Attorney General lauds the work of Supreme Court of NSW as it celebrates 200th anniversary

17 May 2024

Attorney General Michael Daley has paid tribute to the work of the NSW Supreme Court as it celebrates its bicentenary today.

The highest court in New South Wales, the Supreme Court was established by the Third Charter of Justice and began operating on 17 May 1824.

The court, which has 52 permanent judges, and headed by Chief Justice Andrew Bell, is one of the oldest continuing common law courts anywhere in the world.

It hears the most serious criminal matters, including murder, and has unlimited jurisdiction within the state in civil matters.

“The Supreme Court of New South Wales is a living institution, a vital organ in our functioning democracy and a constant guardian of the rule of law in changing times,” Mr Daley said.

“Its judicial officers are some of the finest legal minds in our country and the gravity and complexity of their work should not be understated. A strong, trusted, independent judiciary is a cornerstone of a civil society.

“For all its long and esteemed history, it has not just been witness to an evolving society, it has helped to shape NSW and prepare it for the future.

“I pay tribute to it, to those who work within it and to Chief Justice Andrew Bell, who leads it.”

The Supreme Court will hold a ceremonial sitting this morning to commemorate the bicentenary.