Experienced barristers appointed to Supreme Court of NSW

Thursday, 11 December 2025

Two of Australia’s most experienced barristers, Phillip Boulten SC and Gregory Sirtes SC, have been appointed to the Supreme Court of NSW.

Mr Boulten has appeared in complex trials and appeals involving offences such as bribery, corruption, espionage, drug trafficking, money laundering and homicide.

He was appointed Senior Counsel in 2003 after becoming a barrister in 1988 and beginning his legal career in 1979.

He is a former President of the NSW Bar Association and a long-term member of the Law Council of Australia’s Criminal Law Committee.

Mr Sirtes specialises in property transactions, family law, construction and contract disputes, commercial and equity matters, insurance, professional negligence and estate litigation.

He was appointed Senior Counsel in 2008, called to the Bar in 1992 and admitted as a solicitor in 1990.

He is a member of the NSW Bar Council and has also undertaken work for the Australian Defence Force, serving as both a Judge Advocate and Defence Force Magistrate.

Mr Boulten will be sworn in on February 3 and Mr Sirtes on February 5.

Attorney General Michael Daley said:

“Mr Boulten and Mr Sirtes come to the bench with a strong track record of advocacy and wealth of courtroom experience.

“The appointments are a testament to both barrister’ skill, professionalism and commitment to serving the people of New South Wales.

“They replace retiring justices Stephen Rothman AM and Peter Garling RFD who have served on the Supreme Court for more than 35 years combined. I thank them both for their distinguished service to the community.”