How is a high court judge chosen?

Hi Maddy! The Australian Constitution gives the Governor-General the power to appoint High Court of Australia judges. The Governor-General does this on the advice of the Australian Government.

In practice, the Prime Minister—on the recommendation of the Attorney-General (the minister responsible for legal issues) and Cabinet—chooses the person to be appointed. The Attorney-General consults with the attorneys-general of state governments, and with senior judges and lawyers before a decision is made.

There are no qualifications for High Court judges other than that they must be under the compulsory retirement age of 70 (section 72 of the Constitution). It is usual for High Court judges to have had long and distinguished legal careers before they are appointed. 

The Australian High Court in session. Judges wearing black robes sit at a long table. They are facing lawyers sitting at another table. The lawyers wear old-fashioned wigs.

The High Court of Australia.

DPS Auspic

The High Court of Australia.

The Australian High Court in session. Judges wearing black robes sit at a long table. They are facing lawyers sitting at another table. The lawyers wear old-fashioned wigs.

DPS Auspic

Description

A large semi circular desk atop a small raise at the end of the room. Seven figures in black (High Court judges) with papers in front of them sit at this long desk. In front of them on the floor is an opposite curved desk with many figures in black with many papers in front of them. Smaller desks sit in rows behind.

Permission should be sought from DPS AUSPIC for third-party or commercial uses of this image. To contact DPS AUSPIC email: auspic@aph.gov.au or phone: 02 6277 3342.