The Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia acknowledges today's announcement by the Attorney-General of the Australian Government's intention to recommend to the Governor-General the appointment of the Honourable Deputy Chief Justice Robert McClelland AO as Commissioner of the National Anti-Corruption Commission.
Chief Justice Will Alstergren AO congratulated Deputy Chief Justice McClelland on the announcement.
"Deputy Chief Justice McClelland has made an outstanding contribution to the Court and to the administration of justice. His Honour has brought to the Court exceptional experience, sound judgement and a deep commitment to public service," the Chief Justice said.
"On behalf of the Court, I congratulate his Honour on the Government's intention to recommend his appointment to this important national role."
The appointment is intended to take effect in January 2027, subject to the approval of the Governor-General.
Biography
Deputy Chief Justice Robert McClelland was appointed as a judge of the then Family Court of Australia in June 2015 and as Deputy Chief Justice in December 2018. In September 2021, his Honour was also appointed Deputy Chief Judge (Family Law) of Division 2 of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia.
His Honour holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Laws from the University of New South Wales and a Master of Laws from the University of Sydney. He was admitted to the Supreme Court of New South Wales as a solicitor in 1982 and has practised as both a solicitor and barrister.
Before his judicial appointment, his Honour served as the Federal Member for Barton from 1996 to 2013. He served as Commonwealth Attorney-General from 2007 to 2011 and Vice-President of the Executive Council from 2010 to 2012.
Deputy Chief Justice McClelland was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2022 for distinguished service to the people and Parliament of Australia, to the law, social justice and law reform.
