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Meet Catherine Harris: The Leadership Mind Behind Project Roar At Talent Quarter, we really do believe strong workforce outcomes are driven by strong leadership. As part of our commitment to delivering meaningful value beyond recruitment, we’re proud to partner with Catherine Harris, Founder of Project Roar , to deliver a quarterly Leadership Masterclass Series focused on strengthening leadership capability across the sectors we support. Exciting! This initiative reinforces an important objective for us, which is to deepen our client relationships through high-impact learning opportunities , helping organisations build stronger leadership capability across the sectors we support. With over 20 years’ experience in career and leadership development, Catherine brings practical, outcome-focused insights that help organisations build high-performing, engaged teams. Ahead of the upcoming series, we sat down with Catherine to learn more about her background, her approach to leadership, and what participants can expect. Q&A with Catherine Harris For those who may not know you, can you tell us a little about your background and what led you to found Project Roar? I’ve spent my entire career at the intersection of talent and leadership. I built my early career in recruitment before moving into senior internal talent roles, including heading up the Talent Acquisition function at Singtel Optus. I led a leadership team responsible for all national hiring, from call centre through to C-suite, and what that experience really gave me was a front-row seat to what great leadership looks like and, just as importantly, what happens when it’s missing. You see the impact every day - in who stays, who leaves, who thrives, and who disengages. It almost always comes back to the leader. From there I moved into a Business Manager role supporting one of the senior executives at Optus, which sharpened my commercial thinking and gave me a deep understanding of how leadership plays out at the executive level - the pressures, the decision-making, and the ripple effect a leader has across an entire organisation. When I made the decision to leave corporate and eventually start Project Roar, I knew I wanted to focus on leadership and career coaching. I’d seen too many talented people get promoted into leadership roles with no development, no support, and no toolkit - and I wanted to change that. I now work with individuals and organisations to build stronger, more confident leaders and help people forge successful careers. What can participants expect to walk away with from this Masterclass Series with Talent Quarter? Honestly, the thing I’m most excited about is that we’re giving people development they wouldn’t normally prioritise. We all know how it goes - leadership development is important, but it keeps getting bumped for the “real work.” This series removes that barrier. It’s bite-sized, practical, and designed to fit into a busy schedule through a lunch-and-learn format . Across the four sessions, participants will build real, usable skills: how to delegate with clarity and confidence , how to have courageous conversations around underperformance , how to lead with positivity and a growth mindset , and how to communicate strategically to keep teams aligned and engaged . These are the everyday leadership moments that make-or-break team performance, and participants will leave each session with something they can apply straightaway. What’s one practical insight or shift you’re excited to share with participants? The shift I see time and again in my coaching work is when leaders realise that the things holding them back aren’t big, complex strategic problems. They’re the everyday leadership moments they’re not getting right. They’re hanging onto tasks instead of delegating with clarity. They’re avoiding the tough conversation because they’re hoping the problem will sort itself out. They’re communicating reactively instead of strategically. Or they’re so focused on putting out fires that they’ve lost sight of the kind of leader they actually want to be. What I love about this series is that each session tackles one of those moments head-on. What’s one common mistake organisations make when developing leaders? Simply not doing it. That’s the honest answer. Organisations will invest heavily in hiring the right people. They’ll invest in systems and technology. But when it comes to actually developing the leaders who are responsible for driving performance and culture every single day, it falls off the priority list. People get promoted into leadership roles because they were brilliant at their previous job, and then they’re just expected to figure it out. There’s no structured development, no coaching, no investment in the skills that leadership actually requires - things like delegation, communication, giving feedback, and navigating change. And then we wonder why engagement drops or performance stalls. If you want strong leaders, you have to build them. It doesn’t happen by accident. What’s Coming Next? As part of this partnership, Talent Quarter and Project Roar will be launching a quarterly four-part Leadership Masterclass Series designed to equip leaders with practical tools they can apply immediately in their roles. The first webinar, The Art of Delegation , will focus on helping leaders delegate with clarity and confidence by setting clear outcomes, defining ownership, and empowering their teams to take responsibility. In the lead-up to the webinar and masterclass series, we’ll also be sharing a series of leadership insights and perspectives from Catherine , giving our community a preview of the thinking and practical strategies that will be explored further during the sessions. Strengthening Leadership Across Health and Care Through this Masterclass Series, Talent Quarter aims to equip leaders with practical tools that can be applied immediately , strengthening performance, communication and team effectiveness across health and care organisations. We’re excited to partner with Catherine Harris and look forward to supporting our clients and partners through this initiative - continuing to invest in leadership capability across the sectors we serve. Stay tuned for the next instalment in this series!
