June Oscar AO appointed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner
Current topicThe Australian Government has announced June Oscar AO as the new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner, replacing outgoing commissioner Mick Gooda, who has served in the role since 2010.
Born in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, Ms Oscar has been a leading force on a range of social and economic causes for Australia’s first people. Her career has included pushing for restrictions on alcohol in remote communities, preservation of ancient languages and working to combat Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD).
‘My colleagues and I at the Commission are delighted that, for the first time, an Indigenous woman has been officially appointed to become the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner,’ said Commission President, Professor Gillian Triggs. ‘I would also like to thank the outstanding work of Robynne Quiggin, who has been Deputy Commissioner to the Acting Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner since Mick Gooda stepped down in 2016.’
Senator Nigel Scullion, Minister for Indigenous Affairs, congratulated Ms Oscar on her appointment, and noted her passionate advocacy for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. ‘Ms Oscars appointment demonstrates the central role Indigenous women play in bringing about social change and I look forward to working with her closely in the future,’ he said.
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