Merissa Van Der Linden is the CEO of the Patricia Giles Centre for Non-Violence, a leading Western Australian organisation supporting women and children experiencing family and domestic violence. With nearly 30 years’ experience across the human services sector, she brings extensive expertise in executive leadership and governance spanning mental health, multicultural services, disability, community services, FDV, community legal services, state government, and a national peak body.
Previously CEO of the Association for Services to Torture and Trauma Survivors, Merissa is recognised for leading organisations through complex reform, strengthening service systems, and driving sustainable growth and impact. She is known for her values-driven leadership and her commitment to trauma-informed, client-focused practice, particularly for victim-survivors with complex needs.
Merissa is an active contributor to governance and sector leadership. She serves as a Board Director at MIDLAS, supporting access to legal and financial advocacy for vulnerable communities, and participates on the Committee of the WA Women’s Hall of Fame. Through these roles, she champions strong governance, equity, and recognition of women’s contributions.
She holds various qualifications including a Master of Human Rights, MBA, Diploma in Governance, and undergraduate qualifications in psychology. She is a strong advocate for collaboration and evidence-informed reform.