Media Release – The Victorian Bar supports the findings of the Royal Commission into the Management of Police Informants

The President of the Victorian Bar, Christopher Blanden QC, said “The Victorian Bar and its members support the recommendations of the Royal Commission into the Management of Police Informants. The Commissioner’s robust investigation of these serious matters, and the implementation of the recommendations in the Report, will enable the justice sector to move forward.

“Nicola Gobbo’s conduct was not only egregious, but also unprecedented in the 120-year history of the Victorian Bar. Barristers in Victoria are bound by a strict code of ethics under which their paramount obligation is to the administration of justice, and all are subject to a robust and rigorous disciplinary framework that applies equally to all, without fear or favour.

“The findings of the Royal Commission should strengthen public confidence in the integrity of the administration of justice and those barristers and solicitors who are charged with upholding it.

“We will be working closely with the Victorian Legal Services Board + Commissioner to implement the recommendations as they apply to the governance and oversight of barristers at the Victorian Bar.”