Centre for Public Integrity

← Centre for Public Integrity14 Apr 2025 · 43 min

Judge, Barrister, Royal Commissioner, Navy Commander & Deputy Chancellor: the Hon Margaret White AO

Judge, Barrister, Royal Commissioner, Navy Commander & Deputy Chancellor: the Hon Margaret White AO14 Apr 202543 min

Margaret White AO was the first woman judge appointed in Queensland. Before that, she had already had a remarkable career from working in Barbados, as an academic and then on two of Australia's most significant constitutional law cases (Tasmanian Dams and Mabo).

Following a lengthy period on the bench, Margaret then went on to run Royal Commissions investigating the racing industry and child protection in the Northern Territory. She reflects on their effect and how they emphasised her belief in the importance of robust regulation and accountability.

Currently, she advocates for anti-corruption and democratic integrity as a director for the Center for Public Integrity, motivated by the belief that democracy requires constant vigilance and active participation to thrive.