Ceremonial - Welcome - Bell J - Perth

This matter concerns the ceremonial welcome of Justice Virginia Margaret Bell to the High Court of Australia's sittings in Perth. The proceedings involved addresses from Mr D. Stow, President of the Law Society of Western Australia, and Mr G.R. Donaldson, SC, Vice-President of the Western Australia Bar Association, to Justice Bell upon her first sitting in Perth as a Justice of the High Court.

The primary legal issues, though not directly litigated, were implicitly addressed through the speakers' remarks concerning the importance of the High Court sitting in various states, the significance of judicial appointments, and the role of judges in understanding diverse cultural contexts, particularly in relation to Aboriginal Australians. The speakers also touched upon the importance of gender balance and representation within the judiciary.

The speakers conveyed their welcome and acknowledged Justice Bell's distinguished career, particularly her extensive experience in criminal law and her judicial appointments in New South Wales. They highlighted her background and expressed hopes for her continued engagement with the legal profession in Western Australia. Justice Bell responded by expressing her pleasure at being in Perth, acknowledging the historical significance of the High Court's circuit sittings, and affirming her commitment to her judicial role and her appreciation for the welcome extended to her.

The proceedings concluded with Justice Bell adjourning the Court.