Australia appoints first woman as top legal adviser
Australia has appointed the first woman to the role of top legal advisor to the federal government.
Attorney General Michelle Rowland on Monday announced barrister Ruth Higgins SC as the nation’s next attorney general.
For the first time in Australian history, both first and second law officers are women.
Dr Higgins is a solicitor with over 30 years of legal experience, almost 10 of which as senior counsel.
He will begin his duties as the Australian government’s general counsel in early June for a five-year term.
Dr Higgins replaces former attorney general Stephen Donaghue KC, who joined the Victorian Court of Appeal earlier this year.
Judge Donaghue previously served in the role for nine years following his appointment in December 2016.
He oversaw high-profile Supreme Court challenges, including Russia’s bid to build a new embassy in Canberra; This resulted in the federal government being ordered to pay damages and court costs.
The High Court also ruled that it was unlawful for the Commonwealth to detain immigration detainees indefinitely.
Attorney-General Michelle Rowland congratulated Dr Higgins on becoming the first woman to be appointed to this “vital role”. “The Commonwealth of Australia’s second legal officer plays an important role in supporting the integrity of the rule of law and confidence in government and public institutions,” he said.
“Dr Higgins’ experience, ability and intelligence will see the Commonwealth well represented on important legal matters and I have every confidence in his ability to undertake this important work.”
