State bar and Judicial College of Victoria welcomed new senior counsel
Richard Niall, chief justice of the Supreme Court of Victoria, has announced the appointments of the following 21 new senior counsel – selected among 94 total applicants, comprising 65 men and 29 women – after extensively consulting the state’s legal profession:
In a media release from the court, Niall congratulated all the new appointees and acknowledged their “incredible contributions” in their respective practice areas.
“The title of Senior Counsel is a reflection of your integrity, standing within the legal profession, and many years of exceptional service,” Niall said in the media release. “I know I speak on behalf of myself and the wider profession when I say we expect you will continue to advance the administration of justice across the state and Australia through your advocacy and advice.”
The court noted that its consultation covered Victoria’s legal services commissioner and members of its bar and judiciary.
“You have benefited from collegial assistance and experience throughout your time in the profession and now the responsibility falls to you to lead and mentor others,” Niall said, addressing the new silks.
The media release shared that the Banco Court would conduct a ceremonial sitting on 24 November 2025, Monday, at 9:15 a.m. to welcome the new senior counsel. The court noted its plans to livestream the ceremony and make it accessible afterward on its website.
Justin Hannebery, the Victorian Bar Association’s president, congratulated the new silks – dubbed “distinguished members of the Victorian Bar” – on their appointments.
“This significant appointment recognises their exceptional skill as advocates and their esteemed position within the legal community,” Hannebery said in a media release. “We are proud of their achievements and wish them continued success as they enter this new phase in their careers.”
Hannebery expressed sincere gratitude to Chief Justice Niall for his commitment to evaluating the senior counsel candidates.
“We are truly grateful for his ongoing commitment and support for this important task,” Hannebery said in the bar association’s media release.
In a news release, the Judicial College of Victoria conveyed warm congratulations to the freshly appointed silks and wished them well in their new roles.
