Rachael Ward appointed Children’s Guardian for NSW

The NSW Government has appointed Rachael Ward as Children’s Guardian for New South Wales, with the appointment taking effect from 4 February 2026.

Ms Ward has been appointed for a five-year term, following a period as Acting Children’s Guardian that began in March 2025. During this time, she has led the Office of the Children's Guardian (OCG), providing continuity and stability at a time of significant regulatory focus on child safety and wellbeing.

In confirming the appointment, the NSW Government noted Ms Ward’s leadership during her acting tenure, where she oversaw the work of the OCG through a period of change and heightened community expectations around safeguarding children, young people and people living with disability.

Ms Ward said she felt privileged to formally take on the role and to continue working alongside staff at the OCG.

“I am deeply grateful for the professionalism, commitment and care for children, young people and those living with a disability that I have experienced during my time with the organisation,” Ms Ward said. “I look forward to our continued work to make NSW safer for children and young people, and people living with disability.”

The Children’s Guardian plays a central role in regulating and promoting child-safe practices across sectors, including early childhood education and care, schools, out-of-home care and disability services. The role is responsible for key oversight functions designed to strengthen protections for children and young people across New South Wales.

Ms Ward’s appointment provides certainty of leadership at the OCG as regulatory reforms and workforce capability initiatives continue to be implemented across child-related sectors.

Read more about Rachael Ward's appointment on the NSW Office of the Children's Guardian website.