21 October 2025 marked a proud moment for the St Paul’s College community, as another Pauline was formally welcomed to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. At a ceremonial sitting of the Court, His Honour Judge James Renwick AM CSC (Paul’s 1983–84; Sub-Warden 1992–93) was celebrated by an impressive assembly of senior judicial officers from both Commonwealth and NSW courts. He was joined by family and friends, including his son Lachlan (Paul’s 2018–20) and numerous other old Pauline law officers.
Judge Renwick’s distinguished career spans academia, public service, the Bar, national security oversight, and military service. After completing his time as Sub-Warden, he undertook a Doctor of Juridical Science at Sydney Law School, becoming the first graduate of that program in 1993. He began his legal career in the Northern Territory, working in the Department of Law on Aboriginal Land Rights claims, before moving to the Australian Government Solicitor.
In 1996, James joined the Sydney Bar, taking silk in 2011. His academic contributions include being a Fulbright Scholar in 2007 and serving as an Honorary Professor at the ANU College of Law from 2012 to 2021. He also held several significant statutory and tribunal roles, including as a Senior Member of the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (2014–2020) and as Australia’s third Independent National Security Legislation Monitor (2017–2022).
Judge Renwick has also made a substantial contribution to the Royal Australian Navy as a Reservist. His service has included deployment to Tarin Kowt, Afghanistan, on Operation Slipper in 2013. In 2021, he was appointed Deputy Judge Advocate General – Navy with the rank of Commodore. His Defence honours include the Conspicuous Service Cross (2019) and appointment as a Member of the Order of Australia (2024) for his significant service to national security law and military justice.
Beyond his professional commitments, James has given generously to community organisations, including the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, the Australian Branch of the International Law Association, the Law Council of Australia, the NSW Bar Council, and the Australian Institute of Administrative Law.
The College warmly congratulates His Honour Judge James Renwick AM CSC on his remarkable career and on his appointment to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. His achievements continue to bring honour to the College and its community.
