10 June 2008
Attorney-General Meets Chinese Legal exchange Participants
Attorney-General Robert McClelland today met eight representatives of the Chinese legal fraternity, who have recently completed an intensive study and work placement program in Australia, as part of the Australia-China Legal Profession Development program.
“The program provides a great opportunity to not only promote professional links, but also camaraderie and understanding between the Australian and Chinese legal professions,” Mr McClelland said.
“The eight lawyers have gained an insight into the skills required to practice law in Australia, while making friends and exchanging knowledge with their Australian counterparts.”
The Chinese participants undertook work placements with Australian and State Government agencies, and private law firms in Melbourne, Canberra, Sydney, Adelaide and Brisbane. They have also attended intensive university courses in Australian law and practice, and conducted study tours of various courts and institutions.
The lawyers will undertake a final week’s program in Canberra, including a visit to the High Court of Australia and events with the Attorney-General’s Department, before returning to China.
“I want to thank the public and private sectors for engaging with their Chinese counterparts through the Australia-China Legal Profession Development program,” Mr McClelland said.
“I expect that the experience gained by the participants will generate further exchanges in the future.”
The Chinese lawyers were awarded Australian Leadership Awards – Fellowships by AusAID to participate in the program.
Media contact: Adam Sims 0419 488 240