Deb Tsorbaris named Australia’s next National Children’s Commissioner

Respected advocate and sector leader Deb Tsorbaris has been appointed as Australia’s new National Children’s Commissioner, bringing decades of experience in child and family services to the national stage.

Ms Tsorbaris, who currently serves as CEO of the Centre for Excellence in Child and Family Welfare, will commence her five-year term in March 2026, following the conclusion of Anne Hollonds’ tenure. Her appointment was announced by Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth and formally welcomed by the Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC).

The Centre’s Chair, Teresa Jayet, congratulated Ms Tsorbaris on the appointment. “Deb’s leadership has made a lasting impact on the way we support children and families in Victoria and Tasmania. Her legacy will continue as she champions the rights of children nationally as Commissioner,” Ms Jayet said.

‘On behalf of Commissioners and staff, I welcome Ms Tsorbaris to the Commission. Her deep experience in child and family welfare and human services makes her ideally placed to champion children’s rights in Australia,’ said Commission President, Hugh de Kretser. 

‘I acknowledge the significant contribution of Anne Hollonds as Australia’s second National Children’s Commissioner, particularly through her important work on the Help Way Earlier! report on child justice. Ms Tsorbaris will continue the critical work of listening to children and standing up for their rights so laws, policies and services look after their safety and wellbeing.’

As National Children’s Commissioner, Ms Tsorbaris will lead work to monitor and promote the rights and wellbeing of children and young people across Australia, with a focus on those experiencing vulnerability. The role also supports implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and provides independent advice to the government on policy and systemic reform.

Ms Tsorbaris brings experience across frontline services, leadership, and policy reform. As CEO of the Centre for Excellence in Child and Family Welfare, she has driven major initiatives in out-of-home care, family violence prevention, and the meaningful inclusion of lived experience in system design.

She will formally commence her 5-year term on Monday 17 November.

For more information, visit:

• Centre for Excellence in Child and Family Welfare announcement
• Australian Human Rights Commission media release