John McKenna KC

John McKenna QC has been in practice at the commercial bar in Queensland for over 30 years, including over 18 years within the ranks of senior counsel. He has a particular interest in appellate and legally complex matters.

Mr McKenna is also a Nationally Accredited Leading Mediator, with over 15 years of experience in the mediation and expert determination of commercial disputes.

He graduated from the University of Queensland with a Bachelor of Arts (majoring in economics) and a Bachelor of Laws (Hon 1) (1983). With the support of a Rhodes Scholarship, he undertook postgraduate study at Magdalen College, Oxford, graduating with a Bachelor of Civil Laws (Hons 1) (1985). He was awarded a Doctorate of Laws (honoris causa) by the University of Queensland in 2022.

Since commencing practice, Mr McKenna has been retained in significant matters arising from most aspects of commercial activity in Queensland, including from the mining, gas, rail, port, electricity, water, sugar, finance, building, property, education, corporate, professional services and government sectors.

He is a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Law, an Adjunct Professor of Law at the University of Queensland and the President of the University of Queensland Law Alumni Association. He was formerly the Chairman of the Incorporated Council of Law Reporting for the State of Queensland (2011-2024), a member of the Supreme Court of Queensland Library Committee (2005-2024), and the National Secretary of the Association of Rhodes Scholars in Australia (2012-2026).

Liability limited by a scheme approved under professional standards legislation.