Following more than two decades serving the Church within the Diocese of Broken Bay, one of the country’s most experienced safeguarding leaders retires from her role today.
Head of Safeguarding Broken Bay, Jodie Crisafulli brought not only commitment, competence and encouragement to the role during some of the most challenging times in the Church but has been of invaluable support to both Catholic Schools Broken Bay (CSBB) and CatholicCare Broken Bay.
“It has been a profound privilege and one that has been a deeply meaningful and humbling experience,” Jodie said at a farewell this week.
“I have witnessed an extraordinary shift in the Church’s approach to safeguarding – one marked by greater transparency, accountability, and a genuine commitment to protecting children and vulnerable people. It has been an honour to be part of this during my time in Broken Bay and am confident the safeguarding culture and commitment will continue.”
Jodie began with the Diocese in 2004 with CatholicCare Broken Bay where she was engaged as Manager of Investigation and Training. In 2012 this was extended to include the Chancery of the Diocese and the role of Manager of Complaints and Professional Standards.
In 2018 she was appointed Director, Diocesan Office for Safeguarding and in 2024 Head of Safeguarding Broken Bay.
However her skills, experience, and leadership have also been recognised further afield, both across the Province of NSW/ACT and internationally where she gained a reputation for her dedication and expertise.
“There have been many challenges during my time in safeguarding, however there has also been a real cultural shift in the journey,” Jodie said.
“I have also been privileged to work alongside many dedicated priests and colleagues which has made real change and accountability possible.”
In thanking Jodie for her service and wishing her well in her “quieter life to come”, Diocesan Administrator, Very Rev Dr David Ranson, spoke not only of Jodie’s expertise and commitment to protecting the safety of children and the vulnerable, but of her integrity and ability to remain calm in stressful situations.
The new Head of Safeguarding for the Diocese, Melinda Rixon, also has many years of experience in child protection and compliance. Melinda holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Psychology alongside specialised qualifications in workplace investigations.
She is also uniquely familiar with the Diocese, having managed safeguarding operations across CatholicCare Broken Bay and CSBB. Most recently Melinda spent five years leading the safeguarding team in CSB B where she was instrumental in driving culture, embedding Child Safety Standards, and providing strategic advice to senior leaders and principals.
