New Chairperson of Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission

Attorney-General Robert Clark today announced the appointment of Victorian barrister John Searle as the new chairperson of the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC).

Mr Clark said Mr Searle’s leadership skills, professional experience and ability to engage the community made him well-placed to fulfil the role of chairperson of the VEOHRC board.

“Mr Searle has been the President of the Jewish Community Council of Victoria (JCCV), the peak body for Jewish community organisations in Victoria since 2008,” Mr Clark said.

“He has held senior positions in a wide range of community organisations since 1974.

“In many of these roles, Mr Searle has been at the forefront of work to eliminate discrimination and promote equality of opportunity and a fair go for all.

“Mr Searle has shown great leadership in actively engaging with a wide range of organisations to build goodwill and positive relations across different communities.

“Mr Searle has made a significant contribution to the Victorian community, and was recognised by Victoria Police with an award for his community service in 2009.

“He has also been a practising barrister for 22 years, specialising in civil litigation,” Mr Clark said.

Mr Searle completed his schooling at Melbourne High School and then attended Monash University where he completed his Bachelor of Economics and Bachelor of Laws.

“The appointment of Mr Searle as chairperson fulfils the Coalition Government’s commitment to restore an independent chair of the VEOHRC, in line with established principles of good governance,” Mr Clark said.

“I congratulate Mr Searle on his appointment and look forward to his contribution to the VEOHRC.”