Queenstown will host the first Trans-Tasman Human Rights Law Conference on 12 and 13 August, 2024. It features a lineup of leading legal lights from both sides of the Tasman, with opening presentations from Chief Justice the Rt Hon Dame Helen Winkelmann and Hon Justice Kristen Walker of the Victorian Court of Appeal, each of whom will set the scene of human rights in their respective jurisdictions. Chief Justice of the Federal Court of Australia, Hon Justice Debra Mortimer will then be joined by leading judges and senior practitioners with expertise in their field to deliver the two-day programme, addressing the most important human rights topics of the day.

New Zealand co-chair of the conference, Andrew Butler KC of Thorndon Chambers says, "this conference offers a unique opportunity for practitioners to hear and learn from peers and leading minds on both sides of the Tasman on issues that cross a range of practice areas, including cultural and Indigenous rights, criminal justice, climate change, and freedom of thought, conscience and religion."

Andrew encourages anyone considering attending the event to do so in person to get the most out of this comparatively intimate conference, which sees ease of access to presenters and keynote speakers, and offers excellent networking opportunities at the social events and meaningful ‘fireside’ style discussions. "There is, of course, the added and undeniable attraction of the conference being held in Queenstown, making for the perfect pre- or post-conference retreat."

“While most people in New Zealand will know the significant impact of human rights jurisprudence on New Zealand public and private law over the last 30 years, it is of note that Australia is on the cusp of a similar revolution,” says Andrew.

"Inevitably, what happens in Australia will have some flow-on effect on New Zealand. Advances in human rights across the spectrum of issues can alter everything from the interpretation of statutes to the judicial review of discretionary statutes, as well as reaching beyond public law and into private law." To this end, there is something for everyone at this conference and with a programme to reflect the broad nature of this important topic.

Pay for two, get one free – in-person deals

CLE has extended its special 'three for the price of two' deal to those who attend the conference in person, usually reserved for online courses only. To book this special deal for in-person attendance, please email registrations@lawyerseducation.co.nz

See more on the CLE website and download the conference brochure here.