THE tremendous contributions of Coffs Harbour caseworker, carer and advocate Opal Harvey have been recognised during the NSW Council of Social Service (NCOSS) awards, which were announced during an event at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Circular Quay on 27 October.
Ms Harvey, a First Nations woman, works with people experiencing homelessness at Pete’s Place, the St Vincent de Paul Society of NSW’s Coffs Harbour homelessness service.
She was one of four frontline workers short-listed for the award and received the top honour for Excellence and Impact.
In her citation, NCOSS stated that Opal’s work had changed how people experiencing homelessness with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) or cognitive impairment were understood, supported and advocated for.
“[Opal] supports people experiencing homelessness, disadvantage and complex needs through culturally safe, practical and person-centred care,” the citation read.
“Her nomination recognises the way she brings professional skill and lived experience together to improve outcomes for vulnerable people and families.
“As a kinship carer for children with FASD, Opal also champions understanding of cognitive differences, helping people feel heard, supported and equipped to advocate for themselves.”
The citation explained that Opal had proven her skill at identifying when a person’s needs might be misunderstood or overlooked; asked critical questions of professionals; and challenged systems to respond appropriately.
“She works with agencies including the National Organisation for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (NOFASD), justice advocacy services and health professionals to build shared understanding and improve practice,” the citation said.
Notably, Opal’s recognition honoured her impact in areas extending beyond individual casework.
“Opal upskills external agencies by providing relevant, practical information so support is tailored to each person’s circumstances,” NCOSS said.
“She also advocates strongly across housing, health, justice and support systems to help people secure or retain tenancies. In the past two years, she has expanded this work from local service awareness to a statewide training opportunity for around 300 St Vincent de Paul NSW housing and homelessness staff, equipping frontline teams to recognise cognitive differences, navigate systems more effectively and achieve better outcomes for people facing homelessness.”
NCOSS CEO Cara Varian said the number of nominations for the awards had been overwhelming, with applications from advocates and organisations supporting people experiencing the state’s most complex struggles, including domestic and family violence, homelessness, discrimination and poverty.
“Collaboration has never been more important in the social sector, with the demand for services growing as cost pressures push more people into poverty, housing insecurity and mental and physical stress,” Ms Varian said.
“Meanwhile, budgets are tightening and resources are stretched.
“Times are undoubtedly tough, but that’s even more of a reason for us to celebrate the incredible individuals and organisations supporting people during hardship.”
By Eve NESMITH
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