In short:
Victoria has appointed its first Commissioner for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism, with Dr Kelly Mischel set to lead the state’s 2025–2028 strategy. The Allan Labor Government says the role will focus on early intervention and coordination as extremism concerns rise nationally.
New Role Targets Extremism
The Allan Labor Government has appointed Victoria’s first Commissioner for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism, with Dr Kelly Mischel stepping into the role.
Police Minister Anthony Carbines confirmed the appointment, saying Dr Mischel will lead the delivery of Victoria’s extremism prevention strategy from 2025 to 2028.
The state government says the role is designed to coordinate efforts to prevent radicalisation and strengthen early intervention programs.
Dr Mischel is expected to oversee collaboration between government agencies, community organisations and frontline services as part of that approach.
Dr Mischel brings close to two decades of experience across the justice system and countering violent extremism.
The government says her background in forensic psychology and established networks across agencies and communities will support a prevention-focused response.
The appointment comes as Victoria moves to roll out its updated strategy on violent extremism, which the government says is aimed at intervening earlier and reducing the risk of harm.
It follows heightened concern nationally around extremism in recent months, including the Bondi attack which claimed 15 lives, alongside a reported rise in antisemitic and racist incidents.
The Allan Labor Government has positioned the commissioner role as part of a broader package of measures responding to those risks, including changes to hate speech laws, expanded police powers following terrorism events and tighter gun laws.
Dr Mischel will now oversee how these measures are coordinated and delivered across the state.
