Social worker. Advocate. Mum.

 

Hi, I'm Melissa.

 

For more than 25 years, I've worked across alcohol and other drugs (AOD), disability, mental health, health promotion and community services, walking alongside individuals, families and communities through some of life's hardest moments.

 

My early career included working with ACON in New South Wales, where I was involved in community health promotion, harm reduction and outreach with LGBTQIA+ communities during a time when advocacy and social change were deeply needed. I then spent two decades working within a Therapeutic Community model that has reinforced my belief that people heal in connection, not isolation.  Recovery doesn't happen in a vacuum.  It happens in relationships, in community, and in the small moments where people feel loved, valued and can have a laugh.

 

Grounded in social work values and shaped by lived and professional experience, I bring authenticity, advocacy and genuine human connection to my work.  My practice is informed by strengths-based, relational and evidence-informed approaches, with a commitment to social justice, human rights and community wellbeing—and a smattering of optimism.

 

As a Mum, I understand family, connection, and the tenacity needed to show up for people when life gets hard.

 

I believe people are more than the challenges they face.  Life gets messy.  Systems can be hard to navigate.  But with honest conversations, practical support and strong advocacy, meaningful change is possible.

 

Pull up a chair. Put the kettle on. We'll work it out together.