Ruth Higgins SC: Australia appoints first woman as top legal adviser

Australia has appointed the first-ever woman to the role of top legal adviser to the Federal Government.

Attorney-General Michelle Rowland announced on Monday barrister Ruth Higgins SC as the nation’s next solicitor‑general.

For the first time in Australia’s history both the first and second law officers are women.

Dr Higgins is a barrister with more than 30 years of legal experience, including almost 10 as senior counsel.

She will start her role as the principal legal counsel to the Australian Government in early June for a five-year term.

Dr Higgins replaces former solicitor-general Stephen Donaghue KC, who joined Victoria’s Court of Appeal earlier this year.

Justice Donaghue previously served in the role for nine years after he was appointed in December 2016.

He oversaw high-profile High Court challenges including Russia’s bid to build a new embassy in Canberra which resulted in the Federal Government being ordered to pay compensation and court costs.

The High Court also found the Commonwealth’s indefinite detention of immigration detainees to be unlawful.

Attorney-General Michelle Rowland congratulated Dr Higgins on becoming the first woman to be appointed to this “vitally important position”.“The second law officer of the Commonwealth of Australia plays a significant role in promoting the integrity of the rule of law and trust in government and public institutions,” she said.

“Dr Higgins’ experience, ability and acumen will see the Commonwealth well represented in significant legal matters, and I have every confidence in her ability to undertake this important work.”