SOCIAL rights activist and Australian Labor Party stalwart Viv Maher has been posthumously recognised for her long contribution to the community in a recent sitting of parliament.
Labor MLC Kyam Maher shared a moving tribute to his mother in State Parliament in his acknowledgement of NAIDOC Week.
Mr Maher told members of the Legislative Council of the many South Australian women who had contributed to South Australia and highlighted the efforts of Ms Maher in the social and political sectors.
“Like so many Aboriginal women, Viv Maher had an enormous impact on her world,” he said.
“She was always involved in ministerial advisory councils, local boards and community groups.
“Viv’s work with women who were suffering from the effects of domestic violence in isolated regional areas was a remarkable thing.
“There are many lives which were turned around and no doubt actually saved because of her work.
“It is her more than anyone else I have known who encompasses this year’s NAIDOC theme Because of Her, We Can.
“Because of her, so many others could.”
The senior Labor member told the chamber of Ms Maher’s achievements, including her deep commitment to bettering the life of others through her employment at Centrelink, Pangula Mannamurna and administering Mount Gambier’s women’s shelter.
“Viv Maher had an enormous impact on the world and the organisations she worked for but her biggest impact was at the most important level, the individual personal level,” he said.
“I reckon the most common phrase I have heard from people when talking about Viv has been ‘if it was not for Viv’. ‘If it was not for Viv I never would have got that job.’ ‘If it was not for Viv there was no way I’d have the confidence to do that.’ ‘If it was not for Viv I may simply not be alive today.’
“To actually make a difference, to directly help change another person’s life for the better is a remarkable thing and because of her so many could.”
Mr Maher said his mother’s work and ideals contributed to his current trajectory.
“I am very much my mother’s son, making a difference, making a positive difference in the lives of those facing disadvantage, particularly people in the Aboriginal community, and choosing a progressive policy through the Labor Party to try to effect change,” he said.
“From my point of view, it is absolutely true that if it was not for Viv, I would not be doing what I am today.
“I am not directly changing people’s lives on a daily basis like Viv did, but I am doing my bit to change the world for the better.
“Viv Maher’s is just one story – one strong, determined Aboriginal woman, like so many who have made a massive difference to their families, their people and their communities.
“Because of her, because of all the aunties and sisters, many who have joined us here today, we can.”
