It’s a long way from a career in computers in Brisbane to a Home Care Franchise Manager living in a relaxed town near the beach on the New South Wales border. But it’s a journey Simone, 48, has been more than happy to undertake. 

Simone made the switch to the in-home support sector after a long and fulfilling career in information technology. Back then, Simone says she was looking to re-enter the workforce after spending time at home with her children and needed a flexible role that allowed her to be home by the end of the school day. 

With an Aged Care Certificate under her arm, Simone made the dramatic career change in 2014 which coincided with a move from Brisbane down the M1. Not long after that, she accepted her first job as a Support Worker at Just Better Care Gold Coast. Simone says she had seen first-hand the support her parents were needing, and going to need, and knew the care sector would be suited to her skills. 

“Right from my first shift, I loved the job, and it was where I knew I needed to be. I enjoyed working and interacting with customers and helping them achieve their goals. Support work was one of the most humbling and rewarding times in my life, with many customer stories and achievements leaving a lasting impression on me.”

Soon after, Simone accepted a position as Executive Assistant to the Director. Simone says it allowed her the chance to understand how the business works and how Support Workers and the office team make a difference to the running of the organisation. 

Her next role was again in the office, this time as Administration and Quality Manager. It was here Simone says she learned how the improvement and analysis of processes and the demand to meet compliance obligations ultimately impacted customers of Just Better Care. 

Today, Simone, who is now based in Tweed Heads, is the Franchise Manager for both the Gold Coast and the Northern Rivers offices. She says the knowledge she picked up from all her previous experiences gave her the confidence to take on such a “varied but challenging and rewarding” role. 

“I have progressed from Support Worker to Franchise Manager. It hasn’t been easy, but it has been very rewarding for me in terms of job satisfaction.”

While many Support Workers are content with their role assisting customers, the industry can also provide pathways to evolve your career. 

Simone says she finds it particularly rewarding to see a staff member start their journey with the organisation and witness them succeed in their role, learn new skills or move to other positions within Just Better Care.

Follow in Simone's footsteps by starting your own journey in care by looking at our positions in your local area.