David Plater

Dr David Plater is an Associate Professor at the University of Adelaide Law School and Deputy Director of the South Australian Law Reform Institute (SALRI), a nonpartisan law reform body formed through partnership between the University, Law Society, and State Government. He also serves as an Adjunct Associate Professor at the University of Tasmania Law School. His teaching portfolio includes Law Reform (supporting SALRI's work), Criminal Law, Selected Issues in Criminal Law, Evidence, and Advocacy.

Dr Plater holds a PhD from the University of Tasmania (2011) examining the historical development and modern application of the prosecutor's role as a 'minister of justice'. He is admitted as a legal practitioner in England, Republic of Ireland, Northern Territory, Tasmania, and South Australia. His extensive practical experience includes work as a Senior Crown Prosecutor and with the State DPP in South Australia.

His research focuses on modern Law Reform, surrogacy, prosecution discretion, victims' rights, vulnerable parties in the justice system, and legal history. His thematic approach emphasizes making the legal system more efficient, equitable, and accessible for traditionally overlooked groups including victims of sexual abuse, individuals with cognitive impairments, and Aboriginal communities. He often draws on historical analysis to highlight longstanding legal issues and explores how fair trial rights must balance competing interests of accused, victims, and community.

Dr Plater's recent publications reveal consistent focus on law reform through SALRI's work, with particular attention to vulnerable witnesses, surrogacy law, powers of attorney, and historical perspectives on criminal justice. His research bridges historical legal analysis with contemporary challenges, especially regarding fair trial rights and balancing competing interests in the justice system.

• Australian Research Council Linkage grant ($252,124) for national jury study on sentencing for sex offences
• Research on surrogacy law and practice in South Australia
• Independent statutory review of the Ageing and Adult Safeguarding Act
• South Australian Law Foundation project examining Communication Partner model

As Deputy Director of SALRI, Dr Plater oversees major inquiries into difficult legal topics with Professor John Williams (Director) and Louise Scarman (EO). SALRI's work emphasizes inclusive engagement with regional and Indigenous communities, and many of its reports have led to significant legislative changes in South Australia. He has been instrumental in SALRI references on succession law, surrogacy, provocation issues, abortion, powers of attorney, and adult safeguarding.