North American Bar CouncilA professional home for common-law lawyers.

Australia

Law Council of Australia (LCA)

Last reviewed: 28 September 2026 · Provisional NABC editorial review

Summary

Supported the aims of post-Bondi hate and extremism legislation but criticised its rushed drafting. Active internationally and promotes a published checklist for good law-making.

Leadership in period: Tania Wolff has been President since 1 January 2026; Dr James Popple is CEO.

Key developments

  • Supported the objectives of the Combatting Antisemitism, Hate and Extremism Bill while warning about compressed consultation.
  • Made oral statements at the UN Human Rights Council.
  • Ran the NARS+ Survey and held the Immigration Law Conference.

Criterion ratings

Rule of Law and Judicial Independence

Strong

Access to Justice

Strong

Governance and Transparency

Strong

Professional Standards and Education

Moderate

Diversity and Inclusion

Moderate

Assessment

The LCA offers a clear model of principled engagement: it supported legitimate policy goals while insisting on proper legislative process.

Key sources