“I’d always had interest in finance and business, however a year and half into my accounting and business degree I was questioning whether I wanted to work in that field for the rest of my life,” Liz said.
“I spoke to the Dean at the university and he advised me to try one of the courses in the social science department as my interest was in the community sector rather than the business world.”
It was while studying her social science degree that Liz got into support work.
“A family friend asked if I wanted to try a support work while I completed my degree, but I was reluctant as I didn’t have any experience working with people living with disability,” she said.
“I gave it a go for two weeks work experience and the rest is history. I saw firsthand the difference I was making in the lives of the individuals that I supported.”
Ten years on, Liz hasn’t looked back.
“I have been coordinating and case managing in different organisations ever since,” she said.
Joining the MercyCare Disability team in late 2020, Liz said she was drawn to the organisation for the values it stands by.
“I valued the MercyCare mission and values as it aligns with my values,” she said.
“MercyCare offers a range of services and programs to the most vulnerable which is what I’ve been a part of and I wanted to continue making a difference.”
As Area Coordinator, Liz supports disability participants to reach their goals and ensure they are receiving the highest quality service.
“My job is to advocate for and support the participants to exercise choice and control in the service they receive, make sure they are receiving consistent high-quality service and advocate for the individual,” she said.
Liz said making a difference in peoples’ lives was what motivates her each day.
“What I love about my job is making a difference and knowing that I have assisted someone to achieve their goal,” she said.
“The job has its challenges, but I believe it’s worth it knowing that I can make a difference in the individual’s lives and support them to achieve their goals.”
