The Queensland Government is seeking a senior legal leader for appointment as Deputy Commissioner of the Family Responsibilities Commission. This influential statutory role supports the independent operation of the Commission, working closely with five Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Far North Queensland and the Gulf of Carpentaria to strengthen families, promote social responsibility and support positive behaviour change. Based in Cairns, the Deputy Commissioner plays a key leadership role in decision making, community engagement and statutory governance, with a proven ability to support the development and implementation of key performance indicators to ensure the functions and responsibilities of an organisation are undertaken with the wellbeing and interests of the child remaining paramount.

Job details Position status Contract
Position type Non Standard Hours
Occupational group Justice & Legal
Classification Not applicable
Workplace Location Cairns region
Job ad reference QLD/696266/26
Closing date 16-Aug-2026
Yearly salary
Fortnightly salary
Total remuneration
Salary Other
Job duration Till 30 June 2029
Contact person Wil Ivinson
Contact details Ph: 0481 054 448
Access the

About the Role

The Queensland Government is seeking an experienced and respected legal professional to support the work of the Commission through appointment as Deputy Commissioner. Reporting to the Commissioner, The Deputy Commissioner assists the Commissioner 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 Family Responsibilities Commission (FRC).

Based in Cairns,



the Deputy Commissioner works closely with the Commissioner and may act in the role of Commissioner as required.

About the Family Responsibilities Commission

For more information about the Family Responsibilities Commission and the role, please visit the or review the position description.

The Perfect Fit

We are looking for a leader with 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 a proven ability to support the development and implementation of key performance 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.

You will bring:

- A strong legal foundation and the confidence to preside over conferences and make complex, high impact decisions.
- Deep cultural understanding and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories, community contexts and perspectives.
- Experience in mediation, alternative dispute resolution or similar roles requiring balanced,



fair and independent judgement.
- The ability to work effectively with senior leaders, Local Commissioners and community representatives.
- Integrity, resilience and professionalism in a highly sensitive and public interest workplace.
- The ability 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/696266/26

Closing Date: Sunday, 16th August 2026

Further information

We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote and .

Please ensure to download any attachments and follow the instructions on how to apply.

Documents

Before applying for this vacancy please ensure you read the documents below.

📌 Deputy Commissioner - Family Responsibilities Commission (Cairns)
🏢 Queensland Government
📍 Cairns