When Jayda took on an 8-week short-term nursing contract in Kalgoorlie, Western Australia with Talent Quarter, she knew it would be an adventure - but she didn’t realise just how memorable the experience would become. Working with WACHS (WA Country Health Service), Jayda embraced the opportunity to step outside her comfort zone and immerse herself in regional healthcare. Discovering Kalgoorlie For Jayda, one of the standout highlights was getting stuck in and learning about the culture and history of the town. “Visiting the Super Pit and seeing the sheer size of it was incredible,” she shared. “It really puts things into perspective.” Regional contracts offer more than just professional growth - they create space for genuine exploration and connection with communities many people may never otherwise experience. Support Every Step of the Way Jayda described her experience working with Talent Quarter as seamless from start to finish. “Onboarding with my agent went smoothly, and her communication was great. We video called before the contract so she could explain everything clearly, and she was always accessible during the placement if I needed anything.” That ongoing support can make all the difference when stepping into a new environment, especially in regional or rural settings. Why Regional and Rural Nursing? Jayda is a strong advocate for nurses considering regional contracts. “I would definitely recommend regional and rural nursing to others. It allows you to build experience and see all different types of presentations. These contracts often cover a wide area, so you get exposure to a bit of everything.” Beyond the clinical experience, it’s also about the adventure. “You get to go to places you may not have ever planned to visit before. I’m so glad I did it — it’s an experience I’ll cherish forever.” Her Advice? “Just do it! Round up a nursing buddy - or even a furry friend 🐕 - and go explore regional and rural Australia.” For Jayda, the leap was more than worth it. It was a professional and personal experience that expanded her skills, broadened her perspective, and created lifelong memories. Try you r hand at it! Ready to pack your scrubs (and maybe your pup)? Reach out to Jeane and start planning your own regional adventure. She’ll work closely with you to find a placement that suits your goals, lifestyle and experience. 👉 Contact Jeane today to explore available regional contracts. 📧 Email: jeane.seducon@talentquarter.com 📞 Phone: +61 8 6400 6434
By Sue Healy | Talent Quarter Thought Leadership Series
5 Decades of Nursing, Community and a Norfolk Island Adventure
As the year draws to a close, it’s natural to switch gears: to reflect on the past 12 months, recharge over the holidays and perhaps start to think about what comes next. If you’re working in the healthcare sector - whether nursing, allied health, aged care or medical support - now is an excellent time to give some thought to your next career step . At Talent Quarter, we have fantastic opportunities waiting for you, and we’d love to get you connected. Get in touch with us today and let’s make your next step the best career move so for you. Below is our career-checklist and some practical tips to help you approach a job move in the new year - with less stress, more clarity and even while you enjoy your holiday downtime. Why now could be a smart time for a change Even though the labour market has its fluctuations, the healthcare sector in Australia continues to show strong underlying opportunities.
Working in rural and remote healthcare isn’t just a career move, for some, it’s a calling. For many nurses, it’s about stepping into communities where access to healthcare can be limited, and where your presence actually makes a world of difference. One of our incredible nurses, Brittanie , has spent the past three years working across remote Australia - and she shared what this experience has meant to her, she says: “After spending time in rural areas, I realised how much impact you can have in small communities. Every day is different - from emergency response and CareFlight retrievals to outstation visits and primary healthcare - and you never stop learning.” Connection is at the Heart of Care What stands out most about rural nursing isn’t just the variety of work, it’s the connection. In these communities, you’re not just a clinician; you’re a massive part of their lives. You're able to see the results of your care first-hand and watch families grow across generations. The landscape, culture, and pace of life bring a sense of purpose and grounding that’s hard to find elsewhere. “Being surrounded by country and culture gives you a real sense of meaning. It’s not just healthcare - it’s connection, belonging, and learning from the strength and resilience of the communities you serve.” At TQ, this is a first-hand example of what we call Connections with Impact.
