2019 Annual report our impact 01 contents About abcn 02 Message from the Chair 03 Message from the CEO 04 2019 Highlights 05 ABCN IMPACT 2019 OUR STORIES 06 Our Programs 09 Our reach Our Impact: students Our Impact: mentors Theory of change 10 Program delivery 11 and a total of Core mentoring programs 12 % % 93% Digital programs 14 8,445 29,184 91 63 iMproved HOW Development and collaboration initiatives 15 students were reached THEY MENTOR mentored through of GOALS AND others after the program ABCN Foundation 17 all programs aspirations students of goals and Our Partners 23 completed Year 12 aspirations students have received university offers % (compared with a 79% Partner schools 24 (compared with 60% national average 98 national average and 76% Member companies and business partners for disadvantaged students)1 enrolled in university and 46% for WILL TALK ABOUT 26 disadvantaged students)2 203 43 THE PROGRAM Board of Directors 28 schools businesses to colleagues and friends Financial Information for ABCN is Australia’s largest % % Year Ending 30 June 2019 31 and a total of 90 93 % network of business and OF FORMER OF aspirations ABCN financials 32 93 schools working together 4,719 6,595 GOALS STUDENTS STUDENTS grew their Foundation financials 35 corporate CORPORATE surveyed 10+ years after completing said they felt prepared for the UNDERSTANDING the program are fully engaged in world of work, compared with to empower young Australians mentors VOLUNTEERS* of other generations involved through education, employment and/or training 21% before the program to reach their potential in Governance Statement 36 compared with a 74% national average and cultures as a result all programs and 63% for disadvantaged students3 of the program

the future world of work. contact us 37 *Includes all mentors as well as volunteers in additional events

1 Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (2019), National Report on Schooling in Australia (Year 12 certification rates in 2018). 2 Productivity Commission (June 2019), The Demand Driven University System: A mixed report card (2016 data). ABCN Annual Report 2019 • 1

3 Lamb, Prof. Stephen (2015), Educational Opportunity in Australia: who succeeds and who misses out, Centre for International Research on Education Systems, Victoria University for the Mitchell Institute. about abcn message from the chair

Business inspiring students The schools and students we work with The challenge A lot has changed since the end of 2019 (and first opportunity to participate in ABCN programs. It is drafting this letter). As ABCN was finalising this annual thanks to these mentors that the number of ABCN The schools we work with are typically priority-funded The gap between advantaged and disadvantaged to reach their potential in report, we all found ourselves grappling with the students has grown more than 50% in the past two and located in low SES communities. They typically sit schools in Australia is one of the largest in the OECD.1 the future world of work COVID-19 pandemic and all of its implications. And just years, in line with the organisation’s ambitious plan significantly below the national Index of Community Disadvantaged schools in Australia experience more as Australians pulled together to collectively respond to dramatically expand its reach. Socio-Educational Advantage (ICSEA) average of 1000 teacher shortages, higher teacher-student ratios and   to the COVID crisis, so too ABCN moved swiftly to Grow Connect Inspire and have high levels of educational disadvantage. greater inadequacy of educational resources than The rapidly changing world of work makes ABCN’s respond to the crisis in schools generated by the advantaged schools.2 mission even more crucial. As business leaders, we Students from these schools experience a range pandemic. I am proud of how ABCN immediately rallied have a chance to step up and make a difference — of difficulties. Many have parents who have not By the age of 15, students from low SES areas in our network of companies and volunteers to donate ABCN brings businesses and schools together to address to play a unique role in preparing young people for completed their own schooling and/or gained tertiary Australia are typically three years behind their internet data and laptops to students at risk of falling educational disadvantage. their lives post-school. Across corporate Australia, qualifications, leaving students with little or no counterparts from more advantaged areas in behind in the dramatic shift to remote learning. there is growing awareness of a social license to We connect volunteers from corporate Australia with access to professional role models. They may also mathematics and science.3 Their likelihood of ABCN’s emergency response is testament to how operate. We can — and should — be more proactive. students from areas of low socio-economic status (SES) to have overcome language and cultural barriers or completing Year 12, going on to further study and nimble and innovative we can be. And the fact that provide structured workplace-based mentoring programs suffered trauma and loss as newly arrived immigrants obtaining meaningful employment is significantly ABCN is unique in its ability to connect deeply ABCN was already well advanced in developing digital that develop students’ confidence, skills and aspirations or refugees. They may have significant carer diminished. with both the education and corporate sectors, programs means that we are well placed to continue vital for thriving in the changing world of work. responsibilities and/or need to contribute to family and therein lies its impact. I congratulate CEO to support schools with an enhanced suite of online finances due to limited household income. They may  24% do not complete school Allegra Spender on steering the ABCN ship so ABCN was established as a purpose-led not-for-profit offerings in future. be experiencing significant poverty, overcrowding in Tony Macvean, Chair capably and acknowledge the dedicated ABCN by a group of CEOs who felt that collaboration between Almost one quarter of students from the lowest SES the home, limited access to educational resources or Keeping people connected is what ABCN does, and team that supports her. businesses and schools could make a positive impact in backgrounds do not complete Year 12 or its equivalent that is even more important during a crisis. For me the community. Since 2005, almost 50,000 students have even homelessness in the most extreme cases. by age 19.4 The work we do — bringing together the many and my Hall & Wilcox colleagues, active involvement benefited from direct mentoring through our work. member companies, schools and supporters that with ABCN — whether online or face-to-face — is both  46% enter university by age 22 make up the ABCN community — is remarkable. Today we are a network of 43 of Australia’s leading meaningful and significant. Participation in ABCN Together, we are continuing to create profound companies and 203 schools working together to make By age 22, fewer than half the number of students programs is consistent with our law firm’s purpose 'The skills that our people impact during a period of unprecedented change. a difference in the lives of young Australians. from the lowest SES backgrounds enter university — of enabling communities to thrive. 14 percentage points below the national average and 37 develop by participating The nature of ABCN’s work means that all our people Our vision is for all young Australians to reach their The gap between advantaged percentage points below students from higher socio- potential in the future world of work, regardless 5 in ABCN programs — like can make meaningful contributions — beyond lawyers and disadvantaged schools in economic areas. of their background. mentoring and coaching doing pro bono legal work. The skills that our people Australia is one of the largest  Twice as likely to be unemployed develop by participating in ABCN programs — like skills — are extremely mentoring and coaching skills — are extremely By age 24, they are almost twice as likely to not be relevant to the work we do and to our future success. 1 PISA (2015) in the OECD. 2 Lamb (2015) fully engaged in employment, education or training, relevant to the work we do 3 We are not alone. In 2019, 99% of ABCN mentors PISA (2015) compared to those from higher SES backgrounds.6 4 ACARA (2018) and to our future success.' across all member companies said they value the Tony Macvean 5 Productivity Commission (2019) 6 Lamb (2015)

