Australian actress Jodi Gordon has made an unexpected yet inspiring career move.
Known for her role as Elly Conway on Neighbours, Jodi has spent over half her life in front of cameras and in make-up chairs.
Now, at 39, she has embarked on a profoundly different journey.
Swapping scripts for service, Gordon now dedicates four days a week as a mental health support worker with Sane Australia.
The organisation offers crucial digital and telehealth support to individuals grappling with complex mental health issues and their families.
However, her commitment to mental health doesn’t stop there.
Gordon is also pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in counselling and communication at Torrens University in Sydney, where she’s gaining a deeper understanding of the transformative power of language in mental health.
‘Stepping into a professional job in mental health is a huge change for me,’ Gordon shared with Stellar.
Australian actress Jodi Gordon has made an unexpected career move
Gordon now dedicates four days a week as a mental health support worker with Sane Australia
‘It’s funny, because Home And Away was the first time I ever auditioned for an acting role. And Sane was the first corporate job I ever interviewed for. I was over the moon when I got it,’ she continued.
Despite her fame, those who call Sane’s helpline remain unaware that the empathetic voice on the other end belongs to a Logie Award-winning actress who once graced the runways of Milan.
‘This is what I love about Sane. Because it’s a telehealth service, I’m just Jodi,’ she explained.
‘It’s funny, because Home And Away was the first time I ever auditioned for an acting role. And Sane was the first corporate job I ever interviewed for. I was over the moon when I got it,’ she told Stellar Magazine this week. (Pictured on Home and Away)
‘I’m just having a chat, asking questions like, ‘What’s going on in your day? What are you struggling with?’ I love the anonymity.’
Gordon’s new role at Sane Australia is more than just a job; it’s a mission.
‘It’s quite an honour to work for a company that really fights to change the stigma around mental health. It’s wonderful to work in the space of advocacy. Having experienced discrimination and stigma firsthand, there’s a lot of purpose in what I do.’
