Those early experiences highlighted important gaps, but they also revealed something greater. The space he was in really mattered, and the young people in front of him deserved someone who was willing to grow, adapt and keep showing up for them.

Rugby then took Justin to Japan, an experience that would prove invaluable. Immersed in a new culture, he learned powerful lessons about leadership, respect, and the value of diversity. Living and playing in such a different environment opened his eyes to the many ways people connect, collaborate and thrive when they embrace both differences and shared goals.

That insight stayed with him on his return to Australia, and it shaped the way he approached his work at Charles Conder Primary School. Here, everything began to align. Justin discovered the depth of the Youth Worker role, the responsibility it carried and the incredible opportunities to create meaningful connections. He began designing programs that were not only creative and practical but successful. It was here that his passion truly ignited, the passion that would eventually grow into Make The Time.

What started as a vision quickly became reality. Within just two months of launching Make The Time, Justin was already partnering with more than nine schools and supporting over 350 students each term. For him, this was never the finish line, it was only the beginning. Justin’s journey into the NDIS space revealed just how complex and messy it can seem from the outside. But through experience, he came to understand that at its core, the system is simple when approached from a person centred perspective. This belief drives the way Make The Time supports individuals and families.

Focusing on people first. Justin has always said that no matter how big Make The Time becomes, he will never give up his role in direct support work. For him, maintaining that connection is non negotiable. It keeps him grounded, fuels his passion and inspires him to keep finding new ways to help people unlock their potential and achieve success.

Through working with diverse groups of young people, Justin came to realise that meaningful relationships are built on one simple yet powerful act, Making The Time. In today’s busy world, time often slips away and the first thing many people sacrifice is time with those closest to them. Justin and his team promise to stand in that gap to Make The Time for students and participants when others can’t. This is who we are. This is Make The Time.