Experts discuss the Voice in relation to the courts and the rule of law

What role the courts might play if the referendum is passed and a Voice is established will be discussed by Professor Cheryl Saunders AO, Elizabeth Bennett SC, Taryn Lee, and Professor Jason Varuhas at the upcoming Conversations about the Voice event.

Hosted by the Centre for Comparative Constitutional Studies (CCCS) at Melbourne Law School on Monday 5 June, the in-person and online event will draw on legal and other professional expertise to inform Australians ahead of the referendum vote later this year.

Co-convener and Director of the CCCS, Professor Jason Varuhas said: “This third conversation will consider the potential role of the courts in relation to the Voice, seeking to place the courts’ role in a broader constitutional, legal and political context. Our discussion will span the potential role of the courts in relation to the Voice itself, as well as the potential for litigation.”

“We are very pleased to be joined by participants with significant experience in the processes of the court system, as well as administrative law and Indigenous legal matters, and we look forward to continuing to inform public understanding of this proposed constitutional change.”

Conversations About the Voice is convened by barrister Timothy Goodwin, Laureate Emeritus Professor Cheryl Saunders AO and CCCS Director Professor Jason Varuhas. For this upcoming event, the convenors will be joined by panellists Elizabeth Bennett SC (List G Barristers, Victorian Bar) and Taryn Lee (General Manager, Social Impact and Policy, Collingwood Football Club)

Following the successful first two events in April and May, this third discussion will continue to inform debate on the upcoming Voice referendum. The events are interactive, providing an opportunity for audience members to have their questions answered by leading constitutional law experts and panellists with unique perspectives.

Event details:

The event will be held on Monday 5 June at 6pm at the University of Melbourne Law School and online. Register to attend now.

Panellists:

  • Laureate Emeritus Professor Cheryl Saunders AO, Melbourne Law School
  • Elizabeth Bennett SC, List G Barristers, Victorian Bar
  • Taryn Lee, General Manager, Social Impact and Policy, Collingwood Football Club
  • Professor Jason Varuhas, Melbourne Law School
Image by artist Ande K Terare (Language group: Bundjalung; Tribe/clan: Minjungbal).