The panel, which will operate pro bono or at reduced rates, aims to tackle environmental matters affecting the community, while also monitoring and participating in law reform regarding climate change and the environment.

"As the community grapples with proposed legislation that will manage environmental issues and climate change impacts, the Bar wants to ensure that barristers with expertise in these areas are accessible and available," said Victorian Bar Chairman Michael Colbran QC, in a statement released today.

Colbran also stressed the importance of the issue and urged barristers with an interest in climate change to get involved and join the panel.

The Victorian Bar also intends to look at ways in which it can become more environmentally friendly in its everyday operations and will keep members of the Bar well informed about new developments in the area.