George Roussos

We set out an overview (https://tinyurl.com/2c3h4kem) of the Yao (workers compensation mental stress claim) case.

It covers, at a high level, the main facts, the procedural history and appeal points and the Court’s key findings.

The Yao case deals with a claim for workers compensation for personal injury under the Northern Territory Return to Work Act.

Inherently, there is an overlay of other laws and regulations (the “legislative infrastructure”) that apply to the employment relationship, such as the (NT) Public Sector Employment and Management Act and Employment Instructions (which are referred to in the Yao case), the (NT) Work Health and Safety Act, the Federal Fair Work Act, Anti-Discrimination legislation and a range of subsidiary legislation such as regulations, rules and by-laws, and workplace based policies and procedures.

Justice Michael Kirby, former Judge of the Federal Court, President of the NSW Court of Appeal and former Justice of the High Court of Australia gave this "Advice to young lawyers" (in 2005).

"I learned in my earliest years that there is no substitute for hard work and getting the law into my head. You don't do that just be photocopying more papers. Law is not a profession for the superficial, for show ponies or the lazy.

Top performers have to make big sacrifices in time and personal relations. Yet, after a successful day as a lawyer, with a problem solved, people helped and a case well argued, there are few jobs that seem more worthwhile. It is the attainment of justice and fairness that gives us our buzz.

When we can help do this, we know that being a lawyer is something special.

Righting wrongs according to law is a big privilege. Even simply contributing to an ordered society is a worthwhile life's effort.

The advance of women to every level in the law (almost) opens up huge opportunities.

Eventually, women lawyers it will help change some of the less attractive features of legal practice.

In my lifetime, I have seen the laws against g**s, Australian Aborigines, Chinese Australians and other minorities completely changed. Often, the leadership for such changes has been given by lawyers. We have to ask ourselves what other areas of law need changing.

Young lawyers are more likely to see these needs. With age sometimes comes complacency and self-satisfaction.

So my advice to young lawyers is to strive for excellence. Struggle to maintain a full personal life. Get involved in community as well as professional activities.

Never forget that our banner is justice under law."