Read our media release here.

Experienced lawyer and advocate, Adrianne Walters appointed to lead national peak body

Women’s Legal Services Australia (WLSA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Adrianne Walters as its new Executive Director, commencing a new chapter of national advocacy and leadership for specialist, trauma-informed legal services for women.

WLSA Chair and CEO of Women’s Legal Centre ACT, Elena Rosenman, said the appointment comes at a critical moment for women’s safety and justice in Australia.

“We are delighted to welcome Adrianne as our new Executive Director. Her deep experience and unwavering commitment to gender equality will strengthen WLSA’s national advocacy at a time when specialist, trauma-informed legal services have never been more essential.

“This announcement, during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, underscores the importance of strong, national leadership to ensure women across Australia can access the safety, support and justice they deserve.”

Adrianne joins WLSA with more than 15 years’ experience across front-line community lawyering and systemic change advocacy, with a focus on human rights and gender equality. Her career spans senior roles at the Top End Women’s Legal Service, the North Australian Aboriginal Justice Agency, the Human Rights Law Centre and significant law reform work, including co-leading a major review for the Victorian Law Reform Commission on the role of victim-survivors in criminal trials.

Reflecting on her appointment, Adrianne said: “It is an honour to step into this role and to continue the strong national advocacy that WLSA is known for. Specialist women’s legal services play a critical role working with women and non-binary people escaping violence and challenging unjust laws that make their lives harder. The incredible staff across our services make this life-changing work possible every day.

“I am committed to elevating WLSA’s national profile, advocating for the reforms and resources needed and pushing for systems that support us all to live free and secure lives.”
Adrianne said her approach to leadership is guided by years of working alongside diverse and inspiring feminist advocates across Australia and Bougainville.

“I aspire to lead collaboratively, purposefully and guided by the women, communities and colleagues who have taught me so much.”

WLSA looks forward to the energy, expertise and commitment Adrianne will bring as Executive Director, strengthening the national movement for women’s safety, justice and equality.

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT: Kimberley Gardiner on 0437 435 777 or media@wlsa.org.au