Catherine Holmes has been named as Queensland's chief justice, a decision the Government hopes will offer the judiciary a fresh start.

Tim Carmody resigned more than two months ago after a controversial term that lasted just under a year.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Attorney-General Yvette D'Ath made the announcement on Monday afternoon. Ms Holmes was not in attendance.

Justice Holmes will be Queensland's 19th Chief Justice, and the first female to take up the role in the state.

After being admitted as a barrister in 1984, Justice Holmes went on to be appointed to the Supreme Court in 2000 and the Court of Appeal in 2006.

She also presided over the flood inquiry and was the founding member of the women's legal service.

"She is not only well qualified, she is a leader," Ms Palaszczuk said.

"The Supreme Court in Queensland has faced some tough times. I have no doubt that the appointment of Justice Holmes will give the court the fresh start it needs.

"Today that fresh start begins. Now begins a new chapter."

Ms D'Ath said she consulted widely with the judiciary and legal profession for Justice Carmody's replacement.

She said Justice Holmes will offer stability and integrity to the role.

"She has an exceptional intellect, and extensive experience in the law," Ms D'Ath said.

"A great capacity to work under pressure, and an ability to maintain and command respect of the professional, judiciary and the community.

"There is no doubt the court has gone through its challenges, but I believe Justice Holmes will offer stability going forward."

Opposition, law society on board

The Queensland Law Society (QLS) was the first organisation to publicly congratulate Justice Holmes.

"The appointment brings certainty to our profession and our community," QLS president Michael Fitzgerald said.

Shadow attorney-general Ian Walker wished her well in the "very tough job ahead".

"Justice Holmes has a well-regarded track record," he said.

"Any Chief Justice has the huge responsibility to provide a well-functioning court system."

There was unprecedented uproar from the legal fraternity and members of the judiciary under Justice Carmody.

The former Newman government controversially elevated him to the role in 2014, despite criticism he lacked experience and was too close to the government.

Before his resignation, the beleaguered justice said there was a poisonous culture in the judiciary and said he believed those who were resisting change campaigned to force him out.

He offered to stand down on the condition the Government agreed to overhaul the "festering" judiciary, including a judicial commission.

Ms D'Ath however offered no promises before he left the role.