Duane Letson Top 5 Healthcare Leader

A proud moment for the Mornington Peninsula and Hobart communities. Duane Letson, CEO of Just Better Care Mornington Group & Hobart has been recognised as one of the Top 5 Leaders in Healthcare and Wellness Franchising.

This prestigious international recognition from World Health Leaders Magazine celebrates Duane’s values-driven leadership and unwavering commitment to delivering personalised, community-based care that empowers, elevates, and enriches the lives of our customers, families, and frontline staff.

“Our vision is to create a connected and empowered community where individuals receive care that is truly person-centred, proactive, and preserves their dignity and independence.”
— Duane Letson, Franchise Owner, Just Better Care Mornington Group & Hobart

From Nurse to National Leader: A Lifelong Connection to Care

Duane’s journey in healthcare began early, inspired by a family legacy of caring. With a mother who ran a nursing business and relatives across the community care sector, it was only natural for Duane to begin his career as a nurse.

What followed was a remarkable path through senior leadership roles in both not-for-profit and for-profit sectors. With a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) and experience as a Business Analyst and Director of Transformation, Duane helped shape aged care reform during the national transition to Consumer Directed Care.

Eventually, he was drawn to Just Better Care for its local focus and alignment with his personal mission. Together with his partner, the became Franchise Owners of the Just Better Care Mornington Group and later expanded into Hobart—focussing on support services that are grounded in compassion, innovation, and deep community connection.

Care That’s Local, Trusted, and Truly Personal

Unlike large corporate care providers, Duane’s teams live and work within the communities they serve. This local presence fosters trust and enables responsive care—whether it’s through restorative pathways under the new Support at Home program, or simply knowing a customer’s favourite walking route.

“We’re not a distant corporate entity—we’re embedded in the community. Our teams live locally, understand the unique regional needs, and are empowered to make decisions at the point of care.”
— Duane Letson

At Just Better Care Mornington, care is co-designed with clients and their families. Customers feel heard, staff feel valued, and services reflect what matters most—dignity, independence, and connection.

Innovating Through Change, Staying True to Values

Healthcare is constantly evolving, with workforce shortages, compliance requirements, and funding changes presenting real challenges. But Duane’s proactive and transparent leadership—supported by strong internal systems, technology, and collaboration—has helped his team navigate reform with resilience and confidence.

Technology is used thoughtfully to enhance care, not replace it. Tools like real-time scheduling, mobile case notes, and client dashboards keep teams connected and clients informed. Duane is also exploring AI-assisted planning and remote monitoring to support early intervention and personalised care.

“We view technology as an enabler—not a replacement—for human care.”

Growing Sustainably, Building a Workforce with Heart

For Duane, sustainable growth means meeting the needs of today while building for tomorrow. In Mornington, this includes expanding private in-home care offerings and aged care services. In Hobart, the focus is on workforce development and outreach to underserved areas.

Recruiting staff who reflect Just Better Care’s values is central to this growth. New team members participate in deep onboarding, client story-sharing, and leadership development pathways—creating a strong sense of purpose and belonging.

“We celebrate our people often and loudly.”

A Message to Future Leaders in Care

Duane’s advice to aspiring healthcare franchise owners is simple but powerful: Know your ‘why.’ Lead with empathy. Stay connected to your community. And always keep people at the centre of care.

Celebrating a Leader Who Inspires Change

Duane Letson’s recognition as one of the Top 5 Leaders in Healthcare and Wellness Franchising is more than a personal milestone—it’s a testament to the power of purpose-led leadership in aged care and disability support.

At Just Better Care Mornington, we are proud to be part of a national network shaped by passionate individuals who put people first. Duane’s vision continues to inspire our team to lead with integrity, deliver care with heart, and strive for excellence in every home we support.

Congratulations, Duane—and thank you for all that you do.