Community
17 October, 2025
New leader for are-able
ARE-able is pleased to announce the appointment of Frances Sanders as its new chief executive officer (CEO).
Frances will start in her new role from Monday, November 17.
Frances joins are-able with more than 25 years of senior management and executive experience across the mental health, disability, and human services sectors.
She is currently the CEO of Nightlife Disability Services, where she has spent the past four years strengthening service delivery and expanding opportunities for people with disability.
With a career spanning clinical practice, service design, and executive leadership, Frances brings a rare combination of strategic and operational expertise.
Her background includes direct work with people and families in complex care environments, including specialist mental health forensic services and the Department of Health.
She is widely recognised for her ability to combine clinical insight, academic knowledge, and lived experience to design services that truly support families and carers, while ensuring consumer and carer voices are embedded in governance and decision-making.
In addition to her CEO experience, Frances serves as a Director with the State Forensic Service, Forensicare, and has previously held senior roles across the employment, government, and NDIS sectors.
She holds postgraduate qualifications in disability, psychology, business, and organisational change.
“Frances brings an unwavering commitment to empowering people and their families to live full lives and to have their voices heard,” Jason Ernst, interim CEO of are-able said.
“Her deep understanding of the human services landscape and passion for creating inclusive opportunities align perfectly with are-able’s purpose and strategic direction.”
Frances’ appointment marks an exciting new chapter for are-able as the organisation continues to strengthen its impact across communities and build pathways to sustainable employment, inclusion, and wellbeing.
