SUPPORT COORDINATORS AND SPECIALIST SUPPORT COORDINATORS

I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Dharawal people.

Rachael has a background as a Social Worker in complex disability, housing, mental health and drug and alcohol addiction in the health and community settings. 

Rachael is experienced and passionate about the success of the NDIS scheme, the legislation and how Support Coordinators can contribute to a healthy, authentic, honest and vibrant community of providers getting it right for participants!

Rachael’s passion moving forward is creating a positive and rewarding internal Approved by Frankie culture. Continuous systems and process improvements, continuous professional development and mentoring are top priorities. A partnership with the most dynamic and innovative organisational wellbeing and safety company has additionally all contributed to a team who  trust and believe in our mission and are willing to give everything they have to help achieve participants goals. 

Central to the "Team Frankie" ethos is mutual respect, nurturing and career satisfaction which ultimately leads to the most positive participant outcomes.

I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Tharawal people.

With an undergraduate degree in Psychology, and Master of Counselling, Vanessa also has further training in suicide prevention, changes in behaviour, end of life and palliative care, and achieving purposeful engagement for persons with a disability

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Vanessa has worked in the Disability sector for 10 years, in the capacity of Support Coordination, Specialist Support Coordination, community access support, day and community programs, short term accommodation, Supported Independent Living, and outreach programs.

The bulk of Vanessa’s career in recent years has been supporting people with Younger Onset Dementia. Vanessa key strength is being a good listener, and someone who focuses on building independence of others through person-centred care with a passion and specialty in neurodegenerative and psychosocial disabilities.

I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Darug people.

Ash is a veteran of the disability sector with 19 years experience and holds a Diploma of Disability. He has worked as a Disability Support Practitioner supervisor and Group home manager in Supported Living environments. He has also managed respite environments for adults and children.

Ash is passionate about what he does and loves the support coordination role. 

I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Wangal and Cadigal people.

Louise Hamilton is a Wiradjuri woman from the Narrungdera people, (meaning place of lizards), (Narrandera, English spelling) NSW. The totem animal belonging to the Wiradjuri people is the Frilled Neck Lizard.

Louise’s Grandfather is a Bundjalung man. The Bundjalung Country extends across Northern NSW to Southeast Queensland with the Logan River as the northern boundary and the southern boundary is the Lower Clarence River.

Wiradjuri connections stem back to one of the first Missions established on our Wiradjuri lands, Waragdesda, the Mission was shut down in1908. Warangesda. We are also connected to family who lived at the Erambie Mission.

Wiranjuri is one of the biggest Aboriginal Countries of Australia also known as the land of many rivers. Louises Ancestors roamed the land and rivers, the Lachlan, Macquarie and Murrumbidgee hunting and gathering through the seasons. 

Louises family with many other Wiradjuri people moved to Sydney when she was three years old in 1971, with the thought of obtaining more educational and employment opportunities for themselves and their children.

Louise joins Team Frankie with experience as a School Teacher for 10 years, Nursing, Mental Health and homelessness and a passion to walk with people on their healing journeys and to assist people with a disability achieve their goals. 

I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Dharawal people.

Hanna has a Bachelor of Applied Psychology with over 10 years experience working with intellectual disabilities and complex mental health as a Workplace Facilitator, Job Coach and then a NDIS Coordinator. 

Hanna is motivated, kind and confident with great interpersonal skills. She has a deep respect and passion for empowering people with a disability and believes everyone is unique in their own way. 

Hanna is a great asset to the Frankie team.

I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Bidjigal and Gadigal people.

Originally from Ireland, Caroline holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Care Work. Caroline has over 4 years experience supporting people who are living with a psychosocial disability. This ranges from Support Coordination, a supervisor within SIL setting and assisting individuals gain access to the NDIS. 

Specialising in complex mental health,

Caroline takes a strengths based and recovery orientated approach. Caroline works on building a person-centred relationship with each individual she supports to ensure they feel empowered in making decisions for their well-being. 

Caroline encourages hopefulness during the journey of recovery that each individual person is on. 

I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Wiradjuri people.

Ray has worked in the disability sector for 15 years. The last 3 as a Support Coordinator. Ray has a Cert IV in Disability and started in the ADE (Australian Disability Enterprise) role. Ray has worked in SIL (Supported Independent Living) homes as well as spending sometime in the CJP (Community Justice Program.) Ray's expertise with participants as a support coordinator ensures he understands their complex NDIS plans. Ray has a person-centered approach which also helps his participants reach their goals and makes sure the participants voices are heard. 

I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Cadigal Wangle people.

