MINISTER ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENT OF NEW CHILD SAFETY DIRECTOR-GENERAL

Child Safety Minister Margaret Keech today announced the appointment of Norelle Deeth as the new Director-General of the Department of Child Safety.

“In her previous position as Deputy Director-General, Ms Deeth played a key role in guiding the Department through a difficult transition,” Mrs Keech said.

“She will continue this good work and help me lead Child Safety into an equally challenging era in her new position.”

Mrs Keech said Ms Deeth had started her working life as a high school teacher and had an affinity with young people.

“She also has an impressive record in the public service, holding the position of Deputy Director-General of Queensland Health before moving to Child Safety in 2004,” she said.

“Prior to that she was Assistant Under-Treasurer, Queensland Treasury, responsible for the resources, health and community services portfolios.

“Ms Deeth was the 2001 Queensland Telstra Business Woman of the Year, in recognition of her lead role in the implementation of accrual output budgeting across the Queensland public sector.

“Most importantly, Ms Deeth shares my commitment to making a difference.

“The framework is in place; the next stage is to build a world-class system which protects Queensland’s vulnerable children.

“We both recognise that this cannot be achieved without the Department’s dedicated staff – including all our wonderful foster carers – and that’s why we also have a strong commitment to supporting them in undertaking this crucial work

“I congratulate Ms Deeth on her appointment as Director-General and look forward to working with her as we all continue the important journey of reform in Queensland's child protection services.”

Media contact: Jo Crompton 3224 7477