been appointed to the Court. The welcomes were delivered by Mr J.G. Syminton, President of the Law Society of Western Australia, and Mr W.S. Martin, QC, President of the Western Australian Bar Association.

The legal issues, while not forming the basis of a dispute to be adjudicated, were implicitly addressed through the speeches delivered. These included the significance of judicial appointments, the importance of the High Court's peripatetic sittings to the legal profession and the public in outlying states, and the role of the judiciary in maintaining its prestige and authority. The speeches also touched upon the evolving nature of legal practice, particularly the increase in interstate work, and the contributions of the appointed Justices to law reform and legal education.

The court's reasoning was not directed towards resolving a legal controversy but rather towards acknowledging the significance of the occasion and the esteemed careers of the newly appointed Justices. The speakers highlighted the extensive experience and notable achievements of Justice Kirby, particularly his work in human rights and law reform, and Justice Hayne, noting his substantial practice in various areas of law and his role in civil justice reform. Both speakers emphasised the value of their appointments to the High Court and expressed hopes for their successful tenure. The Justices, in their responses, expressed gratitude for the welcomes and echoed the sentiments regarding the importance of the Court's presence in Western Australia and the ongoing engagement with the legal profession.