2 • ABCN Annual Report 2019 ABCN Annual Report 2019 • 3 message from the ceo 2019 highlights

The year 2019 was packed with standout moments, but the placed second nationally in Microsoft’s AI for Good Record number of students Supporting Indigenous education highlight for me was two surprise encounters with former competition. Another highlight was our continued work ABCN students (in one week!). At EY Care Day in November we with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, The number of students (8,445) we connected with corporate We continued to deepen our engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait discovered that Joe, one of the EY volunteers, was a former through our Indigenous Accelerate scholarships and our volunteers increased by 26% last year and by a massive 51% over Islander students. Our ongoing partnership with the Aurora Education ABCN GOALS student. A few days later we met Taylor, another relationship with the Aurora Education Foundation. the past two years. Our network of participating organisations is Foundation supports their High School Program, which provides intensive GOALS alumna who is now an Optus employee and ABCN also growing: last year we welcomed seven new companies — educational and related support for Indigenous students from Years 8-12. In 2019, our network also supported more than 100 job Focus facilitator. ABCN’s goal is to empower young people to BlueScope, Chevron, KKR, LinkedIn, Western Sydney Airport, Additionally, in 2019 we supported our member company Microsoft in the placements through the J.P. Morgan InRoads program, thrive in the future world of work; seeing our former students WSP Australia and Ecstra Foundation — and 13 new schools delivery of their Indigenous work experience program. Optus’ Pathways 2 Employment program and TAL’s support the next generation to do just that, is more than we across NSW, Victoria, Queensland, SA and WA. support of Accelerate scholars. ever dreamed was possible. ABCN Foundation scholarships As well as deepening our existing partner relationships, Last year was an extraordinary one for the network. Through Expanding our digital reach Our three-year Accelerate scholarship program continues to grow; we we are also building new ones. We were delighted to the energy and passion of our businesses, schools and the Allegra Spender, awarded another 31 scholarships in 2019. We are grateful for the increasing welcome BlueScope, Chevron, KKR, LinkedIn, Western One of our strategic goals is to increase online access to our wonderful ABCN team, 8,445 students were mentored by 4,719 Chief Executive Officer number of donations which have enabled this growth, particularly the Sydney Airport and WSP Australia to the network in 2019, programs. This is aimed at students living in remote areas, as well corporate volunteers. That’s 26% more students since 2018, exceptional gift from TAL of over $200,000. There are now 86 scholars and to be working with Ecstra Foundation on developing as preparing for instances which prevent students from physically and an astounding 51% more students since 2017. As always, participating nationally in Accelerate across the three cohorts. financial capability in young people. attending classes. Online access also removes geographical barriers the givers receive twice what they give, and that is certainly to mentor participation. In 2019, we successfully piloted digital what we heard from last year’s mentors who talked about Thank you to each and every one of our businesses, versions of our GOALS and Aspirations programs. the perspective, joy and skills they gathered through their schools, educators, mentors and students who worked Entrepreneurs Unearthed program volunteering. Thank you all. with us in 2019. ABCN has come a long way since our start 'We are very proud Extraordinary interest in our Entrepreneurs Unearthed pilot, developed in 2005, and we are very proud that many of our current Helping students into employment over the past three years with support from EY and the Commonwealth The year 2020 promises to be an extraordinary one as well, but partners have been with us almost 15 years. Bank of Australia, led to this program joining our suite of core programs in in a very different way. As COVID-19 forced a rapid shift to social that many of our We are proud to have assisted more than 100 young people into 2020. The program empowers young people to develop entrepreneurial distancing and remote learning, ABCN was poised to escalate Finally, I would like to acknowledge the ABCN team, work placements through collaborations with member companies current companies skills that will enhance their future career opportunities. the digital program development we already had underway. who are tireless, passionate and resilient in the pursuit J.P. Morgan (InRoads program), Optus (Pathways 2 Employment Digital has long been a vital investment area for ABCN; in 2019 of our mission. and schools have program) and TAL (Accelerate scholars who became TAL interns). we ran three digital mentoring pilots as well as other online been with us What schools want from business programs. Now more than ever our work in this space will allow Enlisting our alumni More than 90% of schools want increased engagement with business, us to keep our community of students and mentors connected. almost from the Our ABCN alumni group ran its first formal networking event in 2019. according to the 2019 report we commissioned from the Australian Improving STEM education and career opportunities was start in 2005.' The former students, now in their twenties, invited current ABCN Council for Educational Research. Mentoring, work experiences and another key focus for us last year. We are so proud of our students, sharing their stories of their own transitions post-school workplace visits were identified as key ways for business to enrich Brisbane Bayside State College students, whose artificial and into the world of work, closing the circle of learning. student learning. Thank you to the Commonwealth Bank of Australia intelligence project to diagnose cerebral visual impairment Allegra Spender for funding to support this research.

