He spent 15 years as a barrister before joining the judiciary
The Attorney General of Western Australia, John Quigley, has announced the appointment of Judge Terence Palmer to the Supreme Court of Western Australia.
After being admitted to practice in 1998, he worked as a solicitor in private law firms and later served as special counsel at the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) between 2006 and 2008.
In 2008, he was called to the Western Australian bar, where he embarked on a 15-year career as a barrister, handling a wide range of complex legal matters. His expertise covered a wide range of commercial matters, including corporate law, financial services, insurance, and construction law. Additionally, Palmer frequently acted for medical professionals in Coroner's Court proceedings and appeared in various state and federal courts and domestic and international arbitrations.
In recognition of his legal acumen, he was appointed senior counsel in 2021. Palmer also contributed to the legal profession by serving on the WA Bar Association's Bar Council and mentoring new barristers in advocacy skills. He joined the District Court of Western Australia as a judge in July 2023.
Palmer will replace Justice Samuel Vandongen, who was elevated to the Federal Court of Australia in December 2024.
In a statement, Quigley expressed confidence in Palmer’s ability to excel in his new role. He highlighted his "extensive experience in courtroom advocacy and litigation" and commended his diligence and distinction as a District Court judge.
"I congratulate Judge Terence Palmer on his appointment as a Judge of the WA Supreme Court,” Quigley said. "I am confident his extensive experience in courtroom advocacy and litigation together with his time presiding in the District Court will see him assume the responsibilities of a Supreme Court Justice seamlessly."
Palmer’s tenure on the Supreme Court bench will begin on 28 January.