Statement from Fair Work Commission President The Hon. Iain Ross AO
It is with much sadness that I inform you of the passing this morning of the former President of the Australian Industrial Relations Commission and Fair Work Australia, the Hon. Justice Geoffrey Giudice AO.
Geoff started his career as a research officer at the then Hospital Employees Federation Victoria Number 2 Branch, and later as the National Industrial Relations Manager with Myer.
Geoff undertook and completed his articles with Moule Hamilton and Derham and was admitted to the Supreme Court of Victoria on 1 August 1979. He quickly won the confidence of his clients and soon became a partner. He remained as a partner for four years before going to the Bar. At the Bar Geoff appeared many times before the Commission in major cases, as well as before the Federal Court and the High Court of Australia.
Geoff was appointed to the Australian Industrial Relations Commission as President on 17 September 1997. At the same time, he was also appointed a Judge of the Federal Court of Australia.
Geoff sat on many National Wage Cases and major test cases including the 1997 Award Simplification case, the Working Hours Case, the Family Provisions Case, the Redundancy cases and the Equal Remuneration Case. In many of those cases I had the privilege of sitting with him. I greatly appreciated Geoff's collaborative approach to decision-making.
Geoff made a substantial contribution to the tribunal during his stewardship.
He guided the tribunal through WorkChoices, the creation of the Fair Work Act and the modern award system.
Geoff resigned as President of Fair Work Australia on 28 February 2012.
Geoff was well known for his professionalism, integrity and intelligence. Those Members and staff who worked with Geoff – including myself – can also attest to his courtesy and patience.
Geoff was a man of great character, intellect and humility. A man for whom the title 'The Honourable' was most fitting.
All Members and staff of the Commission wish to pass on our most sincere condolences to his family and friends.