Following a competitive recruitment process, the Director has appointed Mr Patrick Dixon, of the NSW Bar, Mr Hadi Mazloum, of the Victorian Bar, and Ms Katie McCann also of the NSW Bar, as Federal Counsel, for fixed terms. They commenced their positions on 4 May 2026, based in Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra respectively. However, they will be briefed to appear for the Office in all jurisdictions.
Federal Counsel will strengthen and promote federal criminal law expertise in particular for complex and specialised matters. In addition to appearing for the CDPP, Federal Counsel will contribute to the CDPP's internal capability through training, policy and practice initiatives, and by providing guidance and mentorship to junior prosecutors.
The CDPP briefs hundreds of counsel nationally each year. Being able to call on the resources of the private Bar is critical to the CDPP's delivery of an effective and independent prosecution service to the Australian community.
