Parramatta Diocese has appointed Robert Fitzgerald, one of Australia’s leaders in child protection and institutional governance, as chair of its Safeguarding Council. Source: Catholic Outlook.
Led by Parramatta Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, the diocese has been at the forefront of safeguarding practices in the Church, developing stringent policies and procedures and embedding a culture of safeguarding across all parishes, agencies and ministries.
The appointment of Mr Fitzgerald to chair of the long-standing Safeguarding Council is the next iteration in the diocese’s commitment to safeguarding by working with a diverse group of independent experts.
Mr Fitzgerald brings decades of experience in social justice, governance and the protection of vulnerable people.
As a Commissioner of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, he helped lead one of Australia’s most significant inquiries into institutional safeguarding, accountability and cultural reform.
His career has also included serving as Australia’s Age Discrimination Commissioner, Productivity Commissioner and Community and Disability Services Commissioner in New South Wales.
“Our safeguarding journey has been centred around protecting and promoting the dignity and rights of children and all persons, especially those who are vulnerable,” Bishop Long said.
“I am pleased to appoint Robert Fitzgerald to our Safeguarding Council and am sure that his exceptional experience, integrity and lifelong commitment to justice will be an enormous gift to our diocese as we continue to strengthen our safeguarding culture.”
“I would like to thank prior chair Kathryn Greiner AO, whose outstanding leadership has helped create a safeguarding culture of zero tolerance for any abuse, transparency, accountability and continuous improvement.”
Mr Fitzgerald said he was honoured to accept the appointment.
“Strong safeguarding depends on leadership, accountability and a willingness to continually improve. It is essential to honouring our promise to keep safe children and vulnerable adults.
“I am pleased to join the Diocese of Parramatta’s Safeguarding Council and contribute to its already significant work in promoting safe environments and strengthening public trust.”
Joining Mr Fitzgerald on the Safeguarding Council are Sebastian Duhau, who will serve as the council’s youth representative, Bianca Grella, and Dr Greg Elliott.
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Robert Fitzgerald AM appointed Chair of Diocese of Parramatta Safeguarding Council (By Anita Sulentic, Catholic Outlook)
