A Proud Moment for Us All: We’ve Been Named Employer of Choice and Outstanding Business Leader

We’re proud to share that Biala Support Services has taken home two major awards at the 2025 Northern Rivers Business Awards – Employer of Choice and Outstanding Business Leader (in the 21 staff and over categories). 

While we don’t do what we do for recognition, this moment means a lot. It’s a reflection of our culture, care, leadership, and – most of all – the unwavering hard work our team brings to every part of Biala.  

 

We value our team

Being recognised as Employer of Choice reinforces the workplace we’ve created, where our staff feel safe, respected, and proud to be here. That flows through to deeper relationships, stronger continuity, and more meaningful support for every student and participant we work with. 

In the world of disability support services, consistency is everything. Whether it’s attending our school or accessing community-based support – knowing that staff members are passionate, supported, and genuinely committed can make all the difference. 

Janiece has worked at Biala for 31 years. She brings her energy, care, and positivity into every classroom. Her warmth is infectious, her commitment unwavering, and her impact immeasurable. 

“For me, the highlight is the change we make. It’s very humbling and has me grounded in life. I just love what I do, and I wouldn’t change it for the world”. – Janiece Bone, Teacher Aide, Biala School.  

 

 

Biala staff greet our students and participants each day with a gentle patience.  They truly understand the needs, preferences, and personalities of each individual at Biala That kind of stability builds trust, nurtures confidence and supports growth. 

“To be recognised as Employer of Choice is an incredible honour. In the disability sector, retaining and supporting staff is everything, because when we look after our team, they can give their best to the people and families we support. This award reflects the culture we’ve built together; one that values respect, inclusivity, teamwork, and the belief that every single role truly changes lives.” – Lisa Smith, CEO 

 

Leadership that builds trust 

Lisa Smith, our CEO, was named Outstanding Business Leader – such a proud moment for Lisa, the Board, and everyone at Biala. This speaks strongly to the values that guide everything we do at Biala. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With over 20 years in the disability sector, Lisa brings experience, advocacy, and passion to everything she does. She’s fostered a culture where every staff member is supported to grow, where each role is seen as vital, and children, participants and families feel heard and helped. 

“I am very humbled to receive the Outstanding Business Leader award. This recognition is not just for me, but for the entire team at Biala Support Services and the people that we serve. In our community, many are faced with barriers every single day of their lives and I’m privileged to be in a leadership role where I can challenge those views through our actions and demonstrate how people with disabilities can make a meaningful contribution to their community.” 

“These awards reflect the stability, care and values that underpin everything we do… and they’re reinforced in our long-term commitment to students, participants and families across the Northern Rivers community.” 

 

Thank you to everyone at Biala, and the Northern Rivers community, for being part of the Biala story.