The Hon Christopher James HORAN

Judge, Federal Court of Australia: 5.9.2023
Location: Melbourne

Justice Horan was admitted in the Supreme Court of Victoria in 1992.  After practising as a solicitor and as a government lawyer, he commenced practice at the Victorian Bar in 2000, and was appointed senior counsel in 2015.  Justice Horan was appointed to the Federal Court on 5 September 2023.

In 1990, Justice Horan graduated from the University of Melbourne with a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Laws (Honours). In 1992, Justice Horan completed his articles and worked as a solicitor at Arthur Robinson & Hedderwicks. In 1993, Justice Horan was an Associate to then Justice of the High Court of Australia, the Hon Sir Francis Gerard Brennan AC KBE QC. From 1994 to 2000, Justice Horan worked for the Commonwealth Attorney-General's Department and the Australian Government Solicitor, including in the Office of General Counsel and as Counsel Assisting the Solicitor-General.

At the Bar Justice Horan specialised in administrative law, constitutional law, migration, revenue, native title, and commercial and equity matters.

Associateship applications

Justice Horan appoints two associates on an overlapping basis, generally for a period of 12 to 15 months each.

The next available positions will commence in October 2025 and December 2025.  Applications for these positions are currently open.

Candidates with post admission practice experience and an interest in public law are generally preferred.

His Honour will take the following skills, attributes and work experience into consideration when recruiting his associates:

• Academic results
• Post university experience, including pro bono and volunteer work
• Admission to practice (mandatory)
• Public law interest and/or experience
• Capacity to work under pressure
• Proofing and research skills
• Adaptability and personal qualities suitable for close working environment in Chambers
• Willingness to travel

As part of the recruitment process candidates may be required to attend an interview.

To be considered for the position, candidates are invited to send their curriculum vitae, academic transcript, and a cover letter of no more than one page by email to the attention of the Chambers of Justice Horan at associate.horanj@fedcourt.gov.au. Applications should not include written references.

The closing date for applications is Monday, 3 March 2025.

Applications will be considered in March 2025 following the close of applications.