- New Magistrate appointed to the Magistrates Court and Children's Court of Western Australia
- Appointment to strengthen the courts' civil jurisdiction
- Experienced civil litigator commencing 7 September 2026
Attorney General Dr Tony Buti has announced the appointment of Stuart Cobbett as a Magistrate of the Magistrates Court and Children's Court of Western Australia.
Mr Cobbett will commence on 7 September 2026, filling a vacancy in the courts' civil jurisdiction following the resignation of Magistrate Natasha Owen-Conway.
Mr Cobbett brings more than 16 years' post-admission experience and is widely respected within the legal profession for his expertise in civil and commercial litigation, dispute resolution, and advocacy. He holds a master's degree in commercial law.
Since October 2021, he has served as an Assistant State Counsel with the State Solicitor's Office (SSO), where he has managed a broad range of complex civil litigation matters on behalf of the State.
His experience includes contractual disputes, compulsory acquisition and injurious affection claims, taxation review proceedings, native title matters, and class actions.
Prior to joining SSO, Mr Cobbett was a Senior Associate in the Dispute Resolution Team at Mallesons where he acted in commercial disputes, appeared as counsel in the Wardens Court and Magistrates Court, and conducted both court-based and private mediations.
Mr Cobbett has also contributed to legal education as a tutor in contract law for The University of Western Australia's Juris Doctor program.
As stated by Attorney General and Corrective Services Minister Dr Tony Buti:
"I am pleased to appoint Stuart Cobbett as a Magistrate of the Magistrates Court and Children's Court of Western Australia.
"Mr Cobbett is an experienced and highly regarded legal practitioner whose career has demonstrated strong legal expertise, sound judgement, and a commitment to public service.
"His extensive experience in complex civil litigation, advocacy, and dispute resolution will be a valuable asset to the Magistrates Court and the Western Australian community.
"I congratulate Mr Cobbett on his appointment and wish him every success in this important judicial role."
