Attorney-General Martin Pakula today announced the appointment of Victorian Magistrate Amanda Chambers as the President of the Children’s Court and as a Judge of the County Court.
Ms Chambers – who has more than 25 years of legal experience – will commence in the roles on 9 June 2015, upon the retirement of His Honour Judge Peter Couzens.
Her law career began as a solicitor with Slater and Gordon in 1988, before working as a Senior Associate at Maurice Blackburn from 1994 until 1997.
She has been a magistrate for the last nine years, Supervising Magistrate for the Sexual Offences List for the last three years and was Joint Supervising Magistrate at the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal from 2009 to 2012.
Ms Chambers was also a part time Commissioner of the Victorian Law Reform Commission, where she served until 2012.
She has been a member of a number of committees across a range of criminal justice issues including family violence, sexual offences, victims of crime and child witnesses.
Quotes attributable to Attorney-General Martin Pakula
“Ms Chambers brings significant legal experience to the County Court, having practised for more than 25 years across criminal and industrial law.”
“Her experience serving the public across a variety of organisations will be a huge asset to the County and Children’s Court, as will her strong sense of social justice.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Families and Children, Jenny Mikakos
“Ms Chambers holds a deep understanding of the complex issues facing young people in the justice system, which is critical for the Children’s Court.”
“Her vast expertise in criminal justice issues will be invaluable in matters of child protection and youth offending – both areas in which early intervention and ongoing support are fundamental.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020