Aunty Shirley Peisley AM

Shirley Peisley AM (1941-) was the first Co-Chair of the City of Adelaide Reconciliation Committee (2002-2005), formed in 2002 with goals to advance reconciliation between Aboriginal and Torres Islander peoples and the wider city community.

In the 1960s, Peisley was a member of the Council of Aboriginal Women of South Australia, which successfully lobbied for essential services for Aboriginal peoples. In the 1970's she was the first Aboriginal female Probation and Truancy Officer working with youth and the Children’s Court. Peisley received the Order of Australia Medal in 2000 for services to the Aboriginal Community in the areas of Culture, Heritage, Legal, Health, Welfare, Library Services, the Church, and Reconciliation.

In 2010 she received a Papal Blessing from Pope Benedict XVI for services to the Catholic Church. Peisley was a member of the Advisory Panel advocating for the recognition of Aboriginal peoples in South Australia’s Constitution; this historical reform was passed in March 2013.

Celebrating 125 years of women's suffrage in South Australia.

Image: State Library of South Australia, Jenny Scott photographer, B 75524