Working in Aged Care means giving compassion, patience and heart every day. But in a sector built on care, your own wellbeing matters just as much as the people you support. What the Numbers Say Recent Australian research shows wellbeing in aged care is under real pressure: Around 1 in 4 workers experience burnout symptoms like fatigue and emotional exhaustion (ARIIA, 2024). Burnout rates increased and resilience has declined (Medical Journal of Australia). Over half of workers in some studies have considered leaving due to workload and emotional strain. These aren’t just stats - they’re the lived reality of the people caring for our most vulnerable. Why It Matters Burnout doesn’t happen overnight. It’s the slow build-up of long shifts, emotional load, and never-ending demands. But you matter too - your health, your energy, your purpose. It’s okay to pause, take leave, ask for help, and reset. Caring for yourself is part of caring for others - you can’t pour from an empty cup! Alexiss, our Head of Aged Care at TQ, puts it perfectly: “Pause and reconnect with your purpose. Remember what drew you to aged care, because those meaningful connections can reignite your spark when you need it most.” What Helps Reduce Burnout in Aged Care Smarter workloads, better schedules: When shifts are balanced and you have more control over your work, burnout drops - and job satisfaction rises. Strong support systems - Good leadership and supportive teammates make all the difference. Care work is relational, and carers need care too. Spot pressure early - Noticing stress points before they build helps keep teams steady and safe. Extra hands when needed - Partnering with Talent Quarter means having qualified staff ready to step in when workloads peak. Hiring for the long haul - Bringing in the right permanent staff creates stability, strengthens teams, and helps prevent burnout before it starts. 🤝 Connections with Impact At TQ, we really do believe that great care starts with supporting the carers . We’re here to help connect you with workplaces where you feel valued, supported and able to thrive - physically, mentally and emotionally. Let us help you find an Aged Care role that’s right for you! And remember, it’s okay to pause. To take leave. To ask for help. To reset. The best carers are those who know when to look after themselves first. Because when you’re well, the positive impact you create ripples through everyone around you. If you’d like support, guidance, or simply someone to talk to, our Aged Care Team is here for you. Get in touch! 📩 Alexiss: Alexiss.Macneil@talentquarter.com
Approximately one in five Australians live with disability as per the latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics. The festive season can be fun, but for many young people and individuals living with disability, Christmas can also feel a little overwhelming - as you probably know! Changes to routine, busy environments and heightened emotions can make this time of year challenging. As support workers, it’s often the really small but thoughtful things that make the biggest difference. Here are a few tips for this time of year. You might already know (and do) many of these, but they’re always worth keeping in mind. Stick to Familiar Routines Where You Can Even small changes can feel big during Christmas. Where possible, keep routines consistent and give plenty of notice when things need to change. Clear communication and preparation can go a long way. Watch for Sensory Overload For some people with autism spectrum disorder, meeting new people, loud music, crowded spaces and bright decorations can be overwhelming. Due to the nature of Christmas, social situations are difficult to avoid, but putting the right strategies in place can help make Christmas more enjoyable for everyone. Offering quieter spaces, lowering noise levels, or supporting the use of headphones or sensory tools can help people feel more comfortable. Let Choice Lead the Way Not everyone wants to celebrate in the same way-and that’s okay. Give the people you support the choice to join in, take a break, or opt out altogether. Feeling in control helps reduce stress. Think About Accessibility Early Whether it’s a community outing or a small activity at home, making sure spaces are accessible and suitable helps prevent unnecessary pressure and keeps things running smoothly. Additionally, if some activities such as driving around to see Christmas lights prove to be challenging for guests with mobility issues, consider choosing a different activity that is more accessible. Check In and Keep It Real Christmas can bring up mixed emotions. A simple check-in, a listening ear, or a calm presence can make a real difference during this busy time. Focus on What Matters Christmas doesn’t have to be perfect. Meaningful moments, genuine connection and a sense of inclusion matter far more than sticking to a set plan or ticking boxes. For the people you support, feeling safe, respected and understood is often more important than participating in every activity or tradition. Taking the pressure off expectations and meeting people where they’re at can help create moments that feel calm, positive and truly meaningful-whatever Christmas looks like for them. At Talent Quarter , we’re proud of our youth and disability support workers who show up with empathy, flexibility and professionalism - especially during high-demand periods like Christmas. Your work helps create inclusive, supportive environments where people feel safe and valued. We would love to also thank you for the care, patience and compassion you show every day—especially during this busy time of year. Supporting young people and individuals living with disability takes a very special kind of pers on, and your work does not go unnoticed. You are truly appreciated! Looking after yourself is also important! If you are concerned about your mental health, call Lifeline for free 24/7 counselling support on 13 11 14. Alternatively, you can call Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 or visit the Beyond Blue website for an online chat.
Meet Claidelyn Marquez’s, one of our international nurses who made the journey from the Philippines to Broken Hill. Her story is honest, emotional, and it shows exactly what determination, sacrifice, and belief can look like when someone refuses to give up on their future. We hope this inspires any healthcare worker to take that next step toward the future they want, no matter how impossible it may seem today. Choosing nursing - even when it wasn’t the obvious path “I come from a family of engineers - everyone around me was in that world,” she says. “Choosing nursing made me different.” In the Philippines, nursing isn’t easy to get into. Only a small percentage of students make it through the entrance requirements. But Claidelyn kept pushing. “I wasn’t the most confident student at first, but I kept going. Then I did a 3-month training in haemodialysis and decided to specialise. The more I learned, the more I realised this is where I belong.” Why Australia? Claidelyn always felt drawn to Australia - long before she ever had the chance to come here. “I always told myself I wanted to work in Australia. I preferred it over the US. Something about the lifestyle and the culture just felt right.” But there was something deeper too. “My father always dreamed of seeing me build a life here. When he passed away, I felt like I needed to actualise that dream - for him and for myself.” So, she started saving every little bit she could. She also built a small online business to help fund the journey - exams, paperwork, travel, and training. “It was expensive. Really expensive. But I told myself, if I want this, I’ll find a way. ” Why Broken Hill? Moving overseas is huge. Moving to regional Australia is even bigger. But for Claidelyn, Broken Hill just clicked. “I researched so much about regional areas. Broken Hill stood out because it’s peaceful, low crime, friendly people, and a small community. I’m not a big city person. I love quiet and I love feeling safe. Broken Hill just felt right.” Relocating to Australia is one thing but starting work in a brand-new healthcare system is another. “I’m nervous and excited at the same time. Everything is new - the culture, the routines, the system. But I like challenges. I love experiencing new things. I’m excited for what’s ahead.” How Talent Quarter came into the picture Like many international nurses, she found us online through Facebook. “I saw Lewis’s post, and something told me to message him. But first, I checked everything - rankings, credibility, if TQ was legit.” Then came the moment that stood out to her most: “Lewis replied FAST. Other agencies didn’t respond or take forever. Lewis helped me right away. That alone made me choose Talent Quarter and disregard any other agency.” “The onboarding process with TQ was really fast. So fast! I finished most of the paperwork in just a week. Lewis kept me updated every step of the way; he was really accommodating too. If they needed something, they told me immediately. It was a smooth process.” Securing the contract - and that moment everything clicked She laughs remembering it. “I screamed! Literally screamed. Then I told my husband right away. We were both so happy! It felt like things were finally falling into place.” None of this would be possible without her husband’s support and the dream of giving their son a brighter future. She misses them every day, but they’ll be together again soon - and she’s counting down the days. Her message to other international nurses “Keep going. Don’t let doubts - especially other people’s doubts - stop you. People told me I’d never get PR, that it was too hard, or that I’d just waste money. But I planted a seed. I prepared the soil. I worked really hard. And most importantly… I had faith. Faith in myself. Faith in timing. Faith that the universe would open the right doors. If you want to take a similar journey, don’t give up. It is possible.” A final note from us at Talent Quarter Stories like Claidelyn’s remind us why international nurses are so special. Behind every placement is a human being who has sacrificed, worked, hoped, and believed. We’re honoured to be part of her story - and we can’t wait to support the next one. If you're an international nurse dreaming of your own Australian journey, we’d love to help. Reach out to Lewis Dew via LinkedIn or email him on lewis.dew@talentquarter.com
