A Day in the Life of Mia, Executive Manager, Anti-Discrimination NSW

Published 29 March 2023

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I’m a second generation Australian of Arab heritage. I was born, raised and educated in Western Sydney… I was born at Bankstown Hospital, went to Bankstown Girls High and studied at WSU Bankstown! I joined the NSW Public Service in the late 90s as a “District Officer” (child protection caseworker) and have spent the last 20+ years of my public service career in the most incredibly diverse and immensely rewarding policy, project and management roles.  

Why did you join Anti-Discrimination NSW?

I joined Anti-Discrimination NSW in March 2022 for the same reason I joined the Public Service all those years ago… and that is to make a positive difference. I strongly believe in social justice and that every person has the right to live free from discrimination and vilification. This is what the team at Anti-Discrimination NSW works towards and strives to achieve every single day. I couldn’t be more proud to be celebrating my one year work anniversary at Anti-Discrimination NSW with such a talented and dedicated team.

Can you describe your role?

As Executive Manager, my role - or rather, my privilege - is to ensure that Anti-Discrimination NSW is fulfilling its obligations under the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977. I do this by working closely with and supporting our managers and staff (approximately 35 people) in meeting our key responsibilities of responding to enquiries, investigating and resolving complaints, raising awareness about discrimination and its impacts, granting exemptions to the Act, advising the government about discrimination issues and so much more.

What do you like most about your job?

My team and my colleagues … they teach and inspire me every day. They consistently go above and beyond for our stakeholders, and for each other. I also like being part of networks like the Australian Council of Human Rights Authorities where Anti-Discrimination NSW gets to regularly meet and collaborate with our wonderful state, territory and federal counterparts. It’s great being part of a close-knit and like-minded community and being able to work together to maximise our impact.

What keeps you busy outside of work?

Family, travelling, photography and festivals! I’m also a bit of a foodie, always trying new restaurants and recipes. I love traditional food but I, admittedly, have a weakness for fusion cuisine.