Ken Archer, senior member of the ACT Bar, has been named the ACT’s first dedicated coroner, tasked with improving the experience of bereaved families and friends involved in coronial matters.
“The Territory has needed a dedicated coroner for some period of time, and I’m honoured to get that role,” Mr Archer said.
Mr Archer is a former president of the ACT Bar Association, an elected member of the ACT Bar Council, and a member of the Federal Executive of the Australian Bar Association.
He has practised law for over three decades in the ACT, working as a senior prosecutor and as a criminal defence barrister, and has a wealth of experience in coronial hearings and inquests, said Shane Rattenbury, the ACT Attorney-General.
“I am delighted that a lawyer of Mr Archer’s calibre will lead the ACT Coroners Court into a new era, bringing a more restorative approach to coronial processes and making them more timely, inclusive, and trauma-informed for bereaved families and friends. Those who know Mr Archer praise his legal acumen, professionalism, and compassion.”
At present, eight magistrates rotate as on-duty coroner, on top of their existing workload.
“Having a dedicated coroner will reduce delays for bereaved family, friends and witnesses involved in inquests, and allow a more consistent, restorative approach to coronial proceedings,” Mr Rattenbury said.
“Being able to dedicate this degree of focus to the Coroners Court will also keep Canberrans safer through the coroner more effectively being able to identify systemic issues and prevent future deaths.”
As a representative of the ACT Bar Association, Mr Archer said he had discussed with the Attorney-General and other stakeholders how the coronial process might become more efficient and more restorative in its approach. Working with the Chief Coroner (who is also the Chief Magistrate), he hopes to change the Coroners Court to achieve those aims.
More magistrates for the ACT
Jane Campbell, who has been a Special ACT Magistrate since early last year, will be permanently appointed as a Magistrate.
Ms Campbell said she was honoured, and delighted to continue contributing to the community in this way.
Ms Campbell was admitted to practice in 1990, and works with Legal Aid ACT as their Deputy CEO and Head of Criminal Practice.
“My appointment as a Magistrate of this Court reflects the Attorney’s confidence in my performance of this important work. I am extremely proud to be now sharing the bench with my fellow Magistrates, who have been extraordinarily generous and collegial this past year.”
“Both these appointments will strengthen the ACT Magistrates Court, and support the timely and efficient delivery of justice to the Canberra community,” Mr Rattenbury said.
Additionally, Magistrate James Stewart will move from a part-time appointment to full-time.
The appointment of a dedicated coroner delivers on the Government’s commitment in the 10th Parliamentary and Governing Agreement.
