1917- 2011

Edythe McCallum

Community Service

Municipal social worker for the City of South Melbourne

In almost 20 years as municipal social worker for the City of South Melbourne, Edythe made an outstanding contribution as a pioneer in social planning and community development. She was an early proponent and strong advocate of the importance of planning for people to create vibrant and healthy communities.

She played a significant role in ensuring the Emerald Hill Estate was restored and retained as affordable housing for local people. South Melbourne now has a diverse range of social housing, due in part to her collaborative work and advocacy with the State Housing Authority on behalf of council and the community.

Edythe was appointed to the position of municipal social worker at a time when very few councils employed qualified social workers, or women with professional qualifications. Only a small number of councils delivered community services.

Edythe, in her position at Council, worked closely with Victorian and Australian governments to contribute to the models and funding developments for those community services, particularly services to elderly residents. These services were later delivered by local governments across Victoria.

Following her retirement in 1981, Edythe continued on the Crawford Court Committee of Management, a local program providing affordable housing for older people (1979-1994) and the Committee of Management of South Port Community Nursing Home, now CASPA Care.

Acknowledgement

This Biography was provided by Port Phillip Council through the Her Story Map Project. The women and places of HerStory – City of Port Phillip

If you are a relative or friend of Edythe McCallum and would like to further contribute to Edythe’s story please contact us at herplace@herplacemuseum.com

Image: Edythe McCallum Photo provided by Port Phillip Shire Council – photo credit unknown