4 • ABCN Annual Report 2019 ABCN Annual Report 2019 • 5 our work in action Four stories that show how ABCN programs make a difference to all our stakeholders. Despite her fair share of challenges, Hannah Brant, mentor % 7-8 working with experienced mentors Zarghoona has her sights set on the Hannah’s first experience as a mentor in to develop their interests in STEM, to skies: upon finishing high school she 93 our senior girls learning from the ways the GOALS program was so rewarding, 7 wants to become a pilot. She credits of mentors said successful women managed their she immediately signed up for more. new companies her career aspirations to her Jetstar their mentoring/coaching careers.’ The Manager of KPMG’s Infrastructure joined the ABCN network mentors in ABCN’s High Flyers program, skills improved as a result and Projects group had initially applied Thomastown Secondary College sits in 2019. which aims to promote and encourage for GOALS for two reasons: she hoped of participating in an well below the average in the Australian careers in aviation for women. ‘Before to share some of her experience and ABCN program in 2019. Index of Community Socio-Educational participating in High Flyers, I was unsure provide guidance to a student who could Advantage. There is a high migrant about which subjects to choose. Now, use those skills; and − on a personal level Leonie White, Principal population and 86% of students speak a Steven Worrall, Managing Director, shaping and building Australia’s future- I want to be a pilot. The ABCN programs trusting herself and the guidance she is Zarghoona Yussifi, student — she hoped to develop her mentoring, language other than English at home. Microsoft Australia ready workforce’ he says. ‘Providing have made me sure about my subjects providing is the most challenging aspect. ABCN first caught the attention of communication, inclusion, diversity and opportunities for these students to Zarghoona is a dedicated senior student and my future.’ However, this is outweighed by the huge Principal Leonie White in 2011, when she Leonie says she is always looking for In 2019, 200 professional Microsoft at Dandenong High School, and dreams understanding skills. sense of pride and satisfaction she gains considered bringing the GOALS program opportunities for her students to have mentors volunteered their time on ABCN see workplaces and be mentored by For many migrants like Zarghoona, of becoming a pilot after completing What surprised her at the program’s from being a mentor. to Thomastown Secondary College meaningful experiences in the real world. programs, providing encouragement employees from diverse backgrounds adapting to life in Australia has had its Year 12. But this dream would have been completion was not the sense of pride she in Victoria. GOALS seemed to answer She is a firm believer that spending time and support for 442 students across is just one small way that we can give difficulties. But thanks to skills learnt in ‘I am so proud of seeing my mentees unimaginable to Zarghoona only a short felt in the accomplishments of her mentee, Leonie’s key question when assessing in the workforce during school years is four states. ABCN also collaborated with back and support the students as they InterACT, an ABCN program for recently in the past, and now Sia, progress time ago, before she and her family fled but her disappointment that the program new school programs: ‘Will the time and critical for students to build skills for the the technology company on tailored move from schooling to the workforce or arrived migrant and refugee students, and develop their confidence and their home in war-torn Pakistan in search had come to an end. She then applied to resources we contribute result in a gain in future. ABCN programs provide just this programs, including the Microsoft further education. Zarghoona says she has become more communication skills,’ Hannah says. of a better life. be involved in Accelerate, a three-year knowledge, skills and experiences for the opportunity. Indigenous work experience program, confident. ‘Though it’s not easy for ‘Becoming more confident in talking with ‘It’s a wonderful program for all our ABCN program. She thought this would students involved?’ the AI for Good Schools Challenge Since arriving in Australia in March a student learning English as a new other mentees and also mentors, having ‘The reason we do this is because the employees to be involved in and 2019, Zarghoona has thrived in her new allow her to see the long-term benefits of comfortable conversations with adults in The school has not looked back since, programs work,’ Leonie says. ‘The staff Hackathon, Microsoft’s Girls in Tech week extremely rewarding. Over many years language, I learnt how to develop mentoring, and Hannah is now mentor to environment. Her parents wanted to give the corporate world has immeasurable now embracing all ABCN programs. ‘We are professional. The mentors are real and Microsoft’s Traineeship Program. our Microsoft mentors have all stated relationships and communicate with one of our 2018 scholars, Sia. Reflecting her more opportunities, and she says she benefits long term. have reached the point where we access people who choose to be involved. More Why do so much work together? Steven that they have got more out of the people. I recommend that every student on her experience so far, Hannah says that has certainly found plenty through ABCN. takes these opportunities because there ‘To anyone considering mentoring, every program that ABCN can offer us,’ often than not, the adults enjoy the Worrall, Microsoft Australia’s Managing relationship than the mentees. Engaging Zarghoona has now participated in two are many more like me that still need help. I would definitely say give it a go! A Leonie says. ‘From our students in Years programs as much, if not more, than the Director, says it is because of the ethos and helping others, offering advice or the ABCN programs, and even spoke at the students and the students feel that. Young ‘ABCN makes every student believe small amount of our time, combined that underpins both organisations. benefit of your experience – inevitably 2019 ABCN Victorian end-of-year event. with exposure to the corporate world, people have an inbuilt radar that senses you find that you learn a lot more about in their inner talent, that they can do insincerity. And while the programs are ‘Microsoft has partnered with ABCN anything if they are willing to try… there can make an enormous difference for a over the past 13 years as we are deeply yourself and the other person.’ student who needs a helping hand. Do % targeted at disadvantaged schools, it ‘The ABCN programs have is no such thing as failure, only different 90 never feels like charity.’ invested in ensuring everyone is Microsoft believes strongly in being results that make us keep on trying.’ not underestimate the impact you can provided with the skills and opportunity involved in the broader community. made me sure about my have with a mentee, they are ready and of edUcators to participate in the digital economy. It’s ‘These programs build capability and willing to learn.’ said they want to increase subjects and my future.’ going to take a collective effort to ensure confidence at the same time as helping their current involvement to deepen understanding across with business. that no Australians get left behind and we need to play our part in both generations and cultures,’ Steven says.

6 • ABCN Annual Report 2019 ABCN Annual Report 2019 • 7 Closing the circle

These former ‘The mentoring program also influenced her career path today. ‘I was ABCN students now always hesitant to put myself out there for working at ABCN gave me a greater level of anything with a leadership aspect,’ Michelle member companies confidence and helped me says. ‘But ABCN really helped to grow my demonstrate the confidence. Through GOALS, I learnt to powerful generational come out of my shell.’ believe in myself. My mentor encouraged change our work creates. me to seek out opportunities. I’m glad I did Joe says he still remembers his mentor, because I was elected school captain and Andrew Varasdi, with whom he was paired achieved school Dux!’ As part of her 2014 for the multi-session program. He also says Joe Yakoub, EY employee and the key strategies he learnt, including how ‘ABCN really helped to grow ABCN alumnus to set realistic and achievable goals, are just as helpful today as they were 10 years ago. my confidence.’ As a student at Tempe High School a decade ago, Joe (pictured above, third from left) had an early interest in business. But it was his GOALS experience, Michelle visited Optus, participation in GOALS in Year 9 that helped one of ABCN’s founding member companies. his dream become a reality, with Joe now Today, Michelle is a graduate with Optus and working as a senior consultant for EY, one of a member of the ABCN Alumni Committee, ABCN’s member companies. following her completion of an economics ‘The mentoring program really helped give degree at the University of . me direction and greater insight into what ‘My life would be very different if I hadn’t I needed to do to get there,’ Joe recalls. ‘It participated in the ABCN programs,’ she says also gave me a greater level of confidence now. ‘I was encouraged to consider university and helped me come out of my shell.’ as a pathway towards a bright future, and the Joe was surprised to find the corporate skills I picked up led to my success today. I GOALS mentors so approachable and really believe in programs like these because down-to-earth, despite many being Michelle Lwin, Optus employee of how they changed my life.’ so accomplished. ‘As a student in high and ABCN alumna school, I had this expectation that people Growing up in a Burmese migrant family, in their position would be somewhat Michelle (pictured above, far right) had unapproachable and wouldn’t have the little exposure to the corporate world. This time or patience to deal with school changed when she participated in several students like myself. But from the very ABCN programs during her time at Auburn first session, it was clear that this fear our programs Girls High School, which she says heavily was unfounded.’

