Merle Mitchell

Merle Mitchell was a lifelong advocate for equality, community and diversity. She was well-known by many people in her local community and far beyond for her grace, courage and tireless advocacy. She worked as a kindergarten teacher before moving into community work, helping to establish schools and kindergartens across the City of Springvale. She shared her considerable knowledge and experience to help the development of state and federal social welfare policies through her roles with both ACOSS and VCOSS. She also worked with the Refugee Council, Foodbank Victoria, and various Commonwealth advisory bodies on social security, child support and other issues. She was awarded the Member of the Order of Australia in 1991 for her services to the community. In her last years, she lived in an aged care facility and was one of many who shared their story with the aged care royal commission. She spoke out about the appalling conditions of aged care in Australia and the need for urgent reforms. She died peacefully on 20 September 2021 at the age of 87. She is survived by her three children and six grandchildren. She will be remembered as a social justice giant who fought until her last days for the basic rights of people less powerful in society.