Former Queensland State Coroner Michael Barnes has been appointed as the next Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security, overseeing and reviewing the activities of Australia’s national intelligence agencies.
Mr Barnes was the inaugural state coroner for 10 years from 2003 until taking up the same role in New South Wales in 2014.
He is currently serving as the NSW Crime Commissioner and has demonstrated experience leading independent oversight bodies in several jurisdictions.
While Queensland Coroner, he presided over many high-profile inquests such as the death of Sunshine Coast teenager Daniel Morcombe; the deaths arising from the sinking of the Malu Sara in the Torres Strait and the Lockhart River air crash.
Mr Barnes began his legal career in 1980 in a small suburban law firm in Brisbane and was a partner in for five years until he moved to the Aboriginal Legal Service.
Attorney-General Michelle Rowland said: “Mr Barnes brings extensive experience which will support the Office of the Inspector-General to continue its work providing robust oversight over the national intelligence community.
“I thank Dr Christopher Jessup for his distinguished service as Inspector-General following his appointment in 2021.”
Law Council of Australia President Tania Wolff welcomed the appointment.
“As greater powers are afforded to our intelligence and security agencies, the IGIS’s responsibility to ensure that Australia’s clandestine services act legally, with propriety, and consistently with human rights, is more important than ever,” Ms Wolff said.
“The IGIS is a key part of the oversight framework that ensures the vital balance between individual rights and collective security is maintained.
“The announcement today by the Attorney-General helps ensure the IGIS and his office can continue its important work.
“Trust in our intelligence agencies strengthens national security and oversight by the IGIS promotes confidence in the exercise of their functions.”
His five-year appointment begins on 7 April 2026.
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