<![CDATA[In Conversation]]>b274ce1f-51cd-5713-89e4-279131c61a1cTue, 10 Nov 2026 02:00:27 +0000Captivate.fmLaw Institute of Victoriahttps://artwork.captivate.fm/7ef9861a-9654-4797-ae11-6eacfe0bf714/20261028-CLC-LIVPodcast-InConversation-ShowTile-V02.jpgIn ConversationLaw Institute of VictoriaLaw Institute of VictoriaThe legal profession is key to helping shape a fair, informed and democratic society. The In Conversation podcast from the Law Institute of Victoria features in-depth discussions between leading voices in the profession on the issues shaping law and society. Episodes explore big-picture topics, including access to justice, the rule of law, legal leadership and the future of the profession. Browse all episodes below or find us wherever you listen to podcasts.https://www.liv.asn.aufalseepisodicyespodcastMelbourne, Australia2026 Victorian Election LIV Call to Parties: In conversation with James Newbury2026 Victorian Election LIV Call to Parties: In conversation with James NewburyEpisode Summary

Ahead of the 2026 Victorian State Election in November, the LIV has issued a Call to Parties, which outlines priority issues for the legal profession. In our new In Conversation podcast, Victoria’s Shadow Attorney-General James Newbury responds to the issues raised in the LIV Call to Parties, including court capacity, legal assistance, AI, crime prevention and the rule of law. Newbury also explains how community voice and problem solving shape his approach to lawmaking.

Guest


Host


Episode Overview

Ahead of the 2026 Victorian State Election in November, the LIV has issued a Call to Parties, which outlines priority issues for the legal profession. These include strengthening Victoria’s justice system, supporting legal practices and protecting vulnerable members of the community. In this episode of the new In Conversation podcast, James Newbury discusses Victorian justice priorities with LIV Chief Executive Adam Awty. The discussion connects access to justice in Victoria with court resourcing, delays, legal assistance sector sustainability and responsible AI in the justice system. Newbury also considers victim survivor pathways, open justice and suppression orders, early intervention and rehabilitation, and the need to protect confidence in public institutions. He argues that government should set guardrails without stifling innovation and should use transparency, data and ongoing engagement with experts to respond to criticism and improve the justice system.

Topics & Timestamps

  • [00:09] Welcome and guest introduction
  • [00:12] Why James Newbury studied law
  • [03:14] Justice sector priorities for the next term
  • [09:40] Court resourcing, delays and system change
  • [11:33] Courts and Victoria’s economic confidence
  • [13:27] Legal assistance and the private practitioner model
  • [16:27] AI opportunities, risks and guardrails
  • [19:36] Crime prevention, bail, early intervention and rehabilitation
  • [24:59] Public confidence, transparency and institutions
  • [28:39] Community voice, expertise and public service

Key Takeaways

  • The LIV Call to Parties frames the discussion around commitments to strengthen Victoria’s justice system, legal profession and community outcomes.
  • Newbury identifies access to justice, modern victim survivor pathways, open justice and confidence in institutions as core justice priorities.
  • Changes to criminal jurisdiction and sentencing settings must be matched by adequate court resourcing and attention to existing delays.
  • A timely civil and commercial justice system supports business certainty and Victoria’s economic confidence.
  • Sustaining legal assistance requires detailed work to remove barriers and help private practitioners continue representing vulnerable clients.
  • AI can improve access and court operations, but adoption should include guardrails, protection against harm and respect for judicial independence.
  • Newbury supports combining firm responses to violent offending with early intervention, rehabilitation and specialist support that creates alternative pathways.

Resources & Links


Content advice: This episode discusses sexual assault, violence against women, crime, youth offending, bail, incarceration and victim survivor experiences.

About This Podcast

In Conversation is a new podcast from the Law Institute of Victoria. Tune in to hear in-depth discussions between leading voices in the profession on the issues shaping law and society. Episodes explore big-picture topics, including access to justice, the rule of law, legal leadership and the future of the profession.

