The Victorian Government is calling for leaders with a strong history of working alongside and supporting the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and gender diverse, intersex, queer and asexual (LGBTIQA+) people to apply for the role of Commissioner for LGBTIQA+ Communities.
Minister for Equality Harriet Shing has announced that applications for the next LGBTIQA+ Commissioner, to succeed previous Commissioner Dr Todd Fernando, are now open.
“The Commissioner for LGBTIQA+ Communities is a central role in making Victoria a fairer and more inclusive place to live,” said Minister for Equality Harriet Shing.
“The next Commissioner will shape the progress of our ten-year strategy Pride in our Future and will be pivotal to ensuring that all LGBTIQA+ Victorians are safe, respected, supported, and celebrated.”
The Commissioner provides advice to the Government, acts as an important conduit between LGBTIQA+ communities and the Government, facilitates positive discussions across a range of priorities and engages with Victorians on issues affecting LGBTIQA+ communities.
The Commissioner will play a leading role in supporting the implementation of the Pride in our future strategy 2022-2032, the Labor Government’s landmark 10-year plan to improve equality, while driving work to improve access to equitable, inclusive and accessible services across the state. The role ensures lived experience and LGBTIQA+ voices are elevated in government decision-making.
As the first jurisdiction in Australia to appoint both a Minister for Equality and a Commissioner for LGBTIQA+ Communities in 2015, Victoria has a well-established commitment to delivering progressive reform and inclusive services and law.
Dr Todd Fernando was appointed as the second Commissioner on 1 October 2021 and was the first openly queer and Aboriginal Commissioner in Australia.
Applications are encouraged from individuals with diverse backgrounds who possess extensive experience working with and advocating for Victoria’s LGBTIQA+ communities. For more information on how to apply, visit: www.shk.com.au for details. Applications close at 11.59pm on 5 April 2024.
Image: Former Victorian Commissioner for LGBTIQA+ Communities, Dr Todd Fernando (supplied)