I have helped to deliver numerous regional, state and national initiatives that engaged a wide range of people and communities in work to improve responses to a range of entrenched social issues, including suicide, homelessness, domestic violence, and institutional abuse. 

 

I also regularly provide advice and other support to public sector agencies and non-government organisations seeking to effectively engage and partner with people with lived experience.

 

My expertise in the field of lived experience capability building is reflected in my appointment to two senior leadership roles: the National Mental Health Commission’s inaugural Director, Lived Experience and Deputy Commissioner (Lived Experience, the Mental Health Commission of NSW.

 

My practice is grounded in a longstanding history in community advocacy and organising. Through this work I have contributed to a wide range of efforts to tackle complex social challenges and improve care for people experiencing distress and despair, including the development of peer-led approaches and place-based initiatives.

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With a background as a writer, art critic and curator, I have a particular interest in creative approaches to fostering individual and community wellbeing.

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