BDAC head departs to take up Commissioner post

DALLAS Widdicombe has relinquished his position as chief executive of the Bendigo and District Aboriginal Co-operative after being named as the new Victorian Commissioner for Aboriginal Children and Young People.

He has been appointed for a five-year term and will start in the role on Monday 15 June.

The Dharug man, who holds both a Bachelor of Social Work and an Advanced Diploma of Business (Governance), has extensive experience in child and family welfare and executive leadership across national, state and local levels.

As chief executive of BDAC he helped launch the Aboriginal children in Aboriginal Care program and in 2024 was recognised with the Walda Blow Victorian Protecting Children Award for his work establishing the Garinga Bupup early intervention program for expectant mothers.

He has also served as director of the National and Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations, and has been a board member of the Victorian Aboriginal Children and Young People’s Alliance, as well as chair of the Loddon Mallee Aboriginal Reference Group.

Widdicombe said as commissioner his promise is simple.

“I will listen with respect, speak with courage, and insist that commitments become change – so Aboriginal children grow up safe, strong and proud,” he said.

A statement provided by BDAC said the organisation is incredibly proud and excited regarding the appointment.

“Working to support our local community has been at the heart of many of Dallas’ roles at BDAC for over 10 years and he has achieved so much,” the statement read.

“He has been a tireless champion for our children.

“We are so pleased his experience, leadership and values will now support our babies and young mob across the state.”