The Attorney-General

Who is the Attorney-General?

The Attorney-General is the Minister responsible for Commonwealth legal matters. He or she is usually a Member of the House who is also a senior legal practitioner. The Attorney-General is usually, but not always, a member of the Cabinet.

The Attorney-General’s portfolio is one of only two portfolios that have existed since 1901

What does the Attorney-General do?

The Attorney-General is the Government’s head legal officer. He or she oversees and develops the Government’s legal policies and may represent the Government in court when necessary. The Attorney-General is the main source of legal opinion, advice and information for Government Ministers and is also responsible for some national security issues.

Who was Australia’s first Attorney-General?

Australia’s first Attorney-General was Alfred Deakin (Protectionist, Ballaarat, Vic).