Dr Julie Simpson

Julie brings to the Board diverse leadership experience and expertise across aged care, health, pastoral and community social services. A retired Churches of Christ Minister, she has a deeply relational leadership approach informed by compassionate, integrated, and person-centred care, particularly in dementia, ageing, and end-of-life support.

She holds degrees in Theology and Social Work, and a Master’s degree (Adelaide College of Divinity) and a PhD (Flinders University) focusing on theology, gerontology, and aged care practice. Her doctorate, “The Voice of the Person Living with Advanced Dementia,” explores the importance of relational, holistic care in supporting personal identity, dignity, choice, and wellbeing for people living with dementia.

Her professional experience spans State and Federal Government and Not for Profit organisational roles as an aged care assessment social worker and coordinating chaplain in both hospital and residential aged care settings, as well as leadership ministry positions in the Church.

As Executive Officer of Churches of Christ CareWorks and a member of its State Board, she contributed strategic oversight, insight, and governance to the development of community and church-based services.

Her ongoing commitment is mentoring and equipping management, staff, and pastoral care teams in delivering high-quality compassionate care. Julie participates in her community through volunteering in residential aged care, and advocacy for older people navigating health and community care systems.