NSW Children’s Guardian Steps Down Amid Investigation Into Serious Allegations

• Feb 28, 2025

Stephen Kinmond agrees to step aside as child safety watchdog but says he is unaware of the details of accusations

The NSW Children’s Guardian, Stephen Kinmond, has temporarily stepped aside while an independent inquiry investigates “serious and disturbing allegations,” the state government confirmed on Friday night.

Kate Washington, the Minister for Families and Communities, stated that the allegations were significant and required urgent attention.

“These allegations are serious and disturbing,” Washington said in a statement to Guardian Australia. “The staff at the Office of the Children’s Guardian are entrusted with protecting vulnerable children. They also have a right to feel safe in their workplace.”

As a result, Washington announced the launch of an independent investigation into the matter.

While the exact nature of the allegations remains unclear, Kinmond has agreed to step aside during the inquiry.

“The children’s guardian has agreed to step aside for the duration of the inquiry, which is appropriate,” Washington stated.

Kinmond, who has welcomed the inquiry, said he was not aware of the specific allegations against him.

“I know about a particular matter that was raised, but I don’t know what inferences have been drawn from it regarding my conduct,” he told Guardian Australia.

“I do not wish to downplay the concerns raised, but I require further details before commenting further.”

He confirmed that Washington had informed him that an external, well-qualified investigator would lead the inquiry.

“The public deserves to know this process will be rigorous,” Kinmond said. “I fully support the decision to hold an inquiry and want to act in the public interest.”

Kinmond was appointed as the NSW Children’s Guardian in 2022, despite not formally applying for the role. His selection bypassed an independent recruitment process under the former Perrottet government.

Prior to his appointment, Kinmond was the chief executive of the Association of Children’s Welfare Agencies and had served as a NSW deputy ombudsman.