The capability to detect and investigate digital crimes varies across organisations and sectors. While offenders exploit technological advancements to target children, response communities often lag behind. To effectively counter child abuse, we must resource, support, and connect new initiatives in data, technology-driven and preventative approaches within the response industry.
Since July 2022, our Child Protection Fund has identified and supported catalytic partners in this response sector to fortify our collective response.
ICMEC Australia has partnered with eight programs across catalytic data partnerships, technology applications, and prevention services.
The Illuminate Program lives up to its name by shining a light on the hidden crimes that often lurk in the darkness. This initiative recognises and honours those who have shown exceptional dedication to illuminating the path toward protecting children from harm.
The Program features two key categories: Custodians and Allies. These categories recognise the unique roles of those who have gone above and beyond in the commitment to our mission, either by leading the way in child protection efforts or by actively supporting and amplifying our cause through a substantial financial or personal contribution.
Custodians are individuals who have made profound and lasting contributions to the legacy of ICMEC Australia and remain deeply connected to our mission. Their unwavering dedication, resilience, and significant contributions over the years have been instrumental in shaping the impact our organisation has today.
Paul McCarney
Consultant, investor and entrepreneur in the Digital Technology and Marketing space.
Having been involved with the global activities of the International Centre for Missing and Exploited Children (ICMEC) for several years, he played a pivotal role in establishing ICMEC Australia as a separate entity. His efforts were instrumental in securing support from Westpac, which enabled us to develop our remit for fostering local partnerships and collaborations.
Paul was ICMEC Australia’s CEO and Executive Chair from the inception of the organisation in 2021, stepping down as CEO and Executive Chair in 2022/2023.
Bindu Sharma
Vice President Global Policy & Industry Alliances and Managing Director, Asia Pacific International Centre for Missing & Exploited Children (ICMEC) Singapore
Bindu Sharma is Vice President Global Policy & Industry Alliances and Managing Director, Asia Pacific, at the International Centre for Missing and Exploited Children (ICMEC) Global. As a key figure in the establishment of ICMEC’s Australian presence, we would like to recognise Bindu for her tireless efforts to raise the awareness and importance of this work and for creating valuable long-standing relationships that continue to contribute to ICMEC Australia’s impact today.
An Ally plays a crucial role in building the systems and relationships that support our impact. Allies generously go the extra mile to offer their expertise, networks, and professional services, helping us enhance our operations and outreach. By sharing their skills and resources, they play a vital role in supporting our mission and enabling us to achieve our objectives more effectively. This valuable support strengthens our efforts and allows us to reach a wider audience with our message.
Jeremy Moller
Senior Advisor and Lawyer (Special Counsel), Risk Advisory, Norton Rose Fulbright
Jeremy Moller is a risk advisory lawyer with over 15 years' experience working in Australia, the United Kingdom and New Zealand specialising in anti-money laundering, international sanctions, and export controls as well as foreign transparency and influence. Jeremy has shared his expertise and networks with ICMEC Australia and ICMEC Global for many years through participation in the ICMEC Australia financial crime working group and by providing pro bono advice and guidance in our financial crime related activities. In addition, Jeremy plays an instrumental role in the success of our biggest event, the ICMEC Australia Symposium.
Allens
Our pro-bono legal provider
Allens has generously provided pro bono legal expertise from a diverse range of practice areas, supporting ICMEC Australia with contractual arrangements under the Child Protection Fund, as well as cyber breach policies and privacy impact assessments for the Lighthouse Data Product. Special thanks to Gavin Smith, Partner of Allens' Technology, Media and Telecommunications practice, and his colleagues David Liao, Tracy Lu, Paul Mersiades, Isobel McKenzie, Martin Carter, and Christine Zhong, for their exemplary support.
ICMEC Australia acknowledges Traditional Owners throughout Australia and their continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, and Elders past and present.