This podcast is recorded on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. The Law Institute of Victoria acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country across Australia. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional legal advice. The views expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Law Institute of Victoria (LIV). The LIV is not responsible for any losses, damages or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. Listeners should seek independent legal advice for their matters.

Production Information

  • Produced by: The Law Institute of Victoria
  • Producer and audio editor: Garreth Hanley
  • Music: Garreth Hanley

Connect With Us


]]>Episode Summary

Ahead of the 2026 Victorian State Election in November, the LIV has issued a Call to Parties, which outlines priority issues for the legal profession. In our new In Conversation podcast, Victoria’s Shadow Attorney-General James Newbury responds to the issues raised in the LIV Call to Parties, including court capacity, legal assistance, AI, crime prevention and the rule of law. Newbury also explains how community voice and problem solving shape his approach to lawmaking.

Guest


Host


Episode Overview

Ahead of the 2026 Victorian State Election in November, the LIV has issued a Call to Parties, which outlines priority issues for the legal profession. These include strengthening Victoria’s justice system, supporting legal practices and protecting vulnerable members of the community. In this episode of the new In Conversation podcast, James Newbury discusses Victorian justice priorities with LIV Chief Executive Adam Awty. The discussion connects access to justice in Victoria with court resourcing, delays, legal assistance sector sustainability and responsible AI in the justice system. Newbury also considers victim survivor pathways, open justice and suppression orders, early intervention and rehabilitation, and the need to protect confidence in public institutions. He argues that government should set guardrails without stifling innovation and should use transparency, data and ongoing engagement with experts to respond to criticism and improve the justice system.

Topics & Timestamps

  • [00:09] Welcome and guest introduction
  • [00:12] Why James Newbury studied law
  • [03:14] Justice sector priorities for the next term
  • [09:40] Court resourcing, delays and system change
  • [11:33] Courts and Victoria’s economic confidence
  • [13:27] Legal assistance and the private practitioner model
  • [16:27] AI opportunities, risks and guardrails
  • [19:36] Crime prevention, bail, early intervention and rehabilitation
  • [24:59] Public confidence, transparency and institutions
  • [28:39] Community voice, expertise and public service

Key Takeaways

  • The LIV Call to Parties frames the discussion around commitments to strengthen Victoria’s justice system, legal profession and community outcomes.
  • Newbury identifies access to justice, modern victim survivor pathways, open justice and confidence in institutions as core justice priorities.
  • Changes to criminal jurisdiction and sentencing settings must be matched by adequate court resourcing and attention to existing delays.
  • A timely civil and commercial justice system supports business certainty and Victoria’s economic confidence.
  • Sustaining legal assistance requires detailed work to remove barriers and help private practitioners continue representing vulnerable clients.
  • AI can improve access and court operations, but adoption should include guardrails, protection against harm and respect for judicial independence.
  • Newbury supports combining firm responses to violent offending with early intervention, rehabilitation and specialist support that creates alternative pathways.

Resources & Links


Content advice: This episode discusses sexual assault, violence against women, crime, youth offending, bail, incarceration and victim survivor experiences.

About This Podcast

In Conversation is a new podcast from the Law Institute of Victoria. Tune in to hear in-depth discussions between leading voices in the profession on the issues shaping law and society. Episodes explore big-picture topics, including access to justice, the rule of law, legal leadership and the future of the profession.

This podcast is recorded on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. The Law Institute of Victoria acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country across Australia. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional legal advice. The views expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Law Institute of Victoria (LIV). The LIV is not responsible for any losses, damages or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. Listeners should seek independent legal advice for their matters.

