Mary Keyes

Professor Mary Keyes is a distinguished academic at Griffith Law School, Griffith University, specializing in private international law with particular expertise in jurisdiction and international family law. She serves as Review Articles Editor for the Journal of Private International Law and holds leadership positions including President of the Australasian Association of Private International Law.

Her educational background includes:

• Doctor of Philosophy, Griffith University (1997-2004)
• Bachelor of Laws with Honours, University of Queensland (1985-1993)
• Bachelor of Arts, University of Queensland (1988)
• Graduate Certificate in Higher Education, Griffith University (1995-1996)

Professor Keyes' research focuses on cross-border legal frameworks, particularly examining how agreements function in international transactions and family relationships. Her work bridges theoretical private international law with practical applications in areas like surrogacy arrangements and child custody across jurisdictions. She actively contributes to international law development through the Hague Conference on Private International Law.

Recent publications demonstrate consistent engagement with evolving international legal frameworks, particularly Hague Conventions, with notable contributions to feminist perspectives in private international law and comparative surrogacy regulation. Her scholarship shows strong policy relevance, directly informing law reform initiatives in multiple jurisdictions.

As a supervisor, Professor Keyes currently guides five doctoral candidates and one master's student, with seven completed doctorates. Her supervision emphasizes international perspectives, with current projects addressing legal challenges in Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Myanmar, and Cambodia. She co-coaches Griffith's Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot team, demonstrating commitment to practical skills development.

Professor Keyes directs the Law Futures Centre (2003-2024), providing research infrastructure and leadership. Her international collaborations include significant roles with the Hague Conference and editorial responsibilities that position her at the forefront of private international law scholarship and practice.