Mary Anne Kenny

Biography

I am an Associate Professor in the School of Law. I am the Programme Manager of the Graduate Certificate in Australian Migration Law and Practice. I teach in the areas of migration law, refugee law and international human rights. My research interests are refugees, immigration, human rights and law reform. I have been a legal practitioner and migration agent for over 20 years. I have previously worked in the clinical legal education program at SCALES. As a legal practitioner I continue to provide pro bono advice and assistance to refugees and asylum seekers.

Research Interest

My research focuses on the human rights in relation refugees and asylum seekers.  In particular my research has focussed on the treatment of asylum seekers and refugees in Australia, child asylum seekers and gender issues. A key feature of much my research is about the importance of interdisciplinary practice in the area of refugee law and policy.  My research also reflects my practice experience. I was a Commissioner with the Law Reform Commission of Western Australia between 2006-2012.  During that time I was involved in a number of law reform papers in the areas of coronial law, the law of homicide, Aboriginal customary law, therapeutic jurisprudence, jury selection and  the Community Protection (Offender Reporting) Act.