Congratulations to Niamh Whitford, who was admitted as a legal practitioner on 16 October. Her admission was moved by KLC colleague and lawyer, Jodene Garstone, at the Supreme Court of Western Australia.
Niamh joined KLC’s Law Graduate Program in February this year - a program designed to develop the next generation of lawyers working in native title.
As a Kimberley Aboriginal woman, Niamh is passionate about advocating for and supporting Aboriginal communities. After studying and gaining her early legal experience in Melbourne, Niamh saw the program at KLC as an ideal opportunity to return to Country and build her expertise in native title law.
Niamh said she looks forward to contributing to KLC’s work with Traditional Owners across the Kimberley.
“KLC has been incredibly supportive in the development of my legal career. I have been so appreciative of the ability to live and work in such a unique and rewarding space and to have been welcomed to the practice by my colleague and fellow Kimberley Aboriginal woman Jodene Garstone”.
Acting KLC CEO Sarah Parriman said it is important to see Kimberley people building expertise in the legal profession and bringing their knowledge, skills and perspectives to work supporting Traditional Owners.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see Kimberley women like Niamh building their careers in law and contributing to such important work across our region. We’re proud of the work Niamh is doing at KLC and the commitment she brings to advocating for and supporting Traditional Owners and their communities.
Our Law Graduate Program plays an important role in developing the next generation of native title lawyers, giving graduates the opportunity to build their skills and experience while working alongside Traditional Owners on matters that have a lasting impact. Seeing Niamh grow in her role and develop her expertise in native title law is something we’re really proud of, and we look forward to seeing her continue to grow as a lawyer and contribute to the work of KLC.”