We have a governing body of twelve directors, with wide-ranging backgrounds, experience and skill.
Directors meet regularly throughout the year, providing oversight of the Trust's finances, grant making, policy and special initiatives.
Dure Dara OAM (Convenor) Dip Social Work (University of Melbourne)
Dur-e describes herself as Indian by race, Malaysian by birth and Australian by choice. She worked in youth welfare, before focusing on her passion for music and developing successful restaurant ventures. Equality for women and environmental sustainability are also issues high on her agenda. She became a Director of the Victorian Women’s Trust in 1991 and has been Convenor since 1993.
Mary Crooks, BA (Hons), MA
Mary is the Executive Director of the Victorian Women's Trust. She has a background in tertiary teaching, research and public policy. She is particularly interested in finding ways that make it easier for women and men to give democratic voice to their interests and concerns.
Diana Batzias
Diana has worked for many years in both government and the non government social welfare sector in policy and service delivery roles.
Nicky Friedman
Nicky is a Senior Associate and is the National Coordinator, Pro bono and Community Programs at Allens Arthur Robinson an international law firm.
Alana Johnson, BA, BSW Alana is a farmer and rural consultant. She has worked extensively on behalf of rural women and is the National President of the Foundation for Australian Agricultural Women.
Debra Knight BA Hons (Melb), MBA Debra has a background in the financial advice, banking and insurance sectors. She has worked in a voluntary capacity with various women's organisations for many years.
Marilyn Lake Marilyn is Professor of History, at La Trobe University, with extensive experience in teaching and research in women's history. Marilyn was founding Director of Women's Studies at La Trobe University
Melba Marginson
Melba is the Chair of the Victorian Immigrant and Refugee Women's Coalition, working extensively in the area of multicultural affairs. She has a Master's degree in Social Science, and sits on many Government advisory bodies.
Leanne Miller - Dhulanyagen Ulupna Clan, Yorta Yorta Nation Leanne is Executive Director of Koorie Women Mean Business. Leanne chairs the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Women's Gathering Working Party. Leanne was also reappointed to the Indigenous Women’s Ministerial Advisory Committee in 2006.
Teresa Tjia BSc, MSc
Teresa is the Manager of Planning and Academic Programs at the School of Graduate Studies at the University of Melbourne. She has been involved in community activism in Perth and Melbourne for more than fifteen years.