Production Information

  • Produced by: The Law Institute of Victoria
  • Producer and audio editor: Garreth Hanley
  • Music: Garreth Hanley

Connect With Us


]]>aa2a697e-3ac6-45ee-b4e2-668ad026dea1Tue, 10 Nov 2026 10:35:00 +110030:49falsefull14412026 Victorian Election LIV Call to Parties: In Conversation with Sonya Kilkenny2026 Victorian Election LIV Call to Parties: In Conversation with Sonya KilkennyEpisode Summary

This episode was recorded on 26 October 2026. Ahead of the 2026 Victorian State Election in November, the LIV has issued a Call to Parties, which outlines priority issues for the legal profession. In our new In Conversation podcast, Victoria’s Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny responds to the issues raised in the LIV Call to Parties, including judicial independence, legal assistance, AI, crime prevention and the rule of law. She also reflects on the personal experiences that drew her to law and public service.

Guest


Host


Episode Overview

Ahead of the 2026 Victorian State Election in November, the LIV has issued a Call to Parties, which outlines priority issues for the legal profession. These include strengthening Victoria’s justice system, supporting legal practices and protecting vulnerable members of the community. In this episode of the new In Conversation podcast, Sonya Kilkenny discusses Victorian justice priorities with LIV Chief Executive Adam Awty. The conversation connects access to justice in Victoria with court efficiency, legal assistance sector sustainability and responsible AI in the justice system. It also examines early intervention in crime prevention and the role of independent institutions in maintaining public confidence. Kilkenny outlines areas of particular importance, including family and sexual violence reform, support for courts, national discussion about private practitioners’ role in legal aid and a coordinated, evidence-led approach to crime prevention.

Topics & Timestamps

  • 00:00 Why Sonya Kilkenny studied law
  • 01:08 Justice sector priorities for the next term
  • 04:30 Court capacity, efficiency and economic confidence
  • 08:47 Legal assistance and the private practitioner model
  • 11:12 AI, governance and access to justice
  • 14:29 Crime prevention, early intervention and rehabilitation
  • 20:48 Community mentors, anti-grooming and alternative pathways
  • 22:11 Public confidence, judicial independence and the rule of law
  • 26:24 The power of law to change lives

Key Takeaways

  • The LIV Call to Parties frames the discussion around practical commitments to strengthen Victoria’s justice system, legal profession and community outcomes.
  • Kilkenny identifies further reform addressing family, sexual and gendered violence as a priority, alongside support for victim survivors in court processes.
  • Efficient civil and commercial courts contribute to certainty and confidence for individuals, legal businesses and the wider Victorian economy.
  • Sustaining access to justice requires continued participation by private practitioners and coordinated discussion across state, territory and federal governments.
  • AI may reduce laborious work and widen access to justice, but standards, regulation, reliable information and human oversight remain central considerations.
  • Crime prevention should combine enforcement with sustained, coordinated and evidence-led early intervention that responds to local community needs.

Resources & Links


Content advice: This episode discusses family violence, sexual violence, coercive control, crime, youth offending and victim survivor experiences.

About This Podcast

In Conversation is a new podcast from the Law Institute of Victoria. Tune in to hear in-depth discussions between leading voices in the profession on the issues shaping law and society. Episodes explore big-picture topics, including access to justice, the rule of law, legal leadership and the future of the profession.

This podcast is recorded on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. The Law Institute of Victoria acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country across Australia. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional legal advice. The views expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Law Institute of Victoria (LIV). The LIV is not responsible for any losses, damages or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. Listeners should seek independent legal advice for their matters.

Production Information

  • Produced by: The Law Institute of Victoria
  • Producer and audio editor: Garreth Hanley
  • Music: Garreth Hanley

Connect With Us


]]>Episode Summary

This episode was recorded on 26 October 2026. Ahead of the 2026 Victorian State Election in November, the LIV has issued a Call to Parties, which outlines priority issues for the legal profession. In our new In Conversation podcast, Victoria’s Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny responds to the issues raised in the LIV Call to Parties, including judicial independence, legal assistance, AI, crime prevention and the rule of law. She also reflects on the personal experiences that drew her to law and public service.

