Minister for Finance, Minister for Women, Minister for the Public Service, Minister for Government Services
Christine Castley has been appointed by the Governor-General as the CEO of the Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA).
Ms Castley will lead the agency to drive gender equality in workplaces to ensure all people are fairly represented, and equally valued and rewarded.
Ms Castley previously led Multicultural Australia as CEO from 2020 to 2025 and has extensive senior executive experience within the Queensland public service including as Deputy Director-General of the Department of the Premier and Cabinet and Department of Housing and Public Works.
She led the Secretariat for the Special Taskforce on Domestic and Family Violence that delivered the groundbreaking 'Not Now, Not Ever' Report, which led to significant reforms by the Queensland Government to end domestic and family violence.
Holding a Bachelor of Laws and Master of Public Administration, Ms Castley is experienced in leading legislative solutions to complex issues and has a sophisticated understanding of WGEA's regulatory mandate. She has worked extensively with government, business and community sectors to deliver practical and sustainable change at scale.
Ms Castley will begin her 5-year term as CEO from 19 May 2026.
Quotes attributed to Minister for Women Katy Gallagher
"I am pleased to announce the appointment of Christine Castley as CEO of the Workplace Gender Equality Agency.
"The Workplace Gender Equality Agency plays a crucial role in progressing women's economic equality - a key priority for the Australian Government.
"With her extensive regulatory and legislative experience, Ms Castley is well placed to lead WGEA and I look forward to working closely with her to accelerate progress on gender equality in Australian workplaces.
"I thank outgoing CEO Mary Wooldridge for her dedicated leadership of WGEA over the past five years and wish her all the best for the future."
Quotes attributed to CEO of Women's Gender Equality Agency, Christine Castley
"The role of WGEA in shaping Australia's workforce and the way our workplaces operate has never been more important for Australia's economy and our society. WGEA's data and reporting provide a clear line of sight to where change is needed.
"My focus will be on working closely with employers, grounded in the realities of Australian workplaces, to turn this insight into measurable and lasting impact on workplace performance."
