Our story
What started in 2003 as a small initiative for German-speaking seniors in Adelaide quickly grew into something much bigger. Our dedication to supporting positive ageing and community well-being led to continuous expansion, and by 2012, we became the German-speaking Aged Services Association Inc. (GSASA).
But we didn’t stop there. As the world changed, so did we—welcoming people from all backgrounds and broadening our services to meet the diverse needs of our community. By 2023, it was time for a fresh identity that reflected our inclusive approach. Today, as German Community Services Inc. (GCS), we’re here to empower, connect, and support seniors and carers across Metropolitan Adelaide.
New name, same heart.
Services
At German Community Services (GCS), we offer the following services:
- Social Support Groups
- Social Support at Home
- Respite – Centre-based or In-home
- Meals
- Transport
- Support with language, advocacy, special needs
- Carer Support
German Community Services Inc. empowers individuals and their carers to live independent and meaningful lives.
Our Vision
- Holistic Approach – We recognise each person in their full complexity and provide comprehensive support.
- Community Connection – Our clients are valued as individuals and as part of a thriving community.
- Positive Ageing – We focus on strengths and resources to promote independence and well-being.
Our purpose
- Empowering independence and choice – Supporting individuals to live life on their terms.
- Enhancing quality of life – Promoting well-being, connection, and dignity.
- Acting with responsibility – Managing resources sustainably and ethically.
- Continuously improving – Evolving to meet changing community needs.
- Being responsive and inclusive – Listening, adapting, and supporting all individuals.
- Fostering community connection – Strengthening relationships and belonging.
- Embracing cultural respect & diversity – Welcoming all backgrounds with understanding.
Our values
- Valuing community resources – Recognising and making the most of community strengths.
- Honoring staff and volunteers – Acknowledging their essential role in delivering our mission.
- Engaging with the community – Listening, consulting, and responding to needs.
Meet our team
The majority of our clients are fluent in German and English, which is also true for our staff and volunteers. And no matter what language we deliver our services in, we always listen with empathy and speak with respect.
Our Management Committee
Our Management Committee combines diverse expertise in aged care, community services, health, finance, and governance. With strong connections to Adelaide’s German-speaking community, members offer both professional knowledge and lived experience. Together, they provide strategic guidance to ensure our services remain culturally responsive and client-focused
Christa Michaelis
Acting Chairperson
Christa has been a valued member of our Board since 2024 and stepped into the role of Acting Chairperson in 2025. She brings a wealth of expertise from various roles she has worked in the aged care industry over the past decades, including senior management, finance, project officer and recruitment. Christa has been pivotal in establishing our organisation based on findings of a research project she led; and has been supportive of our cause ever since. In her spare time, Christa is devoted to her four-legged companion Rita, and is always engaging in a project of craft.
Michael Hehner
Treasurer
Michael is the longest-serving member of our Board, with eight years of dedicated service. He brings over four decades of experience in the banking sector, having worked at Westpac in a range of roles, finishing his career as a Commercial Credit Manager before retiring in 2020. He contributes financial insight and a strong sense of community through his involvement with the Reynella Cricket Club. As a carer for his mother, a GCS client, Michael understands the value of culturally sensitive aged care.
Petra Tietjens
Secretary
Petra has served on our Committee as our Board Secretary since 2022. With her professional background as a registered nurse and chiropractor, she contributes to shaping our clinical care policies and strategies. Petra’s personal experience as a carer for her late sister provides her with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by carers, strengthening our Carers Program with both empathy and expertise. Petra keeps active with Line Dancing, and also volunteers for an over- 50ies Club.
Lynn Openshaw
Committee Member
Quality & Service Development
Lynn has joined our Management Committee in 2025. Now retired, Lynn has worked for decades in the aged care sector, including in Headoffice for a major aged care provider where she led Service Development, Quality and Compliance. Lynn enjoys being an active and hands-on grandparent, and enjoys travelling.
Antje Richter
CEO
Bachelor of Psychology
Advanced Diploma, Community Sector Management
With almost 20 years of experience in the aged care industry in Australia and 10 years in Germany, Antje offers a deep cross-cultural understanding of community and aged services.
Our staff
Our dedicated staff is committed to delivering high-quality, culturally sensitive care and support. This includes Support Workers who provide hands-on services to clients, Coordinators who manage and coordinate individual client care plans, a Program Administrator who oversees our various seniors’ groups, and our Administration Officer who handles data and reporting. We work collaboratively to meet the diverse needs of Adelaide’s German-speaking and the wider community – with professionalism and enthusiasm.
The team at GCS is led by CEO Antje Richter who holds a Bachelor of Psychology and an Advanced Diploma of Community Sector Management; and brings over 30 years of experience in the aged care industry, including 14 years in executive leadership.
Our Volunteers
Our dedicated team of volunteers is essential to service delivery at German Community Services. They contribute diverse skills and lived experience, helping foster strong community connections and culturally sensitive support.
Many have been with us for over 10 years—some for nearly 20—reflecting their deep commitment to our mission.
GCS greatly values and appreciates the time, energy, and care our volunteers give. Through their ongoing service, they strengthen the bonds within Adelaide’s German-speaking community and enhance the wellbeing of those we support.
