This month, we interviewed HACSU Trustee, Kim Strange. Read on to find out more about  Kim's journey with HACSU and role within our union. 

What is your current role (at work and as a part of HACSU)?

I am employed in a Non-Government Disability Service (NGO) as a House Supervisor and a Trusttee for HACSU. I sit on both the Financial and Board (BCOM) meetings.

What types of skills do you need in your role?

Staff Management both in a leadership and training model. I have an Advanced Diploma in Community Services Management and Advanced Diploma in Disabilities.

I provide training in Budget Allocation and Balancing along with a Occupational Health and Safety (HSR) Certificates are applicable within my role.

Personally I love supporting people from all wakes of life to have equal rights and experiences and I believe I have great people skills!

Tell us about you journey with HACSU?

I attended delegates training 8 years ago and got to meet people and increase knowledge of not only what the union represents but also the work behind the scenes. Within a year was asked to represent the NGO sector on the Board.

You’ve been given an elephant. You can’t give it away or sell it; what do you do with it?

Work with my Husband to build fences at my daughters property and home it, until I can find a happier place. Elephants like small packs so I would look for a pack for it to join. I have been a horse girl so this would be no biggie. If you said snake it would be a totally different and not calm outcome... LOL.

What’s the best thing about being a part of HACSU?

To know that someone has your back when you're not being given a fair go; the protection and support in times when your not sure of your rights is just a phone call away.

The representation (which I have experienced) when you're NOT being treated fairly by Management and the support of ensuring all your co-workers and staff are getting a fair pay and conditions.

Tell us a story about a great industrial, or other type of ‘win’ you’ve had at work or as a part of the union.

Fifteen years ago there was case of Management acting on what they labelled as a breach of Policy/Practice. A HACSU official identified that there was no such Policy or Practice documented within the organisation.

The Union motivated better practises and more risk assessments within the organisation; the outcome was a safer environment for Staff and residents.

Tell us something interesting that other members might not know about you!

I may seem like a extrovert but am happier and more comfortable being a introvert!

What superpower would you choose to have any why?

A healing power; both the ability to assist people to heal mentally and physically.