- Published:
- Thursday 7 May 2026 at 1:45 pm
Aboriginal children and young people will have a new advocate in the Commission for Children and Young People.
Minister Blandthorn announced today that Dharug man Dallas Widdicombe has been appointed as Commissioner for Aboriginal Children and Young People.
Mr Widdicombe brings expertise in child and family welfare and executive leadership experience at national, state and local levels.
As Chief Executive of the Bendigo and District Aboriginal Co-operative, he has driven new approaches in child and family welfare.
This includes the Aboriginal Children in Aboriginal Care program, improving outcomes for children and families.
In 2024 he was recognised with the Walda Blow Victorian Protecting Children Award.
This award was for his work establishing the Garinga Bupup Early Intervention Program for expectant mothers which resulted in a 63 per cent diversion rate from child protection.
Mr Widdicombe has served as Director of the National and Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations and Bendigo Health.
He has also been a board member of the Victorian Aboriginal Children and Young People’s Alliance, and Chair of the Loddon Mallee Aboriginal Reference Group.
He holds a Bachelor of Social Work and Advanced Diploma of Business (Governance).
Mr Widdicombe has been appointed for a five-year term and begins on Monday, 15 June 2026.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn
“Mr Widdicombe is ideally placed to serve as Commissioner for Aboriginal Children and Young People.”
“He brings a strong executive leadership record and focus on improving outcomes for Aboriginal children and families.”
Quotes attributable to Commissioner for Aboriginal Children and Young People Dallas Widdicombe
“As Commissioner my promise is simple, I will listen with respect, speak with courage, and insist that commitments become change — so Aboriginal children grow up safe, strong and proud.”