Hi, I’m Gina Johnson, the Program Manager for Family Support Programs, including the DV Linker Program and the DFSV Specialist Caseworker Program in Western NSW. I have confidently taken on the role of Program Manager since 2022, after acting in this role the previous year.
I lead an exceptional team spanning Cobar, Nyngan, Warren, Gilgandra, Coonabarabran, Mudgee, and Wellington. I am proud of their remarkable work with children and families in their communities, and I am consistently inspired by their impact. Their passion and creativity in building connections with families and communities fuel my commitment to support, advocate for, and empower them.
My journey with Barnardos began in 2010, and over the years, I have built a strong foundation for my career. After 13 years as a Preschool Educator, I embraced a new challenge as a Family Support Worker with Barnardos in Gilgandra. There, I successfully initiated Supported Playgroups in the local government area, where I engaged with parents and emphasized the importance of early childhood. I ensured that these connections were not only meaningful but also fun and enriching, reinforcing the sense of community. My experiences also include roles as a Brighter Futures Caseworker and a Team Leader.
My passion for early childhood education has been a constant throughout my life. Growing up, I always aspired to be a nanny, and I had the opportunity to fulfill that dream for a time. This fueled my desire to continue my education, leading me to work at the Gilgandra Community-Based Preschool.
My proudest achievement at Barnardos is the invaluable connections I have forged with children, families, leaders, and colleagues. These relationships have equipped me with a wealth of skills, techniques, and knowledge, and I learn something new every day from those around me.
I deeply admire Barnardos vision and unwavering commitment to supporting families and children. As a leader, I am dedicated to empowering my team to showcase their unique strengths and expertise with confidence. Together, we will ensure that children and families feel happy, safe, heard, accepted, and truly valued.