Professional Experience

With over two decades of experience in welfare and social services, I have worked extensively with individuals and families from diverse cultural backgrounds, including migrant, Aboriginal, and culturally and linguistically diverse communities. My experience spans across various sectors, from early childhood education to complex support coordination and leadership roles in the welfare sector.

• 10 years in Early Childhood Education and Development: In this role, I focused on early intervention and provided support to families and children, ensuring young children had access to developmentally appropriate resources to enhance their growth and well-being.
• 7 years in Youth Homelessness: I provided support to at-risk youth, assisting them in finding stable housing, and connecting them with necessary services like education, employment, and mental health support. I worked to address the underlying causes of homelessness and helped youth transition into independent living.
• VACCA (Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency) – Targeted Care Package (TCP) Program: I supported Aboriginal children removed from their homes by child protection services. My role involved ensuring culturally appropriate care, advocating for children’s rights, and coordinating therapeutic services to aid in their recovery and reunification when possible.
• Transitional and Long-Term Housing Support: I worked extensively with individuals and families in both transitional and long-term housing programs, providing ongoing support and advocating for stable housing solutions. My role involved assisting clients with access to resources, employment, and education to foster long-term independence.
• Facilitating Young Mothers' Program through City Council: I facilitated a program aimed at young mothers, helping them build life skills, manage parenting responsibilities, and access support systems. This program also offered resources in mental health support, education, and housing.
• Specialist Support Coordinator & Acting Team Leader at Melbourne City Mission (MCM):As a team leader, I provided guidance and mentorship to staff while ensuring the highest quality of care. I worked to coordinate services for vulnerable individuals and families, helping them access housing, mental health, and social services.
• Women’s Health West – Family Violence Case Manager: I worked closely with women and children affected by family violence, providing direct case management, liaising with emergency services, and advocating for safe housing and recovery programs.
• Crisis Response Team: As part of a Crisis Response Team, I collaborated with emergency services such as the police, providing immediate support to individuals in crisis situations. I was involved in first-response interventions and played a key role in de-escalating high-risk situations, ensuring that vulnerable individuals received the necessary support and safety.
• Experience with Migrant Communities: I’ve had the privilege of working with migrant families, assisting them with settlement services, housing, healthcare, and advocating for their rights and social inclusion.

My personal experiences as a parent of two children have further deepened my understanding of the challenges families face, which drives my passion for providing compassionate, holistic support. I am committed to empowering individuals and families to navigate complex systems such as housing, the NDIS, and child protection, ensuring they have the tools and resources to live fulfilling and independent lives.