5 October 2018
Thank you for entrusting me with the task of leading the Society as President — it means a lot to me, and I sincerely hope I can meet your expectations.
Congratulations to all those who continued, started, or returned to a position on the Council. Commiserations to those who did not get their preferred position, or who were not elected at all. It can be discouraging, but the fact that you took the risk shows your significant support for the Society. So thank you, and do try again. The interest and support of members is what makes the Society strong, and that strength enables us to better perform our role as part of the system of justice in the ACT.
Leaving the Executive this year are Louise Vardanega (Secretary for 25 years), Vic Sundar (Treasurer) and Craig Painter (Vice President). After working for some years with these skilled people and their engaging personalities it is sad to see them go.
The Society’s current major issue is Chief Minister Barr’s proposal to legislate innocent road traffic victims out of their fair compensation entitlements. A 300-plus page exposure draft is available for comment, and our CTP working group is drafting a comprehensive response. You will hear more about this in the immediate future, and I urge you to take whatever steps you can to understand the issues and to make contributions, if possible, by submissions to the Assembly committee. Read the CTP article in this edition, and visit actctp.org for more information.
Chris Donohue President, ACT Law Society