EDQ NEWS

CEO Update on EDQ’s Achievements and Organisational Changes

As we enter another year, I am filled with immense gratitude and pride as I reflect on the incredible strides we have made together in supporting individuals, their families, carers and key supports impacted by eating disorders in 2023.

It has been a year of resilience, collaboration, and unwavering dedication to our shared mission.

Our partnerships have allowed us to provide comprehensive support to those in need, and I am thrilled to share that EDQ has supported 1,245 clients, each benefiting from at least one service contact.

This accomplishment is a testament to the collective strength of our community, the tireless efforts of our teams, and the enduring commitment of our partners. Together, we have created a network of care that extends far beyond individual organisations, forming a cohesive force that empowers individuals and their support systems on their journey to recovery.

With our shared vision as our guiding value, we will continue to break down barriers, challenge stigmas, and provide compassionate care to those who need it most. Together, we are making a lasting impact on the lives of individuals and their families, fostering a community of support that transcends the limitations of any one organisation.

As the CEO of Eating Disorders Queensland, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for your unwavering commitment, dedication, and passion for the care, treatment, and support of those affected by eating disorders.

The EDQ Board and I acknowledge that, as an organisation, we are at a juncture in the company’s history where a number of employees are reaching the milestone of 4-6 years of service with us.

A significant portion of our longstanding team members joined during the same period when I assumed the CEO role, overseeing the merger in 2018 that resulted in the formation of the larger organisation known now as Eating Disorders Queensland.

This merger marked one of the initial phases of change in our continuous growth as we expanded our services to cater to a broader client base.

We have been fortunate and grateful to retain and collaborate with our team members for this extended duration.

In light of prevailing industry trends and national averages, there is a noticeable increase in job mobility, with the national average tenure in a job being 3.3 years and 24% opting for job changes within the first five years. EDQ’s retention rate far outweighs the national average.

As a result, we are currently navigating what is commonly referred to as natural organisational attrition.

It’s crucial to recognise that attrition, in various forms, is an inevitable aspect of any organisation, and employees may depart due to personal or professional reasons beyond the organisation’s control.

EDQ has experienced exponential growth in the last six months, with increased funding and innovative service changes.

Cross-industry benchmarking indicates that organisational change can account for 35% of resignations.

Companies undergoing substantial changes, such as financial growth and service delivery diversification, may witness employee dynamics shifts.

While some employees may welcome these changes, others may decide to leave if the shifts do not align with their career goals.

These changes might introduce uncertainties or alter team dynamics, prompting long-term employees to reevaluate their organisational commitment.

Many of our staff members are also assessing their work/life balance, particularly in fields related to eating disorders, where the challenges can impact this balance.

In some instances, this evaluation may lead to a desire for a complete career change, reflecting the evolving priorities of today’s workforce.

Although a positive organisational culture is often linked to employee retention, it’s crucial to acknowledge that individuals harbour diverse career aspirations.

Even in organisations with exceptional cultures, some employees may opt to explore new opportunities for professional growth or personal reasons.

As a changing and growing organisation, the EDQ Board and I are committed to EDQ’s longevity, support, and nurture of our newer workforce to learn from and uphold the legacy of those who came before us.

We are listening and learning from the voices of lived and living experiences of eating disorders.

As we embrace the inevitable context of team dynamics during a change process of forming, storming, norming, performing, and, at times, it might include adjourning, we are very much looking forward to working with our community and endeavour to provide the best care at the right time as directed by the clients.

Warm Regards,

Galang nguruindhau
(good day in the Turrbal language, on whose lands I live and work)

Belinda Chelius.

CEO