Details of our premier end-of-year event will arrive in your inbox this week, and I encourage you to secure your seat or table early. But more than that, take a moment to think about the colleagues who have made a lasting impression on you, those whose dedication, achievements, and service deserve to be recognised.

Since they were established in 2022, the Law Society Member Awards have celebrated the contributions of solicitors to the profession, the community, and the administration of justice.

We’re refreshing the focus of the Awards to better reflect the Law Society’s purpose and values, recognising individuals whose work strengthens the profession, improves access to justice, supports the community, and advances the public interest.

This year, it will be my privilege to choose the recipient of the President’s Medal, the Law Society’s highest honour. The Medal is awarded to an experienced solicitor who has demonstrated exceptional integrity, courage, and professional responsibility, through their commitment to continual improvement of the profession and of themselves.

I am also particularly excited about the introduction of a new Professional Leadership Award. This recognises the vital role that leadership, mentorship and professional stewardship play in shaping the future of our profession. It will celebrate solicitors who invest in developing others, foster ethical practice, and help build capability across the legal community.

Awards will also be presented in the following categories:

• Committee Member of the Year Award - recognising excellence in law reform, advocacy and policy contributions.
• Pro Bono Service Award - recognising outstanding commitment to improving access to justice and supporting the community.
• Wellbeing and Sustainable Practice Award - recognising leadership in promoting a healthy, sustainable and resilient profession
• Early Career Lawyer of the Year Award - recognising innovation, initiative and excellence among the next generation of solicitors.