Following more than two decades serving the Church within the Broken Bay Diocese, one of the country’s most experienced safeguarding leaders retires from her role today. Source: Broken Bay News.
In a statement, the diocese said Head of Safeguarding Broken Bay Jodie Crisafulli “brought not only commitment, competence, and encouragement to the role during some of the most challenging times in the Church but has been of invaluable support to both Catholic Schools Broken Bay and CatholicCare Broken Bay”.
At a farewell this week, Ms Crisafulli said her role at the diocese had been “a profound privilege and one that has been a deeply meaningful and humbling experience”.
“I have witnessed an extraordinary shift in the Church’s approach to safeguarding – one marked by greater transparency, accountability, and a genuine commitment to protecting children and vulnerable people. It has been an honour to be part of this during my time in Broken Bay and am confident the safeguarding culture and commitment will continue.”
Ms Crisafulli began with diocese in 2004 with CatholicCare Broken Bay where she was engaged as manager of investigation and training. In 2012, this was extended to include the Chancery of the Diocese and the role of manager of complaints and professional standards.
In 2018, she was appointed director of the Diocesan Office for Safeguarding and in 2024 head of safeguarding.
However her skills, experience, and leadership have also been recognised further afield, both across the province of New South Wales/ACT and internationally, where she gained a reputation for her dedication and expertise.
The new Head of Safeguarding for the Diocese, Melinda Rixon, also has many years of experience in child protection and compliance.
Ms Rixon holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Psychology alongside specialised qualifications in workplace investigations.
She is also uniquely familiar with the diocese, having managed safeguarding operations across CatholicCare Broken Bay and CSBB.
Most recently, Ms Rixon spent five years leading the safeguarding team in CSBB, where she was instrumental in driving culture, embedding Child Safety Standards, and providing strategic advice to senior leaders and principals.
FULL STORY
Changing of the Safe-guarding Role in Broken Bay (Broken Bay News)
