Ceremonial Sitting - Swearing-in of Keane J - Canberra

This matter concerns the ceremonial sitting for the swearing-in of Keane J as a Justice of the High Court of Australia. The proceedings involved addresses by the Solicitor-General for the Commonwealth, the President of the Law Council of Australia, and the President of the Australian Bar Association, formally welcoming Justice Keane to the bench.

The central legal issue before the Court, in this ceremonial context, was the formal admission and affirmation of Justice Keane to the High Court. This involved the administration of the judicial oath and the declaration of acceptance of office, signifying his commitment to uphold the law and administer justice impartially.

The Court, comprising Chief Justice French and Justices Hayne, Crennan, Kiefel, Bell, and Gageler, presided over the ceremony. The proceedings were conducted in accordance with established judicial tradition and the constitutional requirements for the appointment of a Justice of the High Court, ensuring the lawful commencement of Justice Keane's tenure.