Helen Parker OAM – Advocate, Leader, Changemaker
Helen Parker was 20 and in her third year of uni when she faced an unplanned pregnancy. Suddenly, with no stable home, no financial security, and little support, she saw firsthand how fragmented and difficult it was for vulnerable women to access the help they needed. After many years learning about the gaps in perinatal support Helen founded The Babes Project to ensure women in crisis had access to practical, judgment-free support through pregnancy and early motherhood.
Under her leadership, The Babes Project has grown into a vital force for over 15 years providing perinatal support to hundreds of women every year. But Helen’s impact reaches far beyond the walls of the organisation as she has worked to improve support for mothers, engaging with policymakers and the community to create change.
Recognised with an Order of Australia Medal in 2019, Helen is a compelling speaker who brings both lived experience and deep expertise to the stage. She speaks with raw honesty and conviction, sharing how bold ideas and small, intentional actions can create lasting change. Whether inspiring grassroots movements, guiding nonprofit leaders, or pushing for systemic reform, Helen’s message is clear: real change starts when we refuse to look away.