With more than 5,000 people employed by Gateways over the past 45 years, the organisation has played a powerful role in creating opportunities, shaping careers, and strengthening the community.
Few stories reflect that impact more than the journeys of Sean Justin and Jayne Donovan, two long serving employees whose careers embody dedication, growth, and purpose. Together, their experiences tell a broader story of how Gateways not only changes lives for the people it supports, but also for the people who work within it.
From frontline support to leadership
Like many at Gateways, both Sean and Jayne began their careers in frontline roles, grounded in direct, hands-on support.
Sean started as a casual Residential Support Worker more than 32 years ago.
“In those early days, my work was deeply hands-on and relationship based, supporting people in the everyday moments that matter,” he reflects.
Similarly, Jayne began her journey nearly 28 years ago in the same role. From the outset, both experienced the responsibility and privilege that comes with supporting people to live safe, meaningful lives.
“Families place enormous trust in us,” Sean says. “It’s crucial we honour that by delivering support that protects dignity and improves quality of life.”
Even early in their careers, both recognised they were part of something bigger, work that isn’t always easy, but has the power to truly change lives.
Careers shaped by change and opportunity
Over the decades, both Sean and Jayne have grown alongside the organisation, stepping into new roles as Gateways evolved.
Sean progressed through leadership positions, gaining qualifications and experience that eventually led him to his current role as Chief Operating Officer. Along the way, he built expertise not only in service delivery but in mentoring others, including travelling across Victoria to train teams supporting people with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Jayne’s career has followed a similarly dynamic path. From support worker to Assistant Team Leader, Team Leader, and Accommodation Program Manager, she later moved into regional leadership before stepping into her current role as Early Childhood & Specialist Services Manager. She also contributed to respite services, working closely with families to design personalised care and risk plans.
“So much has changed over this time,” Jayne reflects. “My role has evolved with the organisation, and there have always been opportunities to explore new things and keep learning.”
Both have witnessed major shifts across the disability sector, from a care-based model to a person-centred approach focused on independence, choice, and autonomy, as well as the introduction of the NDIS.
“People now have far greater choice and control,” Sean explains. “The focus is on each person’s rights, voice, and wellbeing, and ensuring they can live the life they choose.”
The power of purpose
Despite their different pathways, what has kept both Sean and Jayne at Gateways for so many years comes down to a shared sense of purpose.
For Sean, it’s simple, “It’s the people we support. Supporting someone to grow, achieve, and feel valued in their community is an incredible honour.”
For Jayne, two things have guided her journey - “The values and the people,” she says. “Gateways has always put the people we support at the centre of everything we do, and I’m really proud of that.”
Both speak to the strong sense of belonging that exists within the organisation. The connections you build, with participants, families, and colleagues are what stay with you.
Why people stay at Gateways
As a major regional employer, Gateways has supported thousands of careers.
It’s not just about career progression, though opportunities are abundant. It’s also about culture, purpose, and impact.
“There are so many passionate staff who are dedicated to achieving great outcomes,” Jayne says. People are proud of what they do and the difference it makes.
Sean notes that while strong systems and leadership matter, it’s ultimately the human impact that drives retention. When people feel supported, respected, and can see the impact of their work, it creates pride and loyalty.
More than a job
Both Sean and Jayne emphasise that a career at Gateways is about more than just work, it’s about making a difference.
“Supporting a person with disability is one of the greatest honours you can have,” Sean shares. “It’s something that changes lives, including your own.”
Jayne echoes this sentiment - “If you have to go to work, why wouldn’t you want a job that fills your cup and has a positive impact on others?”
Their advice to anyone considering a career at Gateways is, take the opportunity. Be open to learning, step outside your comfort zone, and embrace the chance to grow.
Part of a 45-Year legacy
As Gateways celebrates 45 years of impact, both Sean and Jayne reflect with pride on the role they have played in that journey.
“When you spend decades in an organisation, it becomes more than a workplace,” Sean says. “You carry its stories, lessons, and people with you.”
“I’m really proud to have been part of this journey. Gateways feels like a second family. I’ve had so many experiences along the way, and I’ve been lucky to work with some incredible people. It’s truly a privilege” Jayne adds.
Together, their stories represent more than long-standing careers, they reflect the care, commitment, and community that have shaped Gateways over the past 45 years.
Interested in a career at Gateways? Find out more and browse current opportunities HERE