Guest


Host


Episode Overview

Ahead of the 2026 Victorian State Election in November, the LIV has issued a Call to Parties, which outlines priority issues for the legal profession. These include strengthening Victoria’s justice system, supporting legal practices and protecting vulnerable members of the community. In this episode of the new In Conversation podcast, Sonya Kilkenny discusses Victorian justice priorities with LIV Chief Executive Adam Awty. The conversation connects access to justice in Victoria with court efficiency, legal assistance sector sustainability and responsible AI in the justice system. It also examines early intervention in crime prevention and the role of independent institutions in maintaining public confidence. Kilkenny outlines areas of particular importance, including family and sexual violence reform, support for courts, national discussion about private practitioners’ role in legal aid and a coordinated, evidence-led approach to crime prevention.

Topics & Timestamps

  • 00:00 Why Sonya Kilkenny studied law
  • 01:08 Justice sector priorities for the next term
  • 04:30 Court capacity, efficiency and economic confidence
  • 08:47 Legal assistance and the private practitioner model
  • 11:12 AI, governance and access to justice
  • 14:29 Crime prevention, early intervention and rehabilitation
  • 20:48 Community mentors, anti-grooming and alternative pathways
  • 22:11 Public confidence, judicial independence and the rule of law
  • 26:24 The power of law to change lives

Key Takeaways

  • The LIV Call to Parties frames the discussion around practical commitments to strengthen Victoria’s justice system, legal profession and community outcomes.
  • Kilkenny identifies further reform addressing family, sexual and gendered violence as a priority, alongside support for victim survivors in court processes.
  • Efficient civil and commercial courts contribute to certainty and confidence for individuals, legal businesses and the wider Victorian economy.
  • Sustaining access to justice requires continued participation by private practitioners and coordinated discussion across state, territory and federal governments.
  • AI may reduce laborious work and widen access to justice, but standards, regulation, reliable information and human oversight remain central considerations.
  • Crime prevention should combine enforcement with sustained, coordinated and evidence-led early intervention that responds to local community needs.

Resources & Links


Content advice: This episode discusses family violence, sexual violence, coercive control, crime, youth offending and victim survivor experiences.

About This Podcast

In Conversation is a new podcast from the Law Institute of Victoria. Tune in to hear in-depth discussions between leading voices in the profession on the issues shaping law and society. Episodes explore big-picture topics, including access to justice, the rule of law, legal leadership and the future of the profession.

This podcast is recorded on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. The Law Institute of Victoria acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country across Australia. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional legal advice. The views expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Law Institute of Victoria (LIV). The LIV is not responsible for any losses, damages or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. Listeners should seek independent legal advice for their matters.

Production Information

  • Produced by: The Law Institute of Victoria
  • Producer and audio editor: Garreth Hanley
  • Music: Garreth Hanley

Connect With Us


]]>ac117610-3608-43d4-8207-57799247588fTue, 10 Nov 2026 10:30:00 +110029:31falsefull1331Evidence-based approaches to addressing root causes of crime and youth offendingEvidence-based approaches to addressing root causes of crime and youth offendingEpisode Summary:

Justice for victims of crime and punishment for offenders are important. But, evidence shows, so are measures aimed at rehabilitation and preventing re-offending in the first place. This episode examines the evidence behind bail reform, diversion and rehabilitation, particularly as these relate to youth crime and first-time offending, and asks what policies are most likely to reduce re-offending in Victoria. Mel Walker AccS(Crim) explores how courts, prisons and community-based interventions can work together to create safer communities and better outcomes for young people.

Guest:

  • Mel Walker AccS(Crim), Victorian criminal law practitioner
  • Former Chair, LIV Criminal Law Section
  • More than 25 years of experience appearing across Victorian courts, including the Children's Court, Magistrates' Court, County Court, Supreme Court and Court of Appeal
  • Frontline criminal law expert focused on justice system impacts and practical consequences of policy decisions
  • LinkedIn URL: www.linkedin.com/in/melinda-walker-269840aa
  • Website: www.melwalker.com.au

Host:


Episode Overview:

Bail reform, remand and youth justice remain some of the most contested public policy issues in Victoria. In this episode, Mel Walker AccS(Crim) examines the evidence behind recent and future justice reforms, reducing reoffending, diversion programs and rehabilitation initiatives. The discussion explores the practical consequences of recent bail reforms, growing remand populations and pressures on courts and correctional facilities. Listeners will gain insights into restorative justice, early intervention strategies, youth diversion pathways and alternatives to detention. The episode also considers what lawyers, voters and policymakers should look for when assessing criminal justice proposals and why evidence-based approaches may deliver stronger long-term community safety outcomes than punitive measures alone.

