Judge Elizabeth Morris has been appointed as the next Chief Judge of the Northern Territory Local Court.

The current Deputy Chief Judge of the Local Court will take over from Chief Judge Dr John Lowndes when he retires on October 4 of this year.

Judge Morris is a highly respected judicial officer who is well known in the NT legal profession and broader community.

The long-time Territorian moved to the Territory in 1990, and has been a Local Court Judge since 2010.

Prior to the Local Court, Judge Morris served as Executive Director of Racing, Gaming & Licencing, as Deputy CEO of the Department of Justice and as Deputy Coroner.

Quotes from Attorney-General Natasha Fyles:

“Judge Elizabeth Morris has served the Local Court for nearly a decade, and has been Deputy Chief Judge since 2017.”

“She has a long standing connection to the Northern Territory and considerable experience across multiple sectors.”

“I am confident that as Chief Judge, Ms Morris will continue to serve the Local Court with distinction.”

“I also extend my thanks to Dr John Lowndes for his dedication to the legal profession and his service to Territorians as Chief Judge.”

“Dr John Lowndes’ vast experience and seniority has been a valuable asset to the Territory enabling the delivery of effective outcomes through reforms and initiatives for the community and through his work in criminal and civil cases.”

Media Contact: Cameron Angus 0404 021 192