Our Team
CEO
Penny is a strategic leader with over 20 years of experience leading social impact organisations and driving strategic reform across housing, homelessness and community services.
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She has delivered major initiatives supporting women and children, secured multi-million dollar funding partnerships, and built strong cross-sector collaborations. Penny also serves on the Board of DVNSW, advocating for systemic change and improved responses to domestic and family violence. Her leadership is grounded in equity, integrity, and a deep commitment to social justice.
Head of Business Development
Gillian has been SAHSSI's Business Development Manager since 2021, during which she has utilised her leadership skills and expertise in securing funding for initiatives that support our clients.
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With a deep understanding of project management and a commitment to fostering impactful programs, one of her key achievements for SAHSSI has been project-managing the Safe Places Program capital works project, funded by the Department of Social Services. Gillian’s expertise in fostering partnerships with businesses, government agencies, and community organisations ensures that SAHSSI’s projects are sustainable and impactful.
Head of Operations
Rebecca has been with SAHSSI since 2014, coordinating SAHSSI’s Illawarra accommodation services before moving into the Head of Operations role in 2023.
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Rebecca has over 30 years’ experience in the women’s refuge and homelessness sector. She has run refuge services in the UK and Australia, including coordination, management and team leader roles in women’s organisations. Rebecca is highly experienced in offering trauma-informed, people-centred support, and in supporting teams of skilled social workers to do the same.
Head of Finance
As SAHSSI’s Management Accountant, Nadine is responsible for financial management and budgeting.
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Nadine has been SAHSSI’s Accountant for over a decade. She has worked in the industry for over 25 years, having previously run her own business as a tax agent for individuals and small businesses. Nadine holds a degree in Accounting from Swinburne University. As SAHSSI's Head of Finance, Nadine is responsible for financial management and budgeting.
Head of Housing and Assets
As SAHSSI's Housing and Assets Manager, Kylie is responsible for overseeing the management and maintenance of the organisation’s crisis and transitional housing portfolio.
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With 17 years of experience in the community housing sector, Kylie brings extensive expertise in tenancy and asset management. She is committed to improving housing outcomes for vulnerable individuals and families through proactive property management, strategic asset planning, and working collaboratively with key stakeholders to enhance service delivery and long-term sustainability.
Executive Officer
Natalie brings extensive experience from the private sector to support SAHSSI’s governance and compliance activities.
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She ensures that SAHSSI’s business operating systems align with best practices while assisting the CEO and Board in meeting their obligations and fostering effective communication. With many years of experience in senior leadership retail management roles, Natalie holds a Certificate IV in Community Services and Business Administration. She is also currently pursuing a Diploma in Business Compliance and Quality Auditing.
Manager Strategy and Growth
Laura's role at SAHSSI involves advising on the organisation's strategic direction and growth, analysing and evaluating service data, and driving major projects.
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Laura has a PhD in social science focused on housing policy and many years’ experience designing and undertaking social research projects and evaluations. Laura has worked with government, non-government and private sector clients to design and implement social service programs and to undertake evaluations of projects. Laura is an expert in social housing policy and provides strategic advice and input to guide SAHSSI’s future growth.