Introducing Kylie Phipps, our new Deputy Public Guardian

In her role, Kylie oversees two vital areas of our work. She supports Corporate Services in ensuring the systems and structures are in place to enable teams across the organisation to deliver their legislative functions effectively. Kylie also leads the Community Visiting and Advocacy portfolio, supporting teams that advocate for children, young people, and adults to ensure their rights are upheld and protected.

Kylie’s career spans government and community sectors, with a strong focus on child protection, youth justice, and cultural capability. She has held leadership roles in practice reform, operational policy, and cultural workforce development, including implementing a strengths-based Practice Framework in Child Safety. Her time with the Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Child Protection Peak was a period of deep learning, where she supported key reforms to grow the community-controlled sector and strengthen First Nations leadership.

Kylie’s leadership is guided by curiosity, collaboration, and a commitment to continuous improvement. She is passionate about fostering a culturally safe and inclusive organisation, particularly for First Nations team members, and strengthening the quality of services delivered to First Nations communities.

Born in Aotearoa (New Zealand) and raised in Papua New Guinea, Kylie’s diverse upbringing and personal experiences, including her time as a foster carer, have shaped her reflective and values-driven approach to leadership. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, a Postgraduate Diploma in Psychology, and an Executive Master of Public Administration through ANZSOG and Griffith University.

We are thrilled to have Kylie’s expertise and vision guiding us as we continue to advocate for and protect the rights of Queensland’s most vulnerable.