Jo
Started with Auscare Support:
December 2024
What I do:
As a Specialist Support Coordinator at Auscare Support, I empower clients to navigate the NDIS, connect with essential services, and achieve their goals. I provide tailored guidance, manage complex needs, and collaborate with teams to ensure effective support planning and delivery, fostering independence and improved quality of life.
Unique skills:
With a Master’s degree in Social Work, a Diploma in Counselling, and lived experience of disability, I bring a unique combination of expertise and empathy to my work. I excel in developing innovative and practical solutions to help clients achieve their goals, using a person-centred, trauma-informed, and solution-focused approach.
Previous experience:
Prior to my role with Auscare Support I worked as a support coordinator at Caring Approach and a Peer Support worker at Forward Ability Support.
Other interesting roles:
Before transitioning into the social work and disability sector, I served as the director of my own import and distribution company, managing operations across Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. This role sharpened my expertise in business management, including exceptional time management, project coordination, logistics, and attention to detail.
These skills enable me to deliver timely, well-structured reports and tailored support, enhancing my clients’ opportunities for successful plan reviews and access to the resources they need to achieve their goals.
What’s Auscare Support like?
Auscare Support offers exceptional support and professional development for Support Coordinators, equipping us with the energy, expertise, and resources needed to deliver compassionate, informed, and up-to-date assistance to every client.
Life outside:
Outside of work I enjoy oil painting, writing, and spending time in the garden or with friends.
To sum me up:
If there’s one sentence that could sum me up it would be that I’m open-minded, empathetic, and honest.
Karina
Started with Auscare Support:
December 2024
What I do:
As a Support Coordinator, I empower participants to achieve their goals. I focus on their individual needs and support them in navigating complex systems. I am committed to building trust, fostering independence, and ensuring the best outcomes for participants and their families.
Unique skills:
I have lived experience as a woman with a disability as well as being a carer. I bring extensive knowledge of the disability and mental health sector to my role as Support Coordinator.
Previous experience:
I have worked as a specialist support worker with individuals with disabilities and complex support needs, as well as in case management for people incarcerated in prison. Over the past decade, I have gained extensive experience in mental health and supporting forensic clients who have had contact with the criminal justice system.
I understand how overwhelming it can be to navigate the many available services. I am passionate about advocating for clients and coordinating their access to services, empowering them to achieve their goals and live the life they choose.
Other interesting roles:
I worked in hospitality as a bartender for many years before transitioning into community services. During my time as a bartender, I developed strong communication skills, enabling me to convey empathy and warmth while truly listening to people’s needs. I also honed my ability to remain calm under pressure and solve problems effectively and efficiently.
What’s Auscare Support like?
The Auscare Support team is very welcoming and approachable. They share my values and are all dedicated to helping people achieve their goals.
Life outside:
I live with my partner and our beautiful 2-year-old dog. I’m a bit of a gamer and a science enthusiast. I enjoy reading science books and building Lego. Most of my days are spent taking our dog to the park, spoiling him with too many toys, and then relaxing on the couch watching re-runs of shows on Netflix.
To sum me up:
My partner describes me as curious, passionate, empathetic and kind.
Deborah
Started with Auscare Support:
August 2024
What I do:
As a Support Coordinator, I assist individuals in navigating the NDIS system, advocating for their rights, and ensuring they access the necessary supports and services to achieve their goals.
Unique skills:
I have lived experience as a woman with a disability, as well as a carer for a young person with disability. I was also raised by a parent who was legally blind and deaf. I understand the journey from many different angles.
Previous experience:
I have worked as an Advocate and AAT Appeals Officer, helping people access the NDIS after previous attempts failed, and assisting them in obtaining evidence-based reports to have their supports reconsidered. I have managed urgent transitions in complex situations, such as moving from unsuitable SIL arrangements or discharges from hospital back into the community.
I take pride in ensuring individuals’ concerns and complaints are heard and addressed by organisations like The Human Rights Commission and the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.
Other interesting roles:
I have worked with Assistance Animals and Therapy Pets, which has given me an understanding of how they can assist people and how to find a qualified and suitable services for individuals to access.
What’s Auscare Support like?
