Established in 1954 when the College was founded by the Sisters of Mercy, our values are inspired by the Mercy tradition and charism.

Integrity

• We demonstrate integrity when we have the strength to do what is right, are honest and trustworthy in our dealings with others, and are true to our Christian values.

Mutual Respect

• We demonstrate mutual respect when we acknowledge the dignity of others by treating them as we would have them treat us, by listening to them and considering their perspective.

Responsibility

• We demonstrate responsibility when we are reliable and responsible for our actions and do the right thing by ourselves, others, and the environment.

Compassion

• We demonstrate compassion when we are aware of and respond to the needs of others.

Loyalty

• We demonstrate loyalty when we recognise and support personal, community, and Gospel Values.

Justice

• We demonstrate justice when we act with fairness and are willing to speak up for the rights and dignity of others.

Each year we highlight one of our Mercy Keys, and encourage students to reflect on how they can fulfil that core value through their everyday experiences.

2025 is our Year of Compassion.

Annual Mercy Award

For the Mercedes College community, Mercy is a verb. A call to action.

Since 1991, annual Mercy Award has recognised a member of the Mercedes College community living the Mercy Keys through their contribution to community. This Mercy Spirit may be evident through study, research, paid work, or community service.

The award recognises effort that is ‘above and beyond’. Many past recipients, in addition to the six Mercy Keys, also demonstrate humility, warmth and hospitality, and leadership.

As a community we are inspired by the work of a remarkable Sister of Mercy, Catherine McAuley, who used all her means to establish a House of Mercy which safety sheltered homeless women, reached out to the sick and dying and provided free education for those in need. This action provided hope, opportunity and enabled the voice of marginalised people to be heard.

Nominations for the 2024 Mercy Award opens mid-year. If you have any questions about the Awards in the interim, please contact Helen Ayliffe, Acting Director of Mission +61 8 8372 3200.

Recognising the lived spirit of the Mercy Keys - Mutual Respect, Integrity, Responsibility, Compassion, Loyalty, Justice - the Mercy Award recipient is announced each September at our Mercy Day Mass. 

Our past Mercy Award recipients are: