Forensic scientist, Dr Linzi Wilson-Wilde OAM has been appointed Director of Forensic Science Queensland (FSQ).
Dr Wilson-Wilde’s appointment follows the establishment of an 11-member advisory council last month, chaired by Ms Julie Dick SC.
Dr Wilson-Wilde (pictured) has acted as interim CEO of Forensic Science Queensland since January 2023, and is widely regarded as one of the leading forensic scientists in Australia and New Zealand.
“I congratulate Dr Linzi Wilson-Wilde OAM on her appointment following an open, international search,” said Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, Yvette D’Ath.
“Dr Wilson-Wilde brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to what will undoubtedly be a very challenging role.
She is a former director of both Forensic Science South Australia and the National Institute of Forensic Science and has previously worked for Victoria Police, NSW Police and the Australian Federal Police.
“Throughout her career, she has demonstrated an ability to ‘step up’ in extraordinarily difficult circumstances,” said Minister D’Ath.
“Most notably, this includes leading the victim identification team in the wake of the Bali bombings in 2002, where she coordinated the DNA analysis of all samples in the identification of victims and in the criminal investigation.
“She has worked widely with various state and federal police forces in Australia and New Zealand as a forensic science and criminalistic expert.
“Dr Wilson-Wilde has demonstrated leadership ability, including as a former Director of Forensic Science South Australia.
“This experience will stand her in good stead as FSQ works to rebuild trust and confidence and meet the expectations of the community and the criminal justice system.
“I wish her every success.”
Dr Wilson-Wilde received a Medal in the Order of Australia for her work and was inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll of Women in 2014.
The appointment was made following an open, international selection process.
“It’s a privilege to be appointed as Director of Forensic Science Queensland to continue to lead the staff and scientists,” said Dr Wilson-Wilde.
“I have a fantastic team around me, and we are making progress toward our vision of being a world-leading laboratory.
“Our journey will take a number of years yet, but I am confident we have the right roadmap in place and the team at FSQ is as committed as I am to restore confidence in our services.”
Forensic Science Queensland was administratively assigned to the Department of Justice and Attorney-General (DJAG) on 1 July 2024.
