Deacon Oliver Slewa has been appointed to the position of Policy and Projects Officer at the National Council of Churches in Australia. Deacon Oliver commenced in this role on 15 January 2024.

	(Above) NCCA Delegation at Christian Conference of Asia 15th General Assembly, October 2023 - Deacon Oliver Slewa (right) with Rev John Gilmore, NCCA President (left) and Very Rev Fr Abanoub Attalla, Coptic Orthodox Church (centre).

Oliver is a distinguished member of the Assyrian Church of the East, with a professional background in law. Over the past 12 years, he has specialised in Migration law and, more recently, Family Law in Australia. His exemplary service in the government and legal sector was recently recognised through the presentation of the Humanitarian Award by the Governor of New South Wales.

Since arriving in Australia as a refugee from Iraq, Oliver has actively engaged in community and church activities. His commitment to advocating for the rights of the marginalised is evident through his contributions, including submissions to the government on Australia's migration programmes and ongoing support for refugee communities. Oliver proudly serves in the voluntary role of Ambassador of the Refugee Council of Australia.

Prior to joining the National Council of Churches in Australia, Oliver held the position of Senior Policy and Projects Officer with the New South Wales Department of Communities and Justice. In this role, he played a crucial part in reviewing legislation to aid victim-survivors of domestic and family violence, with a particular emphasis on supporting newly arrived migrants facing such challenges.

Oliver was involved in a significant initiative within the NSW Ecumenical Council in 2022-2023, serving as Domestic Violence Project Officer. In this capacity, he developed resources, conducted forums, and delivered presentations to religious and community leaders, addressing issues related to domestic and family violence.

We welcome Oliver Slewa to the NCCA and look forward to his contribution to the works of NCCA in this our 30th anniversary year.