CatholicCare Sydney’s family support worker Meher Banu has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to the community, receiving the Excellence and Impact: Frontline Worker Award at the NSW Council of Social Service (NCOSS) 90th Anniversary Awards, held on 28 October at the Australian Museum.
The event brought together leaders from across the social services sector, including NSW Premier Chris Minns, Linda Burney MP, Jodie Harrison MP, and Kate Washington MP.
The award acknowledges Meher’s exceptional work with families in south-west Sydney, particularly her support for Bengali women and families experiencing domestic and family violence.
Since joining CatholicCare in 2021, Meher has been a trusted advocate and source of hope for women navigating pathways to safety, independence, and wellbeing.
Drawing on her lived experience migrating from Bangladesh to Australia, Meher brings a deep understanding of cultural stigmas surrounding mental health, family relationships, and traditional parenting roles.
This insight allows her to provide culturally safe, person-centred support that respects community values while gently challenging harmful norms. Her dedication and advocacy have had a profound impact on the lives of families she supports.
“Meher’s recognition at the NCOSS Awards is a testament to the compassionate, culturally safe support she provides to families in our community,” said CatholicCare Sydney’s acting chief executive officer, Kate Dover.
“Her work reflects the very best of CatholicCare – walking alongside people with empathy, courage, and respect.
“Meher’s ability to build trust and create pathways to safety for women and children facing immense challenges is truly inspiring, and we are so proud to have her representing CatholicCare Sydney on the frontline.”
Meher’s Manager, Shannon Rizzo, said she is “just so thrilled for Meher and proud of the work she is doing in the local community.”
“Meher is so humble that she came straight off the stage and tried to hand me the award, saying, ‘this award belongs to you and the team.’”
 90th Anniversary Awards, held on 28 October at the Australian Museum.){kind=link}