Attorney-General Martin Pakula today announced the appointment of Jane Dixon QC to the Supreme Court, filling a vacancy created by the retirement of the Honourable Justice Betty King.
Ms Dixon brings more than 30 years experience to the role, particularly in the areas of criminal law, coronial inquiries, personal injury and environmental matters.
She was called to the Bar in 1988 and has appeared in a range of trials as well as taking on pro bono work for clients of the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service, Victoria Legal Aid and other organisations that provide legal services to disadvantaged individuals.
Ms Dixon has also appeared in a number of high-profile inquests involving death in custody and cases where police conduct has been under scrutiny.
Ms Dixon has chaired and participated in many public engagements on issues relating to discrimination, human rights law and justice, including in the 2015 White Lion Mock Trial that raised funds for homeless and disadvantaged young people.
She is a former President of Liberty Victoria, Chair of the Pro Bono Committee of the Victorian Bar, member of the Indigenous Lawyers Committee and Trustee of the Indigenous Barristers Fund.
Ms Dixon holds a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts from Monash University, and has won numerous awards including the 2014 Senior Barristers Award at the Lawyers Weekly Australian Law Awards in Sydney and the Women Lawyers Achievement Award in 2010.
Mr Pakula thanked Justice Betty King for her 15 years of distinguished service to the judiciary.
Quotes attributable to Attorney-General, Martin Pakula
“Ms Dixon brings a wealth of experience to the role through her work across numerous legal jurisdictions and in a variety of community efforts.”
“Her talent and standing in the legal community will make her an excellent judge of the Supreme Court.”
“I congratulate Ms Dixon on her appointment and look forward to her future contribution to the Victorian legal system.”
“On behalf of the Victorian Government, I thank Justice Betty King for her years of distinguished service to the judiciary and wish her well for the future.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020