William Evan Stuart, Thomas Gyorffy, Daniel Masel, Michael Hugh O'Bryan, Martin Rothwell Scott, Caroline Eve Kirton, Peter Barrington Kidd, Stephen Andrew O'Meara, James Peter Gorton, Peter Robert Darling Gray, Stuart John Wood, Matthew John Collins, Lesley Ann Taylor, Stephen Paul Donaghue, Michael James Croucher were all appointed as senior counsel.

"We warmly congratulate each of the new senior counsel and wish them continued success in their new role," said Melanie Sloss SC, the newly-elected chairman of the Victorian Bar.

"The 15 new silks reflect a diversity of backgrounds and experience and practice in a wide range of areas. Each of them has demonstrated skill and excellence in the practice of the law, especially in advocacy, and integrity, independence and leadership in the profession."

Earlier this year, Chief Justice Warren said she would no longer have the necessary time available to devote to the appointment of silks and would return the responsibility for the appointment to the Bar.

As such, the Bar Council is in the process of developing a proposal for the appointment of senior counsel in Victoria in 2012. A discussion paper will be available early in December, followed by a consultation process and invitation to comment.