Kate Eastman AM SC honoured at UTS Alumni Awards

A pioneer in Australian human rights advocacy, Ms Eastman has spent more than 30 years using the law as a tool for social transformation. From representing Yazidi women trafficked into Syria and defending David Hicks at Guantanamo Bay, to advancing the rights of asylum seekers, survivors of sexual violence, and children with disabilities, her career reflects a steadfast commitment to equity and justice.

Ms Eastman served as Senior Counsel Assisting the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability. Her leadership was commended in the Commission’s Final Report for her “skill, thoroughness and careful attention to ensuring witnesses with disability felt safe and supported”.

Beyond the courtroom, Ms Eastman has shaped the profession itself. She co-founded Australian Lawyers for Human Rights and represented Australia in the UN negotiations to establish the International Criminal Court—a rare distinction for an Australian lawyer. Her volunteer roles have included Chair of the Law Council’s Equal Opportunity Committee and contributor to its National Action Plan to Reduce Sexual Harassment, influencing policy and professional standards across the sector.

Ms Eastman’s impact extends into education and mentorship. A Senior Fellow at Monash University and mentor in the UTS Law High Achievers Program, she has taught human rights law in Australia, Myanmar and Uganda—encouraging the next generation of lawyers to uphold fairness, integrity and service.

Her numerous honours reflect the reach of her influence: the Human Rights Law Award (2019), Order of Australia (2021), Law Council of Australia President’s Award (2022) and Best Lawyers ‘Lawyer of the Year’ for Human Rights (2024).

In nominating her for the award, the Faculty described Ms Eastman as a lawyer who “exemplifies the rule of law and the service of others,” a sentiment echoed by former High Court Justice Michael Kirby, who praised her as “a top lawyer—talented, hardworking and as hard as nails.”

Ms Eastman currently serves as Commissioner of the New South Wales Law Reform Commission. In this role, she draws on her extensive legal expertise and leadership experience to guide law reform initiatives that promote fairness, equality, and the protection of rights across the state. Her work builds on a distinguished career, with contributions to legal practice, policy development, and advocacy for human rights, workplace equality, and the prevention of sexual harassment.

Kate Eastman AM SC’s enduring legacy lies not only in her landmark cases, but in her ability to inspire others to see the law as a living force for human dignity and inclusion—an impact that truly embodies the UTS vision of social justice and transformative leadership.