Dawn Penney was born in the UK and was raised in a Christian home, She was actively involved in outreach programs through her church, including Girl Guides, Alpha groups, and holiday programs. After moving to Australia in 2000 with her husband and daughter, Dawn became the pastoral care coordinator at One Community Church in Melbourne, focusing on senior care. She also joined the Council for Christian Education in Schools and is now the CEO of Korus Connect, overseeing Special Religious Instruction in Victorian Government Schools.