President Branson to step down

Attorney-General Nicola Roxon has thanked the Hon Catherine Branson QC for her service as President of the Australian Human Rights Commission following her decision to step down at the end of July this year for personal reasons.

President Branson has held the position of President with distinction, since October 2008 and Human Rights Commissioner since July 2009 and has advised the Government of her intention to step down at the end of July 2012 to enable her to spend more time with family.

“The Government thanks President Branson for her dedication and hard work in leading the Commission and her passionate advocacy for the rights of all Australians, particularly those most vulnerable in our society,” Ms Roxon said.

“President Branson has led the Commission’s increased role in building greater understanding and respect for human rights in our community, a key plank of Australia’s Human Rights Framework.

“As a committed advocate for strengthening human rights in our region, President Branson has also been instrumental in cementing the Australian Human Rights Commission as a leading National Human Rights Institution in our region and beyond.”

Former Attorney-General Robert McClelland also thanked President Branson for her service.

“President Branson presided over a period of great collaboration between the Commission and the Government on the development of Australia’s Human Rights Framework,” Mr McClelland said. “I thank her for constructive input into a range of key reforms.”

“We wish President Branson all the best for the future,” Ms Roxon said.

Source: Attorney General’s Department