86 • ABCN Annual Report 2019 ABCN Annual Report 2019 • 9 ABCN creates a future-fit workforce through our shared value proposition: meaningful theory of change interactions that improve student employability while increasing mentors’ workplace success. 2019 Program Delivery

ABCN delivered 759 programs in 2019, ABCN’s focus is face-to-face mentoring, augmented by digital programs. a 14% increase on 2018. The 8,445 students mentored this year represent a 26% increase on 2018. The 4,719 mentors involved represent a 23% increase.

2019 2018 since 2005 purpose activity student immediate outputs STUDENT LONGER-TERM OUTCOMES ultimate goal Businesses 43 40 - NT Devote more attention to professional and Unique model of: Increase aspirations and confidence 8 8 - Inspiring personal development Young people have States/Territories students to • Mentors a higher rate of 1 QLD • Workplace- Schools 203 197 - achieve their employment and WA based Develop career knowledge and Seek school leadership positions and part-time jobs 138 potential in sessions future-focused workplace skills better quality of SA Students Mentored 8,445 6,690 47,642 the future employment 96 • Building skills Progress through school with better results and world of work of the future NSW Year 12 completion rates 22 Mentors Create professional connections 4,719 3,846 37,687

Advance to further education/employment 298 Total Students Participating in all ABCN-supported activities 29,184 23,999 202,675 ACT (includes one-day events and digital programs) MENTOR immediate outputs MEMBER COMPANY LONGER-TERM OUTCOMES 8 Total Volunteers Develop mentoring, coaching Increase retention and skills-base of high-quality staff Participating in all ABCN-supported activities 6,595 5,924 56,697 and interpersonal skills VIC (includes one-day events and digital programs) Promote a more diverse and inclusive workplace culture TAS 185 Volunteer Hours Increase engagement and resilience Participating in all ABCN-supported activities 42,578 38,848 422,726 11 (includes one-day events and digital programs)

10 • ABCN Annual Report 2019 ABCN Annual Report 2019 • 11 Core mentoring programs ‘Each time I went to GOALS I was so excited. I'd never been more excited about anything. I'd like to thank my mentor for being a great role model for my future.’ Our core programs are designed to raise students’ of ABCN’s mentoring programs are communication, Angel, GOALS Student, Doveton College, Victoria aspirations, develop key skills and help them build teamwork, personal growth and confidence. With the connections with a contemporary workplace exception of our primary school programs, all programs and a corporate mentor. The common elements take place at our member companies’ offices. ‘Total enjoyment. On the last day, my student told me how proud he was of what he had done in the term.’ high schools 1:2:1 mentor

Years 11, 12 and Years 7 & 8 Year 9 Years 9 & 10 Year 10 Year 10 equivalent Years 10, 11 & 12 Year 11 first year of (intensive English centres) tertiary education/ ‘Reading is now one of my favourite activities!’ employment Spark student Interview Innovate GOALS Future Thinkers InterACT Focus & Focus2 Aspirations Accelerate 2 Impress

Impact Area: Impact Area: Impact Area: Impact Area: Impact Area: Impact Area: Impact Area: Impact Area: Enterprise and Enterprise and Enterprise and Diversity Diversity and primary schools STEM Enterprise and Leadership Employability Employability Employability Leadership Employability Encourages the For recently arrived A 3-year mentoring uptake of STEM Encourages Encourages creativity Interactive interview migrant and refugee Encourages uptake Broadens awareness and financial Program: 1:2:1 Program: Spark subjects completion of Year and problem-solving skills workshop students of leadership roles of post-school career support program for Builds basic reading and 12 and further studies through design by female students pathways exceptional students Builds basic counting and Students in 2019: Students in 2019: thinking Students in 2019: facing significant mathematics skills comprehension skills 1,956 Students in 2019: Students in 2019: 746 Students in 2019: 390 disadvantage 369 Students in 2019: 1,296 397 Impact Area: Impact Area: Key Skills & Mindsets: 1,719 Key Skills & Mindsets: Key Skills & Mindsets: Students in 2019: Problem-solving, Key Skills & Mindsets: Interpersonal skills, Goal-setting, inter- Key Skills & Mindsets: Key Skills & Mindsets: 76 Numeracy Literacy Leadership, critical thinking Goal-setting, future Key Skills & Mindsets: future orientation personal skills Self-management, Students in 2019: orientation Problem-solving, resilience, future future orientation Key Skills & Mindsets: Students in 2019: 2019 Outcomes: critical thinking 2019 Outcomes: 2019 Outcomes: orientation Leadership, 111 337 92% of students said 2019 Outcomes: 94% of students 94% of students felt 2019 Outcomes: resilience, 2019 Outcomes: they were interested 97% of students 2019 Outcomes: felt they knew how confident speaking 95% of students felt future orientation Key Skills & Mindsets: Key Skills & Mindsets: 95% of students in STEM subjects knew about the 92% of students to prepare for a job English with others they understood key aware of strengths Mathematics and social skills Language and social skills compared with 49% importance of felt they were able interview compared compared with 34% employability skills 2019 Outcomes: and weaknesses as compared with 29% 100% of students before Innovate. setting goals to develop and test with 19% before before InterACT. 2019 Outcomes: 2019 Outcomes: compared with 42% new ideas compared Interview 2 Impress. a leader compared before Aspirations. who completed before GOALS. with 50% before with 23% before Accelerate in 2019 75% of students were more positive 97% of students were more Future Thinkers. Focus. are now working about mathematics positive about reading and or studying. demonstrated greater confidence

12 • ABCN Annual Report 2019 ABCN Annual Report 2019 • 13 digital programs Development and Collaboration Initiatives

