THE BAR ASSOCIATION

About Us

WELCOME

Welcome to the ACT Bar Association, the professional body that regulates barristers in the Australian Capital Territory. We represent the interests of members who practise at the private bar and work towards maintaining a strong and independent bar in the ACT, in the interest of the Canberra community. While our website is designed specifically for our members, other legal professionals, students and members of the general public will find useful information and news about practising in the ACT and law reform issues.

WHAT WE DO

Whilst the scope and functions of the ACT Bar Association have broadened since its establishment, its primary goals of promoting the rule of law and maintaining the high ethical standards of the Bar remain in place. The ACT Bar Association now issues barrister’s practising certificates. This change came into effect May 2014 and gives the ACT Bar Association responsibility for issuing ACT barristers with practising certificates. The amendment to the Legal Profession Act 2006 allows the registration process to be streamlined. Where previously it involved a two step process, where the ACT Bar Association would process applications, and then report to the ACT Law society who then issued the certificates.

The ACT Bar Association also provides mentoring through our pupillage system (Reading program), and on-going professional advice and assistance to all barristers as well as Continuing Professional Development.

MEMBER BENEFITS

Membership is voluntary and available to all barristers practising in the ACT, interstate barristers and others in the legal profession, including academics. Our members enjoy substantial benefits and opportunities, including:

  • Regular continuing professional development
  • Seminars and conferences
  • Seminars and conferences
  • Social events
  • Daily notifications and publications.