Ceremonial - Welcome to the Chief Justice Sir Anthony Mason, Mr Justice Toohey, Justice Gaudron and Justice McHugh - Hobart

This matter concerns a ceremonial welcome to the High Court of Australia, comprising Chief Justice Mason, Justices Toohey, Gaudron, and McHugh, during a sitting in Hobart. Mr P. Slicer, representing the Law Society of Tasmania and the Bar Association of Tasmania, extended a welcome to the Justices. The Chief Justice and Justice Toohey responded, acknowledging the welcome and reflecting on the Court's sittings in Tasmania.

The primary issue addressed was the significance of the High Court holding sittings in various Australian states, including Tasmania. This practice was discussed in the context of the Court's commitment to providing a unifying body of law for Australia and ensuring equal access to justice for all citizens, regardless of their location. The Justices also commented on the nature of the cases before the Court during this particular sitting, noting the absence of civil matters and the exclusive focus on criminal appeals.

The Justices expressed their appreciation for the welcome and highlighted the importance of the Court's presence in states like Tasmania. They acknowledged the logistical challenges of sitting outside of Canberra but emphasised the symbolic and practical value of these regional sittings. This includes fostering a better understanding of the law's operation across the nation and ensuring litigants are aware of their rights of access to the Court. The Justices also noted the historical context of Hobart sittings and the ongoing need for improved video-link facilities for civil special leave applications.