Kaldor Centre Director, Professor Daniel Ghezelbash, was recognised as one of the country's leading legal professionals at the Australian Law Awards.
The Director of UNSW Sydney's Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law , Professor Daniel Ghezelbash, has won Innovator of the Year at the 25th annual Australian Law Awards . UNSW Law & Justice also celebrated another win with Oliver Hammond receiving Student of the Year.
The awards recognise Australia's best-performing legal professionals. The judging criteria for award categories were both quantitative and qualitative, acknowledging growth, diversity, leadership, innovation and contribution to the nation's legal sector.
Prof. Daniel Ghezelbash said he was deeply honoured to be recognised and the award would serve as motivation to continue pushing the boundaries of how law and technology can work together.
"This award shows the power of combining legal expertise with technology to increase access to justice in real, practical ways," Prof. Ghezelbash said.
"I'm proud to be driving large-scale, impactful initiatives that bring together universities, industry and community partners to transform how people interact with and experience the law."
Championing greater access to justice
UNSW's Kaldor Centre undertakes rigorous research on the most pressing displacement issues in Australia and globally, and contributes to public policy by promoting legal, sustainable and humane solutions to forced migration.
As Director, Prof. Ghezelbash leads the centre's research and engagement.
"At UNSW's Kaldor Centre we are committed to leveraging technology to drive systemic change in the legal sector. We're working towards systems that are fairer, more efficient and truly accessible to all. Innovation is a team sport and I'm incredibly proud to be playing alongside some of the best," he said.
Prof. Ghezelbash acknowledged partners at the National Justice Project , with whom the Kaldor Centre launched Hear Me Out earlier this year. He also thanked the Refugee Advice and Casework Service , Wallumatta Legal and the A2J Tech Network.
"Together, we're building a future where justice is more inclusive, accessible, and empowered by innovation."
Recognising rising legal stars
UNSW Law & Justice student Oliver Hammond said he was looking forward to bringing energy, curiosity and innovative ideas to the legal profession.
"This award is a humbling reminder that dedication and faith bear fruit. Also, that no one achieves success alone. This is more a reflection of my mentors, friends and family than of me," he said.
"What inspires me is a deep respect for the sacrifices of those who came before and a commitment to building a better future and solving complex problems that impact the lives of everyone around us."
Australia's leading law school
Dean of UNSW Law & Justice, Professor Andrew Lynch, said the awards were a testament to the faculty's culture of engagement and innovation.
"We are incredibly proud of Professor Daniel Ghezelbash and Oliver Hammond for their outstanding achievements at the Australian Law Awards," Prof. Lynch said.
"Daniel's Innovator of the Year award reflects his commitment to changemaking legal research and engagement. His work is genuinely redefining access to justice and how legal services are delivered.
"I also congratulate Oliver Hammond on being named Student of the Year - an honour that recognises not just his academic excellence, but also qualities of service and leadership.
"UNSW Law & Justice has a foundational commitment to shaping a more just and equitable society, and these national honours are recognition that our students and staff are having impact and making a difference."
Lawyers Weekly managing editor Jerome Doraisamy said the Australian Law Awards celebrated talent across the sector.
"It is remarkable to think that the Australian Law Awards is now in its 25th year. So much has happened in that quarter century, and those who took the stage are at the forefront of the professional, technological, environmental and sociocultural change that continues," he said. "Congratulations to all of the winners - we were delighted to celebrate your achievements with you."