Developing our digital Our Development Hub is capabilities means that a centre for innovation, we can increase program design and development. accessibility and scale It enables us to work student and mentor beyond our core impact. This is vital as we programs, collaborating look to expand our with our member remote learning companies and schools programs, including to pilot new programs into regional areas. Digital GOALS EY SolveIT and concepts. In this way, Programs for Aboriginal and Torres Entrepreneurs Unearthed Financial capability research project Accenture’s design and innovation arm, Currently in development, EY SolveIT is a our program curriculum Strait Islander students Extraordinary interest in our Entrepreneurs Support from Ecstra Foundation has Fjord, was critical in developing a virtual digital pilot program that aims to create is responding to the We continued our partnership with Aurora Unearthed pilot has led to plans for it to enabled ABCN to undertake research and education and engagement platform. This authentic learning experiences linked to the greatest needs of the Education Foundation, integrating our be rolled out as a core program in 2020. consultation within the financial capability technology enabled us to test and measure Year 9 mathematics curriculum. The goal is changing world of work programs with their High School Program, Originally developed as a collaboration space. We are evaluating the role business- the effectiveness of delivering our existing for students to connect what they are taught to maximise impact. which provides intensive support for with CBA and EY, it is a competition and school partnerships and mentoring programs Aspirations and GOALS programs digitally. in school with real-world business challenges, Here is a snapshot Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students mentoring program that aims to cultivate play in supporting young people to build in this case around sustainability. This is the entrepreneurial skills among high school financial capabilities. Almost one fifth of The challenge in creating digital versions of some of our 2019 to complete high school and succeed in first time ABCN has explicitly mapped content students. Over a series of workshops, 15-year-olds in Australia do not have basic of our programs is replicating the power collaborations. tertiary education. In 2019, we expanded to the curriculum. Digital GOALS students work with mentors to develop financial literacy. Through collaboration with of face-to-face mentoring in an online our support to include programs in Perth an innovative business idea which is business, schools, government, policy makers, environment. Fjord incorporated Zoom video A mix of digital and face-to-face mentoring, 100% of students said and Sydney. Mentors from Bankwest, then pitched to a ‘Shark Tank’ style panel. social services and subject matter experts, conferencing and reimagined the GOALS the first session in 2020 will involve students CBA, Jetstar, KPMG, Microsoft, PwC, they knew how their and were involved. In 2019, 45 students and 24 mentors ABCN aims to explore innovative solutions. curriculum as a solution. meeting their mentors in EY’s Sydney offices. Stockland Wesfarmers participated across Melbourne and Sydney; The next three sessions will then involve strengths related to the We also collaborated with Microsoft and In 2019, we ran two successful pilots for afterwards, 98% of students reported students connecting with their mentors online the NSW Department of Education on the Entrepreneurs Unearthed a digital version of GOALS. Plans are now business world after they understand what it means to have an in small groups of three. Microsoft Workplace Learning for Aboriginal underway to further expand delivery of entrepreneurial mindset, compared to 98% of students Students program, which involved students this program to metropolitan, regional the program, compared 13% before the program. and remote areas in 2020. from a variety of schools. During the five- understood the key with 42% before. week program, ABCN supported Microsoft with lunchtime mentoring sessions that skills and attributes that covered teamwork skills, realising strengths, entrepreneurs possess leveraging networks, interview skills and goal-setting. after the program, compared with 33% before.

14 • ABCN Annual Report 2019 ABCN Annual Report 2019 • 15 STEM PROGRAMS EMPLOYMENT PATHWAY PROGRAMS

STEMpreneur Full STEAM Ahead High Flyers Supporting member company We collaborated with nbn to develop the This program is a collaboration with CBA Developed in collaboration with Jetstar, initiatives STEMpreneur primary school program, and the Museum of Applied Arts and the High Flyers program showcases the In addition to the programs ABCN which highlights the importance of Sciences designed to engage students career potential for women in aviation and creates in our Development Hub, we STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering in Years 7-8 with STEAM-based activities encourages the uptake of STEM subjects. also contribute to the initiatives of our and Mathematics) while also nurturing (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts Female Year 10 students are connected member companies. In 2019, some of the development of an entrepreneurial and Mathematics). Students participate in with female Jetstar employees for hands- these included: mindset. The program focuses on technology showcases, coding and game on workshops and training activities. • : Skills to Succeed — an online students in Years 5-6, equipping them design workshops, including a hackathon Accenture program aimed at students in Years 9-12 with STEM skills such as creativity, — a design sprint-like event where students which focuses on building confidence problem-solving and critical thinking. work together to solve a problem. The Full InRoads and identifying strengths in preparation Working in teams, students are STEAM Ahead program was also delivered This employability initiative was developed for employment. challenged to develop an innovative online to reach a broader range of and delivered with the support of the solution to a community problem. schools, and is augmented by professional • Microsoft: AI for Good — a program JPMorgan Chase Foundation. The development opportunities for educators. aimed at teaching Years 7-12 students the The winning STEMpreneur team was program was run in partnership with basic concepts of artificial intelligence, a group of students from Bowen Road TalentRISE, a not-for-profit recruitment followed by a design-thinking hackathon Primary School in Hobart, who worked agency. It involved a series of employability All SySTEMS Go! using AI to make a positive difference. with their local MP and fire services skills workshops followed by ongoing to develop their 'Fireflies' concept — a This is a STEM careers exposure and support and coaching of students to apply • One-off volunteering days such asBain remote sensing drone that can fly into workplace immersion program for for jobs and gain employment. Over a Community Impact Day, EY Care Day low-visibility areas and report vital Year 10 girls, developed in partnership two-year period, 91 job placements were and KPMG’s #Act4SDGs initiative, where information back to emergency services. with Westpac. The All SySTEMs Go! achieved through the InRoads program. company volunteers donate their time and program involves four days of work expertise in a day-long event. experience which aims to bridge the In addition, we assisted school leavers gap between school-based learning in finding employment via the Optus and what is happening right now in the Pathways 2 Employment program. business world. abcn foundation

