Canberra :

The Australian Human Rights Commission has confirmed the appointment of Deb Tsorbaris as the country’s next National Children’s Commissioner, following a national merit-based selection process.

Ms Tsorbaris, who will begin her five-year term on 17 November, brings more than two decades of experience in child and family welfare, social policy and community services. She will take over the role from Anne Hollonds, who has served as Commissioner since 2020 and will conclude her tenure on 1 November.

Commission President Hugh de Kretser welcomed the appointment, describing Ms Tsorbaris as “ideally placed to champion children’s rights in Australia.” He also paid tribute to Ms Hollonds’ contribution, including her work on child justice reform and the Help Way Earlier! report.

For the past 12 years, Ms Tsorbaris has been Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Excellence in Child and Family Welfare, the peak body representing more than 200 child and family service organisations in Victoria and Tasmania. Her career has also spanned leadership roles in housing, homelessness, disability and social policy.

Advocates say her appointment comes at a critical time, with ongoing concerns about child wellbeing, justice and safety across the country.

Source:https://humanrights.gov.au/about/news/media-releases