“With over 20 years of experience, Ms Foster will be a welcome addition to the dedicated team of judges, registrars and other specialised staff who have been driving significant change in the courts,” His Honour said.

“Those changes include the development and implementation of the world-leading Lighthouse initiative and other achievements such as better risk identification and assessment, improved case management processes, more dispute resolution opportunities, referrals to support services for children and families, expanded use of highly qualified court child experts, enhanced data collection, and implementing trauma-informed training for judicial officers and staff.”

“The courts have made significant changes, but we must not lose momentum. Much more needs to be achieved, not just by the courts but by the community more broadly, as domestic and family violence continues to be a scourge in our society,” Alstergren CJ continued.

“Ms Foster has in recent years provided guidance to the courts through an informal advisory reference group that I established in 2020, and I am pleased to welcome Ms Foster in a formal capacity. Her expertise in leading change will be of tremendous benefit to the courts.”

Ms Foster most recently served as the chief executive of Full Stop Australia, and her current advisory positions include membership on the Commonwealth Advisory Group for the National Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children, the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research Sexual Assault Research Advisory Panel, and the Fair Work Commission’s Sexual Harassment Working Group.

She commenced in the role on 31 July.

Ms Foster said that she is honoured and filled with excitement to take on this significant role at an important juncture in the courts’ history.

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“As a key priority, the courts are dedicated to safeguarding the best interests of children and ensuring their safety and wellbeing, along with that of their families, especially during times of separation,” she said.

“Under the guidance of the current Chief Justice and chief executive officer/principal registrar, the courts have shown an unwavering commitment to addressing family violence and abuse while fostering genuine connections with our diverse community, making the courts more accessible and responsive to community needs.

“I understand the immense responsibility and privilege that comes with contributing to this transformative journey. Utilising my expertise and experience, I am enthusiastic about collaborating with this passionate and high-performing team to continue to improve the courts in how they support families at risk of harm.

“I am eager to engage with the legal profession, the community sector, governments and court users to create a meaningful and positive impact on the lives of children and families in this important new role.”

And FCFCOA chief executive and principal registrar David Pringle said that Ms Foster has “extraordinary knowledge” in the area of domestic and family violence prevention and education and is highly respected within that sector, as well as throughout the legal profession and all levels of government.

“Ms Foster has a deep commitment to social justice and best practice and exceptional leadership skills. Such skills will be crucial in the new director’s role, which includes engaging with key internal and external stakeholders, and continuing to enhance the courts’ approach to dealing with domestic and family violence,” he said.

“Importantly, the new position will also work closely with our team of Indigenous family liaison officers and managers involved in the courts’ important Indigenous program.”