Maurice Blackburn wins sexual harassment claims for two former associates of retired Victorian judge Peter Vickery

19 December 2022 

The two women contacted Maurice Blackburn principal lawyer Josh Bornstein about their sexual harassment claims in 2020.

Following a request from the firm, the Victorian Supreme Court commissioned an independent investigation which upheld the allegations. Mr Vickery, who died earlier this year, denied the claims.

Mr Bornstein said the firm was pleased to have secured an outcome for the two women, whose lives had been significantly affected by what occurred.

“At the time they were sexually harassed, they were aged in their early 20s and the judge was in his 60s.

“In addition to deploying sexualized poetry and unwelcome sexual advances, Mr Vickery also put his hand between the thighs of one of the women and on another occasion kissed her on the lips.

“It was a gross abuse of power by one of our state’s most senior judges against two young women who were just starting out on their legal careers.

“The conduct of the judge had a profound, damaging impact on both women. One no longer works as a lawyer.

“The failure of the Supreme Court to properly investigate and respond to the first case of sexual harassment at that time increased the risk of recidivism by the judge.

“The women are to be commended for their courage and tenacity in pursuing this matter against powerful individuals and institutions.”

Maurice Blackburn, on behalf of the two women, made multi-million dollar claims to the State of Victoria with a request to engage in mediation without the need to bring formal legal proceedings.

The mediation process has resolved both cases. The settlement sums are confidential.

Media inquiries:
Chee Chee Leung at Maurice Blackburn Lawyers on 0412 560 584 or cleung@mauriceblackburn.com.au