16 • ABCN Annual Report 2019 ABCN Annual Report 2019 • 17 ‘It’s honestly changed my life and I would like FOUNDATION IMPACT abcn foundation everyone to have the same opportunity as me, Of the 76 students who to be able to achieve your goals and be guided The ABCN Foundation addresses the educational WHY OUR WORK IS NEEDED 148 participated in the Accelerate disadvantage and lack of equal opportunities scholarships since 2013 program in 2019: by experienced individuals.’ OECD research indicates that 25% of high performers from experienced by students from low SES backgrounds Faqeeha, 2018 scholar in Australia. Our mission is to level the playing field, disadvantaged backgrounds don’t expect to complete $770,000 supporting students facing substantial disadvantage higher education, compared with only 5% of high performers from advantaged backgrounds.1 in award monies since 2013 100% to achieve their potential. are now confident Without education, the ability for young people to pursue Our unique three-year scholarship program, Accelerate, In 2019: they will achieve intervenes in the critical years of high school. It combines a fulfilling career and earn a sustainable income for their goals themselves and their families is significantly diminished. one-on-one sustained corporate mentoring, financial 100% compared with only 49% assistance and workplace access to support the Without support, the disadvantage they experience ‘The biggest change before the program completion of Year 12 and transition to further education, today is likely to continue into adulthood and be passed has been how Of Accelerate training or employment. onto the next generation. students accessible the completed Year 11 78% Our young scholars not only gain confidence and Intervention at high school enables the opportunity and transitioned are now confident emotional support, but also practical skills in goal setting, for change. corporate world has to Year 12 of their career planning, communicating, relationship-building and pathway networking, time and financial management and career Of our 2019 applications: become. It used to 100% compared with only 41% pathway advice. Scholars establish both a peer and • 76% were female appear large and before the program professional network which often provides them with of Accelerate • 54% were NESB (of non-English speaking backgrounds) their first real work opportunity. intimidating but I love students • 53% had unemployed parents completed Year 12 We categorise the three years of the program as: how ABCN always 95% • 26% had parents with education level below Year 12 compared with 79% national now understand Year 1 (Year 11) — The Foundation Year: provides such a average and 76% for disadvantaged their strengths Shaping My Future • 26% had suffered traumatic experiences students (ACARA 2019) comfortable space and weaknesses Year 2 (Year 12) — The Growth Year: • 16% were refugees compared with only 38% Creating My Success before the program • 12.5% lived in supported or public housing for us. The early 91% of Accelerate Year 3 (Year 13) — The Independence Year: • 8% identified as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander experience of business Launching My Dreams students are 100% • 4% identified as LGBTQIA+ is invaluable.’ engaged in tertiary education, are now confident • 4% had a disability. Juliana, 2018 scholar employment they will complete 100% of applications demonstrated extraordinary levels of or training school/tertiary disadvantage that, sadly, so many young Australians compared with 59% of education are experiencing today. disadvantaged students at age compared with only 89% 24 (The Smith Family 2017) before the program

1 Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (2019)

18 • ABCN Annual Report 2019 ABCN Annual Report 2019 • 19 HOW OUR STUDENTS BENEFIT THE RIPPLE EFFECT LOOKING AHEAD Organisations that Collaboration with ABCN’s network is our unique point We know from ongoing feedback from the principals, Since its inception in 2013, demand for the Accelerate provided mentors of difference and critical to our success. Through these students and mentors we work with that our Accelerate program has grown and the Foundation has responded 4D Infrastructure, Accenture, Bain & Company, Citi relationships, we can connect the students who most program delivers a ripple effect — benefiting not just the accordingly, increasing the number of scholarships Australia, EY, Fuji Xerox Australia, Hall & Wilcox, J.P. need our help with work opportunities and mentors student, but their family, school and community. awarded year-on-year. There are currently 86 active Morgan, KPMG, Lendlease, LinkedIn, Macquarie from corporate Australia. scholars, and 148 students who have benefited from Group, Mastercard, Microsoft, MinterEllison, Navitas, • Scholars benefit from their own corporate mentor the program since 2013. Strategic imperatives for the ABCN Foundation include and financial support Optus, PwC, Stockland, TAL, Tassal, Touchstone Asset expanding our reach, deepening our impact and Our goal is to continue to grow the number of Management, UBS, Visionstream. strengthening the relationships and alignment between • Scholars’ families benefit through financial relief scholarships while scaling the program sustainably, the Foundation and ABCN member companies. Annual • Scholars become mentors and aspirational role ensuring that a minimum of 100 students are Individuals (including Board and Council members): outcome measurements continue to demonstrate models to siblings and peers. participating at any one time. meaningful impact. David Clarke and the JIBB Family Foundation, Guy In 2019, 86% of scholars reported that the scholarship Our growth strategy includes a targeted focus on Templeton, Helen Zimmerman, John Weber, Matthew These are some of the things our 2019 scholars tell made a difference to the lives of their siblings/family scholarships for regional and remote students and Quinn, Michael J Hawker AM, Tony Macvean, Rob Sindel, us they have learnt: and 100% of principals reported that the awarding increasing support of Indigenous and/or Torres Carla Zampatti AC. of a scholarship had a positive effect on the wider Strait Islander Australians. Growing our funding and • ‘Leadership skills and social skills to talk to people Of the 31 scholarships awarded in 2019, 10 were school community. supporters is key to achieving this. I’ve never met before’ targeted scholarships. We are grateful to the generosity Together we can level the playing field so that every • 'How to effectively communicate and set goals’ of the following supporters who enabled us to provide young Australian has the opportunity to succeed. these awards: • ‘How to manage external stresses, such as my home/ In 2019 we welcomed 31 new life situation’ • Citi Australia and the Pride Committee – scholars to the program: one LGBTQIA+ scholarship • ‘What pathways are available to me thanks to FOUNDATION SUPPORTERS the scholarship’ NSW Amy Zhao, Chantelle Parkes, Christian • Stockland — two Indigenous scholarships The ABCN Foundation relies wholly on funding from Bless, David Okereofor, Farahnaz Asad ‘The opportunities students • ‘Exposure to professional environments and the the corporate sector, philanthropic foundations and • The Fogarty Foundation — two WA scholarships Ullah, Farzana Nazari, Kelvin Sai, Rawan standards which are expected’ generous individuals. We are extremely grateful to our receive in this program Abadi, Regan Craig, Samaraki Tomasi, Sidra • William Buckland Foundation — four committed ABCN community, whose loyal and ongoing • ‘Networking and meeting with the other scholars, Abdullah, Tanzeela Shakeel, Vivien Diep, Victorian scholarships are unlike anything I have support enabled us to raise $396,723 in FY 2019. We seniors, alumni and adults gave me a lot of Waisuddin Ansari • Microsoft — one Indigenous scholarship experienced. It allows motivation and made me more productive.’ would like to acknowledge and thank the significant QLD Amy-Rose Humphreys, Fatima Ibrahim, support we received in FY 2019 from: In addition, we would like to thank the ongoing support students to network with Gloriose Irankunda, Javia Radecker, Nadya of the organisations which have donated Perpetual Jazdan, Prisca Malungane Corporate: corporate leaders who can Bankwest, Citi Australia, Findex Community Fund, Scholarships (one scholarship every three years) SA Mikaylah King Investec, Macquarie Group, Microsoft Australia, including Fuji Xerox Australia, KPMG, Microsoft, Navitas and Optus. broaden students’ mindsets TAS Candina Crowden Stockland, TAL. We were overwhelmed by the generosity of our supporters and Thank you to the members of the Scholarship and provide them career VIC Jury Noe, Kamran Jaan, Kur Lueth, Philanthropic Foundations: friends at TAL who raised an extraordinary $208,950 for the ABCN Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation (Eldon & Foundation Council who led the Foundation in 2019: Riley Harris, Samara Williams Foundation. This incredible donation came from the TAL Risk Academy, opportunities in the future.’ Anne Foote Trust), Navitas Education Trust, The Michael J Hawker AM (Chair), David Clarke, Kerry Jukes, which supports the education and professional development of WA Bertha Moore, Ella Henry, Paul O’Sullivan, Matthew Quinn, Guy Templeton, John Jessica, 2016 scholar Bennelong Foundation, The Fogarty Foundation, financial advisers. The Academy asked for donations to the Foundation Greg Anderson, Phoenix Rebbeck William Buckland Foundation. Weber and Helen Zimmerman. in lieu of fees.

