Lin Hatfield Dodds

Social justice advocate

2008 ACT Australian of the Year

Lin Hatfield Dodds is a leading advocate of social justice in Australia. As President of the Australian Council of Social Services, Director of UnitingCare Australia, and Chair of the Australian Capital Territory Community Inclusions Board, Lin works tirelessly for low income and disadvantaged Australians. Her advocacy is effective because she is so well informed, respectful, and professional. She is also incredibly energetic and brings a great sense of humour to her work. As a working mother, Lin is a role model and inspiration for working women and demonstrates the benefits of a sensible work/life balance. She is renowned for her ability to engage with a wide range of individuals and groups and is respected nationally for helping to achieve better outcomes for people. Lin’s contribution was recognised by an International Women’s Day Award in 2002 and in 2003 she was awarded a Churchill Fellowship to study anti-poverty strategies and welfare delivery overseas.