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Leading Western Australian Federal Court judge, Justice Robert French, who was named Chief Justice of the High Court of Australia this week, is another distinguished graduate from The University of Western Australia who is helping to shape the nation, according to UWA Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alan Robson.

"Since the University's establishment in 1911, many of our graduates have been instrumental in Australia's success on the world stage," Professor Robson said.

"Among them have been a Prime Minister, Federal and State Government Ministers, Nobel Laureates, artists, sports people and leaders in business, the professions, academia and the community."

Justice French completed his science degree at UWA in 1968, majoring in physics, and finished his law degree in 1971.  He was president of the University's Liberal Club and later tutored in constitutional law at the University.  His wife, Valerie French, also completed her law degree at UWA in 1971.

While he did not make a career of science, Justice French said:  "Whether or not you become a scientist, the basic understanding of scientific reasoning, methodology and principles that you obtain from your first degree in science will be of inestimable value to you."

He is the first West Australian to be appointed to the position of Chief Justice of the High Court of Australia.

Media references

Simone Hewett / Sally-Ann Jones (UWA Public Affairs)  (+61 8) 6488 7977
(+61 4) 20 790 097 / (+61 4) 20 790 098