02 September 2025
The Australian Centre for Child Protection is deeply honoured to welcome Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, as our new Patron.
ACCP Director Professor Leah Bromfield met the Governor-General when visiting Canberra for the Australian of the Year Awards in January. “Speaking with the Governor-General it was evident she was passionate about the safety and wellbeing of children and supporting families, as was His Excellency Mr Simeon Beckett SC,” she said.
“We have since discussed the epidemic of child abuse and neglect in Australia, and the importance of a transformative approach that prioritises help and care, particularly in the context of our most vulnerable children and families.”
The Governor-General said she was delighted to accept the ACCP’s invitation to serve as Patron. “Child abuse and neglect is one of the most confronting issues in our society, which is why the work of the Australian Centre for Child Protection is so important.”
“One of the roles of a Governor-General is to connect with and listen to Australians, to hear what is good and bad and to reflect that back to our community. I look forward to supporting the Australian Centre for Child Protection in highlighting issues affecting children and families, and the hope that lies in evidence-based solutions developed for and by Australians.”
The ACCP is delighted by how the patronage can help amplify their efforts across the community having heard the Governor-General speak about the importance of care and the many ways it manifests – through inclusive workplaces, in a renewed focus on mental health, celebrating cultural, sexual and gender diversity in all its forms, and treating the most vulnerable members of our community with kindness, respect and dignity.
“Across my career, I have seen how care can be an uplifting force, and I am proud to be Patron of an organisation dedicated to the best possible care of our nation’s children,” the Governor-General said.