Topics & Timestamps:

  • [00:00] Introduction and guest welcome
  • [00:23] Impact of bail reforms on remand numbers and prison capacity
  • [03:14] Court funding, technology and access to justice
  • [09:03] Diversion, restorative justice and election debates
  • [13:32] Community expectations and justice system settings
  • [14:23] Evidence-based approaches to reducing reoffending
  • [17:52] Rehabilitation, mandatory sentencing and judicial discretion
  • [21:02] Public understanding of sentencing decisions
  • [23:04] Crime and justice policies ahead of the election
  • [24:13] Violence Reduction Unit and prevention strategies
  • [27:42] Alternatives to detention for young people
  • [30:43] Youth control orders and intensive community supervision
  • [32:44] National Preventive Mechanisms and detention oversight
  • [35:29] Funding priorities for criminal justice reform
  • [37:41] Final reflections and closing remarks

Key Takeaways:

  • Justice policies should focus on reducing reoffending and creating safer communities, not solely on punishment.
  • Diversion programs can hold first-time offenders accountable while reducing the risk of future criminal behaviour.
  • Restorative justice can support victims and encourage meaningful responsibility from offenders.
  • Mental health treatment, stable housing, education and employment pathways are critical components of rehabilitation.
  • Early intervention is more effective than waiting until offending behaviour becomes entrenched.
  • Community-based alternatives to detention can achieve better outcomes for suitable young people.
  • Evidence, evaluation and measurable outcomes should guide future criminal justice reforms.

Resources & Links:


This episode discusses:

  • Criminal offending
  • Youth detention
  • Victims of crime
  • Family violence
  • Mental health issues
  • Drug and alcohol dependence
  • Youth justice system involvement

About This Podcast

In Conversation is a new podcast from the Law Institute of Victoria. Tune in to hear in-depth discussions between leading voices in the profession on the issues shaping law and society. Episodes explore big-picture topics, including access to justice, the rule of law, legal leadership and the future of the profession.

This podcast is recorded on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. The Law Institute of Victoria acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country across Australia. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional legal advice. The views expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Law Institute of Victoria (LIV). The LIV is not responsible for any losses, damages or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. Listeners should seek independent legal advice for their matters.

Production Information

  • Produced by: The Law Institute of Victoria
  • Producer and audio editor: Garreth Hanley
  • Music: Garreth Hanley

Connect With Us


]]>Episode Summary:

Justice for victims of crime and punishment for offenders are important. But, evidence shows, so are measures aimed at rehabilitation and preventing re-offending in the first place. This episode examines the evidence behind bail reform, diversion and rehabilitation, particularly as these relate to youth crime and first-time offending, and asks what policies are most likely to reduce re-offending in Victoria. Mel Walker AccS(Crim) explores how courts, prisons and community-based interventions can work together to create safer communities and better outcomes for young people.

Guest:

  • Mel Walker AccS(Crim), Victorian criminal law practitioner
  • Former Chair, LIV Criminal Law Section
  • More than 25 years of experience appearing across Victorian courts, including the Children's Court, Magistrates' Court, County Court, Supreme Court and Court of Appeal
  • Frontline criminal law expert focused on justice system impacts and practical consequences of policy decisions
  • LinkedIn URL: www.linkedin.com/in/melinda-walker-269840aa
  • Website: www.melwalker.com.au

Host:


Episode Overview:

Bail reform, remand and youth justice remain some of the most contested public policy issues in Victoria. In this episode, Mel Walker AccS(Crim) examines the evidence behind recent and future justice reforms, reducing reoffending, diversion programs and rehabilitation initiatives. The discussion explores the practical consequences of recent bail reforms, growing remand populations and pressures on courts and correctional facilities. Listeners will gain insights into restorative justice, early intervention strategies, youth diversion pathways and alternatives to detention. The episode also considers what lawyers, voters and policymakers should look for when assessing criminal justice proposals and why evidence-based approaches may deliver stronger long-term community safety outcomes than punitive measures alone.

