Melanie Selwood

Hi, I'm Melanie. I was elected to the South Australian Legislative Council at the state election on 21st March 2026.

After my family was affected by the 2019 bushfires, I realised that individual actions were not enough. In the weeks after the fires, I witnessed the value of connected communities, but also the harsh reality that our current systems are failing to protect us from the climate crisis.

Over recent years, we've seen the cost of living soar, the effects of climate change directly impacting our lives, and the gap between the rich and the rest of us increase. 

As someone who has seen first hand the devastating impacts of climate change and inequality, I am more determined than ever to be part of the change we so desperately need.

I grew up on the traditional lands of the Peramangk People, in the Adelaide Hills.  For over 20 years I worked as a manager in the Arts industry, where I was committed to telling meaningful stories, making the arts accessible to all, and providing mentorship for emerging professionals.

After studying a Master of Project Management, I switched gears to work in multidisciplinary management consulting and project management. I also founded and ran a small business offering consumers an opportunity to buy organic whole-foods while reducing single-use waste in our region.

In 2022, I was elected to Adelaide Hills Council where I served as a Councillor and then Deputy Mayor. In that role, I worked with community to get outcomes on cycling infrastructure, reducing waste, free period products, sustainable procurement and more. 

I’ve been a campaigner, arts manager, mentor, community volunteer, business owner and project manager. I know how to turn ideas into action.

Hear more from me in my first speech to Parliament