Gleeson, CJ, Callinan J Perth Welcome CER

This matter concerns the welcome extended to Chief Justice Gleeson and Justice Callinan of the High Court of Australia upon their first visit to Perth in their respective capacities. The welcome was delivered by Ms K. O’Brien, President of the Law Society of Western Australia, and Mr W. Martin, QC, President of the Western Australian Bar Association. The proceedings involved addresses from both representatives of the legal profession, followed by a response from Chief Justice Gleeson.

The central issue addressed by the speakers was the significance of the High Court's annual visit to Western Australia, particularly in relation to the principle of access to justice. Ms O’Brien highlighted the geographical and financial challenges Western Australians face in accessing the High Court, emphasizing the importance of the Court's physical presence in the state. Both speakers also touched upon the public perception of the courts and the need for transparency and understanding of the judicial process, especially in light of increasing media scrutiny and political commentary.

The speakers lauded the appointments of Chief Justice Gleeson and Justice Callinan, acknowledging their distinguished careers and contributions to the law, both within Western Australia and nationally. They expressed pride in the High Court's continued commitment to intellectual rigour and the independence of the legal profession. Chief Justice Gleeson, in his response, expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and affirmed the Court's dedication to being user-friendly and attentive to counsel's arguments. He also acknowledged the historical connections and the high regard for the Western Australian legal profession and judiciary.