Forde named Qld Catholic Education chair

The former chairwoman of an inquiry into institutionalised child abuse has been appointed head of the Queensland Catholic Education Commission (QCEC).

Leneen Forde, who served as the state's first female governor from 1992-97, was named on Monday as QCEC's new chair.

Ms Forde chaired the Commission of Inquiry into Abuse of Children in Queensland Institutions from 1998-99.

"I am confident that she will bring exceptional leadership and wisdom to the Commission," QCEC executive director Dr Lee-Anne Perry said.

Ms Forde was appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia in 1993 for her work in the field of law and improving the status of women.

She has spent the last 15 years as the Chancellor of Griffith University, and will take over official duties from Peter Sheehan in March.