20 • ABCN Annual Report 2019 ABCN Annual Report 2019 • 21 how the abcn scholarship program CHANGES lives

She says the Accelerate program was pivotal in Melbourne and opening her eyes to a post-high school life she Sydney, providing could not have imagined before. them with real- world experience It was the combination of financial and mentoring through internships. support that really made a difference. The $7,000 in All three students funds over three years allowed her to pay for school have thrived in fees, buy an iPad for university and participate in the workplace activities she would otherwise have missed out on. environment, Meanwhile, Nicole’s mentor helps her examine her a valuable goals and put in place plans to get there when the opportunity that pair meets each month. would not have Nicole Hillier ‘Having a mentor with professional experience been possible 2017 Scholar helped me to look for opportunities outside the square. without their TAL I don’t think I would be as motivated, happy and mentors. As well as ABCN Foundation scholarship recipient Nicole can confident in what I can achieve if it weren’t for that.’ transforming the claim a couple of firsts: she is ABCN’s inaugural South lives of students, Australian scholar, and she is the first in her family Anthea recognises that the benefits are two-way. ‘It’s to head to university. Anthea Jackson been rewarding for all staff, to watch the students TAL come out of their shell in the workplace’, she says. ‘It The youngest of five, Nicole comes from a family brings home even more how valuable this work is, and where money is tight. Her mother is an Indigenous As Manager of TAL’s Community Foundation, it’s clear from our evaluations that the staff get just as woman from the South Australian Yorke Peninsula and much out of the programs as the students do. Nicole also identifies as a proud Aboriginal woman. Anthea Jackson is familiar with the difficulties facing young Australians today. ‘Youth overcoming ‘Involvement in mentoring adds to our employment In her application to the ABCN Foundation, Nicole disadvantage is a key focus area for TAL,’ she says. value proposition. Giving back to the community is part wrote: ‘I hope that this scholarship can help me to ‘ABCN’s vision is a great fit for us and support for the of TAL’s DNA and gives our people the ‘want to come to demonstrate how we can close the gap with resilience ABCN Foundation has been a natural, and welcome, work’ factor.’ and education. I hope I can become a professional extension for our relationship.’ In 2019, 100% of TAL employees said they valued the and then be a role model for other Aboriginal people An ABCN member company since 2016, TAL is also opportunity to participate in ABCN programs and 93% in my community.’ one of the biggest supporters of the ABCN Foundation, said their mentoring and coaching skills had improved Neither of Nicole’s parents studied post-school so she with 13 staff members currently supporting active as a result. ‘Education is key when it comes to making says it will mean a lot to them to see her succeed — she scholarship students. As part of their offering to the a difference to the next generation and we are proud to our partners is studying business at the University of South Australia. Foundation, TAL has supported three scholars in be a part of this process,’ Anthea says.

22 • ABCN Annual Report 2019 ABCN Annual Report 2019 • 23 partner schools

ACT Doonside Technology High School Mitchell High School Bundamba State Secondary College Yeppoon State High School Bundoora Secondary College Mooroopna Park Primary School Cecil Andrews College Red Hill Primary School Eagle Vale High School Mount Annan High School Capalaba State College Yeronga State High School Canadian Lead Primary School Mount Ridley College P-12 Darling Range Sports College Richardson Primary School Erskine Park High School Parramatta North Public School Dakabin State High School Carwatha College Newhaven College Dianella Primary College Evans High School Parramatta West Public School Earnshaw State College SA Catholic Regional College North Keilor Northern Bay College Dianella Secondary College NSW Fairfield High School Glenala State High School Challa Gardens Primary School Collingwood English Language School Richmond Primary School Forrestdale Primary School Airds High School Glenmore Park High School Plumpton High School Ipswich State High School Findon High School Copperfield College Roxburgh College Girrawheen Senior High School Arthur Phillip High School Granville Boys High School Keebra Park State High School Kilkenny Primary School Cranbourne Secondary College Seaford Park Primary School Hampton Senior High School Athelstane Public School Granville South Creative and Punchbowl Boys High School Kingston State College Le Fevre High School Dandenong High School St Albans Secondary College Highgate Primary School Auburn Girls High School Performing Arts High School Loganlea State High School Ocean View College Dandenong South Primary School Sunshine Heights Primary School John Forrest Secondary College Auburn Public School Rooty Hill High School Lowood State High School Para Hills Primary School Doveton College Sunshine North Primary School Kelmscott Senior High School Aurora Education Foundation Sarah Redfern High School Mabel Park State High School Parafield Gardens High School Epping Secondary College Thomastown Secondary College Kiara College Girls High School Seven Hills High School Marsden State High School Port Adelaide AFL Academy Essendon Keilor College Victoria University Secondary College Lynwood Senior High School Islington Public School Sir Joseph Banks High School Milpera State High School Seaton High School Fitzroy Primary School Wallan Secondary College Marri Grove Primary School Bass High School St Johns Park High School Moorooka State School Wirreanda Secondary School Fountain Gate Secondary College Wantirna College Maylands Peninsula Primary School Beverly Hills Girls High School Kingsgrove North High School St Peters Public School Nerang State High School Woodville High School Gilmore College for Girls Whittington Primary School Mount Barker Community College Girls High School Kingswood High School Thomas Reddall High School Nerang State School Glenroy College Wonthaggi Secondary College Nollamara Primary School Blacktown Boys High School Wiley Park Girls High School Parramatta State School TAS Hume Central Secondary College Wooranna Park Primary School Osborne Primary School Bonnyrigg High School Queensland Pathways State College Bowen Road Primary School John Fawkner College Wyndham Central College Parkwood Primary School Liverpool Boys High School NT Redbank Plains State High School Glenorchy Primary School Keysborough College Yallourn North Primary School Swan View Senior High School Liverpool Girls High School Larapinta Primary School Rosewood State High School Invermay Primary School Kurunjang Secondary College Thornlie Senior High School Seville Road State School Tasman District School Lalor Secondary College WA Wanneroo Secondary College Canterbury Boys High School QLD Shailer Park State High School Lightning Reef Primary School Armadale Senior High School Casula High School Matraville Public School Ashmore State School Toowoomba North State School VIC Lyndale Secondary College Baldivis Secondary College High School Matraville Soldiers Settlement Balmoral State High School Toowoomba State High School Abbotsford Primary School McClelland College Balga Senior High School Public School Bellbird Park State Secondary College Victoria Park State School Belle Vue Park Primary School Melton Secondary College Ballajura Community College High School McCallums Hill Public School Bracken Ridge State High School Victoria Point State High School Benalla P-12 College Mernda Central College Belridge Secondary College Cooerwull Public School Merrylands High School Bray Park State High School West End State School Bendigo Senior Secondary College Mill Park Secondary College Butler College Curran Public School Miller Technology High School Brisbane Bayside State College Woodridge State High School Braybrook College Moomba Park Primary School Byford Secondary College

