About Us
Founded in 1978, the Family Law Practitioners Association of Tasmania Inc. is the state body created by – and created for – family lawyers.
Representing private and public sector lawyers alike, FLPAT provides seminars and conferences, social drinks and representation for our members – Tasmania’s family law community.
Advocacy
Since its foundation FLPAT has provided a voice for Tasmania’s family lawyers. We meet regularly with federal and state judiciary over the family law and child protection systems to ensure that the Tasmanian experience of practice works better for practitioners and clients.
We provide submissions to State and Commonwealth inquiries in many areas, including child protection, same-sex marriage, binding financial agreements, legal aid and access to justice. We also provide information and feedback to the Family Law Section of the Law Council of Australia.
Education
FLPAT hosts an annual Conference at various sites around the State, featuring local and interstate judiciary, practitioners and affiliated professions on a variety of topics.
FLPAT also provides CLE seminars throughout the year at, or near, free of charge to our members.
Social Opportunities
Family lawyers throughout Australia are known for their collegiality – and in a close knit environment like Tasmania, this is no different.
We provide social and networking events for visiting judiciary, Christmas events, our annual Conference Dinner, and ensure that our members have the opportunity to relax and discuss matters away from the courtroom.
Our Dedicated Committee
Executive
Julia Higgins
President
Bishops Barristers & Solicitors, Launceston
Joanne Bragg
Vice Chair - North
Greg Smith & Co Solicitors, Wynyard
Anna Lydon
Vice Chair - South
PWB Lawyers, Hobart
Kirsten Starkey
Treasurer
Ogilvie Jennings Lawyers, Hobart
Sally Hunt
Secretary
Legal Aid Commission of Tasmania, Launceston
Committee Members
Eve Schulz
Committee Member
Rita Van Meer
Committee Member
Legal Aid Commission of Tasmania, Hobart
Helen Bassett
Committee Member
Walsh Day James Mihal Barristers and Solicitors, Ulverstone
Carmen Burns
Committee Member
Rae & Partners, Launceston
Tianna Freeman
Committee Member
Bishops Barristers & Solicitors, Launceston
Louise Mollross
Committee Member
Ogilvie Jennings Lawyers, Hobart
Kikki Mussared
Committee Member
Legal Aid Commission of Tasmania, Hobart
Roger Murray
Committee Member
Murray and Associates, Launceston
Cassandra Jacobs
Committee Member
Jacobs Family Law, Hobart
Marcus Turnbull
Committee Member
Ogilvie Jennings Lawyers, Hobart