Fiona McLeod

As Chair of the Bar Equality and Diversity Committee, and through her role with the Law Council, Fiona has contributed over many years to professional and government policy at state and national levels.

Fiona is currently undertaking work to enhance the support and retention of women lawyers. Her efforts to increase the participation of women in the legal profession not only benefits the profession, but provides better access to justice for all women, in all walks of life.

Fiona has undertaken substantial volunteer and pro bono work for the wider community, and is recognised as a pioneer and a dedicated fighter in the field of anti-slavery and human trafficking in Australia. Fiona has provided pro bono services to victims and she pursued the first compensation claims on behalf of sex trafficking in Victoria and New South Wales. She has negotiated significant legislative change on behalf of trafficked persons.

Fiona is also highly regarded for her pro bono work in environmental and discrimination cases. She assisted in drafting advice and amendments to the Disability Act 2006 (Vic), adopted in February 2012, which provided greater rights of appeal and protection for people with an intellectual disability.