While Justice Scott McLeod KC may be the newest and an ‘additional judge’ to the Supreme Court of Queensland, His Honour was acknowledged as “knowing a thing or two” about the role.
The Brisbane barrister, who has more than two decades of experience at the bar, served as an Associate to Justice Dowsett in 1991 and to the late Justice McPherson in 1992. His Honour was sworn in at a ceremonial sitting in Brisbane’s Banco Court this morning.
Chief Justice Bowskill noted that Justice McLeod brought to the Court not only almost 29 years of experience in industrial, public and administrative law, but his familiarity with judicial work as an associate.
“His Honour already knows a thing or two about what goes on behind the scenes in the judge’s chambers,” the Chief Justice said.
“Although times have certainly changed since then, and there are yet more changes to come with digitization of our court files later this year.
“Justice McLeod has confessed to me that he may have some learning to do so far as the use of technology goes, but I have reassured him that he is not Robinson Crusoe in this regard, and we are all in this together.
“They’re giggling with a knowing laugh,” she said of the Bench’s response to her comment.
Her Honour said she was very pleased to have a new judge join the ranks, noting it was a proud moment for him and his family, and an important part of the evolving history of the Court.
“We welcome the appointment of Justice McLeod as an additional judge of the Trial Division of the Supreme Court,” Her Honour said.
“I’m grateful to the Attorney-General and to the government for acting on our request for the appointment of an additional judge to try to manage the ever‑increasing workload of this Court in both its civil and criminal jurisdictions.
“A shortage of judicial resources puts at risk the timely hearing and determination of matters before the court, to the detriment of parties, including accused persons, victims of crime and their families, witnesses and the public’s interest in the timely administration of justice.
“It also puts at risk the health and well‑being of the judges due to the heavy workload.”
The Chief Justice said judicial appointment after a long career at the bar was “a somewhat surreal experience, but also an energizing and exciting one”.
“I know Justice McLeod is looking forward to this new challenge, and I expect he’s very thrilled about facing that challenge head on, assisting in the busy applications list this week, starting in about an hour,” Her Honour said.
“Justice McLeod, you have the support of all of us. We warmly welcome you to the court.”
Chief Justice Bowskill also noted that Justice McLeod took silk on the same day as two of his new judicial colleagues, Justice Crowley and Justice McCafferty.
Attorney‑General Deb Frecklington, who also formally welcomed Justice McLeod, highlighted the significance of his appointment and recognised his time as an Associate.
“His Honour’s elevation is the first time, as has been noted, an additional judge for this Court has been funded since 2018, and our government recognises the enormous workload of the Supreme Court and has actively responded to the needs through this extra funding,” Ms Frecklington said.
“Both of your judges are said to have had an enormous and enduring influence on your career.
“Your Honour was described by those who know you well as a trustworthy, thoroughly prepared, and entirely reliable advocate.
“A tough opponent in court, Your Honour has been Crown Law’s go‑to barrister for many years in public law matters.
“I may have created a rod for my own back with this appointment by taking you permanently off the barrister’s briefing list.
“In fact, the ability to seamlessly go from representing the state of Queensland in complex matters to representing other private litigants is highly valuable and widely regarded.
“I’m also pleased Your Honour has agreed to take on additional responsibilities as the President of QCAT following the conclusion of Justice Mellifont’s term in July, and I take this opportunity to thank Her Honour for her dedication to the tribunal over these past nearly five years.
“As a highly skilled and well‑respected member of Queensland’s legal profession for more than 30 years, Your Honour’s extensive legal experience and personal qualities make you eminently qualified and prepared to perform the role of administering justice.”
Queensland Law Society President Peter Jolly acknowledged both the personal distinction of His Honour’s appointment and its broader significance for the justice system.
“I would like to take this opportunity to express the profession’s appreciation to the Attorney‑General for the additional resourcing of the Court which has resulted in this appointment,” Mr Jolly said.
“This reflects a steadfast commitment to the strength, continuity, and integrity of the administration of justice in this state. For that confidence, foresight, and regard for the public interest, we convey our thanks.
“Your Honour’s elevation to the Supreme Court is entirely consonant with a career of distinction. It is an appointment that speaks eloquently to a life in the law defined by intellectual rigour, disciplined judgment, and an unassailable commitment to justice.
“With this appointment, Your Honour brings with you this deeply rooted appreciation for education, mentorship, and civic responsibility. These values will inform not only your judgments, but the way in which judicial office is exercised: with thoughtfulness, generosity of spirit, and an acute awareness of the human dimension of the law.”
Justice McLeod responded to Mr Jolly’s remarks saying he was indebted to the solicitors of Queensland.
“It has always been a pleasure to be briefed from a wide range of firms, whether large or small, suburban or regional,” His Honour said.
“I think as a barrister, we are often immune from what goes behind the scenes when we brief and dealing with clients and their expectations.
“I fully appreciate and thank all the solicitors who have briefed me over the years.”
In thanking the Attorney-General for her words and the appointment, His Honour said it was a privilege to be joining the Court.
“I’m most grateful for the confidence and trust you have shown in recommending my appointment and in due course, taking on the additional role of President of the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal,” he said.
His Honour also thanked Justice Dowsett AM KC, who was present in the Court, for his “friendship, wisdom and support over so many years”.
“During my final year of university, I was very fortunate to be Associate to Justice John Dowsett when he was a member of this Court,” he said.
“I learned a great deal about what a judge expected from a barrister, whether running a trial or appearing on an application.
“I also was fortunate to serve as an Associate to Justice Bruce McPherson when he was a member of the newly established Court of Appeal.
“He was a true gentleman with an exceptional legal mind. He would sometimes talk to me about the law, but he would more often than not educate me about legal history, along with Scottish and English histories thrown into good measure.
“He was a very remarkable judge.”
His Honour said he was looking forward to the challenges ahead.
“I will miss life at the bar, but as I said during a few moments ago, it’s a challenge that I’m greatly looking forward to.”
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