1. On Monday 22 September 2025, The Honourable Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Brunei Darussalam, Dato Seri Paduka Steven Chong, and a delegation from the Judiciary of Brunei Darussalam comprising of the Acting Chief Registrar and Chief Magistrate Pg Hjh Norismayanti Pg Hj Ismail and Senior Registrar Kamaliah Fadhilah Hj Ibrahim, made an official visit to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA) in Melbourne.
2. The delegation was welcomed by The Honourable Chief Justice William Alstergren AO and senior members of the FCFCOA. During the visit, the Chief Justices held discussions on court and judicial administration, case management processes, court-annexed mediation and the role of registrars, as well as initiatives to support self-represented litigants. The meeting also explored the Court’s Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) mechanisms and the Family Advocacy and Support Services (FASS), particularly in safeguarding vulnerable litigants.
3. Both Chief Justices reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing judicial cooperation between Brunei Darussalam and Australia under the Australia–Brunei Plan of Action 2024–2027. The visit served to strengthen ties between the two judiciaries and to identify opportunities for professional exchanges, judicial education, and collaboration on best practices.
4. As part of the programme in Melbourne, the delegation also visited the Children’s Court of Victoria and the College of Law, where they gained insights into child-centred justice processes, restorative practices, continuing legal education, and accredited mediation programmes.
5. The Judiciary of Brunei Darussalam also wishes to acknowledge with gratitude the valuable support provided by the Australian High Commission to Brunei Darussalam, whose assistance was instrumental in facilitating the visit and strengthening cooperation between both judiciaries.
SUPREME COURT OF BRUNEI DARUSSALAM
SATURDAY 27 SEPTEMBER 2025
