Released 30/07/2019
The Chief Magistrate of the ACT Magistrates Court, Ms Lorraine Walker, has been appointed as an Acting Judge of the ACT Supreme Court, Attorney-General Gordon Ramsay announced today.
Ms Walker will commence the role on 1 August 2019 for a period of 12 months.
Ms Walker will support the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Helen Murrell, by overseeing the ACT's first Drug and Alcohol Court (DAC).
The appointment comes as final arrangements are being made for the DAC to be up and running by the end of the year.
"The DAC aims to reduce crime and antisocial behaviour by supporting offenders to deal with drug and alcohol addiction," Minister Ramsay said.
"The DAC will have significant long-term benefit for the ACT community through reduction in crime and antisocial behaviour.
"The appointment of Ms Walker to support this important initiative shows just how serious this Government is in its commitment to reducing recidivism and promoting restorative justice.
"Ms Walker brings a wealth of experience to the role, from nine years as a Magistrate and then Chief Magistrate for the Territory.
"Her professionalism and reputation ensures that this appointment will benefit the Supreme Court, the legal sector, and the wider ACT community.
"Ms Walker is well-respected throughout the ACT legal profession and is known to have a strong commitment to therapeutic jurisprudence," Minister Ramsay said.
The Government has also taken a range of measures to ensure the proper operation of the Magistrates Court in Ms Walker's absence.
Minister Ramsay also announced that sitting Magistrate Mr Glenn Theakston has been appointed as Acting Chief Magistrate, commencing 1 August 2019.
Mr Theakston was appointed as a Magistrate in May 2016.
"Mr Theakston's elevation to the Acting Chief Magistrate role is a testament to his strong leadership skills and positive contribution to the Magistrates Court," Minister Ramsay said.
"Ms Margaret Hunter OAM has been re-appointed as a Special Magistrate for an additional year, to bring her appointment out to 31 December 2020.
I congratulate Ms Walker, Mr Theakston and Ms Hunter on their new appointments, and thank them for their service to the people of Canberra."
- Statement ends -
Gordon Ramsay, MLA | Media Releases
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