Marrickville Legal Centre (MLC), one of NSW’s largest community legal centres, is pleased to announce the appointment of Catherine Kelso as the Chair of the MLC Board.
As a Partner in Gilbert + Tobin’s Disputes & Investigations practice, Catherine brings a formidable background in governance, accountability, and litigation risk to this role. Catherine has demonstrated a long-term dedication to MLC, having volunteered as an evening advice solicitor for more than a decade and serving as an active Board member since 2024.
Reflecting on her appointment, Catherine said: “Working alongside my fellow directors, my priority is to consolidate MLC’s formidable track record of delivering ‘Justice For Us All’.”
“At a time of escalating legal need across New South Wales, we will focus on deepening our sector-wide collaborations to ensure the innovative solutions we’ve developed continue to provide a responsive, fair, and lasting pathway to justice for those who need it most.”
Catherine’s appointment signals a strategic strengthening of MLC’s leadership during a period of unprecedented community demand. In the 2024–25 period alone, MLC assisted more than 6,800 people in need throughout NSW across 10,700 services, many addressing complex matters such as domestic violence, housing instability, and severe financial distress.
The MLC Board also extends its deepest gratitude to outgoing Chair Graham Jenkins for his dedicated service and stewardship. Under his leadership, MLC has cemented its position as a pillar of support for the most disadvantaged members of the Sydney community.
“Serving as Chair of Marrickville Legal Centre has been a profound honour,” said Graham. “I am incredibly proud of the tenacity our team has shown in closing the justice gap. I have seen first-hand Catherine’s dedication to our clients over the last ten years, and I depart knowing the Board is in expert hands. Her deep legal expertise and passion for social justice make her the ideal leader for MLC’s next chapter.”
MLC continues to be guided by its core four pillars – For all people, For progress, For working together, and For lasting change – ensuring that those overlooked by the legal system are never left without a voice.
ALL MEDIA ENQUIRIES: Danica Moore | dmoore@mlc.org.au
