Friday, February 20, 2015

Mavis Robertson: Tribute to pioneer of Australia's Super System

18 February, 2015 | Media Release

Australian Unions have paid tribute to one the leading pioneers of Australia’s compulsory super system, Mavis Robertson AM, who died overnight at the age of 84.

ACTU President Ged Kearney said Ms Robertson was a driving force behind the development of the industry super fund network.

“Mavis devoted her working life to the union movement and to developing industry super funds from very small beginnings into the major economic institutions they are today,” said Ms Kearney

“Her focus was always on delivering profits to members, which is at the heart of industry super.

Ms Kearney said Mavis was a vocal advocate on women’s issues and retirement.

“She put the concerns and needs of women, especially the low-paid, at the centre of economic debate.”

Mavis Robertson was an integral part of many industry initiatives including being a founding member of the Conference of Major Super Funds (CMSF); Australian Institute of Superannuation Trustees (AIST); Women in Super; the Australia Council of Super Investors (ACSI); and the Mother’s Day Classic – the latter having raised more than $24 million for Breast Cancer research.

Ms Robertson served as a mentor to many senior women in superannuation and fought hard to ensure that women from all levels of the industry were well-represented on boards, committees and at industry events.

She was awarded membership of the Order of Australia for her services to the superannuation industry in 1984.

Ms Kearney said Mavis leaves an enduring legacy in superannuation.

“Mavis was a remarkable person who used her energy and intellect to benefit others, and who never lost sight of the not-for-profit ethos and social policy side of superannuation".

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