Locals may recognise Annarose Sedan from her recent appearance on ABC’s Insight, where her business model as a “hire-a-granny” caught national attention.

At first glance, it looks like a story of pure entrepreneurial industriousness. In reality, it is a reflection of true grit, community spirit, and the quiet resilience needed to navigate today’s tough cost-of-living environment.

Now in her 70s, Annarose set up her unique service to stay active, remain useful, and make ends meet in a climate where too many Australians are feeling the squeeze. But for Rose, working as a local “hire-a-granny” across the North Shore is about far more than simply earning an income – it is about extending a warm, practical sense of family to those who need it most.

Rose lives in a multi-generational home with her daughter and grown up grandson. Together, they represent the modern Australian household – working as a tight-knit team, tackling life’s daily challenges together, and leaning on one another for support.

When we spoke to Rose she stated “I worked as a professional for most of my life, but not one day of it brought me the joy and satisfaction I get from Hire a Granny. Life isn’t always easy, but you have to stay positive and keep going. Being able to help people and feel useful brings me so much happiness.”

It is this strong foundation of family that Rose brings directly into the homes of local families.

From cooking nutritious meals, ironing, and sorting mountains of washing, to guiding children through the after-school scramble and bedtime routines, or even sewing on a missing button, Rose steps in to take the pressure off busy households. She has proven particularly invaluable to new migrants arriving in Australia who often lack local family support systems, stepping in during their most overwhelming moments and turning professional support into lifelong friendships.

Rose’s energy and commitment are all the more remarkable given what she has overcome. A breast cancer survivor who has also navigated both hips and shoulders replaced, a hip re-replacement, and a knee replacement, she refuses to let physical setbacks slow her down. Her philosophy is simple: keep moving, stay involved, and do what you love.

In an era where isolation can easily creep into suburban life, Annarose’s “hire-a-granny” initiative is a powerful reminder of the value of intergenerational connection. Through her determination to be useful to her community, she is not only helping local families thrive, but showing that true resilience starts right at home.