Mabel Miller

Mabel Miller as a Hobart alderman (AOT, PH30/1/2373)

Mabel Flora Miller (1906–78), politician, was born at Broken Hill. A lawyer, she settled in Tasmania in 1930. During the Second World War Miller served with the Women's Auxiliary Australian Air Force, becoming deputy director. In 1952 she stood for the Hobart City Council on a platform that stressed women's perspective on services and amenities, and became the first female councillor. After serving two terms as deputy lord mayor she retired in 1972. In 1955 Miller became the first woman elected to the House of Assembly, standing for the Liberals. She was defeated in 1964.

Miller contributed to many community organisations, in 1967 represented Australia at the United Nations' Status of Women Commission, and was the Australian delegate to the General Assembly. She was created a Dame in 1967.

Further reading: ADB 15.

Wendy Rimon