Women lawyers for human rights
AUSTRALIAN WOMEN Lawyers (AWL) held its inaugural conference last week, as the country’s eminent female lawyers gathered to discuss human rights.Launched at the Sheraton on the Park, Sydney,
AUSTRALIAN WOMEN Lawyers (AWL) held its inaugural conference last week, as the country’s eminent female lawyers gathered to discuss human rights.
The topic of human rights was addressed in the conference plenary sessions, the program also covering property and finance, litigation and corporate governance.
Keynote speaker for the occasion was the Honourable Mary Gaudron QC, an AWL patron and first female appointee to the High Court of Australia. Other speakers included Chief Justice Diana Bryant, Chief Justice Marilyn Warren and president of the Queensland Court of Appeal, Justice Margaret McMurdo.
“[AWL] is essentially concerned with issues relating to the practice and advancement of women in the legal profession,” said AWL president, Caroline Kirton.
“It also works to eliminate both direct and indirect discrimination against women in the legal system and the administration of justice, so that the legal system is more responsive to women’s needs.”
The major sponsor for the event was Allens Arthur Robinson, while contributions were also made by Colin Biggers & Paisley, Mallesons Stephen Jaques and Victorian Women Lawyers.