About the Role
The Commissioner is to administer the FRC Act under the principle that the wellbeing and best interests of a child are paramount and this is to be evident in all strategic planning and operations of the FRC.
The Queensland Government is seeking an exceptional and principled leader for appointment as Commissioner of the FRC. This is a unique and highly influential statutory leadership role, combining judicial-style decision making, community engagement and executive governance in one of the State's most culturally significant policy environments.
In this role you will provide independent leadership of a unique commission working alongside five Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Far North Queensland and the Gulf of Carpentaria to strengthen families, restore social responsibility and support positive behaviour change.
Leading an office based in Cairns, the Commissioner is the Chief Executive Officer and accountable officer of the FRC, responsible for the effective and impartial operation of the Commission, while preserving its statutory independence.
About the Family Responsibilities Commission
For more information about the Family Responsibilities Commission and the role, please visit the FRC website or review the position description.
The Perfect Fit
You will have proven leadership experience overseeing or collaborating with child safety, youth justice or justice systems, with a demonstrated ability to drive strategic initiatives that improve outcomes for children, young people, and families.
You will have proven experience in developing key performance indicators and overseeing an organisation to meet these indicators, to ensure the functions and responsibilities of an organisation are undertaken with the wellbeing and interests of the child remaining paramount.
You will have a comprehensive ability to influence and engage with systems that strengthen families and ensure child safety and prevention of proximate causes of harm, coupled with the strategic vision and leadership skills to implement organisation-wide policies, programs, and partnerships that deliver measurable impact.
This role requires a highly credible statutory leader with the independence, authority and cultural humility to operate effectively in complex environments.
You will bring:
Values-based leadership and sound judgement in sensitive, high-impact matters.
Deep cultural capability and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, histories and community contexts.
The authority to preside over conferences and make fair, accountable determinations that support community wellbeing.
Proven experience working collaboratively across government, communities and service systems.
The integrity, resilience and confidence to lead impartially and maintain public trust.
The ability to lead an organisation to leverage data, insights, and performance measures to drive continuous improvement, accountability, and the achievement of strategic objectives.
Remuneration: In accordance with section 16 of the Family Responsibilities Commission Act 2008, the Commissioner's remuneration and allowances are set by the Governor in Council.
Mandatory and Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for appointment, you must:
Be a lawyer of at least five years standing.
Demonstrate an appropriate understanding of the history and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Have relevant experience in mediation, alternative dispute resolution, or similar decision-making roles.
Consent to criminal history, domestic violence, child protection and probity checks as required under the Family Responsibilities Commission Act 2008.
Ready to Apply
Please provide the following:
A two-page statement outlining how your experience, skills and abilities relate to the role
A current resume (up to 4 pages)
A copy your legal admission certification
Completed forms A, B, C and D
Job Ad Reference: QLD/696333/26
Closing Date: Sunday, 16th August 2026This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Australia License.
