Eva Bacon

Australian socialist, feminist and pacifist

Eva Bacon was a prominent Australian socialist, feminist, and pacifist, active in Brisbane's political scene from the 1950s to the 1980s. Born Eva Goldner in Austria, she was raised in a environment that shaped her leftist views from a young age, leading her to join several political organizations. Following her escape from Nazi-occupied Austria in 1939, Goldner migrated to Australia, where she continued to engage in local and international politics.

As a committed member of the Communist Party of Australia and the Union of Australian Women, Bacon dedicated herself to various causes, including International Women's Day campaigns and childcare issues. Her involvement with organizations such as the Women's Electoral Lobby and the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom reflected her passion for feminist and pacifist ideals. Notably, she attended the 1975 UN World Conference on Women in Mexico, celebrating International Women's Year. Throughout her career, Bacon's advocacy often put her at odds with conservative figures, including Queensland Premier Joh Bjelke-Petersen, as she tirelessly worked to advance her vision for a more equitable society.