Thursday, 22 June 2023

Melinda Spencer OAM

Sonja TERPSTRA (North-Eastern Metropolitan) (10:02): Today I would like to honour the wonderful Melinda ‘Mel’ Spencer OAM, founder and CEO of Different Journeys autism services in my electorate. Mel was a very worthy recipient of a Medal of the Order of Australia in the recently announced honours list. Mel co-founded Different Journeys in 2016 with Merrin Ayton to connect autistic people, their families and their carers and to break down the social isolation, prejudice and loneliness experienced by the autism community. The award recognises Mel’s ongoing advocacy to government for development of employment, education and carer peer support programs to improve outcomes for autistic people and their carers. Also recognised is Mel’s establishment of the Pathways for Carers program, a peer support walking program for carers. Mel is also a regular speaker at conferences and represents the autism community on advisory committees across Victoria.

The president of this chamber and Minister Shing also know Mel through her work in our communities as part of the Lilydale Revitalisation Board and can attest to Mel’s enthusiasm and commitment to the autism community and the countless hours of volunteer work that she has put in. Prior to her role with Different Journeys Mel served as a Victorian police officer, receiving a number of police service awards, including the National Police Service Medal. In 2020 she was inducted into the Victorian women’s honour roll as well.

I congratulate Mel on the recognition of her tireless efforts on behalf of the autism community, and while I am sure she would point out that a whole team undertakes the work and has earned the recognition, it is the Different Journeys team who are celebrating her achievements. Mel Spencer OAM, thank you for your care and work in our community, and congratulations on a very worthy recognition for your efforts.