Support Workers

Anna is a proud member of the CPSN support worker team and has been assisting her clients to achieve their goals for over 25 years! She credits her longevity in the field to having such an interesting, varied role day to day. Be it assisting with personal care, a trip to the shops or even to the theatre, Anna is a people person who loves connecting with others.

Emily Avnell is a proud member of the CPSN Support Worker team and has been with us for over seven years!  

She is experienced with assisting with personal care and complex needs including non-verbal clients. She enjoys collaborating with them, by helping them maintain and retain their independence, supporting them to live their best lives, by helping them to go out in the community and participate in activities.  

Emily began her career in support work in 2012 after completing her CERT III in Individual Support and worked in a New South Wales aged care facility. After seven years she moved to Melbourne and began supporting a CPSN client, and this was her first introduction to working in the disability sector.  

Emily always ensures that the clients she supports can maintain their independence and are receiving the appropriate care that they deserve and that they are being heard. It is an integral part of support work, to really understand how each client communicates, and she can adjust her communication styles accordingly to fit their needs.

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Julie is a dedicated Support Worker who finds deep meaning in helping others while growing personally.

With CPSN's genuine, people-first culture, she values connection, learning, and shared humanity.

Her journey began through a simple act of helping, has led to a seven-year relationship with her first client.

Outside of work, Julie enjoys family time, gardening, crafting, movies, and nature.

Her advice to anyone looking to join the team in a Support Worker role: “Just try - you don’t need all the answers, just a willingness to learn and care.”

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Kristian Johnson is the Supported Independent Living (SIL) Team Leader at CPSN.

Originally studying Paramedicine, a trial shift in the Disability sector inspired his career change.

Since then, he’s brought passion, adaptability, and a strong commitment to person-centred care.

Kristian values teamwork, Communication, and creating a supportive environment where both clients and staff can thrive.

His leadership helps ensure high standards of care and meaningful outcomes for people living with Cerebral Palsy.

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Ruth Wilson is one of CPSN’s valued Support Workers, proudly supporting our clients for the past seven years. She works closely with Brodie, a vibrant young client, supporting her through daily activities like swimming, music, and her weekly Augmented Accessible Communication (AAC) group sessions. Ruth loves her job and encourages anyone considering joining the Disability Support Work sector to give it a go, praising the flexibility and work-life balance on offer. She describes CPSN as supportive and always just a phone call away. Outside of work, Ruth enjoys caravanning with her husband and two daughters.