Very professional onboarding and great systems that allow Support Coordinators to do what they do best – navigating the NDIS and assisting people in reaching their goals.
Life outside:
My interests outside of work include spending time with my family, our dogs and horse, enjoying the bush and countryside, and collection pine cones and firewood for our open fire at home – to get through the cold Victorian weather, with its four seasons in one day!
To sum me up:
TBC
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Acquired Brain Injury Autism Cerebral Palsy Development Delay Down Syndrome Global Development Delay Hearing Impairment Multiple Sclerosis Other Neurological Other Physical Other Sensory Speech Psychosocial Disability Spinal Cord Injury Stroke Visual ImpairmentExperience with
Capacity Building Change of Circumstances Complex Behaviours Complex Care Equipment Home Modifications Individualised Living Options (ILOs) Level 1: Support Connection Level 2: Coordination of Supports Level 3: Specialist Support Coordination LGBTQIA+ Plan Reviews SDA SIL The Administrative Appeals Tribunal Trauma Under 18s Young AdultLil
Started with Auscare Support:
November 2024
What I do:
As a Support Coordinator, I assist NDIS participants in accessing supports and services to help them build rich, fulfilling lives.
Unique skills:
I am a keen listener, committed to ensuring the people I work with get access to quality supports.
Previous experience:
I’ve worked as a support worker and carer, assisting people with disabilities and the elderly. This experience has deepened my appreciation for person-centered care and strengthened my commitment to building relationships that honor each person’s dignity, inclusion, and independence. Along the way, I have developed valuable skills in emotional support, attention to detail, and adaptability. I have also worked in education, teaching gardening skills and facilitating therapeutic horticulture experiences. Through these roles, I gained expertise in program design, mentoring, and creating personalized interventions.
Other interesting roles:
I have worked in small-scale farming as both an employee and the owner-operator of a micro vegetable farm. For four years, I grew food for restaurants and vegetable boxes. It was an extremely rewarding experience, and I learned a lot. Now, I grow for my own needs and sell seedlings.
What’s Auscare Support like?
With Auscare, you gain access to excellent training and a community of professionals with extensive industry knowledge and experience.
Life outside:
I enjoy staying active through ocean swimming, surfing, yoga, and running. I also have a passion for music and dancing. I play the flute and occasionally muster the courage to perform for others.
To sum me up:
Endlessly fascinated by life and deeply passionate about the outdoors.
Elle
Started with Auscare Support:
June 2024
What I do:
As a support coordinator I help individuals with disabilities to navigate the NDIS, and connect them with various services to suit their needs and goals so they are able to live their best life.
Unique skills:
Empathy, Patience.
Previous experience:
Previously worked as an OT assistant and support worker. These were my first roles in the disability sector, I found them both very rewarding and they have given me plenty of skills to help me as a support coordinator.
Other interesting roles:
Orthodontic assistant- this fast paced environment taught me how to work effectively and efficiently whilst also caring for patients. Beauty therapy. This one is in the name “therapy” my days as a beauty therapist taught me how to listen and understand clients needs not only physically but mentally.
What’s Auscare Support like?
Auscare support is amazing. The definition of team spirit. Everyone is supportive and kind.
Life outside:
I love to go camping with my husband and 3 kids. We love to travel around. When we are home we all love to ride motorbikes and play soccer.
To sum me up:
Fun and sometimes loud, yet caring and kind.
Adrienne
Started with Auscare Support:
May 2024
What I do:
As a Support Coordinator, I support people to build their independence, gain a better understanding of their NDIS plan and coordinate their supports. I am passionate about supporting people to reach their goals.
Unique skills:
Strong relationship building skills, empathetic, organised, person-centred, efficient, calm under pressure and a happy disposition.
Previous experience:
I started my career as a School Learning Support Officer supporting children with disabilities in schools. I found this role extremely rewarding and it kickstarted my career in the disability sector.
I then began working as an ABA Therapist working with children with Autism. From there I found Support Coordination and have been in the role since.
Other interesting roles:
In the past I have volunteered in animal shelters, worked as a Childcare Educator as well as a Nanny for various families. These roles helped me to further develop my ability to display compassion, build relationships and face challenges head on.
