Di Simpson, well known for her work with DDCS Lawyers in the ACT, has been appointed a judge. Photo: Supplied.
An Australia-wide search has resulted in a passionate family law advocate from the ACT being appointed to the Family Court.
In December 2024, Di Simpson was appointed as a judge of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia and will take up her new role in Sydney next year.
The former partner at DDCS Lawyers in the ACT, who has practised exclusively in family law since 1992, has won numerous awards for her work.
The Law Council of Australia, the country’s peak body for lawyers, and the ACT Bar Association congratulated Ms Simpson on her appointment.
“Di is a passionate advocate who has dedicated her career to helping those in need and reforming family law in this country,” the law council’s president, Greg McIntyre SC, said.
“Her knowledge of the law, empathy, grace and sound judgement will serve those who come before her well.”
Ms Simpson was the chair of the law council’s family law section from June 2021 to December 2024.
“She has been a trusted adviser and expert at both the ACT and national level, serving on the ACT Law Society’s Family Law Committee since 2012 and the law council’s family law section executive since 2016,” Mr McIntyre said.
“Di has been integral to our advocacy on some of the most significant and impactful developments in family law.
“This has included improving access to justice for the most vulnerable members of our community, contributing to progressive reforms to family law and its administration, and assisting in the development of the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children.”
Di Simpson has practised exclusively in family law since 1992. Photo: Region Media.
In 2023, Ms Simpson received the Law Council of Australia’s President Award for her contribution and achievements.
ACT Bar Council president Brodie Buckland praised Ms Simpson’s commitment to the field of family law.
“Justice Simpson has always been a tireless advocate for those facing some of the most challenging and vulnerable circumstances in family law,” he said.
“Her dedication to reform and access to justice has made an indelible mark on the profession.
“In every sense, Justice Simpson has been a leader of our profession.”
A spokesperson for the ACT Bar Association said her efforts had made a lasting impact on the development of family law, improving access to justice and protection from violence for some of the most vulnerable Australians.
“The association warmly congratulates Justice Simpson on her richly deserved appointment and, although we will miss her presence in the ACT, we are delighted for her,” the spokesperson said.
Ms Simpson was instrumental in forming DDCS Lawyers in the ACT in 2007, built on a foundation of shared goals and values, guided by a strong culture of client service excellence and a refusal to settle for the status quo.
“A tireless and passionate advocate – both on behalf of her clients and for family law reform and policy – Ms Simpson is a lawyer of exceptional intellect, skill and compassion,” DDCS Lawyers said on social media.
“DDCS Lawyers is extremely proud of our colleague Ms Simpson, and congratulate her on this exciting and distinguished appointment.”
Ms Simpson will begin her new role on 3 February 2025 in the Sydney registry.
Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus KC said Ms Simpson was appointed following an open call for expressions of interest across Australia.
“On behalf of the Australian Government, I congratulate Ms Simpson on her appointment and thank her for her willingness to serve the people of Australia as judge of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia,” he said.
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