Judicial Independence

The High Court came under significant attack in the wake of the Wik decision. The incoming Conservative Government not only questioned the High Court's native title doctrine but also made personal criticisms of the judges. The attacks were an unprecedented imposition upon the independence of the judiciary which prompted then Chief Justice Sir Gerard Brennan to write formally to the new Prime Minister to stem the criticism.

Keywords: Brennan, Justice Gerard, Canberra, High Court of Australia, Wik, Wik & Co-Existence, 1996-1997

Author: Strelein, Lisa