Recent Events

 
 

Address by The Hon. Michael Kirby AC CMG

7th Apr, 2010 at The Long Room, Customs House, 399 Queen Street, Brisbane

Just over a year ago, The Hon. Michael Kirby retired as a Justice of the High Court of Australia, having served for 13 years.   Prior to his appointment in 1996 he was:

  • President of the NSW Court of Appeal (1984 -1996)
  • A judge of the Federal Court of Australia (1983 – 1984)
  • Inaugural chairman of the Australian Law Reform Commission (1975-1984)
  • A deputy president of the Australian Conciliation and Arbitration Commission (1975 – 1983)

Michael Kirby also served in many international and United Nations positions including the WHO Global Commission on Aids and UNAIDS, and held many prestigious positions outside the law including Chancellor of Macquarie University from 1984 – 1993.  Twelve Australian and international universities have bestowed honorary degrees.

Michael Kirby is respected and experienced as a judge and lawyer.  He is well known for his insight, warmth, intelligence and courage.  For someone who describes his pastime as “work”, Michael Kirby’s intellectual activities in his “retirement” continue to interest and benefit all Australians.

Mr Kirby addressed the topic "HIV/AIDS - A Paradoxical Epidemic where the Law has a Role to Play".