Co-founder of Australian Greek Welfare Society Doctor Spiro Moraitis dies at age 90

·

Australian Greek Welfare Society (AGWS) co-founder and Hon. Life Member Dr Spiro Moraitis passed away on Thursday, September 7, at the age of 90.

Dr Moraitis together with George Papadopoulos and Nick Polites founded the AGWS (known today as PRONIA) in 1972. The purpose of AGWS was to vigorously assert the rights of immigrants and their children, with an emphasis on improving services in the fields of education, health, social welfare, childcare and the preservation of the Greek language.

Dr Moraitis left an indelible impact on the Australian Greek community, a lasting legacy that will continue to support future members of the Greek speaking community.

Dr. Spiro Moraitis in his surgery, Carlton, 1959. Image: State Library of Victoria

He served as both Chairman and President of AGWS (1972-1979) and served on many sub committees including health, education, childcare, aged care, interpreting and language services.

In 2008, Dr Moraitis became an awarded member of the Order of Australia for his continuing services to the Greek community through a range of executive roles with migrant assistance and aged welfare organisations.

In 2022, in recognition of his incredible contribution to the Hellenic Australian Community and AGWS he was awarded the HACCI Excellence Spiro Stamoulis Lifetime Achievement Award.  

“Dr Moraitis’ endless benevolence will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we mourn his passing, we remain steadfast in continuing Dr Moraitis’ vision and rich legacy of unwavering commitment to the betterment of the Hellenic Australian community” stated President of PRONIA, Elpis Korosidis.

“PRONIA would like to farewell, Dr Spiro Moraitis, a visionary founder and leader and to express our deepest sympathy and condolences to his children Anastasia, Melissa, Harley and Katrine,” a statement from PRONIA read.

Spiro Moraitis at his family home at Westbury Street St. Kilda, 1954. Image: State Library of Victoria

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Latest News

From Dark Athens to Dark Salonica: Arthur Antonopoulos explores the city beneath

Following Dark Athens, Antonopoulos’ latest work shifts north, into a city he describes as carrying a distinctly haunting energy.

From yiayia’s garden to Australian bookshelves: Anthony Savas and Elias Anargyros launch Australia’s first plantable children’s books

Two long-time friends are putting Adelaide on the map with a national first: plantable children’s books with characters that grow into real vegetables.

Greece ranks among top solo travel destinations for 2026

Solo travel is no longer a niche choice but a defining trend in global tourism, and Greece has earned a spot in the world’s top destinations.

New safety net for housing: A path to stability for vulnerable borrowers in Greece

A new mechanism is set to offer a lifeline to thousands of households who risk losing-or have already lost-their primary residence.

The beginning of the Triodion: A journey toward Lent

The Triodion marks the beginning of a significant spiritual and cultural period in the Orthodox Church, officially starting on February 1.

You May Also Like

Yorgos Lanthimos’ new movie ‘Kinds of Kindness’ included in Cannes lineup

New films from Yorgos Lanthimos, Andrea Arnold and Francis Ford Coppola, will compete for the Palme d’Or at the 77th Cannes Film Festival.

Big smiles all round as Greek students across NSW return to school

Greek students across New South Wales returned to school on Monday with big smiles on their faces as they reunited with their friends.

Australians hit with new charges to visit Europe in 2023

Australians will be hit with new charges to visit Europe from 2023 after the European Union announced the launch of a new visa waiver scheme.