Debra is an expert adviser on public, constitutional, parliamentary and electoral law. Debra is a former Deputy Clerk of the House of Representatives, legal adviser to Parliament’s Privileges Committee, the Regulations Review Committee and has advised select committees on legislative scrutiny, inquiries and petitions.
Debra has advised on the exercise of powers by public officials, regulatory and compliance functions, as well as transport, maritime and civil aviation law, health and safety law, rule-making and delegated legislation.
Debra has wide experience of the development of policy to legislation, subordinate legislation, rules and exemptions. She has conducted reviews of the process of developing legislation and reported on the operation of legislation as required by statute. Debra is experienced in advising on public finance management, oversight, funding mechanisms, fees and charges. She has experience of drafting members’ bills and amendments to legislation. She has conducted civil and criminal litigation and is a former Crown Counsel.
Debra has also worked at the strategic and governance level, being a member of a senior leadership team and has managed a wide range of teams, including legal, policy and international relations. She has carried out responsibilities of a deputy chief executive, including acting as a chief executive and has been a member of a Risk and Assurance Committee.