We aim to create a Sanctuary
where our community can be
present and grow stronger together.
Our work is based in the vibrant and wonderful city of Canberra, where the community both thrives and struggles. Well designed, early intervention practice today has a remarkable ripple effect on tomorrow’s world. Therefore we are welcoming all to participate in nurturing the diverse opportunities our community presents everyday.
Our beginnings.
Sanctuary Aus Limited was founded in 2018 and is a not for profit organisation, a registered charity and a public company limited by guarantee.
Sanctuary Aus was founded by two professional therapists with over 35 years experience working with children and families. Our vision grew from our awareness of the importance that community holds to family wellbeing. Sanctuary Aus strives to build a genuine community that a offers safe and healthy connection for Canberra’s families.
Our guiding principles.
Child Centred
The child is at the centre of all we do. We aim to recognise each child’s unique perspectives and experiences, and encourage appropriate participation in all activities which affect the child.
Social Justice
No one will be discriminated against on the basis of education, religion, abilities, marital status, sexual orientation, health status or socio-economic status.
Respect
In all our interactions, we honor human dignity and rights, value people’s potential, diversity and uniqueness, and validate their experience and perspective.
Self Determination
We do not assume that we know what is best for others, but support individuals and families to make informed choices in their lives.
Partnership
We work in collaboration with clients and the community, recognising their skills, strengths, resources, motivation, knowledge and qualities.
Professionalism
We work efficiently, effectively and appropriately, in accordance with professional and organisational standards.
Integrity
Workers and management uphold the mission and vision of the service, declare any conflicts of interest, and ensure that personal values and relationships do not impinge on the way they perform their duties.
Community Development
In all our services and programs, we employ a developmental approach that builds on strengths and capacities, pursues equity and values diversity, encourages innovation and collaborates with partners.
Transparency
We are committed to: decision-making processes that are based on consultation and collaboration with all stakeholders; the right of access to information about decisions; and the right of appeal for those affected by a decision, while carefully respecting and protecting privacy and confidentiality.
Meet the Team
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Kim Hefren-Webb
Executive Director / Program Manager
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Adam Toohey
Behaviour Support Specialist
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Elyse Abson
Behaviour Support Specialist
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Deborah Bayly
Administrative Support Worker
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Agustin "Gus" Albertoni"
Behaviour Support Specialist
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Katia Horton
Behaviour Support Specialist
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Donna Simadas
Business Manager
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Lani Budd
Behaviour Support Specialist
Meet Our Board
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![Nathan Cole]()
Board Chairperson
Nathan Cole
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Board Treasurer
Annette Pilloni
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Shelby Simadas
Board Secretary
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![Kim Hefren-Webb]()
Founding Director / Executive DIrector
Kim Hefren-Webb
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Board Member
Dennis Weston
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Board Member
Rachel Addy
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![Belinda]()
Belinda Catelli
Board Deputy Chair
Give back to the community by becoming a volunteer.
Sanctuary Aus knows volunteering is at the heart of community. We welcome people from all backgrounds to bring their diverse skills, time, resources and contribute. Our volunteers are valued as staff members, and as such undergo appropriate reference checking and are covered with suitable insurance for their roles.
Partnerships.
Special thanks to our partners for being so generous.