What’s Auscare Support like?
Auscare is extremely supportive whilst always striving for the best outcomes.
Life outside:
Coastal swimming, spending time with my dog outdoors, spending time with family and watching the footy.
To sum me up:
I am genuine, caring and driven to achieve the best possible outcomes for the people I support.
Lisa
Started with Auscare Support:
April 2024
What I do:
As a Support Coordinator, I assist people with diverse needs to implement NDIS plans & build teams around them to enable skill development, solution finding & enhancing participation in community life.
Unique skills:
I’ve worked in the local community (Far North Coast/Northern Rivers/ Bundjalung Country) for many years in various community service roles, from domestic violence court support,
Previous experience:
I have worked in disability in variety of roles from, managing day programs, sector support, alcohol & other drug counselling, mental health support & now support coordination.
Other interesting roles:
Interests are in dementia, traumatic brain injury, mental health.
What’s Auscare Support like?
The welcome & the can do attitude.
Life outside:
Environmental protection, social justice, cloud appreciation & growing gardens.
To sum me up:
I’m a quiet observer that gets things done.
Jade
Started with Auscare Support:
March 2024
What I do:
As a Support Coordinator, I work with Participants to navigate the NDIS, empower them to build capacity by engaging service providers and assist them to achieve their goals.
Unique skills:
I am patient, empathetic and have an eye for detail. I strive to connect with each Participant by listening to what they want to achieve and empower them to make informed decisions. I am a critical thinker and creatively solve problems to addressing barriers to accessing services.
Previous experience:
After completing a Bachelor of Policing and Bachelor of Social Science (Honours), I worked for the NSW Police Force for ten years in a range of roles including intelligence coordination for Counter Terrorism and project lead for Hate Crime. More recently I’ve worked as an Operations Manager in the allied health services sector, advocating for quality supports and ensuring compliance with the NDIS. My unique work experience has allowed me to gain a robust understanding of how people living with disabilities are impacted by the criminal justice system, care agencies, the local community and their families.
Other interesting roles:
I have a passion for being involved in the community and have been volunteering with the Rural Fire Service in NSW, which has led me to form connections with a range of people coming together to give back to the community and built my resilience in dealing with challenging situations.
What’s Auscare Support like?
Auscare’s passion for empowering and innovating support for individuals shines through in every employee and their genuine care for their work. The ability to have independence and flexibility is also great for work/life balance.
Life outside:
My family are very much outdoor people! Any spare time I have with my husband, two children and our long-haired chihuahua is spent in nature. Fishing, snorkeling, four-wheel driving, and hiking are our favourite activities.
To sum me up:
I am a compassionate, adaptable, and curious soul, with a thirst for knowledge and have a knack for finding solutions in every situation.
Mandy
Started with Auscare Support:
April 2021
What I do:
I connect my clients with the services that will help them to achieve their goals and aspirations. This includes support workers, psychologists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, day programs, short-term accommodation, group activities and supported independent living.
Unique skills:
I think one of my best qualities in this role is being adaptive and forward thinking. My outlook is to always be positive and find something good out of every situation.
Previous experience:
I moved to the Gold Coast in 2018 from Tasmania to set up Disability Employment Offices across the Gold Coast and Tweed Regions. Finding employment opportunities for people with disabilities has been a long-term and strong passion that has helped improve and change people’s lives.
What is Auscare Support Like:
Auscare Support offers me flexibility to enjoy my lifestyle and to do things I love. I can then also help others to achieve the things they dream of. It’s great to be with a supportive company with expert knowledge to help with any tricky situation.
Life outside:
I love the Gold Coast weather and enjoy exploring new places and trails, fishing and travel. I also enjoy painting, being creative and spending quiet times at home with family.
To sum me up:
I like to be responsive to my participants and to get things done.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Acquired Brain Injury Autism Cerebral Palsy Development Delay Down Syndrome Global Development Delay Hearing Impairment Other Neurological Other Physical Other Sensory Speech Psychosocial Disability Spinal Cord Injury StrokeExperience with
Capacity Building Change of Circumstances Complex Behaviours Complex Care Equipment Home Modifications Individualised Living Options (ILOs) Level 2: Coordination of Supports Level 3: Specialist Support Coordination LGBTQIA+ Plan Reviews SDA SIL The Administrative Appeals Tribunal Trauma Under 18s Young AdultTamara
Started with Auscare Support:
May 2023
What I do:
As a Support Coordinator I will work with you and your support network to work towards helping to achieve your goals, live more independently, be included in your community and identify your personal support needs.
