Meli Senior Caseworker Ari-elle Dart has been recognised for her outstanding dedication to foster carers, named a joint winner of the 2026 Commitment to Carers Award at the Foster Care Association of Victoria Annual General Meeting on 18 September.
Presented by the Foster Care Association of Victoria (FCAV), the Commitment to Carers Awards give foster carers a voice in recognising the professionals whose support, compassion and commitment make a meaningful difference throughout their caring journey. The awards celebrate staff who go above and beyond to ensure carers feel valued, heard and supported.
Ari-elle was nominated by three different Meli foster carers, highlighting the impact she has with the people she works in our community.
Over the past eight years working in the out-of-home care sector, Ari-elle has built a reputation as a passionate advocate for children, young people and carers. Since joining Meli in 2022, she has worked tirelessly with young people with complex needs, delivering individualised, trauma-informed support while helping carers build stable, nurturing environments where children can thrive.
One example of her impact includes supporting a young person who had experienced more than 20 placements before the age of nine. Through persistent advocacy, coordinated supports and a strong partnership with carers, Ari-elle helped establish a stable placement that remains successful almost four years later.
Meli’s Manager Care Services Jo Dumesny said Ari-elle’s recognition reflects the commitment she brings to every aspect of her work.
“Ari-elle has an extraordinary ability to build trust with children, young people and carers, particularly during some of the most challenging periods of their lives. Her advocacy, compassion and determination help create the stability and support that families need to thrive,” she said.
“What sets Ari-elle apart is her unwavering commitment to seeing the person behind the circumstances. She listens, empowers and works alongside young people and carers to create opportunities, strengthen connections and achieve positive outcomes that can last a lifetime.”
Drawing on both professional expertise and lived experience, Ari-elle is known for her determination, empathy and unwavering belief in the potential of every young person.
“I advocate strongly, I don’t give up, and I don’t step back from challenges because I know what is at stake,” Ari-elle said of her work in the out of home care sector.
Meli’s Senior Therapeutic Case Manager Brooke Coxon was also nominated, together with Meli foster carers Emily and Peter Hough who were nominated for the FCAV Foster Carer Award.
Meli congratulates Ari-elle, Brooke, Emily and Peter on this well-deserved recognition and thanks foster carers across the region for the vital role they play in providing safe, caring and supportive homes.
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