There have been 12 Chief Justices and 42 Justices since the Court was established in 1903, including the current members of the Court. Three members of the Court – Sir Isaac Isaacs, Sir Ninian Stephen and Sir William Deane – resigned from the Court to become Governor-General. The current Justices of the High Court and the dates they were sworn in, are as follows:
- Chief Justice French AC, 1 September 2008
- Justice Hayne AC, 22 September 1997
- Justice Crennan AC, 8 November 2005
- Justice Kiefel AC, 3 September 2007
- Justice Bell AC, 3 February 2009
- Justice Gageler, 9 October 2012
- Justice Keane, 5th March 2012
Appointment
Under section 72 of the Constitution, Justices of the High Court:
- Are appointed by the Governor-General in Council;
- Cannot be removed except by the Governor-General in Council on an address from both Houses of Parliament in the same session, praying for such removal on the grounds of proved misbehaviour or incapacity;
- Receive such remuneration as the Parliament may fix; but the remuneration shall not be diminished during their continuance in office; and
- Must retire on attaining the age of 70 years.
How do I address a High Court Judge? (PDF 12k) (RTF 32k)
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