Labor has appointed one of Victoria’s most experienced public sector leaders as the head of the Victorian Early Childhood Regulatory Authority (VECRA).

Minister Blandthorn announced today that Wendy Steendam AM APM will lead VECRA from 1 July 2026.

Ms Steendam brings more than four decades of public sector leadership to the role.

This includes 11 years as Deputy Commissioner of Victoria Police.

She is a Member of the Order of Australia and an Australian Police Medal recipient, as well as being on the Victorian Honour Roll of Women.

Ms Steendam will oversee the licensing, registration and regulation of more than 5,000 services in Victoria.

She brings a long history of strategic leadership in complex regulatory and enforcement environments.

While at Victoria Police she worked in portfolios responsible for family violence response, child abuse and sexual assault.

VECRA started on 1 January 2026 and operates as a stronger, independent regulator with more powers, resources and inspections.

Ms Steendam’s experience leading complex organisations aligns with the needs of VECRA as a newly established regulatory authority.

Backed by more resources, VECRA has already increased compliance checks at services and has stronger powers to take swift action.