Two new Judges, one Magistrate appointed

Two new District Court Judges and one Magistrate have been appointed today, serving both the Brisbane and Rockhampton courts. 

Peter Kuskie, previously of a Partner at Rostron Carlyle Rojas (RCR) Lawyers, is serving as a Magistrate at the Rockhampton Courthouse from today, 6 June. 

Sarah Farnden KC and Dominique Grigg will start positions as Judges of the District Court in Brisbane on Monday, 9 June, and Monday, 23 June respectively.

Magistrate Kuskie brings an extensive legal background to the Magistrates Court, with his work spanning multiple jurisdictions and practice areas as a Partner in private practice. 

Following his admission as a solicitor to the Supreme Court of Queensland in 1995, he has practised across criminal, family, administrative, property and commercial law. 

He has also acted in pro-bono cases for veterans, indigenous Australians, and victims of domestic violence.

Ms Farnden has spent more than two decades building her legal expertise in criminal law, regulatory matters, administrative law and related appeals. She was appointed Kings Counsel in 2022.  

Before joining the private Bar, Ms Farnden served in various roles at the Office of Director of Public Prosecutions including as a consultant and Principal Crown Prosecutor.  

She served as Special Counsel for Crown Law, appearing in regulatory prosecutions and appeals, the Mental Health Court, and with applications under Dangerous Prisoner Legislation. 

Ms Grigg has been a legal practitioner for nearly three decades with experience in commercial, intellectual property, administration, tax, workers compensation and regulatory law. 

Her commission follows her significant legal experience as an arbitrator and mediator. 

She has held appointments as a Senior Member at the Administration Appeals Tribunal, Sessional Commissioner for Major Crime at the Crime and Corruption Commission, and as a Member of the Disciplinary Panel of CPA Australia. 

Attorney-General Deb Frecklington congratulated the new Judges and Magistrate on their well-deserved appointments.   

“Their depth of experience in managing complex and sensitive cases, coupled with a strong commitment to fairness, will be an asset to the courts and the judiciary,” the Attorney-General said.  

“Ms Farnden, Ms Grigg and Mr Kuskie’s diverse professional backgrounds will bring valuable perspectives to the bench, enhancing the judiciary’s ability to serve the Queensland community.  

“It is a pleasure to welcome these highly regarded legal professionals to the District and Magistrates Courts.”