Commissioner Natalie Lewis concludes six years as Queensland's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children's Commissioner

After six years of service, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children's Commissioner Natalie Lewis has concluded her term with the Queensland Family and Child Commission (QFCC), bringing to a close a period of sustained advocacy focused on the rights, wellbeing and outcomes of First Nations children, young people, families and communities.

Through her published work, including the Child Rights Reports, Principle Focus, Yarning for Change, Blueprint: A Children’s Plan for Queensland, Listening and Learning, Include Me, Don’t Exclude Me and the First Nations Children’s Report, and her advocacy on Blue Card reform, particularly for First Nations families, Commissioner Lewis helped shape important public and policy conversations across Queensland.

Her work consistently centred the voices and experiences of children and young people, with a particular focus on ensuring systems and services better reflected the needs, strengths and aspirations of First Nations communities.

During her time as Commissioner, Ms Lewis oversaw the publication of a number of influential reports and resources, including the Child Rights Reports, Principle Focus, Yarning for Change, Blueprint: A Children's Plan for Queensland, Listening and Learning, Include Me, Don't Exclude Me and the First Nations Children's Report.

These publications examined a range of issues affecting children and young people and contributed to policy and practice discussions across child protection, youth justice, education and community services.

Commissioner Lewis also played a prominent role in advocacy relating to Blue Card reform, particularly in relation to its impact on First Nations families and communities. Her work highlighted the importance of culturally responsive approaches to child safety, family wellbeing and workforce participation.

Beyond policy and reform, Commissioner Lewis was a longstanding supporter of the Young, Black and Proud Awards, delivered in partnership with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Health Service. The awards celebrate the achievements, leadership and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people across Queensland.

As her term concludes, Commissioner Lewis leaves a significant legacy through her advocacy, published work and commitment to advancing the rights and wellbeing of First Nations children and young people.

The Queensland Family and Child Commission thanked Commissioner Lewis for her contribution and acknowledged her role in helping strengthen conversations about children's rights, accountability and self-determination across Queensland.

Read the full announcment here.