We know that Aged Care recruitment is about more than filling roles, it’s about dignity, respect, and making sure the right people are in the right place to deliver safe, compassionate care. To shine a light on this important part of healthcare, we spoke with Alexiss Macneil, our Head of Aged Care , about why this work matters, how the sector is evolving, and what sets Talent Quarter apart. Q: Alexiss, what first drew you into Aged Care recruitment? For me, it comes down to two things: people and purpose. Aged Care recruitment stood out to me because it isn’t just about jobs - it’s about supporting organisations that care for some of the most vulnerable people in our communities. Knowing that the right placement can directly impact the quality of life for residents and their families which makes my role in this incredibly meaningful. Q: How has the Aged Care sector changed in recent years? Aged Care is changing on 1 November 2025 with the new rights-based Aged Care Act , which puts older people’s dignity, choice and supported decision-making at the centre - backed by stronger Quality Standards and better whistleblower protections. At the same time, Support at Home replaces Home Care Packages and Short-Term Restorative Care. The person receiving care will be paying for the services they use, with contributions set using age-pension-style means testing (income + assets), and “no-worse-off” protections for anyone who was in the Home Care Package queue before 12 September 2024. For providers, the bar is higher: clearer obligations, sharper accountability, safer, more people-centred care. The challenge is workforce. That’s where Talent Quarter comes in - supplying compliant, compassionate nurses and care workers you can rely on across residential and in-home care. Our focus is simple: trust, safety and dignity in every placement. As these reforms come into effect, facilities will need people they can rely on, and nurses and care workers will see clearer pathways and new opportunities, whether in residential facilities or in home-based care. I see our role here as helping both providers and carers thrive in these new circumstances. Q: What makes Talent Quarter’s approach different? I don’t see recruitment as transactional; I spend a lot of time building long-term partnerships. While I think our approach is solutions-focused: we look beyond workforce gaps to truly understand the culture and compliance needs of each institution. Whether it’s permanent, temporary, or international recruitment, we take pride in making sure our support is tailored for both clients and healthcare staff. We want our clients to feel confident they have the right people, at the right time. Speed, compliance, and cultural alignment aren’t nice-to-haves, they’re essentials. Q: Why is trust so important in Aged Care recruitment? Providers are caring for some of the most vulnerable people in our communities, mums, dads, grandparents, people who deserve to feel safe and respected every single day. In Aged Care, there is simply no room for shortcuts, because every placement touches a real life. That’s why trust is everything. Recruitment partners need rigorous compliance processes, of course, but they also need to be compassionate advisors who understand what’s at stake. At Talent Quarter, we never forget the human side of what we do. We build trust not just through transparency and consistency, but by treating every placement as if we were choosing care for our own loved ones we call this #connectionswithimpact. Q: There are still misconceptions about Aged Care. How do you change the narrative? Aged Care nursing is so often misunderstood. It’s not ‘just basic care’, it’s leadership, it’s advocacy, it’s problem-solving in moments that really matter. It’s being the bridge between residents, their families, and the wider healthcare team. The way we change that narrative is by telling the real stories - shining a light on the skill, compassion, and resilience of Aged Care professionals. We need to celebrate their work, highlight their voices, and remind the community that they’re not just providing care, they’re creating dignity, belonging, and home. When people hear those stories, the perception starts to shift. Q: What does a successful placement look like for you? For me, a successful placement is never about filling a vacancy quickly - it’s about finding the right fit. On the candidate side, it means a nurse or care worker steps into a role where they feel truly valued, supported, and able to grow. It’s seeing them thrive, build confidence, and deliver the best possible care because they’re in an environment that is best suited for them. For our clients, success looks like having a reliable team member who integrates well, strengthens culture, and stays for the long term. The way we get there at Talent Quarter is through empathy and communication, listening to what candidates truly want in their careers, understanding what clients really need, and building genuine partnerships that bring both together. Q: What keeps you motivated in this challenging sector? Honestly, it’s the impact we have on people’s lives. When a nurse or care worker finds the right role, they’re not only supported to thrive, but the people they care for feel that impact too. That ripple effect from candidates to clients to the communities they serve - is what inspires me every day. For me, that’s what our TQ slogan #connectionswithimpact is all about. Your Scottish accent is a bit of a trademark here at TQ! If you had to give us one Scottish phrase, what would it be? I’d say ‘Whit’s fur ye’ll no go by ye’ - which means” what’s meant for you won’t pass you by.” I love it because it’s a reminder that the right opportunity always comes around - and in recruitment, that couldn’t be more true!
