“We value the unique capability of every child”

Our Purpose

Vision

Our vision is to see children restored to dignity and wholeness, and able to reach their full social, emotional, and academic potential. 

Mission

Our mission is to build strength and resilience into the lives of children experiencing disadvantage or trauma by teaching life skills and helping them engage in healthy and positive relationships with themselves, each other, and their communities. 

Values

Capability 

We value the unique capability of every child and endeavor to identify and work with their strengths and abilities.

Relationships 

We value the relationships we have with the children we serve, their families, schools, and greater community. 

Hope and Faith 

We value hope and the power it has to transform lives and restore dignity. We value faith as a quality of the service we provide.  

Our story

Founders, Grant + Kym Austin

How it all began

After years of youth and student support work in schools as chaplains, founders Grant and Kym Austin noticed that many of the children sent out of class were not 'bad' or 'dumb' kids but were often children who were dealing with the impact of personal trauma.

In 2012 they established Mimi’s House through Hope Centre Services as a direct response to a local community need for support services for children who are at risk of disengaging from education.  

Since then, over 500 children have benefitted from the program and it has continued to grow in capacity each year, now partnering with six different schools and working with 56 children across six days a week. Mimi’s House has also grown to include a second-year mentoring program where children are matched with screened and trained community mentors.

In 2017 we began a venture philanthropy partnership with Social Ventures Australia (SVA) to further sustainably scale and develop the Mimi’s House program in readiness for expansion. Through this partnership we commenced undertaking a study with the University of Queensland that will enable us to determine and articulate long-term impacts and benefits of Mimi’s House for children and the broader impacts this has in both schools and the wider community.

It is our hope and intention that the Mimi’s House program can be expanded to other regions of need around Australia.

Meet the team

  • Jane Hockey

    PROGRAM DIRECTOR
    Mimi's House

    Jane has been an integral part of Mimi's House since its inception, passionately advocating for those who may not have a voice of their own.

    With a strong background in high school special education, Jane has donned various roles within Mimi's House. Her dedication lies in supporting children to stay engaged in school, focusing on skill-building and confidence-building to ensure their continued success in education.

    Jane's unwavering commitment to the cause is a driving force in our mission to empower and uplift those we serve.

  • Denise Habib

    DESIGN COORDINATOR & SITE LEADER
    Mimi’s House, Logan

    Since 2022, Denise has been the driving force behind our Logan site, pioneering our efforts with unwavering dedication. Denise is the epitome of a true Mimi, radiating care and compassion with a deep love for everyone she encounters. With a rich and diverse career in education, Denise has seamlessly transitioned through various roles, including Early Childhood Educator, Hairdressing Coordinator, and working with disengaged youths. Her passion lies in passing on her wealth of experience to the next generation, and her authentic personality creates a safe and secure environment for both her team members and the children she serves. Denise’s passion is to see every child develop to their full potential.

  • Simon Paech

    FAMILY LIASON
    Mimi’s House, Moreton

    Simon serves as the dedicated Family Liaison at our Rothwell site, bringing a wealth of lived community experience from both Australia and Uganda. His passion lies in connecting with the families of our children, and he possesses a natural ease that instantly puts people at ease in his presence. Those who interact with Simon quickly realise his genuine concern for their well-being. Beyond his role as a Family Liaison, Simon is a pillar of support for the entire team, consistently demonstrating diligence and dedication. He embodies the spirit of a true team member, providing invaluable support to both the staff and families of Mimi's House.

  • Lisa Ainsworth

    PROGRAM COORDINATOR
    Mimi's House, Moreton

    Lisa's journey with Mimi's House began in 2019 as a passionate volunteer, and since then, she has continued to shine as both a Program Assistant and now our Program Coordinator. With a deep well of wisdom and an unwavering commitment to supporting individuals facing vulnerabilities, Lisa brings a wealth of knowledge from the disability and education sector, along with a strong background in HR. Her calm and warm presence is a source of comfort for both children and team members alike, earning her love and respect throughout our program.

  • Eloisa Pritchard-Tapu

    PROGRAM COORDINATOR & SITE LEADER
    Mimi’s House, Moreton

    Eloisa has been with Mimi’s House for 7 years wearing many different hats. Currently she oversees our Rothwell site and coordinates 2 days a week.

    Eloisa is a great leader with a kind and gentle heart. She has a unique skill where she can bring out confidence in children and let them know they are both seen and heard. Eloisa has a great vision for projects and allows children to build and demonstrate their own individual skills and talents.