Toni Carson
Darug Woman | Social Worker | Community Leader
What’s your connection to the MidCoast / Taree?
Born in Sydney, I spent 25 years living and working on Awabakal Country in Newcastle, which was a beautiful experience. I moved to Taree to take up this current role and I feel incredibly blessed to have been given the opportunity. I have always loved the area and have quickly developed a strong connection to the Mid Coast, drawn to the area’s natural beauty, waterways, and bushland. I am proud to live and work on Biripi Country, continuing my commitment to community and culture.
What does First Steps Count mean to you?
How do I sum this up? I love First Steps Count. I love the community, the families, the building, the environment, and the people I work alongside every day. To me, First Steps Count is a place of connection and possibility. I truly believe that First Steps Count will continue to support our community in meaningful ways and make a lasting difference for future generations.
What does success look like for you here at First Steps Count?
Success is when families feel a true sense of belonging at FSC—when they see this as their space. It’s when Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal parents can sit side by side, supporting one another and raising strong, connected children together.
To me, success also means families having access to the services they need, especially trauma-informed support that meets them where they’re at, when they’re ready. It’s about services working seamlessly together to ensure no one falls through the cracks, and every family is supported in a timely, respectful and culturally safe way.
