10 January 2024
As of Monday 15 January 2024, Fitzroy Legal Service’s Legal Director, Hamish McLachlan commenced as Interim CEO and will lead the organisation’s community-driven justice in the months ahead.
Following the departure of outgoing CEO Kristine Olaris, Fitzroy Legal Service Chair Claire Febey said this appointment provides the organisation with the stewardship its vital services and local communities need at a time of rising demand and service expansion.
The Board is delighted that Hamish has accepted this important role to support the FLS team, volunteers, partners, and importantly, the communities we serve while we search for an ongoing CEO to take FLS forward in the years ahead.
Claire Febey, Fitzroy Legal Service Chair
“Over her tenure as CEO, Kristine has laid the foundations to expand our community reach in a robust and sustainable way. As a trusted leader in the organisation, Hamish will continue this legacy and help us deliver our Strategic Plan for a fairer and more just Victoria.”
Bringing with him over 15 years’ experience as an administrative and human rights lawyer, Hamish said it would be a privilege to fill this leadership role.
“Fitzroy Legal Service is an iconic social justice organisation. For over 50 years, FLS has provided access to justice and advocated strongly for the most marginalised and disadvantaged in our communities,” McLachlan said.
I am honoured and excited to continue this legacy and work with our incredible Board, staff and volunteers to fight for justice for those who need it most.”
Hamish McLachlan, Fitzroy Legal Service Interim CEO
Prior to joining FLS in 2023, Hamish was the Co-Manager of the public law team in the Department of Premier and Cabinet. Before that he worked at Victoria Legal Aid on a broad range of civil and human rights issues, including as the Managing Lawyer of the Mental Health and Disability Law Program.
Hamish has also worked in the human rights teams in the Victorian Government Solicitor’s Office and New Zealand’s Crown Law Office, recently co-authored a book, 50 Human Rights Cases that Changed Australia and co-presents a weekly queer and trans talk show on Triple R, Queer View Mirror.
Find out more about the FLS leadership team and the staff who drive FLS forward.