Unique skills:
Skills that relate to my day-to-day job are not limited to include: Trauma informed practice, critical thinking, patient, creativity, creative problem solving, I have lived experience with trauma and disability which I believe gives me a deeper understanding of the challenges that face children and young people with disabilities in the out of home care sector and taking a holistic approach to each individual.
Previous experience:
House parent in OOHC
Foster Carer
Disability and Aged Care Support worker
SIL Team Leader
Day Service, Outreach and Group Activities Service Coordinator
Other interesting roles:
Telephone IT Support dealing with people over the phone trying to problem solve technical issues to people that may not have any knowledge in this area.
Security Guard in various venues dealing with some culture diversity and language barriers.
Community Banking creating and assisting in a variety of community activities and functions.
Meal on Wheels being repour within the community and community providers
What’s Auscare Support like?:
Auscare Support are very welcoming and supportive. I am looking forward to getting to know the team and building rapport and relationships.
Life outside:
My dog, being creative- woodwork, Cricut machine, visual and creative arts, plants, seeing my best friend, camping and spending time in nature.
To sum me up:
I am a driven, hard-working and am passionate about community, equality and working with disadvantaged children.
Tanya
Started with Auscare Support:
July 2020
What I do:
I connect participants to services within the community, including crisis support. I also make sure that I connect with my clients weekly to see how they are going and assist them to fulfil their goals using their allocated funding in the best ways possible.
Unique skills:
I bring personal experience of the disability sector to my role at Auscare Support and have the ability to advocate for myself and others with patience and determination.
Previous experience:
I worked at Family Advocacy and volunteered to help friends connect with services in the community (pre NDIS).
Other interesting roles:
I have also worked in the hospital system in mental health.
What’s Auscare Support like?
I love helping people and love that Auscare support can enable me to do this.
Life outside:
I like diamond painting, handcycling, walking my dog Elvis, going out for coffee with my partner and with friends.
To sum me up:
“It’s not what you do, it’s how you do it! It’s not what you see, it’s how you look at it! It’s not how your life is, it’s how you live it.” —Unknown
Nicholas
Started with Auscare Support:
February 2021
What I do:
I assist participants with maximising the usage of their NDIS plans and funding to achieve their goals and support them in building capacity and skills.
Unique skills:
Positive influence and thinking outside the box. I bring creativity and imagination to overcoming challenges my clients face.
Previous experience:
I have done support work, worked with CALD communities, have been in disability service provider management as well as a psychology therapy assistant.
Other interesting roles:
I have a unique and varied past, which includes: photographer, chef, aircraft interior designer, florist, motor trimmer and executive assistant.
What’s Auscare Support like?
It’s a flexible, autonomous and supportive organisation.
Life outside:
I enjoy photography, swimming, hiking, cooking and art.
To sum me up:
I can adapt to any situation and thrive in a fluctuating environment. I transform unexpected obstacles into stepping stones for achievements.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Acquired Brain Injury Autism Cerebral Palsy Development Delay Down Syndrome Global Development Delay Hearing Impairment Multiple Sclerosis Other Neurological Other Physical Other Sensory Speech Psychosocial Disability Spinal Cord Injury Stroke Visual ImpairmentExperience with
Capacity Building Change of Circumstances Complex Behaviours Complex Care Equipment Home Modifications Individualised Living Options (ILOs) Level 1: Support Connection Level 2: Coordination of Supports Level 3: Specialist Support Coordination LGBTQIA+ Plan Reviews SDA SIL The Administrative Appeals Tribunal Trauma Under 18s Young AdultLija
Started with Auscare Support:
January 2020
What I do:
My role is to support clients with understanding and implementing their NDIS Plan as well as help determine their support, therapy or care requirements. I prioritise capacity building, with an emphasis on choice and control.
