Pacifica Congress Lifetime <a href="https://pacificacongress.org/news/">Members</a>Pacifica Congress Honours
Lifetime Members
Pacifica Congress is proud to recognise a small and distinguished group of Lifetime Members whose contributions to the family law community, and to Pacifica Congress itself, have been exceptional, sustained, and deeply influential.
Each of these individuals has served as a Board Member of Pacifica Congress, contributing their time, expertise, and leadership to the growth and direction of the organisation. Their commitment reflects a deep belief in the value of interdisciplinary collaboration and the importance of a strong, connected professional community.
Lifetime Membership is reserved for those who have demonstrated not only excellence within their respective disciplines, but who have also played a meaningful role in advancing the ideals and work of Pacifica Congress.
Recognition
Leadership, Service and Enduring Impact
Through their leadership and service, Pacifica Congress Lifetime Members have helped shape practice, support professionals, and improve outcomes for children and families across the family law system.
We honour their contribution with gratitude and respect.
Exceptional and sustained contribution to the family law community.
Leadership through Board service and long-term commitment to Pacifica Congress.
Advocacy for interdisciplinary collaboration across law, psychology, dispute resolution and family services.
A clear and lasting influence on better outcomes for children and families.
Lifetime Members
Honouring Those Who Helped Shape Pacifica Congress
These members represent judicial leadership, psychology, mediation, professional education, publishing, and family services, reflecting the interdisciplinary foundation that defines Pacifica Congress.
The Honourable Diana Bryant AO KC
Judicial Leadership
The Honourable Diana Bryant AO KC is one of the most respected figures in Australian family law. Serving as Chief Justice of the Family Court of Australia from 2004 to 2017, her leadership was marked by a strong commitment to access to justice, procedural fairness, and a deep understanding of the lived realities of families navigating separation.
Justice Bryant has long been a champion of interdisciplinary collaboration, recognising the vital role of psychologists, social scientists, and allied professionals in informing better legal outcomes. Her influence extends well beyond the bench, including her early support in the formation of what would become Pacifica Congress.
Her legacy is one of integrity, innovation, and an unwavering focus on the wellbeing of children.
Dr David List
Psychology and Professional Development
Dr David List is a highly regarded psychologist whose work in family law has spanned decades, particularly in the areas of child development, family dynamics, and high-conflict separation.
He has been a consistent advocate for thoughtful, evidence-based practice, bringing psychological insight into legal contexts with clarity and balance. His contributions to training, supervision, and professional development have supported generations of practitioners navigating complex family systems.
Dr List’s work reflects a deep commitment to understanding children’s experiences within family law processes and ensuring that their needs remain central.
Justice Ciara Tyson
Judicial Education and Reform
Justice Ciara Tyson has made a significant contribution to family law through her work on the bench of the Family Court of Western Australia and her longstanding engagement with professional education and reform.
Known for her thoughtful and measured approach, Justice Tyson has been an active supporter of initiatives that bring together legal and mental health professionals to improve court processes and outcomes for families.
Her involvement with Pacifica Congress reflects her commitment to ongoing learning, collaboration, and the development of best practice across disciplines.
Fiona Darroch
Psychology, Mentorship and Publishing
Fiona Darroch is widely respected for her work as a family law psychologist with a career dedicated to assisting families in a way that prioritises dignity, clarity, and their long-term wellbeing.
Her approach reflects a deep understanding of the human dimensions of people, children and families, particularly in high-conflict matters. She has been a strong supporter of interdisciplinary practice and has contributed generously to professional communities through presenting her knowledge, mentoring and collaboration.
Fiona’s work embodies the principles of respectful engagement and constructive resolution that sit at the heart of Pacifica Congress. She remains the editor of our online journal, Issues.
Julie Jackson
Professional Service and Practice Support
Julie Jackson has made a longstanding contribution to the family law community through her work supporting practitioners, systems, and families navigating complex legal processes.
Her professional journey reflects a commitment to service, professionalism, and the strengthening of practice standards. She has been actively involved in fostering connections across disciplines and supporting initiatives that enhance both practitioner capability and client outcomes.
Julie’s contribution is characterised by consistency, generosity, and a deep respect for the work of others in the field.
Timothy McMichael
Mediation and Conflict Resolution
Timothy McMichael is a highly regarded mediator known for his skill, professionalism, and thoughtful approach to complex family law matters.
Over the course of his career, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to conflict resolution that is both rigorous and respectful, with a clear focus on achieving just outcomes for families. He has also contributed to the broader professional community through mentorship and engagement with interdisciplinary forums.
Timothy’s work reflects the highest standards of practice and a deep understanding of the responsibilities inherent in family law.
Dr Andrew Bickerdike
Family Services and Interdisciplinary Leadership
Dr Andrew Bickerdike is the Chief Executive Officer of Relationships Australia Victoria and a respected leader in the family services sector.
With a background in economics and social policy, he has contributed significantly to the development of integrated, evidence-informed approaches to supporting children and families experiencing separation and conflict. His work reflects a strong commitment to collaboration across legal, therapeutic, and community services.
Dr Bickerdike’s leadership highlights the importance of coordinated, interdisciplinary responses in improving outcomes for families within the family law system.
Closing
These Lifetime Members represent the very best of the Pacifica Congress community. Their contributions continue to shape the way professionals think, collaborate, and practice across the family law landscape. We are honoured to recognise their enduring impact.