Frequently Asked Questions
Got a question? We’ve compiled answers to the most common queries from healthcare professionals and employers. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, our team is only a message away.
For Employers
How does Talent Quarter’s recruitment process work?
We start with understanding your organisation, your culture, your team, and what great care means to you. Then we identify the right people from our national network, handle all compliance and credentialing, and manage the process from interview to onboarding. You get quality hires with less back-and-forth.
Why can Talent Quarter find candidates when others can’t?
Because healthcare recruitment is all we do. Our consultants are specialists with deep sector knowledge and extensive networks of active and passive candidates. We know where to find exceptional clinicians, and how to connect them quickly, compliantly, and with cultural fit in mind.
What sectors do you recruit for?
We partner with government departments, public and private hospitals, aged care providers, and community health organisations across metro, regional, and remote Australia.
What service delivery models do you offer?
Our solutions are designed to suit your needs: Retained & Executive Search, Temporary, Shift-Based, Travel Nurse, Locum, and Clinical Services. Each one is built around compliance, speed, and the right outcomes for your patients and teams.
How fast can you fill a vacancy?
With an engaged, ready-to-work national workforce, we can respond to urgent staffing needs quickly without compromising quality or compliance.
How do you ensure compliance and safety?
Every candidate is fully vetted through our credentialing process — including AHPRA registration, background checks, and references. Our governance framework meets national healthcare standards so you can hire with confidence.
What does it cost to use Talent Quarter’s services?
Fees vary depending on the service model and scope of work. We’re transparent from the start, providing clear pricing and outlining what’s included, so there are no surprises.
Do you offer any guarantees?
Yes. We stand behind every placement. If a hire doesn’t meet expectations within the agreed period, we’ll work with you to find a suitable replacement at no additional cost.
For Jobseekers
What types of healthcare roles can I find with Talent Quarter?
We recruit nurses, doctors, midwives, allied health professionals, social and community care workers, aged care staff, and clinical specialists across both permanent and temporary opportunities.
Where in Australia can I work?
We offer placements across metro, regional, and remote Australia, giving you the flexibility to choose where and how you work.
Do you help with travel or accommodation for contracts?
Yes. For many locum and travel nursing roles, we assist with flights, accommodation, and logistics, so you can focus on your work, not the paperwork.
What benefits will I receive as part of the Talent Quarter workforce?
You’ll receive onboarding packs and scrubs, access to lifestyle discounts, retention bonuses, professional development, and tax benefits such as LAFHA. Plus, you’ll have continuous support from your consultant and access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
Do you offer career development opportunities?
Absolutely. We provide access to learning platforms, ongoing training, and tailored career pathways to help you grow in your specialty and step into leadership roles.
I’m an international nurse. Can I apply?
Yes, we support international healthcare professionals relocating to Australia. We’ll guide you through AHPRA registration, visa options, and the transition into work and life here.
How does the referral bonus work?
Refer a colleague or friend to Talent Quarter. When they join our workforce and complete their first placement, you’ll receive a referral bonus as a thank-you for helping us grow our community of care.
Do you offer visa sponsorship?
Yes. We’ll advise on eligibility and guide you through every step.
What support do you provide for relocation?
We’ll help with documentation, travel, accommodation, and local orientation. You’ll also receive ongoing support after you arrive in Australia.
Do I need AHPRA registration before applying?
You’ll need to start your AHPRA registration process before beginning work in Australia. Our team can help you understand the pathway and paperwork required.
Refer a Colleague. Earn Rewards.
Know someone who’d make a great fit for the Talent Quarter workforce? Refer them to us and receive a referral bonus once they start their first placement. It’s our way of thanking you for helping us grow a stronger healthcare community.
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