WELCOME TO COUNTRY
The Commonwealth Lawyers Association acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia, including the Larrakia peoples, and their continuing connection to land, sea, and community. We pay our respects to them and their cultures, to the Elders past, present, and emerging.
ABOUT THE CONFERENCE
Steven Thiru
President, Commonwealth Lawyers Association
It is my great pleasure, on behalf of the Commonwealth Lawyers Association, to welcome you to the Silver Jubilee 25th Commonwealth Law Conference 2027, to be held in Darwin, the capital of Australia’s Northern Territory, from 9 to 13 May 2027.
As a vibrant melting pot of innovation and rich cultural heritage, Darwin provides an ideal backdrop for a warm and distinctive ‘Top End’ welcome to our delegates. The Northern Territory’s enduring spirit of resilience resonates deeply with the Commonwealth legal community, united in our shared commitment to human rights, access to justice, and the rule of law.
Set in a region that is home to some of the world’s oldest continuing cultures, this Silver Jubilee Conference also serves as a valuable occasion to reflect on the advancement of Indigenous rights and the legal profession’s enduring calling to champion the voices of marginalised and under-represented communities, and to work towards more inclusive and equitable systems of justice.
The Conference presents an unparalleled opportunity to exchange knowledge, forge new connections, deepen existing friendships, and strengthen enduring global networks across the Commonwealth. With over 200 sessions and exceptional plenary discussions led by distinguished experts, the programme offers something of value to every delegate, regardless of area of practice.
I very much look forward to welcoming you to Darwin in 2027 for what promises to be an inspiring, impactful, and memorable Conference.
why should i attend?
Connect
Network with a diverse congress of 500 plus delegates from over 45 Commonwealth jurisdictions
Learn
Hear from leading Commonwealth figures, senior justice leaders, members of the Judiciary, civil societies and practitioners with a pan Commonwealth speaking faculty
Share
Advocate for your projects and add your voice - the floor is yours!
Enjoy
A warm legal fraternity of well established and new faces awaits, with opportunities in the social programme for relaxation and networking outside the conference centre
what to expect?
Whet your appetite with a refresher of the 24th Commonwealth Law Conference 2025 Malta and relive the atmosphere!
testimonials
From invaluable professional connections to thought-provoking discussions, hear why past delegates rate the Commonwealth Law Conference as an essential event for legal professionals. Read their stories and join us by registering today.
Jennifer Ball
Partner Clayton Utz
"In early 2025, I had the privilege of presenting at and attending the Commonwealth Law Conference 2025 held in Malta, which brought together lawyers from across the Commonwealth. The theme, "Commonwealth Lawyers - Fit for the Future", challenged us to reflect on our duties to act in an ethical manner and to vigorously uphold the rule of law, at a time of fracture in the international consensus on the rule of law and consequential challenges for the global legal community. My session focused on the regulatory framework in Australia's State and Territory Laws which regulates all aspects of the practice of law in Australia, from the requirements of admission as a solicitor to engaging in practice and the ethical and other duties and obligations that come with being a legal practitioner In Australia and an officer of the court.
I was honoured to have also participated in the Bar Leaders' Summit where there was an incredibly insightful discussion ably facilitated by Steven Thiru, around the protection of Bar Leaders who are at risk for upholding the rule of law.
I left Malta having forged many wonderful new friendships and connections from around the Commonwealth, with a new knowledge of the varied challenges lawyers around the globe face in the practice of the law and how we affirmed our shared commitment to advance the administration of justice as well as safeguarding and championing the rule of law. I am eagerly anticipating the 25th Commonwealth Law Conference, which will take place in the relaxed and vibrant tropical city of Darwin, Australia, from 9-13 May 2027."
Shyam Divan
Senior Advocate, Supreme Court of India
"The Commonwealth Lawyers Association consistently delivers a rich, well-organised programme drawing over 500 eminent participants. The panels offer vibrant discussions, complemented by delegates who bring real-world experience, curiosity, and spirited engagement. Beyond the lectern, conversations over coffee and meals open up a window into fascinating anecdotes and perspectives. I always leave with incredible insights and a deep appreciation for the legal community. The 25th Commonwealth Law Conference 2027 Darwin will feature discussions on human rights, constitutional law, international justice, and legal technology, and I warmly encourage legal experts to attend and help shape these critical discussions. "
James Donovan
Head Clerk 3 Hare Court London
"I am delighted to recommend the Commonwealth Law Conference 2027 in Darwin Australia, it is an exceptional forum for building genuine professional relationships and networking with lawyers, law officers, and judges from across the Commonwealth. It is unlike any other legal conference: intellectually enriching, culturally rewarding, and a unique opportunity for meaningful knowledge sharing. Beyond the outstanding professional programme, the conference also offers a warm and collegial atmosphere that makes it an enjoyable and memorable experience. I greatly value both the professional and personal connections I have formed through attending Commonwealth Law Conferences over the years. At a time when international cooperation and shared legal values matter more than ever, the Commonwealth and this conference play an especially important role."
Donovan Walker
President, Organisation of Commonwealth Caribbean Bar Associations
"As the Commonwealth Law Conference celebrates its Silver Jubilee, I reflect on the tremendous opportunity for fellowship and learning provided to many Attorneys across our CommoAnwealth. I look forward to attending and participating in CLC 2027, reconnecting with old friends from around the globe and meeting new ones, all while enjoying the beauty and culture of Darwin, Australia."
Mariam Gagi
Crown Counsel, Ontario's Ministry of the Attorney General
"If you want to engage in deep legal conversations, meet amazing lawyers from across the commonwealth and learn about what our shared commonwealth history can offer, come to Australia for CLC27! I attended my first CLC in 2025 and I highly recommend the CLA's biennial conference!"
conference legacy project: Justice Begins with Human Dignity
Where access to clean clothes becomes access to justice - a legacy measured in lives changed
Aboriginal Investment Group's Remote Laundries Project
The 25th Commonwealth Law Conference 2027 is committed to leaving a legacy that extends far beyond Darwin.
In partnership with the Aboriginal Investment Group's Remote Laundries Project, the Commonwealth Law Association is investing in a First Nations-led initiative that demonstrates a simple but profound truth: where access to clean clothes exists, access to health, education, employment and justice becomes possible.
The Remote Laundries Project provides free access to commercial-grade laundry facilities in remote communities across Australia's Northern Territory, improving health outcomes, strengthening community wellbeing and creating local employment opportunities. By addressing the everyday barriers that contribute to inequality, the project transforms essential infrastructure into practical justice.
As part of the Conference Legacy Project, the Commonwealth Law Association will contribute a fixed amount from every delegate registration received, creating a direct connection between conference participation and lasting community impact. Delegates will also have opportunities to learn about, support and help amplify this proven model across the Commonwealth and beyond.
Together, we are creating more than a conference legacy. We are helping build a replicable framework that demonstrates how investment in human dignity can deliver measurable social, economic and justice outcomes for communities around the world.
Where access to clean clothes becomes access to justice — a legacy measured in lives changed.
Thank you to our Conference partners
Commonwealth Legal Education Association
Mindil Beach Casino Resort
Questions? Reach out!