Suggestions
Alice McBurney
Specialist Adviser - Immigration at Australian Human Rights Commission
Professional Background
Alice McBurney is a dedicated legal professional with extensive experience in human rights advocacy, immigration law, and gender equality issues. With a career that spans multiple roles within esteemed organizations, Alice has established herself as a key figure in the protection of human rights in Australia. Her journey began after completing her high school education at The Kilmore International School, where her passion for law and justice was ignited, leading her to pursue higher education in this field.
Alice earned her Bachelor of Arts/Laws degree with First Class Honours from The Australian National University (ANU), a testament to her academic excellence and commitment to her studies. At ANU, Alice was actively involved in projects that helped amplify the voices of underrepresented communities, such as her co-founding of the 'Ready 4 Recognition' (R4R) Project, which focused on recognition for Indigenous rights and issues.
Over the years, Alice has served in various pivotal roles at the Australian Human Rights Commission, where she currently holds the position of Specialist Adviser on Immigration. In this role, she provides expert guidance on immigration policies, ensuring they align with Australia’s human rights obligations. Previously, she worked as a Policy Adviser focusing on Sex Discrimination, where she contributed to developing policies that promote gender equality and address discrimination issues.
Alice has also made significant contributions to the legal landscape through her work in various organizations supporting vulnerable communities. As a Gender Lawyer at the Human Rights Law Program of the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre, she worked tirelessly to defend the rights of asylum seekers and refugees, advocating for their legal representation and humane treatment.
In addition to these roles, Alice's experience as a Volunteer Lawyer and Migration Agent at Refugee Legal showcased her commitment to providing free legal assistance to those in need, further cementing her dedication to social justice. Her earlier positions as a Lawyer at WEstjustice and Legal Intern at the National Centre of Indigenous Studies at ANU College of Law reflect her deep commitment to legal aid and advocacy for Indigenous rights in Australia.
Alice's international experience includes her Law Fellowship at the Mossawa Center: The Advocacy Center for Arab Citizens in Israel, where she engaged in advocacy efforts for minority rights, demonstrating her passion for international human rights and social equity.
Education and Achievements
Alice McBurney's educational background is marked by her outstanding achievements while at The Australian National University, where she ranked in the top tier of her class and graduated with First Class Honours in her Bachelor of Arts/Laws degree. This prestigious academic background provided her with a solid foundation in legal principles and human rights, fueling her commitment to advocate for vulnerable populations.
Alice's dedication to education and human rights continued at ANU, where she co-founded the 'Ready 4 Recognition' Project (R4R), a significant initiative designed to promote recognition and rights for Indigenous Peoples in Australia. This initiative highlighted her early and ongoing commitment to social justice and legal advocacy.
Throughout her career, Alice has continually sought opportunities to develop her legal prowess and deepen her understanding of human rights issues, continually seeking ways to apply her knowledge effectively in various roles.
Achievements
Alice McBurney has achieved remarkable milestones during her career in human rights and legal advocacy. Her role as a Specialist Adviser on Immigration at the Australian Human Rights Commission has allowed her to impact immigration policy directly and shape discussions around human rights and immigration in Australia.
Her previous role as Policy Adviser for Sex Discrimination at the same commission further highlights her leadership in gender equality advocacy, allowing her to contribute to initiatives that aim to eliminate discrimination and promote equal rights for all genders.
Alice's efforts with the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre and Refugee Legal demonstrate her commitment to providing legal support to some of the most vulnerable communities in Australia, ensuring that asylum seekers and refugees receive fair treatment under the law. Her experiences at WEstjustice and various legal internships have enriched her expertise and provided invaluable insights into the complexities surrounding human rights law.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to legal advocacy, Alice has become a highly regarded leader in her field, respected for her dedication, passion, and expertise. Her journey from a dedicated law student at The Australian National University to a key figure in Australia's human rights legal landscape is a testament to her commitment to justice and equality.