News
WA barrister wins ALA Member of the Year
24th Oct 2023
A WA barrister who led the Australian Lawyers Alliance (ALA) through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Graham Droppert SC, has received the organisation’s 2023 Member of the Year Award.
Graham Droppert SC was presented with the award during the ALA’s National Conference on the Gold Coast today.
“Graham is a truly deserving recipient of our Member of the Year Award,” said Mr Shaun Marcus, National President, ALA. “Day after day Graham brings his expertise and enthusiasm to the work of the ALA and makes an enormous contribution to our ongoing pursuit of justice.”
Graham led the ALA through the two years of pandemic lock downs as the organisation’s National President.
“Despite being rarely able to leave WA, Graham’s leadership during these two years was crucial and effective,” said Mr Marcus. “Like many other organisations, the ALA experienced huge challenges during this time and Graham made critical decisions to support the well-being of the ALA staff and its members, and to sustain the organisation.”
“Graham is also an active member of the ALA’s WA committee and volunteers his time generously to defend the rights of all West Australians,” said Mr Marcus. “He is a highly valued member of the ALA and we are grateful for his ongoing contribution.”
During Graham’s time as WA President, the ALA state committee advocated for several critical changes including safe access zones for abortion clinics, reforms benefiting the survivors of historical child sexual abuse and important legal costs changes.
This year two members were awarded ALA Member of the Year with Victorian barrister Stella Gold also acknowledged for her work.