New NSW Ageing and Disability Commissioner named

The NSW Government said in a statement that the Commission plays a critical role in protecting older people and adults with disability from abuse, neglect, and exploitation across the state.

Speaking at a conference in July 2024, Commissioner Fitzgerald said that elder abuse affects one in six older Australians, including those living in retirement villages.

Mr Smith, a solicitor, was Chief Executive Officer of Disability Advocacy Network Australia, the peak body for independent advocates. Prior to this, he served as CEO of the Environmental Defenders Office NSW for 14 years and later led People with Disability Australia.