Our approach to governance is deeply rooted in the values of our Foundress, St. Jeanne Jugan, who reminded us: “Never forget that the Poor are Our Lord” and “Making the Elderly Happy is all that counts.” At the heart of our mission as Little Sisters is the holistic, compassionate care of the elderly in our Homes.
Governance and Leadership
Our three Homes in Australia operate under the registered entity Little Sisters of the Poor Aged Care Limited (ACN 121 604 608). The company’s Board—responsible for upholding our mission, vision, and key decision-making—is composed of members of the Little Sisters. They are supported by a group of volunteer professionals who provide guidance and expert advice. These advisors are selected by the Chair of the Board, who also serves as the Regional Superior of the Little Sisters.
Originally from Scotland, Sister Angela currently serves as the Regional Superior overseeing seven Homes across Australia, New Zealand, Samoa, and New Caledonia. Prior to her mission in the Province of Oceania, she served in our Homes throughout Scotland, England, Ireland, and France. A qualified registered nurse, Sister Angela has also been involved in religious formation and has served on both Local and Provincial Councils. Her extensive experience as both an administrator and formator is further deepened by her current role, which includes regular visitations to the Homes under her care.
Sister Rose Margaret, originally from Hong Kong, currently serves as the Assistant Regional Superior for the Province of Oceania. A registered nurse with extensive experience in aged care in both France and Hong Kong, she was transferred to the Province in 2003 and has since contributed significantly to the care and administration of our Homes in Australia and New Zealand. Her role involves regular visitations across the region, and since 2010, she has assisted the Regional Superior while also serving as bursar on the Provincial Council.
Sister Marie Bernard, originally from the Philippines, discovered her vocation to the Little Sisters of the Poor while working in Hong Kong. Following her initial formation at the Novitiate in Singapore and her first profession of vows, she was missioned to our Homes in Singapore, Hong Kong, France, the Philippines, and Australia. Over the years, she has served as a formator at the Novitiate in Sydney and as a member of the Local Council in various communities. Sister Marie Bernard currently serves as the Superior of the Community and is responsible for the day-to-day operations of our Glendalough Home in Perth.
Sister Shanthi Mary, originally from India, completed her initial formation and first profession of vows at the Novitiate in Bangalore. She then dedicated around 16 years to mission work at various Homes in France, gaining extensive experience in administration and serving on Local Councils. Since her transfer to Australia in 2019, Sister Shanthi has been responsible for the overall management of St. Joseph’s Home in Northcote, Melbourne, where she also serves as Superior of the Community.
Sister Lusia, originally from Samoa, has served on missions in Australia and New Zealand. Trained as an enrolled nurse, she brought extensive experience as a clinical supervisor in aged care before joining the Congregation. Alongside her nursing duties and direct care of Residents, Sister Lusia has contributed as a member of the Local Council in various Homes. She currently assists the Superior with the daily management of Mount St. Joseph’s Home in Randwick, Sydney.
Photos of Board members courtesy of Joe Vittorio Photography.
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