Eugenia Mitrakas

Eugenia Mitrakas OAM holds the position of Principal Lawyer and is an esteemed member of the legal fraternity with a prestigious combined degree in Law and Arts from the University of Melbourne. With over four decades of dedicated practice as a sole practitioner, Eugenia has become a cornerstone of legal assistance for both the Greek community and the broader public. In recognition of her extensive contributions, Eugenia was honoured with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in January 1997. This accolade reflects her significant impact on the community through her involvement with organisations such as the Australian Greek Society for Care of the Elderly (now Fronditha Care), the Australian Greek Welfare Society (now known as Pronia), and the Hellenic Studies Forum. Eugenia's commitment to the legal profession extends beyond her practice. She has rendered her expertise to numerous boards in a pro bono capacity, including the Board of Examiners, Victoria Law Foundation, Fronditha Care, Pronia, and the Greek International Legal and Medical Conferences. Her service on these boards underscores her dedication to the advancement of legal and welfare services. As the first Greek female solicitor in Australia, Eugenia has paved the way for future generations in the legal sector. She holds the distinction of being the first female, ethnic, and sole practitioner to serve on the Council of the Law Institute of Victoria. Her nine-year tenure on the Council included chairing multiple committees, such as the Admission to Practice Committee, the Board of Examiners, and the Liquor Licensing Committee. Her initiative to establish a Committee on Court Interpreter Services led to substantive legislative changes, facilitating the creation of the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters in Victoria (NAATI). Furthermore, Eugenia broke new ground as the first female appointed as a Notary Public in Victoria. Her nearly 15-year tenure on the Committee of the Society of Notaries, including serving two terms as President, highlights her leadership within the legal community. Notably, Eugenia remains the only female to have served as President of the Society, showcasing her pioneering spirit and commitment to excellence in legal practice.