Champion for children: Gillian Calvert AO to speak in Dungog

THE Dungog-Clarence Town CWA and the Paterson Allyn Williams Science and Ideas Hub are co-hosting a series of free talks titled “Illuminating Local Women”.

The latest speaker, Gillian Calvert AO, has devoted her life to championing the rights and wellbeing of Australia’s women and children.

Over a career spanning more than four decades, Gillian has been a driving force in child protection, family support, and systemic reform, earning widespread respect in public administration and social policy.

In 1999, Gillian made history as New South Wales’ first Commissioner for Children and Young People.

In this pioneering role, she established a new statutory office with a clear mission: to promote the rights, safety, and wellbeing of all children and young people in NSW.

Her approach was distinctive – she insisted that young people be directly involved in decisions affecting their lives.

Acting as a bridge between government, business, and community, she ensured that children’s voices informed policies at the highest levels.

As Commissioner, Gillian introduced the Working With Children Check and helped establish child-safe principles – both world firsts.

She also co-authored the National Framework for Protecting Australia’s Children, a long-term, cross-jurisdictional plan to safeguard children, working alongside federal, state, and territory governments.

Her career began in Brisbane, where she helped establish a women’s refuge.

Later, as a family therapist in Sydney, she worked closely with children and families in trouble.

She has since contributed her expertise to numerous NGOs, advisory bodies, and research institutions, including a directorshi

p with Life Without Barriers, a national agency supporting foster care, disability, and aged care services.

Gillian remains deeply involved in the sector.

She is a Director of Embrace People & Place, a not-for-profit working with other organisations to create meaningful and lasting change in the lives of vulnerable people.

She also serves on the board of the Australian Theatre for Young People – Australia’s leading youth theatre company.

In 2009, Gillian was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in recognition of her outstanding service as an advocate for the rights and welfare of children and youth.

Gillian commutes between Sydney and Dungog, where she shares a 70-hectare regenerative farm with her partner. Together, they manage a thriving orchard and garden and run a beef cattle enterprise.

Gillian will speak in Dungog at the James Theatre on Friday, 18 July, at 5:30 pm.

Her talk, “A Journey of Collective Strength,” will be followed by an open conversation.

Bookings to this free event can be made at https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1422671.

By David SMITH