02/07/2026

The Managing Principal of Melbourne law firm Margalit Lawyers, Michel Margalit, is the new National President of the Australian Lawyers Alliance. She replaces NSW lawyer Ian Murray who held the role for the past 12 months.

The Australian Lawyers Alliance is a not-for-profit member organisation made up of legal professionals who advocate for justice, fairness and human rights.

“The ALA’s values and principles are relevant whether we are fighting for justice for someone injured on the road or in a workplace accident, a survivor of abuse, someone in immigration detention or a person living with disability,” said Ms Margalit.

Michel is a fearless advocate and has acted in high profile cases including the Monash IVF class action, the current AFL class actions and a series of litigation against Crown Casino regarding the assaults of patrons by security personnel. Michel also practices in TAC, WorkCover, public liability and common law claims including those to recover compensation for victims of violent assault and sexual assault.

“As the ALA’s National President, I am looking forward to contributing to our advocacy outside the courtroom,” said Ms Margalit. “The ALA was formed more than 30 years ago and our commitment to protecting and promoting common law rights is still as important as ever. There continues to be significant work for us to do.

“I feel honoured to have this opportunity to fight to protect the most vulnerable members of our society. Discussions surrounding tort reform, rising insurance costs, increasing pressure on public spending and access to justice are important. At the centre of these conversations are everyday people navigating injury, loss, financial pressure, and systems they often never expected to face.”

The ALA began in 1994 and was originally known as the Australian Plaintiff Lawyers Association. At any one time, ALA members represent at least 200,000 people around Australia. The organisation has had several well-known national presidents including Noor Blumer AM, Tom Goudkamp OAM, Greg Barns SC, Andrew Stone SC and Peter Semmler KC.