Heather Kirk-Harkin
Gold Coast
Summary
Experienced Local Area Coordinator with a strong background in delivering person-centred support within the NDIS framework. Skilled in complex planning conversations, participant plan implementation, and connecting individuals with community and mainstream supports. Proven ability to mentor and support colleagues, contribute to quality assurance processes, and manage sensitive situations including complaints and critical incidents. Passionate about empowering people with disability to achieve meaningful and independent lives.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Local Area Coordinator
Carers Queensland
Gold Coast
02.2023 - Current
- Facilitate complex planning conversations to support participants in achieving their NDIS goals
- Monitor participant plans and track progress toward outcomes
- Provide ILC supports to connect individuals with community and mainstream services
- Maintain accurate and timely records using NDIS systems, including PACE
- Support participants, families, and carers with information and navigation of the NDIS
- Apply person-centred approaches to promote independence and empowerment
- Contribute to continuous improvement and quality practice standards
Service Delivery Engagement Officer
Woden Community Service
Canberra
07.2020 - 12.2022
- Provided operational and frontline support to staff and participants in complex environments
- Managed critical incidents, complaints, and escalations in line with organisational policies
- Liaised with emergency services and key stakeholders where required
- Contributed to reporting, documentation, and service delivery improvements
- Supported staff through guidance and problem-solving in high-pressure situation
Childcare Educator Room Leader
Anglicare
Canberra
01.2013 - 07.2020
- Led and supervised team members, providing mentoring and day-to-day support.
- Fostered a collaborative and positive team environment.
- Delivered high-quality care and education to children aged 0–5.
- Communicated effectively with families and stakeholders.
- Ensured compliance with policies, procedures, and regulatory standards
- Facilitated engaging educational activities for diverse groups of children.
- Developed individualized learning plans to meet each child's needs.
- Collaborated with families to support children's development and well-being.
- Maintained a safe and nurturing environment for all children in care.
- Assessed children's progress and provided feedback to parents and staff.
- Organized and implemented age appropriate activities to stimulate physical, emotional, social, intellectual development of the children.
Education
Diploma - Community Service
Bradford Institute of Advance Education
Diploma - Diploma of Early Childhood Education And Care
Anglicare College
Cert III - Disability
Australian Apprenticeship
Skills
- Strong commitment to inclusion, cultural awareness, and ethical practice
- Ability to build effective community networks and referral pathways
- Highly organised with strong attention to detail and time management
- Adaptable, proactive, and solutions-focused
Timeline
Local Area Coordinator
Carers Queensland
02.2023 - Current
Service Delivery Engagement Officer
Woden Community Service
07.2020 - 12.2022
Childcare Educator Room Leader
Anglicare
01.2013 - 07.2020
Diploma - Community Service
Bradford Institute of Advance Education
Diploma - Diploma of Early Childhood Education And Care
Anglicare College
Cert III - Disability
Australian Apprenticeship