Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus welcomes new Territory born and bred federal judge Tass Liveris
Mark Dreyfus has welcomed a Territory judge with a passion for classic ‘80s power balladry and a ‘penchant for puns’ to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia.
Police & Courts
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Commonwealth Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus has welcomed lifelong Territorian Tass Liveris to the bench in a ceremonial sitting of the court in Darwin.
Judge Liveris was appointed to the role on the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia in February following a more than two-decade career in the law.
In congratulating Judge Liveris on his appointment on Thursday, Mr Dreyfus noted his origins within a close knit family in Darwin where he developed “a fondness for reading and writing”.
“Your honour’s grandfather, after whom you are named, encouraged a love of words while your mother read you your favourite books,” he said.
“This no doubt equipped you for a career in the law and laid the foundations for your keen appreciation of the poetic lyrics of Guns N’ Roses.”
Mr Dreyfus said as a student Judge Liveris was “known as a confident public speaker” and “even considered pursuing stand up comedy”
“Which sheds light on your penchant for puns and dad jokes with your children,” he said.
“I’m sure your honour’s chambers have your good humour to look forward to.”
Mr Dreyfus said Judge Liveris was first admitted to practice in the NT in 2002 before spending time as a prosecutor in WA and serving as president of the Law Society of Australia.
“I’m told that humility, generosity and tenacity are qualities that define your honour, equity and equality being the hallmarks of your honour’s career to date,” he said.
“Your honour’s particular passion for the people of the NT is clear to all those who know you.
“Among other qualities, it’s this commitment and connection that equips you to serve the interests of justice and the community in this part of our country.”
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