Topics & Timestamps:

  • [00:00] Introduction and guest welcome
  • [00:23] Impact of bail reforms on remand numbers and prison capacity
  • [03:14] Court funding, technology and access to justice
  • [09:03] Diversion, restorative justice and election debates
  • [13:32] Community expectations and justice system settings
  • [14:23] Evidence-based approaches to reducing reoffending
  • [17:52] Rehabilitation, mandatory sentencing and judicial discretion
  • [21:02] Public understanding of sentencing decisions
  • [23:04] Crime and justice policies ahead of the election
  • [24:13] Violence Reduction Unit and prevention strategies
  • [27:42] Alternatives to detention for young people
  • [30:43] Youth control orders and intensive community supervision
  • [32:44] National Preventive Mechanisms and detention oversight
  • [35:29] Funding priorities for criminal justice reform
  • [37:41] Final reflections and closing remarks

Key Takeaways:

  • Justice policies should focus on reducing reoffending and creating safer communities, not solely on punishment.
  • Diversion programs can hold first-time offenders accountable while reducing the risk of future criminal behaviour.
  • Restorative justice can support victims and encourage meaningful responsibility from offenders.
  • Mental health treatment, stable housing, education and employment pathways are critical components of rehabilitation.
  • Early intervention is more effective than waiting until offending behaviour becomes entrenched.
  • Community-based alternatives to detention can achieve better outcomes for suitable young people.
  • Evidence, evaluation and measurable outcomes should guide future criminal justice reforms.

Resources & Links:


This episode discusses:

  • Criminal offending
  • Youth detention
  • Victims of crime
  • Family violence
  • Mental health issues
  • Drug and alcohol dependence
  • Youth justice system involvement

About This Podcast

In Conversation is a new podcast from the Law Institute of Victoria. Tune in to hear in-depth discussions between leading voices in the profession on the issues shaping law and society. Episodes explore big-picture topics, including access to justice, the rule of law, legal leadership and the future of the profession.

This podcast is recorded on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. The Law Institute of Victoria acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country across Australia. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional legal advice. The views expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Law Institute of Victoria (LIV). The LIV is not responsible for any losses, damages or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. Listeners should seek independent legal advice for their matters.

Production Information

  • Produced by: The Law Institute of Victoria
  • Producer and audio editor: Garreth Hanley
  • Music: Garreth Hanley

Connect With Us


]]>bf6d9238-cd08-4ef6-8327-e175f0f9a430Tue, 10 Nov 2026 07:45:00 +110039:09falsefull1221Rule of law, civic responsibility and public trust with Jordan FurlongRule of law, civic responsibility and public trust with Jordan FurlongEpisode Summary

Trust in public institutions and the rule of law is under threat. What happens when people stop believing courts are independent, accessible and fair? Legal sector analyst and forecaster Jordan Furlong explains why defending the rule of law is a daily professional obligation, how lawyers can lead the work of rebuilding public trust in institutions and what that looks like in the context of day-to-day of legal practice.

Guest

  • Jordan Furlong, Legal sector analyst and forecaster, Law21
  • Legal author, former legal journalist and adviser to law schools, regulators and legal organisations
  • An internationally recognised systems thinker on lawyer formation, legal regulation, access to justice, legal business models and the future of legal services
  • www.linkedin.com/in/jordanfurlong
  • https://www.law21.ca/

Host


Episode Overview

Public trust in legal institutions depends on more than court decisions. Jordan Furlong connects the rule of law with lawyers’ everyday conduct, client communication and civic responsibility. In everyday practice, defending the rule of law and safeguarding trust in public institutions can be as simple as making clients feel heard, explaining legal processes clearly and challenging claims that normalise unequal treatment under the law.

