Inspiring the next generation of legal professionals as George Williams takes to the classroom

Western Sydney University law students had the opportunity to gain first-hand insights from eminent constitutional law expert and scholar, Vice-Chancellor Distinguished Professor George Williams AO, as he returned to the classroom this week.

Professor Williams delivered a seminar to final-year law students in the Access to Justice subject, where he also shared some of his own experiences and highlights from his distinguished legal career.

The Vice-Chancellor relished the chance to talk with the students, whose thoughtful and incisive questions kept the experienced barrister on his toes.

Professor Williams said the classroom discussion left him inspired – and confident the future of the legal profession is in exceptional hands.

“I very much enjoyed our lively conversation covering everything from the Hindmarsh Bridge case, the Voice referendum and introducing a national Human Rights Act, to the power of lived experience and storytelling, and how to build personal resilience and wellbeing for lifelong social justice advocacy,” he said.

Professor Williams was particularly impressed by the students’ work on the Raise the Age NSW campaign, an initiative focused on raising the age of criminal responsibility.

“The chance to get back into the classroom to teach is always a personal highlight for me. I continue to be impressed by our students and how passionate they are about human rights and social justice. I am very proud of our law school and its commitment to supporting and fostering the next generation of legal professionals.”

Sara Korkis, who studies a double degree in criminology and law, described the session as transformative.

“I hadn’t fully appreciated the extent of the University’s commitment to social change – or how impactful law students could be in driving that change – until this session. It completely shifted my perspective,” said Sara.

“The Vice-Chancellor captured the transformative power students can have within their communities, even before they graduate. Realising that the University is actively empowering us to advocate for social justice made me feel less like a passive learner and more like an active participant in a much larger mission.”

The Access to Justice subject forms part of the School of Law’s Justice Clinic – an innovative community legal service and experiential learning program that gives the University’s law students an employability edge as they put their knowledge and skills into practice while they study.

Students are immersed in a law firm environment working alongside lawyers and Clinic partners to collaborate on cases, liaise with clients, and contribute to law reform initiatives and access-to-justice projects while they also undertake academic modules, seminars and University assessments as part of their learning.

Dean of the School of Law, Professor Catherine Renshaw, said the Justice Clinic is a standout feature of the University’s law program.

“Our Justice Clinic gives students the ability to take what they learn in the classroom and put it directly into practice, while also critically evaluating the role of the law and lawyers in advancing justice,” said Professor Renshaw.

“Students have the chance to work on a diverse range of legal issues and utilise their lawyering skills including handling client instructions and client interviews, researching and evaluating legislation and case law, as well as working on matters for the Student Legal Service and other Clinic cases focusing on modern slavery, family and sexual violence.

“This experienced-based learning builds students’ professional identity, legal skills and employability – meaning our graduates are ready to hit the ground running when they enter the profession.”

Professor Renshaw said the Vice-Chancellor’s return to the classroom coincides with the School of Law’s 30th anniversary year.

“As one of Australia’s most respected constitutional lawyers Professor Williams’ professional insights are invaluable. We welcome him back to the Justice Clinic whenever his busy schedule permits, so our students can learn and benefit from his incredible knowledge, experience and his love of the law,” said Professor Renshaw.

“Western Sydney University is proud to be a leader in legal education and social justice. Over decades our law school has shaped the careers of thousands of legal professionals, policymakers, and community leaders, who hold esteemed positions across the profession.

“Our graduates are critical thinkers engaged with the issues of our world and who hold a deep connection with the communities of Western Sydney.

“In this our 30th year we celebrate our students and alumni making their mark – distinguishing themselves as advocates for justice, champions of change and passionate about the law.”

ENDS

21 May 2025

Amanda Whibley, Manager, Media and PR

Photo credit: Sally Tsoutas