Hunter Ethical Disability Support Services

24/09/2025

Meet Olivia Crichton – SIL Team Leader at HEDSS

With over a decade of experience in aged care and 20 years as a chef, Olivia brings a unique blend of compassion, leadership, and hands-on knowledge to her role at HEDSS.

Now as our SIL Team Leader, Olivia oversees everything from daily operations to personal care, always with the goal of making life better for the participants she supports.

“I’m passionate about advocating for NDIS participants,” she says, and her dedication shines through in every part of her work.

Known for being reliable, honest, hardworking, selfless, and caring, Olivia is a valued member of our team and a true example of person-centred care.

When she’s not at work, you’ll find her spending time with her husband and children, and living by her favourite quote: “It is what it is.”

Image description: A picture of Olivia smiling and text outlining the above things about her.

17/09/2025

Kerrie’s New Chapter at The Jetty House 🏡

We’re thrilled to share that Kerrie has officially moved into The Jetty House, and she’s already settled in beautifully. From enjoying sunshine in the sunroom to baking healthy treats, her warmth and spirit are making this house a home.

Kerrie’s family visits often, and we’re excited to continue supporting her journey. We’re also looking for housemates to join Kerrie at The Jetty House. If you know someone who’d love to be part of a supportive and welcoming environment, get in touch with HEDSS today.

📸 Image description: Three photos of Kerrie at The Jetty House - smiling while relaxing outside, baking in the kitchen, and freshly baked treats in the oven.

10/09/2025

Emma is looking for 2 housemates for a female-only SIL home in Thornton between the ages of 20-45. She enjoys watching movies, baking, playing card and board games and chatting with staff and housemates.

It’s a spacious home on a quiet street with multiple living areas.

If you would like to arrange to see the house and to meet Emma, just get in touch.

Call Cara on 0480 850 273 or email hello@hedss.com.au

28/08/2025

2 bedrooms available in a beautiful female only SIL home in Thornton to share with Emma.
It’s a spacious home on a quiet street with multiple living areas.
Emma enjoys watching movies, baking, playing card and board games and chatting with her staff and house mates.
If you would like to arrange to see the house and to meet Emma just get in touch.
Call Cara on 0480 850 273 or email hello@hedss.com.au

27/08/2025

Pre & Post Run Dungog participation by our CEO, Gavin.

We were proud to support the Dungog Community Centre with a donation again this year, and proud of Gav for taking on the challenge.

20/08/2025

A Place to Call Home 🏡

At HEDSS, we believe everyone deserves a life of dignity, connection, and freedom, and our Supported Independent Living (SIL) homes are built exactly for that purpose. With around-the-clock support wrapped in a nurturing, family-style setting, SIL offers more than assistance, it offers a true home.

Image Description: Images show clients & HEDSS staff having a nice time together at our SIL homes.

13/08/2025

Meet Cara – Our New Service Manager at HEDSS!

With over a decade of experience in the disability sector, Cara brings a wealth of knowledge, heart, and hands-on leadership to the HEDSS team. From her early days as a support worker to leading service delivery across the NDIS landscape, Cara’s journey is all about person-centred care, inclusion, and empowering both participants and staff.

We’re so excited to welcome her into our community 💙

👉 Read more about Cara’s story and what she brings to HEDSS:
https://hedss.com.au/welcome-cara/

At Hunter Ethical Disability Support Services (HEDSS) we are thrilled to welcome Cara as our new Service Manager, bringing with her over 10 years of hands-on, heart-led experience in the disability sector. Cara’s journey is one of commitment, continuous growth and passion for supporting others. He...

06/08/2025

🧡 Now Hiring: Casual Support Workers

Join HEDSS in Empowering Lives Across the Hunter Region

We’re looking for compassionate, flexible Support Workers to join our
team in providing high-quality support across our Supported
Independent Living (SIL) homes and community-based services.

🏠 SIL Home Support

Support participants with daily living and in-home care at our SIL
residences located in:
📍 Black Hill · Thornton · Salamander Bay

🚗 Community Access & Outings

Assist participants with getting out into the community—attending
appointments, enjoying social activities, and building independence.
📍 Shifts available across the general Hunter Region, depending on
participant needs
🚌 HEDSS Accessible Vehicles can be Provided

Why Join HEDSS?

✅ Flexible casual shifts
✅ Supportive and inclusive team culture ✅ Rewarding, purpose-driven
work

Interested?

📞 Call Cara on 0480 850 273
📧 Send your resume to hello@hedss.com.au

06/08/2025

We’re happy to support Run Dungog once again, one of our favourite community events.

For the third year running, HEDSS is sponsoring this fantastic trail run, with our CEO Gavin lacing up for the 5km, proudly wearing a WAH bib.

Run Dungog is more than just a race, it's a celebration of community, connection, and the stunning Dungog landscape. With kid-friendly activities, delicious local food, and dog-friendly trails, it’s a great day out for the whole family.

📅 Sunday 10th August
📍 Dungog Common
👣 5km / 10km / 20km trail runs

Proceeds go to the Dungog Shire Community Centre, supporting locals across the region.
We’re proud to be involved.

29/07/2025

🧡 Now Hiring: Support Workers

Casual · Flexible

Join HEDSS supporting clients with:

🏠 In-home support & daily living
📍 Thornton · Black Hill · Salamander Bay
🚗 Community access & outings
📍 General Hunter Region
✅ Flexible shifts
✅ Supportive team

Call on Cara 0480 850 273 or email hello@hedds.com.au

22/07/2025

Need help getting from A to B? 🚙

At HEDSS, we offer flexible and friendly transport services to support our participants in getting where they need to go, safely and on time. Whether it’s appointments, shopping, social events, work, or study, our experienced team ensures travel is smooth, comfortable, and reliable.

We understand that transport is more than just travel, it's about independence, inclusion, and making the most of every opportunity.

Learn more about our transport service here: https://hedss.com.au/service/transport/

Image description: There is a picture of a HEDSS vehicle with Cu the kelpie sitting in the front seat and Gavin standing on the outside of the car.

16/07/2025

Meet Cu the Kelpie – Our Sweet & Calm Therapy Dog-in-Training 🐶

As she begins her journey to becoming a fully trained therapy dog, Cu spends her days at HEDSS, bringing comfort, calm, and a few laughs to our SIL home.

She’s a master of naps, expert staff supervisor, and an absolute pro at making food vanish.

Cu’s gentle nature makes her a perfect fit for the HEDSS family.

Image description: Cu the kelpie is looking at the camera. The text gives facts about Cu.