2000

Ron Castan

Ron Castan AM, QC (1939/1999) Ron was both a Carey student and parent. A brilliant lawyer, an advocate for human rights and indigenous affairs, his work has contributed significantly to aboriginal reconciliation in Australia.

Ron's largely honorary advocacy during the Mabo case from 1982 to 1992 changed the course of Australia's legal history and persuaded the High Court of Australia to hold that the common law recognises indigenous legal systems and indigenous entitlements to land.

In 1993 he was appointed a member of the Order of Australia. Ron Castan made a lasting impression on human rights nationally and internationally, particularly for indigenous people.