The Andrews Labor Government today announced the appointment of Dr Helen Szoke AO as a member of the Judicial Commission of Victoria.
Dr Szoke has announced her retirement, effective from 16 August, from her position as the Chief Executive Officer for Oxfam Australia, where she has led a distinguished career in the fields of human rights, governance, public policy and leadership.
While Race Discrimination Commissioner for the Australian Human Rights Commission between 2011 and 2013, Dr Szoke led the development of a National Anti-Racism Strategy, led work on bullying and cyber bullying and brought business, sport and community organisations into partnership around the response to racism.
Between 2004 and 2011 Dr Szoke held roles including Chief Conciliator and Chief Executive Officer, and then the Commissioner (from 2009 to 2011) of the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission
Dr Szoke also worked within the health sector in Melbourne from 1987 to 2004, both in private practice and for organisations such as the Health Issues Centre, the Royal Melbourne Hospital, and the Infertility Treatment Authority.
In 2018 Dr Szoke was awarded an Order of Australia. She has a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Tasmania, a Master of Arts Preliminary from Deakin University, and a Graduate Diploma and a PhD in Public Policy from Melbourne University.
Quotes attributable to Attorney-General Jill Hennessy
“Dr Szoke is a strong advocate for fairness and has extensive experience in changing cultures and eliminating discrimination and I congratulate her on her appointment.”
“Dr Szoke’s strong management experience and leadership in bullying forums – as well as her work in combatting racism and sexism in the health workforce – will be a fantastic addition to the Judicial Commission of Victoria.”
“I welcome Dr Szoke to the Commission and look forward to seeing her use her experience in the next phase of an impressive career.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020