New Chief Justice Appointed To The Supreme Court

Richard Niall has been appointed as the new Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Victoria, replacing retiring Chief Justice Anne Ferguson.

Since 2017, Justice Niall has served as a judge of appeal of the Supreme Court presiding over criminal and civil appeals as well as matters in the trial division. He was appointed Victoria’s Solicitor-General in 2015.

Earlier in his career Justice Niall was a senior counsel at the Victorian Bar, specialising in constitutional and administrative law.

In 2010, Justice Niall was appointed Queen’s Counsel with notable appearances in the High Court of Australia in areas including human rights law and environmental law. He will be the thirteenth Supreme Court Chief Justice of Victoria.

Justice Niall entered legal practice in 1990 and joined the Victorian Bar in 1995. He holds degrees in economics and law from Monash University.

Quotes attributable to Attorney-General Jaclyn Symes

“It is my pleasure to appoint Justice Niall as Chief Justice – he is highly regarded and has contributed significantly on the Court of Appeal and as Solicitor-General.”

“His deep understanding of the law and extensive experience will ensure that the Supreme Court continues to deliver fair and effective justice for all Victorians.”

“I extend my thanks and best wishes to Anne Ferguson for her exemplary service and leadership to the Victorian justice system.”