Micaela Cronin has been appointed as Australia’s first Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Commissioner.
Cronin has a background as a social worker and was previously the President of the Australian Council of Social Service.
She has been appointed the new role by the Albanese government, making Australia just one of three countries worldwide to appoint a domestic violence commissioner.
“I am deeply committed to addressing and ending violence against women and children in all its forms, and am looking forward to the contribution I will make as commissioner,” Cronin said.
“The new National Plan is an ambitious blueprint, but it is a truly national document with collaboration from all jurisdictions and stakeholders. I will take my responsibility to measure the success of the National Plan delivery seriously.”
Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth said Cronin’s appointment to the commissioner role was critical for Australia achieving its goal of ending gender-based violence “within one generation”.
“The Commissioner is central to the oversight of the National Plan and will be a key advocate for victim-survivors. The commissioner will work across states and territories to help coordinate key national safety and service frameworks,” Rishworth said.
“Ms Cronin brings significant leadership and governance experience from across the non-profit sector, which will be incredibly valuable in her role as commissioner.”
In her role as commissioner, Cronin will be tasked with tracking and reporting on the progress of the national plan to end violence against women and children. She will also be an advocate for victim-survivors of violence.
In June, the Labor government revoked the appointment of Catherine Fitzpatrick to the role, who had been chosen by the Morrison government. Labor said there needed to be an open and competitive process for the appointment.
Justine Elliot, Assistant Minister for Social Services, said Cronin will do important work in helping to improve the lives of all people experiencing family, sexual and domestic violence.
“The Commission will formally embed the voices of victim-survivors at a national level, ensuring that a diversity of lived experiences are heard and championed,” Assistant Minister Elliot said.
“Importantly, the Commission will work with the sector to track the progress of the new National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-2032, and provide regular reports to Parliament.”
The appointment of Cronin comes as the government passed legislation this week to implement 10 days of paid domestic and family violence leave. The paid leave entitlement will begin on February 1, with small businesses given a further 6 months to prepare.
If you or someone you know is impacted by family, domestic or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT 24 hours, 7 days a week on 1800 737 732 or visit www.1800RESPECT.org.au.