New Senior Judge Administrator appointed to Qld’s Supreme Court

Queensland Supreme Court Judge Justice John Byrne’s appointment as the new Senior Judge Administrator was approved by Executive Council today.

Attorney-General and Justice Minister Kerry Shine said Justice Byrne would replace retiring Justice Martin Moynihan, AO who has served as Senior Judge Administrator since the position was created 1991. Justice Moynihan was appointed to the Supreme Court in 1984.

“The Senior Judge Administrator of the Supreme Court is responsible for the administration of the Trial Division of the Supreme Court,” Mr Shine said.

“Justice Moynihan has made a pioneering contribution to the Court and the administration of justice through this role.”

Mr Shine said Justice Byrne was appointed to the Supreme Court in 1989.

Justice Byrne was only the third Queenslander to serve as President of the Australian Institute of Judicial Administration (2004-06). He has served as a Member on the Institute’s Council since 1997.

Prior to his appointment to the Supreme Court, Justice Byrne practised at the Queensland Bar (1973 to 1989). He was appointed Queen’s Counsel in 1982.

Justice Byrne also served as Honorary Secretary Queensland Council Social Service (1975-83) and Member of Member Board of Governors ACOSS (1976-77).

Appointments to the Supreme Court to replace the vacancies created by the elevation of Justice John Muir to the Court of Appeal last month and Justice Byrne’s appointment as Senior Judge Administrator are currently being considered.

Mr Shine said Executive Council has also approved the appointment of District Court Judge Terry Martin as a Childrens Court Judge. Judge Martin was appointed to the District Court last month.

16 August 2007
Media contact: Kirby Anderson (Mr Shine’s office) 3239 6400 kirby.anderson@ministerial.qld.gov.au