Being yourself in support work: Andrea’s story

For Andrea Horne, support work has always been about putting people first. Born and raised in Tasmania, Andrea’s career has taken her through different roles and places, but caring for others has remained central to her work.

She began in a Hobart boat yard office, followed by cleaning at the Hotel Grand Chancellor. Around 17 years ago, her path shifted when her sister, who required care, encouraged her to train as her carer. While Andrea chose to remain her sister rather than a paid carer, the experience sparked her interest in aged care more broadly. She went on to work at Rosary Gardens care home, marking the start of a long and meaningful career in the sector.

Later, Andrea and her husband moved to the mainland, both working in care roles. During this time, she completed extensive dementia training, which she describes as a career highlight. “You can do a lot for people living with dementia,” she says. “It’s rewarding being able to help in ways that really matter.” Since returning to Tasmania and joining Community Based Support, Andrea has continued to build on this experience through ongoing dementia care training, keeping her confident in supporting clients with changing needs.

After her husband passed away a few years ago, Andrea returned to Tasmania to be closer to family. She first heard about Community Based Support through her brother-in-law, Brett, and soon joined the team as a support worker.

Today, Andrea works across domestic assistance, personal care and meal preparation. Personal care is her favourite, allowing for meaningful, everyday interactions. She speaks fondly of assisting a client in New Norfolk with creative projects like building a Victorian-era dolls house or baking sourdough together.

Andrea believes trust is built through empathy and authenticity. “I just talk to people and be my normal self,” she says. Her advice to anyone considering aged care is simple: “Be kind, be yourself and be honest”.

While the work can be challenging, Andrea finds balance by talking things through with her family. “I talk to my daughters, who both work in healthcare, so there’s a bit of a crossover there with caring for people.” This shared understanding helps her reflect, reset and continue the work she values so deeply.

For Andrea, the most rewarding moments often come from the small, ordinary parts of the day. Whether sharing a cup of tea, having a quiet chat, or working alongside someone on a project they enjoy, these moments help people feel comfortable and respected in their own homes. She values the trust clients place in her and supports them in ways that suit their routines, preferences and pace.

Andrea says working in people’s homes is a privilege she doesn’t take lightly. Each person brings a different story and set of needs, which keeps the work interesting and meaningful. “No two days are the same,” she says, “and that’s what I enjoy most.” It’s this variety, combined with genuine connection, that continues to motivate Andrea and reinforces why she chose a career in support work.