Humans of Nextt: Meet Anna Di Pietrantonio

With heart, purpose and principled care, Anna is helping people with disability achieve independence and moments that matter. 

As a Senior Manager of Client Experience at Nextt, Anna draws on more than 20 years of experience across disability, mental health, carer, and aged-care services. Her journey from Disability Support Worker to executive leader reflects both her deep sector expertise and her commitment to client-centred care. 

Recently, Anna and her team in Victoria were recognised with Nextt’s 2024 Dream Team Award for their collaborative approach and outstanding outcomes. But beyond the accolades, it’s Anna’s principled way of working that continues to shape the lives of clients and families every day. At Nextt, this combination of passion and expertise is what makes us the disability experts with the NDIS know-how. 

A Career with Purpose

For Anna, working in the disability sector has always been more than a career choice, it’s been a calling. 

“When I was deciding on my uni course, I wanted to work with children, and I thought that children with a disability would be an interesting group to work with,” Anna recalls. “I studied a Bachelor of Applied Science- Disability and learnt so much across many areas,” she says. 

That degree launched Anna into her first role as a Disability Support Worker, where she quickly saw the impact that personalised support could make. She went on to hold senior roles at UnitingCare LifeAssist, leading disability, mental health, and young carer services, and helping to pioneer Homeshare and prepare for the rollout of the NDIS. 

Her journey also included senior business development roles at Baptcare, where she successfully secured tenders to deliver Local Area Coordination in South Australia and Tasmania, and later led a national residential aged care sales team while completing her MBA. After time in the start-up world, Anna felt the pull back to frontline services, and to Nextt, an organisation she had long admired. 

Why Values Matter in Care

What drew Anna to Nextt was its client-centred approach. She explains: 

“Day-to-day operations here are driven by heart, and clients are at the centre of decision-making.” 

The value that anchors her most strongly is being principled. 

“I always aim to do what’s right, not just what’s easy or convenient. I believe in accountability, transparency, and standing by my values, even under pressure. That consistency builds the trust we need to create real, lasting outcomes,” she says. 

Moments that Change Lives

Over her career, Anna has witnessed countless moments of growth, joy, and independence. Anna recalls attending a housewarming party for a long-term client who had moved into his own home. 

“When I started, he didn’t interact with females and stayed home a lot. A year and a half later, he was having a party and invited female leadership staff to his housewarming. That was a real win,” she says. 

For Anna, moments like these are powerful reminders of why this work matters. “Even small wins, like helping someone reach a goal or gain a bit more independence, make a real difference.” 

Advice for Families and Future Support Workers

Anna believes that a career in disability services transforms not only the lives of clients but also the lives of those who support them. 

“Give it a go with an open heart and an open mind,” she says. “This is a field where you can truly make a difference – not just in someone else’s life, but in your own. Partnering with people with disability reveals fresh perspectives on resilience, creativity, and strength.” 

Her advice applies just as much to families and referrers: with the right support, small steps forward can grow into independence and confidence that changes everything. 

Life Beyond Work

Outside of work, Anna enjoys reading – from horror and drama to true-life stories. And she has one unexpected hidden talent: juggling. 

“I learnt because a client asked me to. The laughter and fun we had while I tried to pick up the skill was unforgettable!” 

Changing Lives, Backed by Expertise

Anna’s journey is a testament to the power of principled leadership, compassion, and a client-centred approach. Through her work, she reminds us that every step forward, no matter how small, can change lives in profound ways. 

At Nextt, this is what sets us apart: we combine the passion and heart of our frontline teams with deep NDIS expertise and disability know-how. It’s this unique blend that helps our clients achieve their goals, build independence, and live their best life. 

For more information about how we can help you or the people you support on their NDIS journey, get in touch with our team here or call us on 1300 369 568.