Reimagining Safety and Security for Single Mothers

Describe your career trajectory and how you got to your current position.

During my time in the disability sector, I was honoured to represent SACOSS on the ACOSS board, where I connected with leaders of the National Council of Single Mothers & their Children. In 2006, I became aware of the challenging policy landscape facing single mothers and felt compelled to help. I joined the management committee and took on consultancy work while continuing to manage my executive role. I then embraced the opportunity to lead the organisation, driven by my dedication to making a difference for single mothers and their children.

My role is a blend of humility and excitement; it can feel overwhelming at times, yet it remains incredibly captivating. I experience a profound connection between my spirit and the work I engage in.

In the morning, I begin by addressing overnight messages and requests from single mothers, many of whom are facing crises and feeling overwhelmed or unsure about navigating the system. After taking a break to savor a coffee, I dive into my business tasks. These include managing network requests, crafting written materials like media releases and policy reports, and overseeing our social media accounts and website. Throughout the day, I also ensure that I stay available for calls that come through our 1800 number and respond to emails.

A significant challenge I face arises from a government decision made in 2015, which unilaterally altered our funding?the decision to cut the financing of our peak bodywork˜positions us as a poorly funded service provider. As a result, we struggle with ongoing conflicts between the expectations of my colleagues, Members of Parliament, government departments, and single mothers who require our policy work and advocacy. I've been left juggling both peak body functions and service provision while receiving only minimal funding for the latter. This situation requires a long-term commitment that extends beyond typical working hours. Despite my proactive efforts to tackle this issue, it remains unresolved.

Never stop believing in your capacity to achieve justice. Stay as creative and determined as you need to be to make it happen. Plus, someday, all that studying will be worth it.

The connections I've made with women have been truly special, from being appointed to the Women's Economic Equality Taskforce to speaking at the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women. The deep personal relationships formed during and outside of these experiences were remarkable. After fighting for over a decade to change social security rules for single mothers, I?m proud to say that in just the first year, our efforts have benefited 100,000 families, with 17 per cent from First Nations. ˜The work resulted in a public acknowledgment by the Prime Minister and a personal meeting, reaffirming that it was a remarkable ?win? for the ages.

It's all about the combination of gym and music for me, as I work through my frustrations about how the system is still oppressive, stigmatising, and unsafe for women who are doing incredible care work.

I just returned from Parliament House, and during the flight, I listened to a song by my son?s band, KIOS. I can easily picture him up on stage, and that thought keeps me grounded. It serves as a powerful reminder of what truly matters in life.