- Inducted:
- 2011
- Category:
- Honour Roll
Sandie has demonstrated a strong commitment to, and a passion for, improving life opportunities and choices for children, young people and families. She is admired because she 'walks the talk' and is a great role model for other women, sharing her wisdom and knowledge generously.
Sandie began her career in children's welfare in the early 1970s in what is now known as the Department of Human Services, starting as a case worker and then moving into management and policy development.
In 1994, Sandie was appointed the CEO for Berry Street Victoria, overseeing a significant expansion of services into new regional areas. Berry Street is now the largest independent child and family welfare organisation in Victoria, providing services across the State.
Sandie has advocated for public policy change and continuous improvement of the broader service system, participating on a range of government and community sector bodies, including the Victorian Childrens Council and the Victorian Child Death Review Committee. She is Secretary of the Child and Family Welfare Association of Australia and is also on the boards of Families Australia (inaugural chair 2002 to 2010), Greatconnections and the Melbourne Community Foundation.
Sandie was made a Member of the Order of Australia, AM in 2009.
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