We are deeply saddened to advise the passing of The Hon. Margaret Stone AO FAAL.

Margaret was a partner of the firm in the 1990’s and had a distinguished legal career spanning many years.

After graduating from The Australian National University with the University Medal and completing a Master of Laws at Yale University, Margaret taught law at the University of New South Wales for 15 years, including as Sub-Dean for 7 years. 

In early 1991, Margaret moved into private practice, joining (then) Freehill, Hollingdale and Page and becoming a partner in 1993 in the firm’s Property practice. She remained with the firm until 2000 when she was appointed a Judge of the Federal Court of Australia. 

Following a 12-year career at the Bench, and as one of many appointments after leaving the Federal Court, Margaret re-joined (then) Freehills in early 2012 as a consultant in the firm’s Financial Services practice.

In October 2012, Margaret was appointed by the Federal Government as the inaugural Independent Reviewer of Adverse Security Assessments at ASIO. In August 2015 she was appointed by the Federal Government as Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security, at which time Margaret retired (for a second time) from the firm. Margaret acted in the important capacity of Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security until her retirement in August 2020.

Margaret was a remarkable individual, hugely admired for her great intellect, integrity, kindness and good humour. She made a lasting contribution to the law (in multiple capacities as a teacher, practitioner, leader, mentor and judge) and to public service more broadly.

We send our sincere condolences to Margaret’s family and loved ones.

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To read our profile of Margaret’s outstanding career in our 2016 Alumni magazine – click here