Australia’s next National Children’s Commissioner appointed

The Albanese Government has today announced the appointment of Ms Deborah Tsorbaris as the next National Children’s Commissioner at the Australian Human Rights Commission.

The National Children’s Commissioner – a position established by the Gillard Government in 2013 – is tasked with standing up for the human rights of children and young people in Australia.

Ms Tsorbaris’s appointment ensures the Australian Human Rights Commission can continue this important work. Her five-year appointment will commence on 17 November 2025, following a merit-based selection process.

Ms Tsorbaris is currently serving as Chief Executive Officer at the Centre for Excellence in Child and Family Welfare and has extensive experience in child safety.

For more information about the Australian Human Rights Commission, visit their website.

Biography

Deborah Tsorbaris has over 30 years’ experience in executive roles in the not for profit and public sectors. Since 2013, Ms Tsorbaris has been the CEO of the Centre for Excellence in Child and Family Welfare, Victoria’s peak body for child and family services. Ms Tsorbaris provides policy leadership to governments across Australia and has been instrumental in advancing the rights of vulnerable and marginalised children. She holds several key advisory roles, including as a member of the Victorian Children’s Council and the Victorian Women’s Ministerial Correctional Services Committee, and as Co-Chair of the National Strategy to Prevent and Respond to Child Sexual Abuse Advisory Group.

Ms Tsorbaris holds a Master of Social Science and a Graduate Diploma of Human Services Research from RMIT University. In recognition of her outstanding work with children, Ms Tsorbaris was honoured with the prestigious Robin Clark Leadership Award in 2022.

Quotes attributable to the Attorney-General, Hon Michelle Rowland MP:

“The National Children’s Commissioner acts as a strong voice for the human rights of children and young people – helping them get the best start in life while ensuring their ongoing needs are put front and centre in the development of Commonwealth policies and programs.

“I congratulate Ms Tsorbaris on her appointment.

“I would like to thank outgoing Commissioner Ms Anne Hollonds for her service in the role. Ms Hollonds has provided a valuable contribution in advocating for the rights of children since her appointment in 2020.”