Victorian Bar Media Release - Victorian Bar elects 2019 President and Bar Council members

The Victorian Bar’s 2,100 barristers have elected their 21-member Bar Council for 2019.

Dr Matthew Collins QC has been re-elected President for a second term, as have the other members of the Bar Council executive. Six new members have been elected to the Bar Council, providing an excellent balance of continuity and renewal and bringing a broad range of skills and abilities to Council.

“I am honoured to continue as President for a second year, and to have the opportunity to continue working on behalf of our Bar, which is leading the nation in many areas,” said Dr Collins.  “With the advantage of stability and experience in our Council Executive, we will maintain a clear focus on our core objectives of expanding the market share of barristers, providing enhanced member services, fostering excellence, and being a strong, independent and authoritative voice.

“The Bar’s commitment to diversity and inclusion in our profession is reflected in there being, for the second consecutive year, a majority of women on the Council,” he said. 

“In a legal and social landscape undergoing constant disruption and challenges, the Victorian Bar Council remains steadfastly committed to furthering the administration of justice and the rule of law, and maintenance of the highest professional and ethical standards.” 

Dr Collins will be the first person to serve a second term as President of the Victorian Bar since 1999.

A full list of Bar Council members and office bearers is available here.