Murchison, Ian Mackenzie v Keating, Paul John

Ian Mackenzie Murchison sought judicial review of a decision made by Paul John Keating, which was exempt under section 13. The primary issue before the court was whether it had the inherent power to order a statement of reasons for the decision and to determine if the application needed to be particularised. The court was tasked with examining the grounds for review and ensuring the application was sufficiently detailed.

The court considered the nature of the decision made by Keating and whether the inherent power of the court extended to ordering a statement of reasons for such a decision. It also assessed the adequacy of the particulars provided by Murchison in his application. The court found that while the decision was exempt under section 13, the inherent power to order a statement of reasons was not absolute and depended on the circumstances. Furthermore, it held that the application needed to be particularised to ensure clarity and fairness in the judicial review process.

In conclusion, the court ordered Murchison to provide detailed particulars of the grounds for his application within seven days and to file any supporting affidavit. Keating was required to respond within seven days of receiving these documents. The hearing for directions and interim relief was adjourned unless these conditions were met. The court also allowed for general applications on 48 hours notice and designated the costs of the directions hearing as costs in the cause.