40 Years of Care: Sue supporting people to live life their way

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Navigating aged care can be confusing and overwhelming — but with the right support, it can be empowering.

For Intereach Aged Care Program Coordinator Sue Filipovich, that support is what her 40-year career has been all about.

With experience across aged care, disability services and the veteran community, Sue has built her work on one guiding principle – seeing the whole person.

“No two people are the same. It’s important to understand their individual experiences, preferences and goals,” she said.

For Sue, “good” aged care goes far beyond services — it’s about connection.

“Strong, respectful relationships between clients, families and support staff are key,” she said.

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When people feel heard, valued and involved in decisions, they feel empowered, not dependent.”

Her time working with veterans and war widows through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs helped shape this approach, highlighting the need for patience, trust and continuity when supporting people with complex needs.

“People often come to aged care during times of stress or sudden change. There’s paperwork, assessments, funding options — and a lot of emotion tied up in it all,” Sue said.

That’s the right support matters.

“Having someone who listens, explains things clearly and takes the time to understand your situation helps people feel reassured and confident,” she said.

“No-one should feel rushed into making decisions about their care.”

 

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At Intereach, that philosophy is brought to life every day.

It’s about supporting people to live the life they choose, at their place, their pace,” Sue said. 

During her 11 years with Intereach, Sue has worked across Carer Respite, the Aged Care Links Program , and now coordinates the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) Sector Support and Development and the Aged Care Consumer Advisory Body. She has also served on the boards of Carers Australia and Carers Northern Territory, where she is a life member.

Sue is equally passionate about the people delivering care.

“Our Community Support Workers are our eyes and ears. The relationships they build every day can transform how supported someone feels,” she said.

For those starting their aged care journey, Sue’s advice is to start early, take your time and ask questions.

“Accessing support doesn’t mean losing independence — it’s about staying safe, connected and continuing to live well at home,” she said.

With leaders like Sue, Intereach continues to set the standard — delivering aged care that’s not just professional, but personal.

If you would like to learn more about your in-home aged care options, reach out to Intereach:

P: 1300 488 226 E: contact@intereach.com.au W: www.intereach.com.au/aged-care-services/

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If you would like to find out more about aged care services and the ways that Intereach can help you and your loved ones, give us a call on 1300 488 226, drop into one of our offices, or visit our website at www.intereach.com.au. Reach out to Intereach today! 

Contact the Intereach Aged Care team here