Leanne Smith

Leanne Smith is an accomplished leader in human rights and international relations, currently serving as Chief Executive at the Australian Human Rights Commission since November 2021 and as Director at the Whitlam Institute within Western Sydney University since January 2017. With extensive experience in the United Nations, Smith held various key positions including Chief of Policy and Best Practice Service in the Department of Peacekeeping Operations, and has contributed to critical areas such as protection of civilians and women's peace and security. Smith's background also includes advising marginalized states as a UN Representative at Independent Diplomat and providing legal and policy guidance as a Diplomat with the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Smith's educational credentials include a Master's in Public Policy from Princeton University and degrees in Law and Asian Studies from The Australian National University.