Vanessa Turnbull-Roberts has revealed she resigned from her role as the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children and Young People Commissioner for the ACT after she was “subjected to sexual harassment and sexual assault” in the workplace.
Turnbull-Roberts, who concluded her term as Commissioner at the end of 2025, says she departed her “dream role” to protect her physical and psychological safety.
Her statement, released on Tuesday, comes after a news article published by The Canberra Times incorrectly attributed her resignation to “absenteeism”.
Turnbull-Roberts said she resigned from the role for “one reason only: my physical and psychological safety, and this in turn determined what is in the best interests of my family.”
“During my term I was subjected to sexual harassment and sexual assault in Canberra by a public servant, making it necessary to prioritise my safety. This conduct has no place in any workplace,” she said.
Turnbull-Roberts said appropriate reports have been made over the assault, including to police. She also referenced the media report that speculated about her absence in Canberra and the reason for her departure, saying it is “incorrect and harmful”.
“It misrepresented the reality of my decision and caused me further harm,” she said. “Taking steps to protect one’s health and safety should never be distorted or weaponised.”
Turnbull-Roberts is the youngest person ever appointed to a statutory position in Australia, commencing as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children and Young People Commissioner for the ACT in early 2024. She is also a human rights lawyer.
“No one leaves work of this significance without reason. As a survivor, a mother, and a proud Bundjalung woman, I know what it means to be unprotected in systems meant to provide care,” she said.
“I also know what it means to choose safety when it is not adequately provided.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au for online chat and video call services.
If you are concerned about your behaviour or use of violence, you can contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 or visit http://www.ntv.org.au.
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