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The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of lawyer Jonathon Hunyor to its independent board, bringing decades of legal experience and a focus on consumer advocacy to the organisation. His term began on Jan. 1.
As the CEO of the Justice and Equity Centre, Hunyor has spent more than 25 years practising law across areas including discrimination, human rights, Aboriginal land rights, and criminal law. His career has included leadership roles at the North Australian Aboriginal Justice Agency and the Australian Human Rights Commission, where he acted as counsel assisting the National Inquiry into Children in Immigration Detention.
He also serves on the boards of the Australian Pro Bono Centre and Community Legal Centres NSW.
AFCA board chair Professor John Pollaers OAM said Hunyor’s background in working with socially, culturally, and linguistically diverse groups aligns with AFCA’s role as an ombudsman service for all Australians.
“With his legal expertise and proven leadership in advancing consumer rights, Jonathon will bring a unique and valuable perspective to our mission. His commitment to equity and justice aligns perfectly to our goals, and we are confident that his contribution will help drive meaningful outcomes for the community,” Pollaers said.
Hunyor replaces Gerard Brody, who served on the board from 2023 and is now the full-time chair of the Essential Services Commission in Victoria. Pollaers acknowledged Brody’s contributions, saying, “We thank Gerard for his contribution to AFCA and we wish him continued success.”
