Niesa Harper brings a lifetime of family values and community focus to her work in aged care. Inspired by a childhood spent listening to her grandparents’ stories and a career dedicated to supporting others, Niesa’s mission is to offer personalised, compassionate in-home care that allows clients to live independently. Her hands-on approach and commitment to quality have made Right at Home a trusted service in the Canberra region, where Niesa feels deeply connected to the community she grew up in and now serves.

What inspired you to pursue a career in your field, and how did you get started?

From a very young age, my parents instilled the importance of looking after family, especially our grandparents. As a young child, I remember sitting with my grandparents and listening to their stories, which sparked my appreciation of listening to people’s stories. After college, I began my working life as a carer, supporting local families. In my career, I have worked in many areas, including in-home support, in-home aged care, and mental health support, and found myself entering the family domestic violence sector.

I always knew I would return to aged care. As someone who has worked for larger companies, I knew that I wanted to run my own business supporting our older generations and those living with disabilities, but I wanted to do it differently from the aged care companies I previously worked for. I wanted to provide quality personalised care, I wanted clients to feel heard and to receive the support they need to remain living independently in their homes. I’m actively involved in every aspect, working closely with our care team and regularly meeting clients in the community. This hands-on, local approach has been warmly received in Canberra.

What moment in your career are you most proud of, and why does it stand out to you?

I have always worked in roles supporting people and often advocating for people. My proudest moments have come with having this business. The feedback from our clients, especially when they have shared that we have improved their quality of life, is most rewarding. Seeing the business grow and so many people making the switch to Right at Home because they want more out of their home care package also creates a feeling of pride. Being able to help families support their loved ones to pass away peacefully at home as per their wishes is something I hold very dear.

What are your favourite things about living and working in the Canberra region?

Canberra is where I grew up, it’s my home and it’s so special to be bringing up my family in a community that I hold very dear to my heart. Canberra is a beautiful region, and I enjoy meeting so many people in our community, supporting families and clients, especially those with loved ones living elsewhere, and helping clients engage with the diverse events Canberra offers. The city’s strong community spirit is reflected in our incredible care team, whose dedication has been inspiring. Canberra’s rich culture and diversity make it a wonderful place to live and work. 

How significant is the support of family and friends in helping you throughout your career and life?

My family means everything to me. My siblings are my closest friends, with my sister Natalie handling our recruitment and HR and my partner Josh managing our business finances. My parents, who ran their own business with integrity, have been key influences on my success. Growing up in Canberra, I’ve also built lasting friendships that have played a vital role in my life.

Outside of work, what activities or passions keep you energised?

My partner Josh and I have four young children—a 6-year-old daughter, 4-year-old twins, and a 2-year-old son. Outside of work, I’m busy with our kids, enjoying life in West Belconnen and exploring Canberra’s offerings.

I love relaxing with a book, sharing a cheese platter, or walking our red heeler, Billy. We also enjoy trips to our family farm near Wyangala Dam, where we spend summer days out on the water.

Right at Home ACT & Queanbeyan

1/68 Dacre Street, Mitchell

• T: 5127 5198
• E: [email protected]
• W: rightathome.com.au/franchisees/home-care-act-queanbeyan/right-at-home-act-queanbeyan

Client testimonial

Phyllis Lansley: Client, Right at Home ACT & Queanbeyan

Phyllis Lansley chose Right at Home ACT & Queanbeyan after a friend recommended them over her previous Home Care Package provider, impressed by their responsive and compassionate care. As a former geriatric nurse, Phyllis values Right at Home’s attentive staff and commitment to her independence, feeling secure and supported in every interaction.

How did you hear about Right at Home ACT & Queanbeyan?

I first heard about Right at Home through a good friend & neighbour of mine. When we both received our Home Care Packages, we originally signed with a different, larger company. We were both very unhappy with the service. My friend decided to change providers and moved her Home Care Package to Right at Home ACT & Queanbeyan. My friend talked with me about her new provider and shared information about her positive experience and I was keen to have a meeting with Right at Home.

Why did you choose Right at Home as the company to provide services to you through your Home Care Package?

From the moment I contacted Right at Home, I was very impressed with the high level of customer service, and they were friendly and warm towards me from the very beginning. I had trouble trying to get a hold of my previous provider when I needed to speak with them. With Right at Home, I can ring and speak to any of the team members. I am impressed that Right at Home has two full-time nurses on the team, which makes me feel secure. The nurses are available to speak with me when I have questions, and they visit me every three months as part of a complimentary service to see how I am and update the care plans to ensure they are relevant and up to date.

I have family across the world, and I am virtually alone here, so it is important to me that I have trust in my care provider. As a former geriatric nurse, I value my independence and plan to live at home as long as possible, making Right at Home a perfect fit.

How has your experience with the staff and service been?

Moving my Home Care package to Right at Home has been a brilliant decision. Their team, led by Niesa, is caring and respectful. The things I thought I may need in the future are starting to appear and I am able to discuss these needs and prepare with Right at Home. I trust they will continue to provide excellent service. The most important thing is that Right at Home has given me the time of day, I’ve always felt listened to by Niesa and her team. I have not once been disappointed at any stage since my switch to them. I feel so secure, warm, and well cared for.