The Opening Ceremony of the International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ) Asia Pacific Regional Conference was held in Adelaide and featured remarks from several distinguished speakers. The event brought together women judges and legal professionals from approximately 20 countries across the Asia-Pacific region to strengthen international cooperation and solidarity within the judiciary. Among the keynote speakers were Justice Julie McIntyre, Justice Laura Stein, and The Honourable Kyam Maher MLC. “This conference represents international solidarity and collaboration among women judges and legal communities across the world,” stated one of the event organizers.

During the opening session, Justice Julie McIntyre of the Supreme Court of South Australia highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by women judges globally. She particularly addressed the situation of Afghan women judges following the political changes in Afghanistan, which placed many of them in vulnerable circumstances. Justice McIntyre also noted that the International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ) had assisted in relocating several Afghan women judges to Australia as part of humanitarian support efforts. “Women in the judiciary continue to face significant challenges, but international solidarity provides hope and protection,” Justice Julie McIntyre emphasized during her presentation.

The ceremony also featured an “Acknowledgement of Country” performance by students of Ngutu College, honouring Aboriginal culture and heritage. Following the performance, Chief Justice of South Australia, Justice Laura Stein, reflected on the history and progress of women in Australia’s legal profession and judiciary. She recalled that when she first began practising law in 1985, there were still very few women involved in legal institutions and judicial leadership. “The progress achieved by women in the legal sector today is the result of the determination and perseverance of pioneering women before us,” Justice Laura Stein remarked.

Meanwhile, The Honourable Kyam Maher MLC, Deputy Premier and Attorney-General for South Australia, highlighted the importance of inclusion, representation, and international friendship within the legal community. He also reflected on the significant progress achieved in Australia, including greater Aboriginal representation in government and public institutions. At the conclusion of the ceremony, delegations from approximately 20 countries stood one by one while displaying their national flags as a symbol of unity and cooperation across the Asia-Pacific region. “Friendship and cooperation across nations must continue to grow in order to build a more inclusive and just legal system,” Kyam Maher concluded in his remarks.