The Queensland Government has appointed Brisbane magistrate and coroner Donald MacKenzie as the state’s second Deputy State Coroner, a move aimed at easing pressure on the Coroners Court and improving access to justice for grieving families.
Coroner MacKenzie brings more than 35 years’ experience in the criminal justice system, having appeared in over 800 jury trials and completed more than 2,000 coronial investigations. He has presided over and prosecuted matters involving homicide, workplace health and safety, suicide and road traffic deaths.
Queensland Law Society President, Peter Jolly said the appointment recognises the growing demands on the Coroners Court.
“The coronial system deals with some of the most complex and sensitive matters in the justice system, and timely investigations are crucial for families awaiting answers.”
“Increasing senior judicial capacity is a practical step toward ensuring those matters are dealt with as efficiently and thoroughly as possible,” said Mr Jolly.
Coronor MacKenzie will join State Coroner Terry Ryan and existing Deputy State Coroner Stephanie Gallagher, assisting with the court’s expanding workload across Queensland.
The appointment follows amendments to the Coroners Act 2003, passed by the Queensland Parliament in October last year, which allow for more than one Deputy State Coroner to be appointed.
Attorney‑General and Minister for Justice Deb Frecklington said the additional role would help address increasing demand within the Coroners Court.
“The State Coroner and Deputy State Coroner face significant workload pressures, and a second Deputy State Coroner will help alleviate some of this pressure and assist grieving families get the answers they need sooner,” she said.
Coronor MacKenzie has been appointed for a five‑year term, effective immediately.
His appointment follows the creation of a dedicated Mining and Resources Coroner last year, introduced to investigate reportable mining fatalities and make safety recommendations aimed at improving conditions across the resources sector.
Admitted as a barrister in 1993, Coroner MacKenzie spent 14 years at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, where he rose to the roles of Senior Crown Prosecutor and later Consultant Crown Prosecutor. He later joined the private bar, acting for both the prosecution and defence in matters including murder trials, appellate cases and proceedings before the High Court of Australia.
He was appointed as a magistrate in 2017 and became a coroner in 2019.
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