Deputy Commissioner, Family Responsibilities Commission

Position Type: Statutory Appointment
Appointment Term: 1 July 2026 – 30 June 2029 (possible extension)
Location: Cairns (with regular travel throughout Cape York and the Gulf)
Closing Date: Midnight 22 April 2026
Remuneration:
In accordance with section 16 of the Family Responsibilities Commission Act 2008, the Deputy Commissioner’s remuneration and allowances are set by the Governor in Council.

Confidential enquiries regarding remuneration expectations may be directed to Dan Wilson, First Grade Group, at recruitment.gps@firstgrade.com.au.
  
About the Role
The Family Responsibilities Commission (FRC) is a statutory body established under the Family Responsibilities Commission Act 2008 to support individuals, families and communities in Aurukun, Coen, Doomadgee, Hope Vale and Mossman Gorge to restore socially responsible standards of behaviour and strengthen local authority.

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, this role provides senior leadership in the delivery of the FRC’s statutory functions, including presiding over conferences, supporting Local Commissioners and contributing to the effective administration of the Commission.

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
The FRC works alongside community members, Local Commissioners and service systems to support responsibility, wellbeing and positive behaviour change in the five communities. Through conferences, referrals and orders, the FRC plays a critical role in strengthening families, supporting children’s education and wellbeing, and reinforcing local authority.
The Commission comprises:

• Commissioner
• A Deputy Commissioner
• 39 Local Commissioners from the five communities
• A small registry and support team based in Cairns

The Deputy Commissioner reports to the Commissioner.
Please refer to the FRC’s website for further information: www.frcq.org.au
  
Key Responsibilities
As Deputy Commissioner, you will:

• Assist the Commissioner in administering and delivering the functions of the FRC under the Family Responsibilities Commission Act 2008.
• Preside over FRC conferences and make determinations relating to agency notices, compulsory case plans, and applications to amend or end family responsibilities agreements or orders.
• Support, mentor and work alongside Local Commissioners to ensure culturally informed, consistent and high-quality decision making.
• Contribute to the efficient and timely discharge of the Commission’s business, including training, guidelines and procedural consistency.
• Act for the Commissioner when required, exercising delegated statutory authority and leadership.
• Build and maintain respectful, productive relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, government agencies and service partners.
• Undertake regular travel to the communities in which the FRC operates and represent the FRC in meetings and engagements as required.

  
The Perfect Fit
This role will suit a highly credible statutory decision maker who brings strong judgement, cultural capability and collaborative leadership.

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 environment.

  
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.

Relevant documentation (including proof of legal admission) will be required as part of the application process.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People are strongly encouraged to apply.

Ready to Apply
This is a rare and compelling leadership opportunity for a senior legal professional who wants to make a meaningful contribution to the wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Far North Queensland and the Gulf region.

Please provide the following to form a complete application:

• A two-page statement outlining how your experience, skills and abilities relate to the role
• A current resume (up to 4 pages)
• Completed Form A - Appointment to government body: personal particulars form
• Completed Form B - Consent to Suitability Checks and Proof of Identity Checks
• Completed Form C - Statutory Appointments and Public Sector Employment held

Please forward these to Dan Wilson at First Grade Group on recruitment.gps@firstgrade.com.au