Julie brings more than 30 years of senior executive leadership across disability, aged care and community services, with extensive experience leading large, complex service portfolios and guiding organisations through periods of sector reform, integration and growth. A highly regarded and values‑led leader, Julie is recognised for her ability to strengthen governance, quality and safeguarding frameworks, embed operational and financial discipline, and build capable, engaged workforces delivering safe, person‑centred services within highly regulated environments, including the NDIS. She has held executive leadership roles across national organisations including MyHomecare Group, Uniting AgeWell, Calvary Health Care and Zenitas, where she led operational transformation, digital uplift and workforce capability across diverse community‑based services. As a member of the executive leadership team, Julie will work closely with the CEO and executive colleagues to lead Independence Australia Group’s disability operations, supporting sustainable growth while ensuring high‑quality, client‑focused outcomes that enable people with disability to live independently and participate fully in their communities. Stepping into this pivotal leadership role at a time of significant opportunity and change for the disability sector.
I recently engaged with Fisher Leadership and was presented with the opportunity to apply for the COO position at Independence Australia Group. Throughout the process, Kate Wheeler demonstrated a high level of professionalism, insight, and genuine care.
Kate was incredibly generous with her time and took the effort to truly understand my experience, values, and career aspirations. This enabled her to thoughtfully assess not only my suitability for the role, but also whether the organisation would be the right cultural and strategic fit for me.
She provided clear, accurate, and comprehensive information about the organisation’s structure, strategy, and future direction, which gave me confidence and clarity at every stage. Importantly, Kate maintained consistent communication, keeping me informed throughout the process and ensuring I was well prepared for each interaction with Independence Australia Group.
I would strongly recommend Fisher Leadership and Kate Wheeler to any executive considering their next career opportunity.
– Julie Maya
