Acting arrangements have been put in place to ensure continuity of the independent roles of the Children’s Commissioner and Anti-Discrimination Commissioner.
Experienced statutory office leader, Bronwyn Haack, has been appointed to both roles in an acting capacity.
Recruitment processes are underway for permanent appointments to these roles.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government has appointed Bronwyn Haack as Acting Children’s Commissioner and Acting Anti-Discrimination Commissioner to ensure the important work of both independent statutory offices continues without interruption.
The Children’s Commissioner position became vacant following the resignation of the former Commissioner in July, while the current Anti-Discrimination Commissioner’s term concluded last week.
Attorney-General, Marie-Clare Boothby, said the acting appointments would provide continuity and stability while recruitment processes for permanent appointments are undertaken.
“These are important independent statutory roles that support Territorians and help maintain confidence in our systems,” Minister Boothby said.
“It is critical that both offices continue to operate effectively, and these arrangements ensure there is no disruption to their important work.”
Ms Haack commenced as Acting Children’s Commissioner on 29 July 2026 and commenced on 7 August 2026 as Acting Anti-Discrimination Commissioner.
Minister Boothby said Ms Haack brought significant experience to the roles.
“Bronwyn Haack is a highly experienced statutory office holder with a strong background in law, justice and governance,” the Minister said.
“She has previously served as Acting Ombudsman and Information Commissioner and Acting Deputy Ombudsman and Information Commissioner, bringing deep experience in independent oversight roles.”
Ms Haack has more than 20 years’ experience across the Northern Territory and Victoria, including as a prosecutor, defence lawyer and barrister, and has worked extensively with vulnerable children and young people involved in the youth justice and child protection systems.
Minister Boothby said the temporary arrangements were supported by experienced teams within both offices.
“These offices are ably supported by capable and experienced staff who will continue to deliver their important statutory functions. This is about ensuring continuity while longer-term arrangements are progressed.”
The acting appointments remain in place for three months, in accordance with the relevant legislation, until recruitment concludes.
