New Law School Dean is appointed

Thursday, 21 February 2002

Professor Paul Fairall has been appointed Dean of the School of Law and John Bray Professor of Law at the University of Adelaide. He is currently Professor of Law at James Cook University in Queensland, where he also chairs the Academic Board, and was Dean of Law for the previous five years.

University of Adelaide Vice-Chancellor Professor Cliff Blake AO said the appointment was an outstanding one for the University.

"Professor Fairall has a proven record of achievement at James Cook University where he has led a dramatic growth in the Law School over the past six years," Professor Blake said. "He is also a prominent figure in legal education at national level. As chairperson of the Council of Australian Law Deans, he has oversight of all the major developments taking place in Law Schools across the country. This leadership experience, combined with a strong research background, will be substantial assets to the University of Adelaide."

The appointment has also been welcomed by the Executive Dean of the Faculty of the Professions, Professor Fred McDougall. He said:

"One of Professor Fairall's early tasks will be to address the issues raised in the report of the Law School Review team which brought forward 41 recommendations last year on how the School could enhance the quality of its teaching, research, and professional outreach. The University is committed to providing additional resources to the Law School to give effect to these recommendations. Professor Fairall will advise which reforms should take priority and what level of funding will be required. The additional funding for the School will come from the University as well as from public subscriptions. A major fund-raising initiative is currently being planned, and we will be announcing full details later this year.

"Professor Fairall will also ensure that the University of Adelaide's law degree continues to receive accreditation from the Legal Practitioners Education and Admissions Council, the official accreditation board which is chaired by the Chief Justice. He will lead an enthusiastic and high-quality staff dedicated to enhancing the profile of the Law School. The University has started the process of rejuvenating the School with the appointment of nine new staff, including Professor Fairall."

Professor Fairall said he was "absolutely delighted" by his appointment.

"It is a special privilege and an honour to lead Australia's second oldest law school," he said. "Adelaide's proud tradition, its excellent staff and its first class resources make it by reputation one of the best law schools in the country. It has the potential to be the finest. I will strive to satisfy the high standards and aspirations of my new colleagues, the students, and the senior management. I look especially forward to working closely with the legal profession. I can't wait to get started."

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