New DPP Shane Drumgold has led some of the ACT’s most high profile prosecutions. Photo: Supplied.
The current Deputy Director at the ACT Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Shane Drumgold, will step up to lead the organisation after being appointed for a seven-year term.
Attorney-General Gordon Ramsay announced the appointment today, saying Mr Drumgold had a strong reputation as a criminal law prosecutor and brought more than 16 years’ experience at the Office of the DPP to the role.
“Mr Drumgold has a deep appreciation of how judicial processes can impact the lives of defendants and victims,” Mr Ramsay said.
“He is known for his nuanced approach to the resolution of criminal matters, and I am confident that he will make a significant contribution to enhancing access to justice outcomes as the ACT’s Director of Public Prosecutions.”
Mr Ramsay also acknowledged the tenure of outgoing Director of Public Prosecutions, Jon White SC.
“Mr White’s experience and leadership has been of great benefit to the Canberra community over the past ten years,” Mr Ramsay said.
“Mr White has worked to ensure prosecutions occur as promptly as possible. He has been a strong supporter of the intensive criminal listing processes before the Supreme Court, which has significantly reduced the number of cases with long waiting times.
“Mr White has made a major contribution to the ACT community through his role as the Director of Public Prosecutions and I thank him for his commitment during his tenure.”
The ACT Bar Association welcomed the appointment, saying he was an experienced trial advocate whose significant professional and life experience would serve him well in this most important and challenging of roles.
“Mr Drumgold not only has the necessary experience and intellect for this role but a genuine commitment to the rule of law and justice,” said President of the ACT Bar Association, Steven Whybrow.
“He has been a member of the ACT Bar Association for over 10 years and a prosecutor within the ACT DPP Office for over 15 years. It is pleasing to see such a significant appointment made from within the ACT Legal Community. A prosecutor’s role is often a lonely one which requires judgment, courage, and humanity in equal measure. As the newly appointed Director, I am confident Mr Drumgold will provide the leadership and inspiration for all his prosecutors to discharge their duties with diligence, fairness and fearlessness.
“The ACT Bar looks forward to working with the new Director and renewing the traditionally close and collegiate relationship that exists between the private Bar and the in-house advocates within the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.”
Mr Drumgold will take up his new role on 1 January 2019.
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