Christine Wheeler QC first woman to be appointed Supreme Court judge

10/10/96

Attorney General Peter Foss today announced the first woman ever to be appointed to the Supreme Court of Western Australia.

Mr Foss said the appointment of Christine Wheeler QC as a judge of the Supreme Court was an event of great importance and historical significance for the State.

"I extend my congratulations to Ms Wheeler and wish her all the best in this well merited position," he said.

"She has practised extensively before the High Court, especially in constitutional cases and is well-respected by them.

"I believe she will be an outstanding judge.

"Ms Wheeler's appointment will provide an additional judge for the Supreme Court to cope with the volume of business and to combat delays in the Supreme Court lists.

"I am sure Ms Wheeler will make a valuable contribution to the judiciary."

Mr Foss said Ms Wheeler's appointment followed extensive consultation with the judiciary and legal professional associations.

She will take up her appointment on October 30.

Ms Wheeler was admitted as a barrister and solicitor of the Supreme Court of Western Australia in 1980 after gaining a law degree at the University of WA and a Master's degree at London University.

Prior to being admitted to practise, she was the professional assistant to the then Solicitor General, Sir Ronald Wilson.

After her admission, Ms Wheeler worked in the Crown Solicitor's office as an assistant Crown Solicitor and as senior assistant Crown Solicitor/Counsel where her work covered areas of constitutional, civil and administrative law and law reform proposals.

Ms Wheeler joined the Independent Bar in 1994 and in December 1994 was appointed a Queen's Counsel.

During the past two years, Ms Wheeler has acted as a part-time Judicial Registrar with the Industrial Relations Court of Australia and for short periods as a Commissioner of the District and Supreme Courts.

Media contact: Peter Harris (09) 321 2222