New magistrate appointed in Southport

• Criminal law specialist Dominic Brunello has been appointed as a Queensland magistrate.
• The latest appointment to the Magistrates Court will officially commence on 30 September 2024.

The Miles Government has appointed a prominent criminal law practitioner as the State’s newest magistrate.

Mr Dominic Brunello will officially commence in his role on 30 September, at Southport Magistrates Court.

Mr Brunello brings a wealth of legal expertise and experience to the role, having served in various capacities within the legal profession for more than 25 years.

He graduated with a Bachelor of Laws and Commerce from Griffith University in 1998 and was admitted to the Supreme Court of Queensland in 2001.

Mr Brunello began his career as a solicitor in private practice before serving with various community legal support services, including the Aboriginal Legal Service of Western Australia, notably as in-house criminal counsel.

Most recently a senior consultant with a private firm, Mr Brunello has substantial experience in administrative and criminal appeals, applications for judicial review, coronial inquests, workplace misconduct cases, professional and public service disciplinary proceedings, and parole matters.

He has successfully argued appeals in the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal, and has twice appeared before the High Court of Australia.

Mr Brunello attained specialist accreditation in criminal law in 2020, receiving the highest achiever award, and he is the current Chair of the Criminal Law Committee of the Queensland Law Society.

Noted as a dedicated criminal litigator, Queensland’s newest magistrate has extensive experience as a solicitor and barrister, as well as a deep understanding of the diverse challenges facing Queenslanders.

Quotes attributable to the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, Yvette D’Ath:

“Mr Brunello has demonstrated exceptional legal acumen across his years of service in private legal practice and in providing support to Queensland communities through his work with legal support organisations.

“His broad legal background ensures he is an exceptional addition to the bench, and an asset to the courts.

“The appointment reflects the Miles Government’s ongoing commitment to a strong and highly qualified judiciary, and a justice system that continues to serve the needs of its people."

ENDS