Ruth McColl

Patron of Justice Connect

Ruth McColl has been a long-standing champion for justice. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated exceptional dedication to using the law to help others, especially women and young Indigenous people.

Before being appointed to the Court of Appeal of the Supreme Court of New South Wales, Ruth dedicated her career to numerous philanthropic causes. She was a Member of Public Education Council (2002 – 2005), on the Board of the New South Wales Cancer Council, and a Member of the New South Wales Rhodes Scholarship selection committee (Chair 2007-2010).

From 1999 to 2002, Ruth served as President of the Board of the New South Wales Public Interest Law Clearing House – the NSW forerunner of Justice Connect. To have her join Justice Connect as a patron in retirement is testament to her commitment to justice, and making the law work for good.

“Justice Connect is an organisation that stands for something that I believe in very strongly – that the law can be used to make people’s lives better, and the community more connected and vibrant.” said Ms McColl.

In 2004, Ruth was awarded Officer in the Order of Australia for her service to the law, to continuing professional development and education, particularly for women, and to the community in matters affecting indigenous groups and youth. She was awarded the Centenary Medal in 2001, and was appointed a Judge of the Court of Appeal in 2003.

Ruth retired from the Court of Appeal in January 2019.