Mary Gaudron, first female judge of Australia’s high court, dies aged 83

Mary Gaudron, the first female judge of Australia’s high court, has passed away at the age of 83. Appointed to the high court in 1987 at the age of 44, she served in that position until 2003. Gaudron's groundbreaking appointment marked a significant milestone for women in the legal profession. During her tenure on the high court, she played a crucial role in landmark decisions such as the native title case Mabo v Queensland, where she and fellow judge William Deane described Aboriginal dispossession as "the darkest aspect of the history of this country".

Born in Moree, New South Wales in 1943, Gaudron overcame challenges in a predominantly male profession. After studying law at the University of Sydney on a scholarship, she became the first woman appointed to the NSW Bar Council in 1972. In 1974, she was appointed deputy president of the conciliation and arbitration commission, later presiding over a significant case for maternity leave.

Following her time on the high court, Gaudron worked with the International Labour Organization in Geneva and later served as its president of the administrative tribunal. Governor General Sam Mostyn praised Gaudron's legacy, stating that she broke new ground and inspired generations of Australians to pursue careers in law and public service.

The minister for social services, Tanya Plibersek, highlighted Gaudron's efforts to fight for equal pay and break down barriers for women in the legal field. Her intellectual prowess, integrity, and courage made Australia fairer and paved the way for future generations of women in the profession.