With a keen interest in the mind, Georgia possesses an honours degree in psychology, and is currently furthering her education in emergency medicine. Through extensive work overseas, she has exposure to working with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures, as well as a wealth of experience in child care and development. With a passion for people, Georgia aspires to support people through their unique journeys through person-centred care, encouraging independence and autonomy to achieve their goals.  

I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Dharawal people.

Katie has a Bachelors degree in Psychology and extensive experience in the mental health space.

Katie is passionate about simplifying the NDIS, to make it understandable and accessible to all. She is described by participants who she has worked with, as very helpful, compassionate, and knowledgeable.“I remember my first day, in my first NDIS job… I was so confused and thought I was completely out of my depth. I have persisted and come a long, long way since then. I know how it feels to have no idea, and I draw on this memory all the time. I truly believe the complication of the NDIS system should not hold anyone back from making the most of it… That’s why you have us.”

Katie utilises her personal and professional experience to provide an individualised and compassionate approach to Specialist Support Coordination. 

I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Dharawal people.

Lauren is a kind and compassionate Registered Nurse with over 15 years experience. Specialising in Neurology, Oncology and Palliative care. She also has experience in Orthopaedics, respiratory and Cardiology and has been a University clinical facilitator for 2 years, teaching nursing students.

Lauren has worked in the NDIS setting for the last two years as a Support Coordinator and in Diabetes Management. 

Lauren is a great asset to the team particularly with complex hospital discharges and for people who have complex disability related health requirements.

I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Dharawal people.

Emma has a bachelor of education and Masters of social work. She has worked in the disability sector for over 12 years as a Support Worker for adults and children, Special Education teacher, Manager of children's respite program and in child protection.

Emma has a passion for empowering people in their decision making and supporting them in accessing their goals and opportunities to build their independence and quality of life.

I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Wiradjuri people.

Troy has 20 years' experience working with coexisting disorders / dual diagnosis clients specifically in the field of mental health and drug and alcohol. He is currently registered with the Australian Counselling Association and has a Postgraduate diploma of Counselling and a bachelor's degree in social science welfare. 

Troy has a passion for working with people with complex trauma and major mental health issues, working with government agencies case managing participants with various diagnosed mental health conditions.

Troy his very familiar with local services having developed relationships for over the past 20 years, which enables him to link participants to the right services. 

The cornerstone of the work Troy does with participants is based on the ideals of empathy, empowerment, equality and social justice. 

Troy is committed to improving the life of the individuals he supports and find's great pleasure in connecting with participants, creating security in the relationship and assisting them to reach the outcomes that they are looking for. 

I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Dharug nation..

 Jaskirat (Jas) holds a Bachelor in Human Sciences, majoring in counselling.

 She was introduced to the disability sector by volunteering at a Day Program for participants with psychosocial disabilities. 

Jas previously worked with the NDIA for six years as both a planner and housing assessor where she developed a comprehensive understanding of the NDIS system and observed how access to supports has enriched lives of participants. 

Prior to joining Approved by Frankie, Jas worked for a State Government agency, supporting injured and unwell officers.

She has a passion for helping people and is proud to support participants navigate the world leading NDIS system.

  Jas speaks English, Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu.

I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Darkinjung people.

Simone has a diploma in community service coordination and 30 years of extensive experience in management, as a business owner and frontline work.

Simone is passionate about support coordination being implemented as the scheme intended. Supporting individuals to be autonomous in decision making and ensuring formal support is set up and working for participants.  Simone is focused on driving continuous improvement in our practice through active listening and collaboration is key to success.  

I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Darug people.

Mona is a highly motivated and skilled caseworker who has served families and children for over 10 years. As a skilled professional specialising in working with a number of stakeholders, families and carers, Mona aims to assist those in need to achieve permanency and health goals to improve their quality of life.

Mona possesses an honours degree in psychology and has worked with government agencies, in the capacity of child protection, employment consultancy, quality assurance and continuous improvement, family preservation, and an educator for children. The bulk of Mona’s career in recent years has been supporting children and young people at risk of significant harm.

 Mona’s key strength is being a good listener, and someone who focuses on building independence of others through person-centred care with a passion for improving people's mental health wellbeing.

I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Darug and Guringai people.

Anthony has a Bachelor degree in both Psychology and Education . He comes with a great breadth of experience in Primary Education, Youth Work and as a Support Worker. He joins the Frankies as a Support Coordinator with a firm knowledge of NDIS processes with significant experience in supporting individuals of all ages with diverse needs. 

Anthony utilises his skills as an excellent communicator, tenacious problem solver and compassionate advocate to assist participants meet their goals.

