Victoria University law experts in demand at Commonwealth Secretariat
The Faculty of Law’s Professor Petra Butler and alumnus Audley Sheppard QC are among those selected to lead an international study on settling cross-border commercial disputes.
The study was requested by senior officials of Commonwealth law ministries when they met last year, and is expected to be presented for consideration at the meeting of Commonwealth Law Ministers later this year.
It will comprehensively explore the challenges faced by Commonwealth countries in accessing international commercial arbitration, and look at ways of strengthening the accessibility and effectiveness of international commercial arbitration.
Professor Butler highlighted the importance of understanding the diversity of perspectives and needs across member states. “This study is a timely opportunity to gain a picture of the state of international commercial arbitration in 53 diverse countries representing all corners of the world and, based on the findings, to develop strategies to strengthen access to justice for all stakeholders, thereby encouraging participation in the global economy,” she said.
News of Professor Butler’s and Mr Sheppard’s appointments coincided with the appointment of Victoria University law alumna Catherine Callaghan QC, as a Judge of the Commonwealth Secretariat Arbitral Tribunal. Ms Callaghan joins another Victoria University alumnus on the Tribunal, David Goddard QC, who is Acting President.
Professor Mark Hickford, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Dean of Law, congratulated Professor Butler, Mr Sheppard and Ms Callaghan. “We have some exceptionally talented legal professionals coming through our Law School, and it is always wonderful to see our staff and alumni enjoying well-deserved international recognition,” he said.