The man who has overseen recent changes to Queensland’s youth justice system has been made Director-General of the Department of Youth Justice and Victim Support.
State Youth Justice and Victim Support Minister Laura Gerber said Michael Drane, who will serve a five-year term as Director-General, brought more than two decades of experience in youth justice and human services.
“Since January 2026, Mr Drane has served as Acting Director-General, leading the department through a period of significant reform and service delivery,” Minister Gerber said.
She said prior to that, he held the role of Deputy Director-General, Youth Justice Services, and previously served as Senior Executive Director, Youth Detention Operations and Reform, and Executive Director of the Brisbane Youth Detention Centre.
“Michael has extensive operational and strategic experience, with a deep understanding of Queensland’s youth justice system and the challenges facing it.
“He has built his career working across frontline services, policy development and system reform, giving him unique insight into the opportunities and challenges within the portfolio.”
“Michael has demonstrated strong leadership in delivering complex reforms, strengthening governance and improving service delivery outcomes.