The conversation also examines lawyer formation and civic duty, access to justice for self-represented litigants, AI-enabled justice pathways and future legal business models. Against the backdrop of the LIV Call to Parties 2026 and the Victorian state election, Furlong argues that lawyers have institutional legitimacy and a distinct responsibility to speak up. He also considers how automation may free time for higher-value judgement, advocacy, professional development and civic contribution.

Topics & Timestamps

  • [00:00] Welcome and the acceleration of threats to judicial independence
  • [03:21] Why lawyers must fill the public space and defend the rule of law
  • [04:58] What fierce professional advocacy looks like in everyday practice
  • [08:15] Lawyer formation and the profession’s commercial and civic roles
  • [11:47] Client experience, communication and trust in legal institutions
  • [16:04] Access to justice, self-represented litigants and system redesign
  • [23:39] AI as both a source of pressure and a possible justice pathway
  • [27:54] Citizenship education, structural reform and democratic literacy
  • [31:54] Why nobody should be above or beneath the law
  • [35:21] Legal business models, billable seconds and higher-value human work
  • [42:47] Using liberated time for civic contribution and professional development
  • [43:02] Victorian election context and the risks of politicising judicial appointments
  • [48:57] Closing reflections on dignity, fairness and public trust

Key Takeaways

  • Threats to judicial independence become more dangerous when repeated claims go unanswered. Lawyers can help prevent harmful ideas from becoming normalised.
  • Every lawyer has both a commercial role and a civic role. Defending the rule of law is not reserved solely for constitutional lawyers or public interest advocates.
  • Client communication is part of institutional stewardship. Prompt responses, clear expectations and respectful treatment affect whether people trust the legal system as a whole.
  • Access to justice requires pathways proportionate to the problem. Courts remain expert systems, but many lower-complexity matters need robust and accessible alternatives.
  • AI may increase the volume of claims while also helping to classify, guide or divert matters, provided systems are legally grounded and retain trained human oversight.
  • As automation reduces the time taken by legal grunt work, lawyers’ value will shift towards judgement, humanity, advocacy, advice and accompaniment.
  • The LIV Call to Parties provides a timely framework for strengthening Victoria’s justice system, safeguarding the rule of law and protecting democratic participation before the state election.

Resources & Links


About This Podcast

In Conversation is a new podcast from the Law Institute of Victoria. Tune in to hear in-depth discussions between leading voices in the profession on the issues shaping law and society. Episodes explore big-picture topics, including access to justice, the rule of law, legal leadership and the future of the profession.

This podcast is recorded on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. The Law Institute of Victoria acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country across Australia. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional legal advice. The views expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Law Institute of Victoria (LIV). The LIV is not responsible for any losses, damages or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. Listeners should seek independent legal advice for their matters.

Production Information

  • Produced by: The Law Institute of Victoria
  • Producer and audio editor: Garreth Hanley
  • Music: Garreth Hanley

Connect With Us


]]>Episode Summary

Trust in public institutions and the rule of law is under threat. What happens when people stop believing courts are independent, accessible and fair? Legal sector analyst and forecaster Jordan Furlong explains why defending the rule of law is a daily professional obligation, how lawyers can lead the work of rebuilding public trust in institutions and what that looks like in the context of day-to-day of legal practice.

Guest

  • Jordan Furlong, Legal sector analyst and forecaster, Law21
  • Legal author, former legal journalist and adviser to law schools, regulators and legal organisations
  • An internationally recognised systems thinker on lawyer formation, legal regulation, access to justice, legal business models and the future of legal services
  • www.linkedin.com/in/jordanfurlong
  • https://www.law21.ca/

Host


Episode Overview

Public trust in legal institutions depends on more than court decisions. Jordan Furlong connects the rule of law with lawyers’ everyday conduct, client communication and civic responsibility. In everyday practice, defending the rule of law and safeguarding trust in public institutions can be as simple as making clients feel heard, explaining legal processes clearly and challenging claims that normalise unequal treatment under the law.

