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The John Hennessy Legal Scholarship is awarded to a public sector solicitor interested in undertaking a research project on legal systems in another jurisdiction, or undertaking further study. The scholarship, established by the Law Society’s Government Solicitors Committee, is an “occasional scholarship” that is offered from time to time and covers travel, study and other approved expenses up to a maximum value of $10,000. The Scholarship recognises great potential in the public sector and encourages continuous improvement and innovation in policy and practice.

2022 Winner: Anthony Levin, Senior Solicitor, Legal Aid NSW

Anthony Levin is a manager and senior solicitor in Legal Aid NSW’s Human Rights team. He has been with the organisation since 2006. During that time, Levin has also been a refugee resettlement project manager for Horton Housing in the UK, working with refugees and survivors of torture.

Levin has been a member of the Law Society of NSW’s human rights committee since 2016. He is also a former Vice President of the Australian Association of Jewish Holocaust Survivors and Descendants, and a board member of the Sydney Jewish Museum.

Levin’s research proposal for the Scholarship was about how the unmet health needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people contribute to the cycle of incarceration. He argues that with effective continuity of care we have the potential to address health inequalities for the benefit of both the prisoner and the public.

The judges noted how impressed they were with Levin’s research proposal. “It was further noted [in the proposal] that the potential to raise the standard of health care in NSW for Aboriginal people would be a significant benefit and in line with human rights principles.

“The judging panel expressly wish Anthony well in his research and note their excitement in learning more about the project over the coming months.”

The Law Society of New South Wales, President and Council congratulate Anthony Levin on this achievement.

Finalists

  • Tom Allchurch, A/senior solicitor, NSW Crown Solicitor’s Office
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Image credit: Oneill Photographics

2022 Award Recipients