Hello and thanks to the many of you who have already made me feel so welcome.
In many ways, stepping into the role of TasCOSS CEO feels like a natural culmination of more than 30 years spent representing people and working alongside communities.
Having worked across government, local government and the community services industry, including 16 years as CEO of Cystic Fibrosis Tasmania, I have seen firsthand the power of community voices and the importance of advocacy in creating meaningful change.
At every step, I’ve been motivated by a desire to ensure the voices of people most affected by decisions are heard and respected.
More often than not, this is Tasmanians living on low and inadequate incomes. Perhaps that is why the Purpose and Vision of TasCOSS resonated with me so strongly.
In times of growing complexity and uncertainty, a effective and valued community services industry is the key to a thriving Tasmania, and remains TasCOSS’s central focus.
TasCOSS has a history as a courageous advocate for social justice and a vital peak body for the industry. It is my hope that the relationships, policy experience and advocacy skills I have developed throughout my career will serve me well in this role.
At the same time, I am very aware that I have much to learn and I am under no illusions about the challenges that lie ahead for our industry and the people we support, which were highlighted for all to see in last month’s Tasmanian Budget.
Over the next few months I’ll be doing my best impression of a sponge. My goal is to meet as many of you — our valued members — across the state as possible. To listen and to learn about the tremendous work you’re doing, and ask how TasCOSS can best support and advocate for you, to ultimately deliver better outcomes for those who rely on your services.
If you’d like to connect, I’d encourage you to get in touch to set up a meeting. I’m also looking forward to the opportunity to meet with members at the upcoming northern networking event at Peppers Silo Hotel, Launceston (Kings Wharf Lounge West) on Thursday 9 July 2026.
In case you missed the news, I’m not the only new face. The Hon Jane Howlett MP, has been sworn in as the new Minister for Community Services and Multicultural Affairs, while Marcus Vermey MP has also been appointed to the role of Parliamentary Secretary for Community and Multicultural Affairs. I’ve already reached out to both of them to start our advocacy.
I look forward to working with all of you to ensure the community services industry gets the recognition and respect it deserves.