The president-elect of the Law Council of Australia, Konrad de Kerloy, has stepped aside from his position while an independent investigation takes place into an allegation of inappropriate conduct at a work function.
The Law Council’s current president, Arthur Moses, confirmed in a statement that an independent investigator had been engaged to examine an “allegation of inappropriate behaviour made against a member of the executive”.
Guardian Australia understands a complaint was lodged against Kerloy by a woman after an alleged incident at a dinner.
Attempts have been made to contact Kerloy, who is a partner at Herbert Smith Freehills, and a past president of the Law Society of Western Australia.
He has not responded so far.
Moses said the executive member denied any wrongdoing, but had agreed to step-aside from their duties until the investigation has concluded.
“The member of the executive agreed to this request on the basis they deny any wrongdoing and in order to avoid any suggestion that they are in a position to influence any decisions in relation to this matter,” Moses said.
Moses said the Law Council “does not tolerate sexual harassment or discrimination in any form. It is acting quickly and decisively to ensure the matter is appropriately dealt with”.
The Law Council president said both individuals had been informed that an investigation is underway “and during this process the Law Council is taking steps to ensure that it discharges its obligations in a fair manner”.
“As an independent investigation is underway, it is not appropriate to provide further details at this time”.
