The Australian Human Rights Commission welcomes the appointment of Deb Tsorbaris as the new National Children's Commissioner, following an open merit-selection process.
Ms Tsorbaris will succeed Ms Anne Hollonds, who finishes her 5-year term as Commissioner on 1 November.
'On behalf of Commissioners and staff, I welcome Ms Tsorbaris to the Commission. Her deep experience in child and family welfare and human services makes her ideally placed to champion children's rights in Australia,' said Commission President, Hugh de Kretser.
'I acknowledge the significant contribution of Anne Hollonds as Australia's second National Children's Commissioner, particularly through her important work on the Help Way Earlier! report on child justice. Ms Tsorbaris will continue the critical work of listening to children and standing up for their rights so laws, policies and services look after their safety and wellbeing.'
Ms Tsorbaris is currently the Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Excellence in Child and Family Welfare, the peak body for over 200 child and family services in Victoria and Tasmania. For 12 years she has led the organisation and its development and evaluation of child and family programs, strategy and advocacy. Her career also encompasses leadership roles in housing, homelessness, social policy and disability.
'Ms Tsorbaris' deep expertise across a range of critical areas will be a great asset for the Commission and the children and young people of Australia,' Mr de Kretser said.
Ms Tsorbaris commences her 5-year term on Monday 17 November.
