
Brooke Harkins
A little about me.
What inspired you to become a Support Coordinator?
I was inspired to become a Support Coordinator after navigating the NDIS for my mum when she became disabled in 2020. I saw firsthand how difficult it can be to find the right support and how overwhelming the system can feel. I wanted to use my experience to help others feel supported and to make the process easier for them and their families.
How long have you been working in this space, and what do you enjoy most about it?
I’ve been in the disability sector for over 10 years, starting as a support worker. What I enjoy most is helping people achieve their goals and seeing the positive impact the right support can have on their lives. It’s incredibly rewarding to know I’m making a difference.
What types of support services do you specialise in or have experience with?
I’m really skilled at connecting participants with the right providers. I take the time to listen to what they’re looking for and make sure I match them with providers who have the qualities and services they need. Building those meaningful connections and ensuring participants feel confident with their supports is something I’m truly passionate about.
Can you tell me about a particularly rewarding or memorable experience you've had while assisting someone?
One of the most rewarding experiences was helping a participant who felt overwhelmed and unsure how to use their plan. I worked closely with them to break it all down, listened to what they really wanted, and connected them with providers who suited their needs. A few months later, they shared how much more confident and independent they felt, and it reminded me why I love doing this work.
Are there any resources or programs you find interesting and beneficial for a lot of your participants?
I find programs that focus on skill-building and social inclusion, like art or fitness classes, really beneficial. These activities not only help participants achieve their goals but also build confidence and connections within the community.
What do you believe are the most important qualities for a Support Coordinator to have?
Patience, empathy, and strong communication skills are essential. You also need to be organised, solution-focused, and genuinely passionate about helping people live their best lives.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work? Any hobbies or interests you’d like to share?
Outside of work, I love spending time with my husband and two children. A lot of our time is spent attending their sports games and cheering them on, which I really enjoy. When we have free time, we like to take our groodle to the park for some fresh air and fun—it’s a great way to unwind together as a family.
Tell us something we don’t know, but need to know?
I approach every participant’s journey with the understanding of what it’s like to be on the other side. As someone who has been a family member navigating the NDIS, I know how important it is to feel supported and understood—and I bring that perspective into every interaction.
