Important Facts of the News
- Rev. Murray Edridge and Hon Jo Goodhew join the Independent Children’s Monitor Board.
- The appointments were enabled by legislative changes passed earlier in 2025.
- The Monitor oversees Oranga Tamariki along with the Children’s Commissioner and the Ombudsman.
- Murray Edridge has experience as CEO of Barnardos New Zealand and Wellington City Missioner.
- Jo Goodhew is Chair of Presbyterian Support South Canterbury and former Minister.
- Dr Ang Jury was appointed as Chair of the Board on 1 August 2025.
- Edridge and Goodhew begin their roles on 10 November 2025.
The New Zealand Government has confirmed two new members for the Board of the Independent Children’s Monitor, marking a renewed commitment to enhancing child safety and wellbeing services across the country. Rev. Murray Edridge and Hon Jo Goodhew will now work alongside Board Chair Dr Ang Jury to provide independent governance for monitoring Oranga Tamariki.
Expanded leadership for stronger child protection
The Independent Children’s Monitor is one of three official bodies assigned to oversee the performance of Oranga Tamariki, the country’s child protection agency. It works synchronously with the Children’s Commissioner and the Ombudsman to assess how well the system safeguards vulnerable children.
Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston welcomed the addition of Reverend Edridge and Ms Goodhew to the board. She highlighted their distinct leadership experience in public service and social sectors.
Profiles of leaders joining the Monitor
Rev. Murray Edridge is currently the Wellington City Missioner. He brings over eight years of experience as Chief Executive of Barnardos New Zealand and has significant expertise in accountability and governance across non-profit and public sectors.
Hon Jo Goodhew has led multiple health and community organisations and presently chairs Presbyterian Support South Canterbury. Her government service includes five years as a Minister handling portfolios across health and social services.
According to Minister Upston, the legislative changes passed earlier in 2025 facilitated the expansion of the Monitor’s governance to ensure its independence. She noted that this initiative aligns with the commitments made under the National-ACT coalition agreement.
Appointment dates confirmed
Dr Ang Jury, recognised with an ONZM honour, began her tenure as Chair on 1 August 2025. Newly appointed board members Edridge and Goodhew will assume their duties on 10 November 2025. Their combined experience is expected to drive robust oversight in child welfare practice and accountability.
The updated board composition marks a meaningful step toward strengthening leadership and transparency in child protection services across New Zealand.