Michael Tidball to lead NSW Department of Communities and Justice

24 Jan 2022

NSW Attorney General Mark Speakman today announced the appointment of Michael Tidball to the role of Secretary of the NSW Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ), the lead agency in the Stronger Communities Cluster.

Mr Tidball is currently the Chief Executive Officer of the Law Council of Australia (LCA). Prior to this role he was the CEO of the Law Society of NSW for 14 years. He has also served as the Secretary-General of LAWASIA since 2015. 

“Michael has an extensive background in policy, leadership and strategy formulation and execution across the public and private sectors in Australia,” Mr Speakman said.

“During his 35 year career, Michael has worked with Government leaders and ministers, agency heads, industry leaders, the judiciary, non-government organisations and the community.

“I look forward to working closely with Michael in his new role aiming to achieve safe, just, resilient and inclusive communities in NSW as we deal with the ongoing challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Mr Tidball began his career in child protection working for the South Australian public service, before moving to the Commonwealth to develop community corrections and juvenile justice programs in the lead-up to self-government in the Australian Capital Territory.

Mr Tidball will commence his new role on 1 February 2022.

He replaces former Secretary Michael Coutts-Trotter, who departed DCJ in October 2021 to lead the NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet.

Mr Speakman thanked Catherine D’Elia who has been Acting Secretary of DCJ since Mr Coutts-Trotter’s departure.

Download media release: Michael Tidball to lead NSW Department of Communities and Justice (PDF , 151.2 KB)