- Published:
- Thursday 8 March 2018
The Andrews Labor Government today announced the appointment of Dr Emma Cassar as the new Commissioner of Corrections Victoria.
Dr Cassar currently heads KPMG’s Justice and Security division, and has more than 20 years’ experience in the justice sector with roles spanning government, private and non-profit organisations.
Her appointment follows a comprehensive executive search to replace former Commissioner Jan Shuard, who retired in January.
Dr Cassar holds a Doctorate in Forensic Psychology from the University of Melbourne, and commenced her distinguished career as a forensic psychologist with Corrections Victoria in 1999.
She went on to become General Manager at a number of male and female prisons across the state, and acted in various senior executive roles before becoming CEO of non-profit Open Family Australia in 2010.
She has also served as State Director (Victoria) for Mission Australia from 2011 to 2013 and as Business Development Director of Serco Australia from 2013 to 2014, where she led a number of Public Private Partnership bids across Australia and New Zealand.
Dr Cassar’s unique combination of experience in forensic mental health, prison operations and business strategy make her ideally suited to manage the complexities of Victoria’s corrections system, including efforts to reduce reoffending.
Minister for Corrections Gayle Tierney praised the steady leadership of Acting Commissioner Rod Wise, who will continue in the position until Dr Cassar commences her new role on 1 June.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Corrections Gayle Tierney
“I am thrilled to announce the appointment of Dr Emma Cassar as the new Commissioner of Corrections Victoria and know she will bring invaluable knowledge, experience and passion to the role.”
“Dr Cassar’s diverse career in the justice sector as a clinician, prison General Manager and business executive will serve her well in tackling the many challenges of overseeing Victoria’s corrections system.”
Quote attributable to Dr Emma Cassar
“This appointment is a great honour and an enormous responsibility, and I look forward to returning to Corrections Victoria to provide strong leadership in a sector I have been so passionate about for the last 20 years.”