The Australian Human Rights Commission has named Giridharan Sivaraman, an Indian-origin lawyer, as the new Race Discrimination Commissioner, effective March 4, 2024.
Expressing his gratitude, Sivaraman remarked, “Being appointed Commonwealth Race Discrimination Commissioner is a great honor. I feel a mix of excitement and trepidation, but I’m eager to dive into the important work ahead with the team.”
President of the Commission, Emeritus Professor Rosalind Croucher, welcomed Sivaraman, expressing enthusiasm for his appointment and extending a warm welcome to him in his new role.
Croucher highlighted Sivaraman’s extensive legal career, particularly his advocacy for marginalized communities and his leadership in significant workplace and discrimination cases. She emphasized the importance of addressing systemic racism and empowering communities, especially amidst increasing reports of racism and hate speech.
Sivaraman, currently serving as the chair of Multicultural Australia and a principal lawyer at Maurice Blackburn, leads the firm’s Queensland Employment Law department. He has a track record of handling state and national race discrimination cases and spearheaded a pro bono compensation scheme for underpaid 7-Eleven workers, many of whom were migrants. Additionally, his advocacy reflects a commitment to advocating for the rights of First Nations individuals.
