India, Australia can learn from each other: ex-Aus HC judge

Noting that there are many similarities and differences in legal systems of India and Australia, Justice Michael Kirby, former judge of the High Court of Australia has said that lawyers of both the countries can learn from each other.
Kirby, who launched a book titled 'Australia and India: A Comparative Overview of the Law and Legal Practice' edited by Shaun Star, co-founder at Australia India Youth Dialogue, said, "This is an outstanding and timely book. It shines a light on a neglected relationship between judges and lawyers in India and Australia. There are similarities and differences in the legal systems of both the countries."

"India is a wakening giant. With its strong commitment to constitutionalism, rule of law, parliamentary democracy, independent courts and economic growth, it promises enormous opportunities for Indian and Australian lawyers to get to know one another better. Our links of history, language, sport and friendships herald a new era to which this book will surely contribute," he said.
At the launch, which was held at the Australian High Commission here, Chris Elstoft, Australian Deputy High Commissioner said, "This book is a timely and useful resource, especially given the fact that the Australia-India bilateral relationship continues to grow from strength to strength."

Published by Universal Law Publishing, the book is a compilation of essays that cover commonality, convergence and actual potential interaction between India and Australia with forewords written by former Chief Justice of India Justice H L Dattu and the Chief Justice of Australia.
The books has been jointly contributed to by judges, barristers, partners of law firms and academicians, and allows the readers to clearly understand similarities and differences of legal frameworks in the two countries.
"It is my hope that this volume will be a useful resource for businessmen, academics, law students and corporate lawyers interested in India, Australia or the Australia-India relationship as well as those shaping policy in both jurisdictions. Both Australia and India can learn much from each other," Shaun Star said.