FOCUS Connect

Caring for Our Community

With over 100 employed staff and a dedicated group of volunteers, FOCUS Connect actively represents the ever-changing needs of our community, delivering essential services and advocating for the interests of individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds (CALD) and older Australians.

Our Services

Our People

At FOCUS Connect, our committed team provides a diverse array of services, from support groups and in-home care to community access, children's services, and financial hardship support. Guided by the executive team, FOCUS Connect is dedicated to steering the organisation's strategic direction, purpose, mission, and values with an unwavering commitment to community well-being.

the FOCUS Connect team
Darren Byrnes, Chairperson of FOCUS Connect

Darren Byrnes

Chairperson

Our Board Of Directors

FOCUS Connect’s Board of Directors comprises dedicated volunteers from the community providing crucial oversight and strategic leadership. With diverse backgrounds, the board members bring a range of skills and experience to contribute to their roles.

Meet The Board

Leadership Team at FOCUS Connect

The FOCUS Connect executive team has led the organisation through a period of reform, their dynamic leadership ensures the continued delivery of essential services while fostering innovation and adaptability.

Lee-Ann Byrnes, CEO of FOCUS Connect

Gavin Hudson

Chief Executive Officer

Gavin Hudson is the Chief Executive Officer of FOCUS Connect, bringing more than 16 years of executive leadership experience across aged care and community services.


Gavin is deeply committed to building inclusive communities where every individual feels valued, supported, and empowered. Known for his strategic leadership and values-based approach, Gavin focuses on improving client outcomes, delivering service excellence, and fostering a culture of care and collaboration across the organisation.


He is passionate about developing strong, purpose-led teams and ensuring staff and volunteers are supported to grow and thrive. Under his leadership, FOCUS Connect remains committed to equity, diversity, and cultural inclusion, reflecting the needs of the communities it serves.



Gavin holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD). He is dedicated to strengthening FOCUS Connect’s impact while ensuring its long-term sustainability and success.


Tanya Fung, Finance Manager at FOCUS Connect

Tanya Fung

Finance Manager

Tanya joined FOCUS Connect in 2020 bringing over 10 years experience in a variety of not-for-profit, family office and taxation. By using her passion in analysing numbers and adding value to an organisation, she is committed in making a positive impact to the community. Tanya has been a Chartered Accountant since 2017 and has a Bachelor of Business and Commerce at Western Sydney University majoring in Accounting.


Maya Almandarawi, HR Manager at FOCUS Connect

Ashish Dahiwalkar

HR Manager

Ashish brings over 20 years of Human Resources leadership experience to our team. His extensive expertise spans to successfully managing teams in Service, FMCG, Technology, Manufacturing and Not for Profit sectors. Ashish specialises in developing and executing programs and providing strategic counsel to organisational leaders on critical areas such as employee relations, strategic HR, culture, change management, and employee well-being.


Deeply committed to supporting and developing individuals within the organization, Ashish recognizes the pivotal role of people initiatives in driving strategic outcomes and overall success. 


At FOCUS Connect, we understand that our employees are our greatest asset. Ashish's unwavering dedication to championing their growth and well-being exemplifies our commitment to fostering a workplace where every individual thrives.


Tajudeen Fawehinmi, Quality Officer at FOCUS Connect

Tajudeen Fawehinmi

Quality Officer

Tajudeen Fawehinmi (TJ) is an accomplished Quality, Risk, and Compliance Manager with a background in healthcare and community services. Holding two diplomas, a bachelor’s degree, and a master’s degree, he brings a deep understanding of regulatory requirements and risk management, along with a proven ability to implement effective quality management systems.

 

TJ is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of care while fostering a culture of continuous improvement across the organisation.


Kelly Grasso, Aged Care Manager at FOCUS Connect

Kelly Grasso

Aged Care Manager

With over 18 years of combined experience in Aged Care and Disability, Kelly has established a reputation as a dedicated and accomplished Manager. For over a decade, Kelly has excelled in managing and leading diverse teams, ensuring operational success while fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment in the not-for-profit and for-profit sectors.

 

Driven by a profound commitment to person-centred care, Kelly consistently prioritises the well-being, dignity, and individual needs of participants. Her leadership style emphasises excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement, ensuring that Aged Care services achieve the highest standards. Kelly's passion for empowering clients and teams has been pivotal in creating sustainable success and enriching lives within the Aged Care sector.


Kylie McHugh, Community Service Coordinator at FOCUS Connect

Kylie McHugh

Community Service Coordinator

Kylie McHugh is a dedicated professional with extensive experience in employment and community services, having contributed significantly across various non-profit organisations. With a solid background in management, client support, and program delivery, she is passionate about empowering individuals and families to overcome challenges. Kylie excels in motivating and leading teams to drive meaningful, lasting change. Her commitment to supporting others ensures they have the tools and resources to achieve their goals and build a brighter future.

FOCUS Connect team

Celebrating Diversity

Our Inclusive Team Culture

Our team encompasses individuals with diverse cultural, professional, and life backgrounds, fostering an inclusive culture that values the richness of our collective professional and life experiences as our greatest strength.


Explore the impact of our dedicated efforts, the transformative experiences of those we serve or find out how you can be involved.