With the Prime Minister, and many others, labelling the aged care and community sector in crisis, Suncare Community Services, one of South East Queensland’s leading community service providers, has taken its time to ensure its new CEO, Melanie Wilson is the strongest choice to navigate the troubled waters.
Ms Wilson has extensive experience in national public, private and not-for-profit sectors, having led RSL Queensland through a period of transformation as well as the Australian Surf Life Saving Foundation and the Australian Red Cross Blood Service.
“I strongly believe in leading with purpose and to enter the aged care and community sector at this time, when we are experiencing more challenges than ever before, calls for empathy and a solution-focussed approach to our client’s needs,” said Ms Wilson.
“Having been a significant part of the community for more than 50 years, Suncare has a fabulous reputation and has continued to be a leader in innovation, regardless of the hurdles being thrown its way. I plan on continuing on this path and listen to what our clients require of us.”
With almost two thirds of aged care consumers accessing basic support services in their home[1], and with a significant shift in our elderly choosing to stay in their own homes, Suncare Community Services understands that the industry workforce shortage is one of the biggest challenges for 2022.
“I know how important the team behind the dream is and I will be looking to attract and build our staff this year with people who genuinely want to make a difference in a person’s life.”
“We currently have 134 positions available across our Sunshine Coast, North Lakes, Hervey Bay, Bundaberg, Rockhampton and Gold Coast locations, and we will be looking for people interested in a mid-career change, mums who need flexibility with their hours, or students who are looking for some lived experience.”
National Skills Commission data highlights the growing need for workers in the care economy – across health, aged care and disability services and cites that by 2025 another million workers will be needed, with one in four working across those care and service industries[2].
With people exercising their choice to have the same regular support workers or care providers each day there is more pressure for providers to keep a consistent and happy workforce.
Suncare Community Services Chairman Mario Pennisi said that Ms Wilson’s proven experience in creating a healthy, thriving workplace culture and her problem-solving through strategy and innovation is in perfect alignment with the organisation’s values.
“Melanie possesses a realistic optimism and it is evident from her past experience she is a socially conscious CEO, who prioritises delivering maximum impact for those communities she serves and has a strong track record in achieving business objectives in line with best practice governance standards,” said Mr Pennisi.
“We are looking forward to Melanie becoming an integral part of this organisation and leading with genuine care and compassion with an equal focus on people and outcomes.”
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Media contact: Helen Perry, Fresh PR & Marketing | P: 0431 065 964 | E: helen@freshprm.com.au
ABOUT SUNCARE COMMUNITY SERVICES: The not-for-profit organisation was established on the Sunshine Coast in 1970, where it served Meals on Wheels to the vulnerable and aging population. It has now grown to more than 400 staff and volunteers across Queensland, helping people stay in their homes for longer. It offers aged care, transport, respite, Meals on Wheels and indigenous support services.
[1] https://www.gen-agedcaredata.gov.au/www_aihwgen/media/ROACA/ROACA-Key-Facts-2021.pdf?ext=.pdf
[2] https://insideageing.com.au/national-worker-crunch-to-deepen-aged-care-staff-shortages/
