For more than 30 years, Annette Houston, a proud Kamilaroi woman, has dedicated her career to supporting people through their healthcare journeys. After beginning her nursing career in New South Wales and moving to Queensland in 2002, she joined Moreton ATSICHS nearly 14 years ago and has become a passionate advocate for women’s health. Annette is the Women’s Business Wayfinder Nurse at Moreton ATSICHS.
What started as a career focused on immunisation and wound care evolved into a passion for helping women access the care and support they need. Annette worked in hospitals for 13 years predominately, in Emergency Departments. Once she moved into primary health care, her focus was on immunisation and wound care before moving into women’s health.
“I never really thought about going into women’s health,” Annette said. “But the more I learnt, the more I recognised there were gaps in women’s healthcare and barriers preventing our Mob from accessing services.”
Today, Annette works with women experiencing a range of health concerns, including endometriosis and pelvic pain and clinical care. Through Moreton ATSICHS’ women’s health services, she provides clinical care, supports women to navigate their healthcare journey, connect with specialists and access the wraparound care they need.
One of the most important parts of her role is ensuring women feel heard.
“Sometimes just coming in and being listened to is the biggest impact it can be in the whole program,” Annette said. “People often feel like they’ve been dismissed over time. To have someone say, ‘We can help you. You shouldn’t be in pain,’ can be incredibly powerful.”
For many women, symptoms such as pelvic pain, heavy periods or other reproductive health concerns can be normalised or overlooked. Annette is passionate about changing that narrative and encouraging women to seek support.
At the heart of her work is a commitment to breaking down barriers to healthcare. Moreton ATSICHS’ approach means women can access support through multiple pathways, including self-referral, referrals from family members, GPs, youth workers and hospitals.
“We try not to create barriers,” Annette said. “We try to remove those barriers.”
Throughout her career, one of the most rewarding experiences has been seeing the positive impact that timely care and support can have on people’s lives. Whether helping women access treatment, supporting them through specialist appointments or simply providing a safe space to talk, Annette knows the difference compassionate care can make.
This Women’s Health Week, Annette is encouraging women to prioritise their health and speak up if something doesn’t feel right.
“Don’t suffer in silence,” she said.
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