George Brandis (Queensland, Liberal Party, Attorney-General) Share this | Hansard source

Well, far from that, I often speak with the Chief Judge of the Federal Circuit Court about these very matters. I find Chief Judge Pascoe to be an extremely constructive interlocutor as we work together to deal with this issue. Chief Judge Pascoe was integrally involved in the selection of the best person to take the vacancy in Newcastle, and it was thanks to Chief Judge Pascoe's advice that we were able, after a period of careful search, to identify the ideal candidate. When she is identified, I think you will agree with me, Senator Dastyari, that the person about to be appointed—or whom the government will recommend to His Excellency the Governor-General for appointment—will be a very sound choice.