Attorney General John Quigley is pleased to announce that Colin Pettit's term as Commissioner for Children and Young People has been extended by an appointment as Acting Commissioner for the next 12 months.
Mr Pettit was originally appointed to the position on November 16, 2015 for a term of five years.
The Commissioner for Children and Young People Act 2006 does not allow for Mr Pettit to be reappointed, or for another person to be appointed, without an extensive recruitment and consultation process, which will occur early in 2021.
Mr Pettit brought to the position many years of experience in teaching and education, and has led the office with distinction since 2015.
As stated by Attorney General John Quigley:
"In Mr Pettit's term as Commissioner, he has consulted with thousands of WA children and young people.
"He initiated a State-wide Speaking Out Survey and established a Wellbeing Monitoring Framework to improve reporting on children's wellbeing.
"He has also advocated for the implementation of recommendations of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, oversight of child safe standards and improved mental health services for young people.
"We have been very fortunate to have such an experienced, hardworking and dedicated Commissioner looking after the interests of our children and young people.
"I'm certain Mr Pettit's good work and advocacy will continue for the next 12 months."
