Search is on for Australia’s next National Children’s Commissioner 

Recruitment for Australia’s next National Children’s Commissioner is now underway, with the Australian Human Rights Commission searching for a bold leader who will drive real change for Australia’s children.

About the Australian Human Rights Commission

The Australian Human Rights Commission is an independent statutory authority and Australia’s national human rights institution. It was established under the Australian Human Rights Commission Act 1986 (Cth) (AHRC Act) and is accredited internationally as an A-status institution under the Paris Principles.

The Australian Human Rights Commission has a range of duties, functions and powers under the AHRC Act and Commonwealth anti-discrimination legislation. These duties include:

• promoting community awareness of human rights
• investigating human rights issues of national importance
• conciliating anti-discrimination complaints
• reviewing legislation for compliance with human rights
• advising the government on legislation and policy relating to human rights.

Role of the National Children’s Commissioner

The National Children’s Commissioner leads the Australian Human Rights Commission’s work about the rights of children. This work includes:

• promoting understanding and acceptance of, and compliance with, the Convention on the Rights of the Child
• promoting discussion and awareness of issues affecting children
• undertaking research and education projects promoting children’s rights
• monitoring Commonwealth legislation and policy for compliance with the rights of children
• consulting with children, representative organisations, and stakeholders as appropriate.

As a member of the Australian Human Rights Commission, the National Children’s Commissioner contributes to its governance and leadership. They do not have a role in its complaint handling functions.

The functions of the National Children’s Commissioner are set out in section 46MB of the AHRC Act.

Success criteria

To successfully undertake the role of National Children’s Commissioner, an applicant will:

• have a detailed knowledge and understanding of Australian human rights law, the international human rights framework, human rights issues faced by children, and government policies relating to the rights of children, or the ability to acquire such knowledge and understanding quickly
• be a strong leader, with the ability to build coalitions for change within the government, corporate and non-government organisation sectors, while maintaining an independent advocacy role
• be able to communicate with influence, to listen to any audience and to develop measured, considered and evidence-based solutions to public policy challenges
• have a strong presence and be comfortable with significant media and public attention
• have the ability to operate co-operatively as a member of the Australian Human Rights Commission and provide strategic and professional leadership of the highest order to its staff.

Essentially, this is a role which is about impact, not just policy. It is about listening to children, amplifying their voices, and holding governments accountable. It is about shaping a future where every child’s rights and wellbeing come first.

Applicants for the position of National Children’s Commissioner will also meet the following selection criteria consistent with the Policy and Guidelines for Appointments to the Australian Human Rights Commission:

• Shapes strategic thinking
  • inspires a sense of purpose and direction
  • focuses strategically
  • harnesses information and opportunities
  • shows judgement, intelligence and common sense
• Achieves results
  • builds organisational capability and responsiveness
  • marshals professional expertise
  • steers and implements change and deals with uncertainty
  • ensures closure and delivers on intended results
• Cultivates productive working relationships
  • nurtures internal and external relationships
  • facilitates cooperation and partnerships
  • values individual differences and diversity
  • guides, mentors and develops people
• Exemplifies personal drive and integrity
  • demonstrates professionalism and probity
  • engages with risk and shows personal courage
  • commits to action
  • displays resilience
  • demonstrates self-awareness and a commitment to personal development
• Communicates with influence
  • communicates clearly
  • listens, understands and adapts to audience
  • negotiates persuasively.

The appointment is expected to commence in November 2025. The Australian Human Rights Commission’s office is located in Sydney. 

How to apply

Those who are interested in the position are invited to apply using the online application form.

Applications must include:

• an indication of whether you meet the eligibility criteria for this statutory appointment
• a completed statement of claims (2000-word limit) against the eligibility and selection criteria
• an uploaded resume no longer than 4 pages outlining your qualifications, knowledge or experience
• the names and contact details of at least 2 referees who have direct and relevant experience of your work. You will be notified prior to referees being contacted.

Applications close at 5:00 pm AEDT on Friday, 14 March 2025. Enquiries about the position or application process can be emailed to [email protected]