Like it was for the University of Wollongong’s foundation Dean of Law, social justice is of paramount importance to the two law students.

Personal setbacks and life obstacles have also only served to spur Miss Brooker and Mr Bainbridge on to effect positive change in the field of law.

Miss Brooker is totally blind and volunteers as a public speaker at Guide Dogs NSW/ACT.

But the third year law student from Albion Park Rail was awarded the scholarship for her consistent academic excellence and motivation to make a difference in the criminal law space.

‘’I have a strong commitment to social justice in relation to achieving greater justice for offenders,’’ Miss Brooker said.

‘’I believe that prison is not an appropriate punishment for all offenders, and there needs to be greater rehabilitative programs, particularly in relation to the establishments of more Drug Courts around the state.

‘’It is my goal to assist offenders as a solicitor to access such rehabilitative programs, and also advocate for more of these programs in our community.’’

Miss Brooker intends to use the scholarship money to help pay for the expensive technologies she relies on to assist her with her studies.

It was after witnessing the horrors of war first hand that Mr Bainbridge turned to the law.

The former Green Beret commando with the Australian Special Forces who was medically discharged and suffered PTSD, was awarded the scholarship for his resolve to effect change for war veterans.

‘’Risking life and limb and losing many close friends, enabled me to realise that war is the end result of a failed social justice system,’’ he said.

‘’I understand just how lucky we are to live here in Australia, having real access to justice. This experience and my injuries have driven me to study law, and to further contribute to the development of our social justice system, and the community at large.

‘’In 2015/16, I researched and drafted various submissions to the NSW State Government seeking amendments to the criminal justice legislation to recognise veterans with PTSD and other mental health conditions as vulnerable suspects in the investigative process.

‘’I am also continuing to work toward law reform surrounding child sex offences. These changes will reflect the true criminality of these offences.’’

The Jack Goldring Memorial Scholarship aims to uphold his commitment to social justice, education and law reform.