The High Court notes with sadness the recent passing of Sir Anthony Mason AC KBE GBM KC. Sir Anthony was appointed to the Court as a Justice in 1972 and served as Chief Justice from 1987 to 1995.
Sir Anthony, who was born in Sydney in 1925, graduated from the University of Sydney with a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws with First Class Honours and the University Medal. Following service in the Royal Australian Airforce during World War II, he was called to the Bar in New South Wales in 1951 and was appointed a Queen’s Counsel in 1964.
Prior to his appointment to the High Court, Sir Anthony served as Commonwealth Solicitor‑General from 1964 to 1969 and as a Judge of the Court of Appeal of the Supreme Court of New South Wales from 1969 to 1972. Following his retirement from the High Court, he remained active in public life, holding senior positions and appointments with various Australian universities and other national and international organisations as well as several overseas judicial appointments.
In recognition of his outstanding service to the field of law, Sir Anthony was made a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1972. He was made a Companion of the Order of Australia in 1988.
Sir Anthony’s contribution to the jurisprudence of the High Court, and to the legal system and profession more broadly, was profound and is enduring. He was a jurist who was and continues to be regarded with deep respect and admiration, and a man who is remembered with affection and appreciation by those who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.
The Justices of the Court extend their sincere sympathies to Sir Anthony’s family. A ceremonial sitting of the Court to honour him will be held in the June sittings of the Court.