The Coalition Government is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Romlie Mokak as the first full-time Indigenous Policy Evaluation Commissioner of the Productivity Commission.
The creation of this position reflects the Government’s commitment to Closing the Gap. The position will strengthen research and evaluation of Indigenous policies to help ensure funding on the ground delivers better outcomes for Indigenous people.
Mr Mokak is a Djugun Man and a Member of the Yawuru people, who is well-respected in Indigenous communities and has deep experience across a range of policy areas affecting Indigenous Australians including disability, ageing, health, financing and substance use.
Mr Mokak also has significant research and evaluation experience, particularly in his recent work as Chair of the Lowitja Institute and member of Canada-Australia Indigenous Health and Wellness Collaboration Working Group.
As the first Indigenous Policy Evaluation Commissioner, Mr Mokak will be crucial in leading the Commission’s enhanced role in Indigenous policy and program evaluation and contribute more broadly to the Commission’s independent advisory responsibilities across a range of economic, social and environmental issues affecting the welfare of Australians.
Mr Mokak’s role commences in April 2019, for a five year period, and upon commencement the Government will task the Productivity Commission with developing and implementing an evaluation strategy for policies and programs affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians, to be reported against by all Australian Government agencies.
The Government congratulates Mr Mokak on his appointment and looks forward to him making a significant contribution to the important work of the Commission.
