The former Chief Justice of NSW Tom Bathurst QC has been appointed to lead the state’s Law Reform Commission.

Attorney General Mark Speakman said in his former role Mr Bathurst oversaw a number of reforms, including to the way the courts engaged with technology.

He described Mr Bathurst as a respected advocate for the rule of law and administration of justice, and said he was eminently qualified to take on the role having served as Chief Justice for more than 10 years.

He said Mr Bathurst’s legal acumen and experience would assist the NSW Law Reform Commission in its role of independently scrutinising the state’s law and justice system to ensure it remained fit for purpose.

Mr Bathurst takes up the appointment in June.

“Good law reform requires both inquiring legal minds and detailed knowledge of our laws, the justice system that upholds them and the community the justice system serves,” Mr Speakman said.

“I am delighted that the Law Reform Commission and the people of NSW will now benefit from his intellect, leadership skills, and sound judgement.”

Mr Bathurst has also held other roles President of the NSW and Australian Bar Associations.

Mr Bathurst said he was honoured to take on the role, which gave him an opportunity to look at the law from a different perspective.

“The NSW Law Reform Commission undertakes significant work in researching, interrogating the law and advising on reform,” Mr Bathurst said.

“It is a privilege to be appointed Chairperson of an institution with such a respected record of reform and advice work.”

The NSW Law Reform provides legal policy advice to government on issues referred by the Attorney General, including analytical reports and recommendations for legislative reform.

Mr Bathurst takes over form  outgoing Chairperson Alan Cameron. His appointment ends on May 31 2025.

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