The Hon Robert French AC

Keynote Address to: Australian Disputes Centre
International ADR Conference 2026
27 March 2026, Sydney

We were honoured to have The Hon Robert French AC, former Chief Justice of the High Court of Australia and ADC Patron, deliver the opening keynote at the ADC 40th Anniversary Conference on 27 March 2026.

Mr French shared insights into the human dimension of dispute resolution, reflecting on the spectrum of ADR mechanisms – from mediation to arbitration – and their essential role in upholding the rule of law. As we traverse new frontiers, he addressed the critical need to maintain this human process, even as emerging technologies and the complexities of space and modern industry challenge our traditional norms.

Click here to download Mr French’s address and explore how the fundamental values of ADR remain vital in an increasingly automated world.