Unique skills:
I’m a parent of a child with a disability so I am able to relate as a Carer as well as Support Coordinator in my role. The opportunity to make a difference and play a part in achieving positive outcomes for my clients is the most rewarding part of my role as a Support Coordinator.
Previous experience:
I started my career in the disability sector eight years ago. I have experience working as a Support Worker, a Teacher’s Aide and as an Office Manager in a School for Specific Purposes.
Other interesting roles:
My son has Muscular Dystrophy and uses an electric wheelchair for mobility. I am the Junior Coordinator of Wheelchair Soccer. I help to establish junior teams in the NSW Powerchair Football competition so that my son, and other young people with a disability, can participate.
What’s Auscare Support like?:
As a parent who has a child with a disability, the flexibility to schedule my own work hours is so important. It ensures that my clients receive the highest level of service whilst my son receives all of the care he needs.
Life outside:
I enjoy swimming and paddle boarding.
To sum me up:
I am very family focused, diligent, loyal and passionate about supporting others.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Acquired Brain Injury Autism Cerebral Palsy Development Delay Down Syndrome Global Development Delay Multiple Sclerosis Other Neurological Other Physical Psychosocial Disability Spinal Cord Injury StrokeExperience with
Capacity Building Change of Circumstances Complex Behaviours Complex Care Equipment Home Modifications Level 2: Coordination of Supports Level 3: Specialist Support Coordination LGBTQIA+ Plan Reviews Psychosocial Recovery Coaching SDA SIL The Administrative Appeals Tribunal Trauma Under 18s Young AdultLachelle
Started with Auscare Support:
October 2017
What I do:
I support participants and their families to get the best outcomes from their NDIS Plan. I contact and liaise with service providers and link participants with community networks.
Unique skills:
I am caring, empathetic, funny, and have a positive attitude.
Previous experience:
I started my career in the disability sector as an employment consultant then became a vocational counsellor in injury management. I worked as a specialist rehabilitation counsellor and rehabilitation specialist, supporting injured workers to return to work.
I have also been a Support Worker and a team leader at a group home, a youth mentor and case manager before moving into a Support Coordinator role.
Other interesting roles:
I’m an actor and occasionally get short roles and television commercials!
What’s Auscare Support like?
I love the teamwork, autonomy, and the support I get from my coaches, colleagues, and management. I love the collaboration with families, community and clinical supports. I believe we put people before profits, and I love that.
Life outside:
I hang out with my daughter, listen to music, and play ukulele.
To sum me up:
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”- Eleanor Roosevelt. I think we should all believe in our dreams.
Krysten
Started with Auscare Support:
September 2020
What I do:
I establish links between participants and service providers, resolve complex issues, engage in higher level inter-agency liaison for complex cases as well as project research.
Unique skills:
I have the ability to conceptualise a variety of solutions to achieve the best outcome for my clients. I have an in depth knowledge of local service providers and an extensive network within the Shoalhaven disability and community welfare sectors. This ensures that my clients connect with the service providers best suited to meet their needs.
Previous experience:
I’ve been an out-of-home care caseworker; a disability group home manager; a disability caseworker; strategic policy developer and business owner. Did I mention multitasking mum?
Other interesting roles:
I am a lead trail rider at a recreational horse riding ranch!
What’s Auscare Support like?
I receive amazing support from my Plan Managers and Support Coordination coach. Can’t praise them enough. They are smart, responsive and knowledgeable.
Life outside:
I like to go to the gym and research health and nutrition.
To sum me up:
I will always put a different spin on a situation and offer a perspective that you had not previously been aware of.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Acquired Brain Injury Autism Cerebral Palsy Development Delay Down Syndrome Global Development Delay Hearing Impairment Multiple Sclerosis Other Neurological Other Physical Other Sensory Speech Psychosocial Disability Spinal Cord Injury Stroke Visual ImpairmentExperience with
Capacity Building Change of Circumstances Complex Behaviours Complex Care Equipment Home Modifications Individualised Living Options (ILOs) Level 1: Support Connection Level 2: Coordination of Supports Level 3: Specialist Support Coordination LGBTQIA+ Plan Reviews SDA SIL Trauma Under 18s Young Adult