In the National Office September
Let's find out who's who ...
Who's Who in the Office: Deb & Nilu
In this edition of In the National Office, we’re excited to introduce you to the pair that keep HIPPY Australia running smoothly behind the curtain: Deb and Nilu.
Known affectionately as the “Dynamic Duo,” they share the admin duties that keep our national office afloat. From fielding enquiries and sending those 'invoices due' and 'Annual budgets due' emails, to organising meetings and logistics, whether travel or curriculum packs, their work is essential to every part of HIPPY. Behind those friendly smiles lies the ability to pack a 48-hours' worth of work into every workday.
When asked to step into the spotlight, their answer was simple: “together or not at all.”
Deb, what’s your role at HIPPY, and what does your day-to-day work involve?
As part of the Dynamic Duo Admin team at HIPPY Australia, I provide vital administrative support to keep our national office running smoothly and efficiently. My role requires strong attention to detail, discretion, informing the internal team of all they need to know, and the ability to juggle priorities across a national program.
Some of my key responsibilities include being the first point of contact for internal and external enquiries, coordinating meetings and taking minutes, and managing travel arrangements. I also support projects, training sessions, and stakeholder events, while helping to coordinate curriculum for the network and manage communications and sublicences. On the finance side, I oversee site funding and ensure invoices are processed and paid on time.It’s a lot of behind-the-scenes work, but it’s what keeps things moving and connected across the program.
and Nilu, what does your day typically look like?
No two days are ever the same in this role, that's for sure. One day we might be booking travel, supporting the network, or coding block funding invoices, and the next we’re rolling up our sleeves to tidy the office and make sure the workspace is welcoming for everyone.
If anyone contacts the HIPPY Australia inbox, it’s Deb and me who send the replies. So, Hi! now you know that we’re the go-to team for keeping everything running smoothly behind the curtain!
Of the four outcome areas HIPPY addresses, which one inspires you the most, and why?
Deb: (laughs) Children! Working at HIPPY means being part of something truly special, empowering families and giving children the best possible start in life. Every day brings the opportunity to help foster a love of learning and build confidence in parents.
Nilu: (smiles and nods in approval) Families. I love that the program empowers parents to be their child’s first teacher. That ripple effect, where parents feel confident and supported, is powerful.
Anything that supports vulnerable communities, especially when it involves children, is really rewarding.
Tell us three things about you that we wouldn’t find on your resume.
Deb:
I love cooking a feast for my family and friends. I bring that love to the office team sometimes... if they're being good!
I’m the one who brings the food, the playlist, and the good vibes. I'm also the unofficial, official designated photographer.
I believe cheese, chocolate, coffee, and wine can fix almost anything.
"Good ones!" agrees Nilu before responding:
- I’m an adrenaline junkie at heart. I have ...
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I feel most at peace in the mountains; nature is my reset button.
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My world revolves around my two kids. Literally, when I'm not working, I'm hanging with my Primary-aged kids and love every moment of it.
What’s one thing you love about being part of the HIPPY team?
“The passion everyone has for the program is inspiring, it makes this team feel like a family.” ~ Nilu
Deb: Being part of a program that empowers parents and children, and getting to work with such passionate, purpose-driven colleagues.
“Every day brings the chance to make a real difference by supporting families and children.” ~ Deb
