Tell us about your business?
NewDirection Care is a proud second-generation family business, founded by Natasha Chadwick and later joined by her brother Greg Aleckson and son Justin Chadwick. Three family members united by a shared purpose to reimagine care and support services in Australia.
Our journey began in 2010 when Natasha found herself reflecting on the future care needs of her own mother. Although she was running a highly successful aged care business with several homes at the time, she came to a powerful realisation: no home in Australia, including her own, was a place she would feel comfortable having her mother live in, or that her mother would choose for herself. That deeply personal moment sparked a bold mission to transform the way care and support is delivered.
This mission gave rise to our MICRO TOWN® model, an inclusive, person-centred approach that challenges the traditional institutional model of aged care. It was shaped through years of research and development, including a successful pilot in 2014 of key design and care principles at our more traditional Tasmanian community, which is now being actively redeveloped into a MICRO TOWN®. These insights culminated in the opening of our first fully realised MICRO TOWN® in Bellmere, Queensland, in 2017.
What sets us apart is our unwavering personal connection to our purpose. Because if we wouldn't accept traditional care and support services for our loved ones, or ourselves, why should we offer them to others? This philosophy drives everything we do and underpins the evolution of our model, which is now growing beyond aged care to support people of all ages and abilities, and their families.
What has been your greatest success?
Our greatest success has been building a values-driven family business that is making a real difference in people’s lives. At the heart of this success is our unique MICRO TOWN® model, a pioneering approach that is transforming aged care and reshaping the broader care economy in Australia.
The MICRO TOWN® breaks down traditional barriers in aged care, creating inclusive, integrated environments where people of all abilities and support needs live alongside one another. It’s a place where residents live with dignity and independence, families feel connected and the wider public can engage meaningfully through shared amenities and services.
Seeing the tangible benefits this model brings to residents, their loved ones, and the broader community is incredibly rewarding. The positive feedback we receive, from improved resident wellbeing to stronger family relationships and increased social connection continues to affirm the impact of what we’re doing. We are incredibly proud that this work has received significant national and international recognition. We’ve been honoured with numerous awards, including being named a finalist in the Australian Financial Review BOSS Most Innovative Companies 2024 and, most recently, winning the 2025 Ageing Asia Eldercare Award for Facility of the Year – Residential Aged Care. These accolades are a reflection of the bold steps we've taken to challenge the status quo and lead innovation in the sector.
Another significant milestone has been the growing recognition from government and other care providers. As we have forged a new path, we are re now seeing increased interest and support for innovation, new ideas and models like ours that challenge the status quo. Being part of that shift and influencing the future of the care economy in Australia is something we’re extremely proud of.
What do you value about FBA?
We joined Family Business Association because we recognise the strength and value of connecting with other family businesses who understand the unique opportunities and challenges that come with working alongside family. FBA offers an incredible network of like-minded peers, and being part of that community has been both grounding and inspiring.
A valuable aspect for us has been the opportunity to participate in Forum Groups. Justin is an active member, and the experience has provided immense professional and personal value. Having a trusted, confidential space to share insights, challenges, and experiences with others in similar positions has helped us make clearer decisions, grow as leaders, and strengthen our business.
We also joined FBA to find potential partners and champions of what we do—and just as importantly, to support and champion other family businesses whose values align with ours. We believe in building strong long-term relationships and contributing to a broader ecosystem where family-led enterprises can thrive together.
What advice would you give to other family businesses?
Running a family business is a unique and rewarding experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. One of the most important pieces of advice I can offer is to prioritise clear, honest communication, both within the family and across the business. Transparency ensures everyone is aligned on the vision, values and goals, helping avoid misunderstandings and bringing the whole organisation on the journey.
It’s also incredibly valuable to look outside your own industry. Some of the best ideas and innovations come from unexpected places, and connecting with other businesses, particularly those that operate differently, can challenge your thinking and inspire fresh approaches.
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of external perspective. Family businesses benefit greatly from the guidance of trusted mentors and networks who aren’t directly involved. These connections provide objective advice, act as a sounding board through both triumphs and trials and can help you see things more clearly when emotions or long-standing dynamics come into play.
Learn more about NewDirection Care at the Meet The Owner on 25 July! https://familybusinessassociation.org/event/meet-the-owner-new-direction-care
Learn more about NewDirection Care
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