This year, 2025, marks the 179th anniversary of the founding of our College – a Catholic school in the Mercy tradition. Located in the heart of the City of Perth and its beautiful heritage precinct, the College has the distinction of being the home of Australia’s first purpose-built Catholic school, on the original site of foundation. With its beautiful gardens and a mix of historic buildings and modern facilities, Mercedes College offers a unique and quality education for young women in Years 7 to 12.
At the heart of the College community is a commitment to nurturing faith, building relationships, and this year we embody the theme of “Pilgrims of Hope.” This theme, declared by Pope Francis for the 2025 Jubilee Year, emphasizes the journey of faith, hope, and renewal that individuals and communities undertake. It encourages people to trust in the light and creative power of hope, even in challenging times. Each member of the community is called to walk in the footsteps of Christ and in doing so, honour the heritage of Catherine McAuley and the Sisters of Mercy who, led by Ursula Frayne, laid the foundation for the College in 1846.
Mercedes College caters to young women from a wide variety of socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. It provides an extensive range of excellent academic, cultural, and sporting opportunities, balanced by a focus on spirituality and education in the Catholic faith. Dedicated staff encourage the students to become creative and confident future leaders through a tradition of academic rigor while nurturing a strong sense of social responsibility.
As a Mercy school, we are guided by our College values and strive each day to live by Catherine McAuley’s words:
“Perfection does not consist in doing extraordinary actions, but in performing extraordinarily well the ordinary actions of every day.”
We are committed to continuous improvement and progress, echoing Catherine McAuley’s belief that “to not go forward is to go backwards.”
We hope you enjoy browsing our website and gain a sense of the pride and joy we have in our College.
Dr Lucie McCrory
Principal