Our People

Chris McCarthy is the Chief Executive Officer of Protect All Children Today (PACT), where he leads efforts to support and empower children and vulnerable victims of crime as they navigate the justice system. With a career spanning the military, corporate, government and not-for-profit sectors, Chris brings a rare breadth of experience and a strong, purpose-driven approach to leadership.

A graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Chris has served as a Chair, Deputy Chair and Director across a number of influential organisations, including Volunteering Queensland, CheckUP and First Voice. He has also contributed extensively to advisory groups across the health, disability and victims’ advocacy sectors, including with the Office of the Victims’ Commissioner.

Prior to PACT, Chris was CEO of Hear and Say for almost a decade, where he led significant organisational growth, expanded service delivery across Queensland, and strengthened partnerships with government, community and industry. His earlier career includes senior consulting roles and over a decade as an officer in the Australian Army, including operational service in Timor-Leste.

Chris is known for his collaborative leadership style, his ability to navigate complex systems, and his commitment to delivering practical, meaningful outcomes for individuals and communities – particularly those most vulnerable.