A little about me.

What inspired you to become a Support Coordinator?
I began as a Support Worker and later became a Team Leader, and I saw firsthand how confusing the NDIS and service systems can be for people. Stepping into Support Coordination lets me bridge those gaps, taking stress off families, helping them navigate what they don’t understand, and empowering them to speak up for their needs. Supporting someone is about walking alongside them and giving them the tools to thrive, not just survive.

How long have you been working in this space, and what do you enjoy most about it?
I’ve worked in the mental health and disability sector for over 17 years and specifically in the NDIS space for the past 3 years. I love seeing people discover their own strength and watching small steps turn into life-changing wins.

What types of support services do you specialise in or have experience with?
I specialise in mental health supports and services for young people and adults with complex needs.

Can you tell me about a particularly rewarding or memorable experience you've had while assisting someone?
One of my most rewarding experiences was helping a young mum keep her baby. The care system was ready to remove the child, but by coordinating services and creating a safe, supported home environment, she was able to raise her baby with the right wrap-around supports in place..

Are there any resources or programs you find interesting and beneficial for a lot of your participants?
The NDIS website is full of helpful information, and I often share simple breath-work and nervous-system-regulation tools—things I’ve learnt from great YouTube educators, because they help people manage stress and feel more in control.

What do you believe are the most important qualities for a Support Coordinator to have?
For me, the heart of Support Coordination is patience, empathy, and genuine listening. I combine these with clear communication, practical problem-solving, and a calm approach in challenging moments, strengths built through many years working directly with people and leading teams.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work? Any hobbies or interests you’d like to share?
I love boxing, Pilates, and early-morning beach walks with my dog while the sun comes up. I’m a total foodie and enjoy exploring everything the Gold Coast has to offer. When I travel back to New Zealand, I soak up every minute with my family.

Tell us something we don’t know, but need to know?
My name, Marama, is a Māori heritage name meaning “moon.” I was born on a full moon, big round cheeks and all, so it feels pretty fitting.