Larissa Ellis named NT Social Worker of the Year for work with Central Australian DV shelter
Larissa Ellis, who runs a key outback domestic violence shelter, has been recognised for her 28 years of working with ‘the most vulnerable people in our society’.
The head of a domestic violence shelter serving remote communities has been named the Northern Territory’s Social Worker of the Year.
On Friday night, Larissa Ellis was awarded the honour in a ceremony hosted by the Australian Association of Social Workers at Travelodge Darwin.
Mrs Ellis, 49, has been the chief executive of Women’s Safety Services of Central Australia (WOSSCA) since 2020 and was previously a senior director at the Central Australia Health Service.
Ms Ellis said the award was “quite unexpected” and a chance to reflect on 28 years working in the profession.
“We wouldn’t do this work if we didn’t think there was hope and that we can actually change things for the better,” she said.
“We get to see people at their most vulnerable and at their lowest, but it’s also a privilege and you get to work with the most amazing people … but we have to wear that burden and pick up the pieces.
“It’s worthwhile, it’s challenging, and no one day is the same.”
Last year, WOSSCA fielded more than 7700 requests for help and 36 per cent of the shelter’s clients were children aged 15 and under.
“I would like to live in a society where we have more services, and where we don’t see people going through domestic violence as a burden, but can support them, value them and love them as human beings in their own right,” Ms Ellis said.
Australian Association of Social Workers NT branch vice-president Jill Garratt (left) accepted the award on Larissa Ellis’ behalf, which was presented by Ms Ford (right). Picture: Supplied
Australian Association of Social Workers NT branch vice-president Jill Garratt (left) accepted the award on Larissa Ellis’ behalf, which was presented by Ms Ford (right). Picture: Supplied
The award is named after Mary Moylan, a Territorian who became the federal government’s first social worker posted to a remote community.
Moylan passed away in 2002 aged just 38, and AASW national president Linda Ford said the award “not only honours her memory but also highlights the ongoing commitment of social workers to make a difference in people’s lives”.
“Working in the Northern Territory presents distinct challenges, from remote community engagements to navigating complex social issues,” Ms Ford said.
“Our nominees this year have shown exceptional resilience and dedication in their roles, and it is a privilege to celebrate their achievements.”
The other nominees were Angus Stead, Julia Wormer and Timothy Donovan.