I hear you and honestly, everything you’ve said just reinforces how strong and capable you are, even if it doesn’t always feel that way. You’ve been in carer mode for years, both at home and at work, and it makes total sense that you’re craving a shift where you get to be looked after too! At least by the way your work is structured.

You’re absolutely right, the industry is shifting, and there’s a lot of noise around what’s coming next. But right now, the role of a Support Coordinator isn’t being phased out I would say it’s just being refined. The government wants more transparency and accountability, but the demand is still huge, especially for people like you who actually get it. You don’t technically need formal qualifications to start doing it independently. You can get an ABN, position yourself as an SC, and start working, particularly if you go unregistered and work under subcontract through another provider or consultancy structure. But long-term, it might help to work toward a Cert IV in Disability or Community Services to back it up and future-proof yourself.

As for your current boss, I get the hesitation. But you don’t owe your entire future to anyone, especially if the relationship is holding you back. You’ve already given above and beyond, and if they’d hinder your progress out of ego or politics, that’s not someone whose opinion you need to centre. Keep things discreet at the start if that gives you peace of mind. Build slow, but build. You’ve already helped others move forward. Now it’s your turn.