Victoria’s new child safety regulator runs into FIFO controversy

The Victorian government is facing criticism over the appointment of Adam Fennessy as the interim Victorian childcare regulator, with reports indicating the Brisbane-based official frequently commutes between states to fulfill his duties.

Fennessy became the interim head of the Victorian Early Childhood Regulatory Authority (VECRA) in January. The watchdog was established following damning failures in the childcare sector exposed by charges against accused paedophile Joshua Brown.

Concerns Over ‘Fly-In, Fly-Out’ Arrangements

Although the role is based in Melbourne, Fennessy has reportedly traveled back to Brisbane nearly every weekend. Data from the fitness app Strava shows him in the Queensland capital on Fridays and occasionally mid-week.

Two senior sources who have worked with Fennessy over the past decade expressed concern that a role demanding such high commitment should not be handled via a commute. They noted Fennessy’s recent history of splitting time between states.

Opposition Leader Jess Wilson stated that ensuring the safety of children and restoring community confidence in the sector is “not a FIFO job.” Wilson argued that Victorians expect the role to be located in Victoria on a full-time basis.

Lack of Early Childhood Expertise

Beyond his location, critics have questioned Fennessy’s qualifications for the role. While recognized as an experienced bureaucrat, sources say he has never worked in childcare or social policy, having spent his career in environment-related roles.

One source emphasized that it is critical for the person establishing the regulator’s office to have a deep understanding of the sector to ensure it is structured correctly for the future.

This controversy follows a previous incident where the head of Victoria’s Suburban Rail Loop project also commuted from Queensland, billing taxpayers for some travel costs before leaving the position a month later.

Government Response and Future Appointments

A spokesperson for the Department of Education stated that Fennessy relocated to Melbourne when taking the role on January 1, 2026. The department clarified that neither it nor VECRA paid for his reunion flights or personal travel expenses.

The department added that the Governor-In-Council is expected to soon appoint a permanent regulator who will be based in Victoria. Sources close to the recruitment process indicate that interstate applicants have been discouraged from applying for the permanent position.

Fennessy previously served as the secretary of the federal Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF). During a Senate estimates hearing, it was revealed that his employment there also included reunion travel to his home port of Brisbane, as detailed in official Hansard records.