Two new appointments to the Anti-Discrimination Board of NSW

Published 25 March 2024

Elena Katrakis and Associate Professor Derya Iner have been appointed to the Anti-Discrimination Board of NSW.

As members of the Board, Ms Katrakis and Associate Professor Iner will help set the strategic direction of Anti-Discrimination NSW, carry out investigations, research and inquiries relating to discrimination, and promote understanding and awareness of the issue.

Ms Katrakis is the Chief Executive Officer of Carers NSW, the peak body for family and friend carers in the state. She has extensive experience spanning many years in housing, homelessness, health and mental health since her early career as a social worker.

Ms Katrakis has a strong commitment to social justice with a particular focus on addressing disadvantage and creating opportunities for change. She has a strong policy background and has a deep understanding about the challenges and experiences of carers or all ages and backgrounds. 

Associate Professor Iner is the research coordinator and lecturer at the Centre for Islamic Studies (CISAC) at Charles Sturt University. Her research focuses on Islamophobia in Australia, Islamophobia experiences of youth and children, and gendered Islamophobia. Associate Professor Iner developed an advanced reporting tool and incident registration protocol to collect reliable data from victims and witnesses of Islamophobia, which inspired other marginalised communities to do so.

Associate Professor Iner has a long track record of building productive and enduring relationships with non-government and government agencies. She also works closely with Muslim community organisations to foster community-based research and solution-oriented policies.

Quotes attributable to Attorney General Michael Daley

“To have two such experienced and committed people joining the Anti-Discrimination Board of NSW at this time will add to its depth of knowledge.

“I welcome their appointments to a statutory body that conducts such important work, essential for our modern, diverse and multicultural society.”

Quotes attributable to Helen McKenzie, President of the Anti-Discrimination Board of NSW

“Ms Katrakis has led Carers NSW for 18 years and has extensive experience in NSW government departments including in mental health and housing. She has shown she is a strong leader with exceptional skills.

"Associate Professor Iner is a leading researcher in Islamophobia. Her work in this area has drawn worldwide attention and informed policy and law in Australia.

“Anti-Discrimination NSW is fortunate to have such accomplished and expert members on its board.”