WA Supreme Court welcomes new judge

The WA Supreme Court has announced the appointment of Alain Musikanth SC as its newest judge.

Musikanth brings almost 30 years of legal experience to the bench. He practises as an independent barrister at Francis Burt Chambers, where he also serves as the chairperson.

Musikanth began his legal career in 1994 as a member of the Cape Bar in South Africa. He moved to Western Australia in 2001 and became senior counsel in 2018. His practice has primarily focused on commercial litigation, encompassing taxation, corporations' law, commercial contracts, and building and construction disputes. Additionally, Musikanth is recognized as a qualified mediator and arbitrator.

Throughout his career, Musikanth has actively participated in various professional bodies, including the president of the Law Society of Western Australia, the director of the Law Council of Australia, the director of Law Access, and the president of the WA Society of Jewish Lawyers & Jurists. Furthermore, he has been an adjunct professor at the University of Western Australia's Law School since 2020.

Chief Justice Peter Quinlan, on behalf of the Supreme Court, congratulated Musikanth on his appointment, emphasising his reputation for integrity and extensive experience across the court's jurisdiction.

"The court warmly welcomes Justice Musikanth to the Court and his family to the community of the court," Chief Justice Quinlan said. "Justice Musikanth's strong reputation for integrity and his wide experience across the court's jurisdiction will significantly contribute to the work of the court and the administration of justice. We look forward to working with his Honour as he takes up this new role."

The Law Society of Western Australia also extended its congratulations to Musikanth. He is a long-standing member of the Law Society. He has been a member of various Law Society committees for several years, including the Taxation Committee, Professional Standards Scheme Committee, the Ethics Committee and Brief Editorial Committee.

Musikanth commenced duties on 6 November. He will be formally welcomed to the court at a ceremonial sitting on a date to be announced.