I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Bediagal people of the Dharug nation.

Susan has a Diploma in Mental Health and 20 years of casework experience in partner organisations. Susan works with people by building rapport and always considers a team approach to gain the best possible outcomes for the participant.

Susan is a testament to the people who have worked with mental health consumers for many years and we so proud to call her part of the Frankie team.

I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Dharawal people.

Previous to working in the disability and within the NDIS Karen worked as a disruption coordinator for Qantas Short Haul Tech Crew so she is an expert organiser and multitasker.

Karen feels strongly about empowering people to be their own advocate, to create a can-do attitude and understand the complexities of the NDIS.

Karen’s father is currently living with dementia and her skills and experience in the NDIS and participants living with younger onset dementia has been invaluable in supporting her father and family.

 I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Dharawal people.

With a Diploma of Community Services,
Cert III in Aged Care and Disability and disability industry experience for over 6 years.  Jessica has developed skills in community engagement, ability to work with complex needs and helping clients to reach their NDIS goals.

As a support coordinator Jessica feel strongly about providing a person-centred approach ensuring the clients, families and carers are at the centre of the decision making. Jessica strengths are her drive to ensure a person-centred approach, ability to build rapport with a diverse range of people and fantastic interpersonal and communication skills. 

I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Dharawal people.

Sushei (for short) has a diverse career spanning 20 years’ experience in project management, hospitality and disability services. Sushei has a proven ability of successfully leading cross-functional teams to develop innovative solutions that meet client goals.

 Sushei began working in the NDIS space 5 years ago at a local Community College. She has worked across community programs and accommodation disability settings with a range of clients with differing care needs. Sushei has expertise and a passion for making sure the participants NDIS journey is seamless and well supported.

I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Dharawal people.

Andrew has been working within the NDIS sector for 5 years. Currently, he is undertaking a Bachelor of Project Management after transitioning from an engineering course. Throughout Andrew's career he has worked in an SDA setting, working with clients to establish their accommodation supports. 

Andrew has also been a disability support worker, working with complex clients and has experience in complex mental health. Andrew has a client centred approach and believes communication and relationship building is key in implementing successful supports. 

I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Cadigal tribe of the Dora people.

Dee has worked in disability and Aged Care support for 4 years and is passionate about creating opportunities for her participants. Highly organised and with expertise in psycho-social disability and Younger Onset Dementia, Dee is known for her organisational skills, attention to detail and prompt. Dee is able to connect with participants who don’t often allow people to connect with them. 

I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Dharawal people.

Ruby has extensive knowledge and experience in the NDIS housing space, including SIL (Supported Independent Living), SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation) and ILO (Individualised Living Options). Ruby’s experience in the disability sector has equipped her with a thorough understanding of participants’ support needs to inform interpretation of their NDIS plan and has an in-depth understanding of the Agency’s plan review processes. She is passionate about empowering people with a disability to achieve their goals and to help guide them through the constantly changing space of the NDIS. 

I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Dharawal people.

Caitlin has been working within the NDIS space for four years. She is well-versed in Supported independent living (SIL), Specialist disability accommodation (SDA), and Community Cooperative Living. 

Caitlin has firsthand knowledge, having grown up with a brother who has Autism and a severe intellectual disability.

Caitlin is dedicated to assisting participants in achieving their NDIS goals and living the life they desire.

I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Dharawal people.

Robyn was introduced to the disability sector initially from personal experience. Robyn's six year old son has Autism and global developmental delay and ADHD.

Being a stay at home mum at the time Robyn learned the ins and outs of what therapy and assistance was available through the NDIS increasing her knowledge. Robyn has also obtained a Cert 3 in Individual Support. Working as a disability support worker Robyn has gained experience in Aged Care, Dementia care, Seizures, Epilepsy and Diabetic care.

Working with an array of clients Robyn discovered a passion for supporting those with a disability to achieve and exceed their personal goals and to encourage clients to have choice and control of their own lives and stand with them in their NDIS journey. 

I pay my respects to the traditional custodians of the land in which I work, the Dharug people.

Sue has a Bachelor of Commerce, with a major in management, and extensive experience in finance, administration and operations.

Prior to becoming a Frankie, Sue was working in the not for profit sector, organising air and ground transport for seriously ill children from rural and regional NSW and the ACT to access treatment in children's hospitals in Sydney and Newcastle.

Through her lived experience of Down Syndrome and Younger Onset Dementia, Sue has developed a deep understanding of the NDIS and a passionate belief that people with disablities deserve every opportunity to live the life they choose.

Her compassion and empathy, and her ability to build rapport, make Sue a strong advocate for her clients and their families.