The conversation also examines lawyer formation and civic duty, access to justice for self-represented litigants, AI-enabled justice pathways and future legal business models. Against the backdrop of the LIV Call to Parties 2026 and the Victorian state election, Furlong argues that lawyers have institutional legitimacy and a distinct responsibility to speak up. He also considers how automation may free time for higher-value judgement, advocacy, professional development and civic contribution.

Topics & Timestamps

  • [00:00] Welcome and the acceleration of threats to judicial independence
  • [03:21] Why lawyers must fill the public space and defend the rule of law
  • [04:58] What fierce professional advocacy looks like in everyday practice
  • [08:15] Lawyer formation and the profession’s commercial and civic roles
  • [11:47] Client experience, communication and trust in legal institutions
  • [16:04] Access to justice, self-represented litigants and system redesign
  • [23:39] AI as both a source of pressure and a possible justice pathway
  • [27:54] Citizenship education, structural reform and democratic literacy
  • [31:54] Why nobody should be above or beneath the law
  • [35:21] Legal business models, billable seconds and higher-value human work
  • [42:47] Using liberated time for civic contribution and professional development
  • [43:02] Victorian election context and the risks of politicising judicial appointments
  • [48:57] Closing reflections on dignity, fairness and public trust

Key Takeaways

  • Threats to judicial independence become more dangerous when repeated claims go unanswered. Lawyers can help prevent harmful ideas from becoming normalised.
  • Every lawyer has both a commercial role and a civic role. Defending the rule of law is not reserved solely for constitutional lawyers or public interest advocates.
  • Client communication is part of institutional stewardship. Prompt responses, clear expectations and respectful treatment affect whether people trust the legal system as a whole.
  • Access to justice requires pathways proportionate to the problem. Courts remain expert systems, but many lower-complexity matters need robust and accessible alternatives.
  • AI may increase the volume of claims while also helping to classify, guide or divert matters, provided systems are legally grounded and retain trained human oversight.
  • As automation reduces the time taken by legal grunt work, lawyers’ value will shift towards judgement, humanity, advocacy, advice and accompaniment.
  • The LIV Call to Parties provides a timely framework for strengthening Victoria’s justice system, safeguarding the rule of law and protecting democratic participation before the state election.

Resources & Links


About This Podcast

In Conversation is a new podcast from the Law Institute of Victoria. Tune in to hear in-depth discussions between leading voices in the profession on the issues shaping law and society. Episodes explore big-picture topics, including access to justice, the rule of law, legal leadership and the future of the profession.

This podcast is recorded on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. The Law Institute of Victoria acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country across Australia. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional legal advice. The views expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Law Institute of Victoria (LIV). The LIV is not responsible for any losses, damages or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. Listeners should seek independent legal advice for their matters.

Production Information

  • Produced by: The Law Institute of Victoria
  • Producer and audio editor: Garreth Hanley
  • Music: Garreth Hanley

Connect With Us


]]>a6fa4aa5-79b9-4c52-a878-73c836622e9cTue, 10 Nov 2026 07:30:00 +110050:38falsefull1111In Conversation, Coming SoonIn Conversation, Coming SoonThe legal profession is key to helping shape a fair, informed and democratic society.

The In Conversation podcast from the Law Institute of Victoria features in-depth discussions between leading voices in the profession on the issues shaping law and society. Episodes explore big-picture topics, including access to justice, the rule of law, legal leadership and the future of the profession.

Browse all episodes here or find us wherever you listen to podcasts.

]]>The legal profession is key to helping shape a fair, informed and democratic society.

The In Conversation podcast from the Law Institute of Victoria features in-depth discussions between leading voices in the profession on the issues shaping law and society. Episodes explore big-picture topics, including access to justice, the rule of law, legal leadership and the future of the profession.

Browse all episodes here or find us wherever you listen to podcasts.

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