Australian Bar Association
The Australian Bar Association (ABA) is the peak body representing nearly 6,000 barristers throughout Australia.
The ABA was established in 1963 to serve, promote and representing its members, and advocate for fair and equal justice for all.[1] The ABA’s members are barristers registered to practise law in Australia and who are also members of a State or Territory Bar Association.[2]
The ABA's vision is to be the national voice for the independent Bars of Australia. The ABA supports its members and the community by delivering services to promote the rule of law and access to justice; foster a collegiate, inclusive and diverse national association of barristers; maintain and enhance professional standards; and provide opportunities for members to enhance professional performance.[3]
The current President of the ABA is Matthew Howard SC, who was previously the President of the Western Australia Bar Association. Dr Matthew Collins AM QC and Kylie Nomchong SC are current Vice Presidents. Peter Dunning QC is Treasurer and Ian Robertson SC is chair of the Advocacy Training Council.
Constituent Bar Associations
The ABA's constituent Bar Associations are:
Presidents
The previous five Presidents[4] of the ABA are:
| President | State | Year |
| Fiona McLeod AO S.C. | VIC | 2015 |
| Patrick O'Sullivan QC | SA | 2016 |
| E William Alstergren QC | VIC | 2017 |
| Noel Hutley SC | NSW | 2018 |
| Jennifer Batrouney AM QC | VIC | 2019 |
A number of previous Presidents of the ABA have subsequently been appointed to Federal and State Courts and Tribunals.
References
- "About Us". austbar.asn.au. Retrieved 20 January 2021.
- "Member Information". austbar.asn.au. Retrieved 21 January 2021.
- "ABA | Australian Bar Association 2020-2025 Strategic Plan". austbar.asn.au. Retrieved 21 January 2021.
- "Australian Bar Association - Past Office Holders". Australian Bar Association. Retrieved 23 March 2019.