On 1 October 2023, McAuley Community Service for Women (McAuley) will become part of MacKillop Family Services forming a single entity under the MacKillop ABN. McAuley will retain its identity and the McAuley name, brand and existing programs will continue. Jocelyn Bignold will remain in the role of CEO, supported by the existing Executive Team.
McAuley has its own rich history, built upon the pioneering work of the Sisters of Mercy. This was recently celebrated in the opening of new accommodation, Wilma’s Place and Heywood House. These names honour two of the many remarkable Sisters whose vision and drive has always been at the heart of the current-day McAuley.
The governance change will not affect the McAuley name or the respect for and pride in these traditions, and the determination to include that legacy in everything they do. McAuley’s history of innovation, advocacy and commitment to an integrated approach will continue, as will the focus on women and children experiencing family violence and homelessness.
In most respects this will be ‘business as usual’ with little visible change for either McAuley or MacKillop. The change will be mostly seen in behind-the-scenes support and operations, where McAuley’s capacity will be expanded and there may be opportunities for broader development and career pathways for staff. This coming together is also expected to create opportunities for both organisations to expand and enhance their mission.
