YOUR COUNCIL
IPAA Queensland Inc is a not-for-profit, member-based association incorporated under the Associations Incorporation Act 1981 (Qld). Our Association Model Rules (the Rules) set out IPAA Queensland’s governance arrangements. The principal governing body is the Council whose members are elected by members of the association.
The functions and powers of the Council are set out in Clause 21 of the Rules and are broadly defined as having the general control and management of the administration of the affairs, property and funds of IPAA Queensland. Overall, the Council provides strategic direction and oversight of activities and reports annually to association members on IPAA Queensland’s performance. They also serve as active champions of the association and its value proposition.
Council members, who must be individual members of the association, are elected by the association’s members for a two-year term but are eligible to re-nominate for another term. Council also includes three office bearers – President, Secretary and Treasurer.
Current members of the IPAA Queensland Council were elected for the period 1 July 2024 through 30 June 2026, with the exception of the President (whose current term is through to 30 December 2025) and the Public Sector Commissioner (ex officio Council member).
Collectively, the Council bring a diverse range of capabilities, experience, perspective and networks, and represents the multifaceted nature of the public purpose community.
Meet our Council.
Deidre MulkerinPresident, Director-General, Department of Child Safety, Seniors and Disability Services.
Deidre Mulkerin is the Director-General of the Department of Children, Youth Justice and Multicultural Affairs (DCYJMA), a role she has held since February 2020.
Prior to taking up this role Deidre has had extensive experience in the child protection and juvenile justice sectors. Earlier in her career Deidre worked in frontline roles in these areas and managed regional operations across human services.
Supporting a diverse and inclusive workforce and community is also something Deidre has committed to throughout her career, acknowledging the importance of hearing and understanding the needs and experiences of people from different cultures and backgrounds.
Deidre had dedicated her career to making a difference for children, young people and families, and continues to show her commitment to this in her role as DG. Deidre has a clear passion for ensuring that the voices of young people are heard and also remains focused on walking alongside our First Nations partners and communities to give the space for true partnership in decision-making.
Neil Scales OBETreasurer and former
Director-General, Department of Transport and Main Roads (retired).
Tanya HornickSecretary and Vice-President, Director Engagement and Inclusive Strategies, 2026 Census, Australian Bureau of Statistics
Former Presidents
Ian Stewart AO (2020-22)
Robert Setter (2017-2019)