“He has led an impressively broad range of law council initiatives, both in the interests of our profession but also on behalf of the public interest,” Ms McLeod said.

“Mr Clark has raised the profile of our organisation amongst the profession, the media and political decision-makers. For that, the incoming executive is extremely grateful.”

Mr Clark, who is a consultant in the Sydney office of Clayton Utz, said leading the national body has been an honour.

“I thank the board and our constituent bodies for allowing me the opportunity to serve as president,” Mr Clark said.

He acknowledged the efforts of the LCA’s outgoing executive and thanked the secretariat group for its support in 2016.

Mr Clark also added that it was pleasing to see continuity between the old and new senior leadership.

“I am certain the Australian legal profession will be well served by its national voice in 2016, and those who lead it,” he said.

Ms McLeod will lead the LCA’s 2017 leadership team, which includes treasurer Arthur Moses SC and executive members Pauline Wright, Konrad de Kerloy and Geoff Bowyer.

South Australian Morry Bailes will serve on the LCA executive as its president-elect.