24 • ABCN Annual Report 2019 ABCN Annual Report 2019 • 25 Member companies and business partners

Every year, ABCN works with a growing number of member companies and business partners to deliver our programs. Our Board and Council are comprised of the chief executives and business leaders from each of our member companies. In 2019 we worked with the following companies:

26 • ABCN Annual Report 2019 ABCN Annual Report 2019 • 27 Allegra Spender Sharon Ford Richard Kelleway Craig Perrett Rob Sindel Board CEO, ABCN Director, Educational Leadership, CEO, Visionstream Non-executive Director Former CEO and Managing Director, CSR NSW Department of Education Allegra has been the Chief Executive Officer of ABCN Richard is the Chief Executive Officer of Visionstream, a Craig is a co-founder and Executive Director of the Rob was appointed to the CSR Board as an executive of Directors since August 2017. She studied economics at the Sharon has 37 years’ experience with the NSW Department $1.5 billion telecommunications service provider. He has personal strategic planning organisation act3, where director in 2010, and appointed Managing Director in University of Cambridge and started her career at of Education and is currently the A/Executive Director, over 35 years’ senior management experience working he acts as an advisor to a select group of multi- 2011. Prior to this, he was executive general manager of Financial Year McKinsey & Company. She has diverse leadership Leadership and High Performance. She was formerly in the UK, Middle East, Southeast Asia and Australia and national and Australian-based blue-chip companies. CSR Lightweight Systems. He has extensive experience in has spent the past 15 years leading service and recurring A former Managing Director of one of the DDB executive management and leadership positions, gained experience from within the corporate, not-for-profit and Director, Educational Leadership for the Hornsby Principal Ending 30 June 2019 Network, a group of 21 principals of primary, secondary revenue businesses in several executive roles. Richard Needham Advertising Agencies, Craig has worked with from his 30-year career in the construction industry both public sectors, and is the Chair of Sydney Renewable and specialist schools, including the first virtual school in was formerly the Executive General Manager for global some of Australia’s largest companies in marketing, in Australia and the United Kingdom. Rob is a Director of Power Company. Prior to joining ABCN, she was Australia. Prior to this, she had responsibility for strategic mining services provider Thiess and prior to this, he was communication, presentation, media issue management Orora Limited and the Green Building Council of Australia, Managing Director of the Australian fashion company leadership of the secondary curriculum, vocational the President and Chief Executive Officer Asia Pacific and business development. He is also an executive a member of the UNSW Australian School of Business Carla Zampatti. education and training, programs to support youth at risk in and the Middle East for Tyco Fire Protection Services. In director of CEED - Chief Executive Education, a Advisory Council and a member of the Yalari New South NSW government secondary schools, and rural and distance 2010/11, he was recognised by Engineers Australia as one committee of management member of Humanities 21, Wales advisory committee, an organisation that works education in all NSW government schools. From 2003 to of Australia’s top 100 influential engineers. and is also a former director of Schools Connect Australia with students from Indigenous backgrounds. Rob stepped and the AFL Melbourne Football Club. down from his position as Chief Executive Officer of CSR 2009 she was the principal of Auburn Girls High School, one (appointed 3 June 2019) of ABCN’s first partner schools. on 15 September 2019.

Tony Macvean Brett Clark Tony Harrington, AM Alison Lansley Luke Sayers, AM Rachel Stocks Chair, ABCN Group CEO and Managing Director, TAL Former CEO, MinterEllison Non-executive Director CEO, PwC Australia Former Managing Director, Managing Partner, Hall & Wilcox American Express Australia and New Zealand Brett has led the life insurance company TAL since Tony is the Chairman of Chartered Accountants An experienced business leader and corporate lawyer, Luke is the Chief Executive Officer of PwC Australia, Under Tony’s leadership, Hall & Wilcox has grown to 2015. A qualified actuary who joined TAL in 2008 as the Australia and New Zealand, a director of Brisbane Airport Alison has a broad range of business, governance, finance, responsible for a team of more than 700 partners In her role as Managing Director of American Express become a pre-eminent, independent national law firm head of TAL Retail Life, he has held a number of senior Corporation and Executive Chairman of Moelis Australia. project management and legal skills gained over 35 years. and 8000 staff. Under his leadership, PwC Australia is Australia and New Zealand, Rachel led the consumer card with more than 85 partners and 700 people. A partner executive roles, affording him deep industry experience Prior to this, Tony was Chief Executive and National She was formerly a partner at Mallesons Stephen Jaques focused on addressing important national issues such operation and was the Chair of the American Express at the law firm since 2000, Tony’s current role includes across a broad range of functions including strategy, Managing Partner of MinterEllison, Global Managing (now King & Wood Mallesons). She is an experienced as tax reform, the future of our cities, and how we can Australia Limited Board. She is now Executive Vice driving strategy, leading the firm’s people, managing key finance, sales, product, marketing and operations in Partner, Strategy and a member of the PwC global company director, serving on the boards of various for- continue to innovate and thrive as a nation. In addition President of Global Premium Products and Benefits at relationships and clients, and representing the firm publicly. both the Australian and international insurance markets. executive leadership team. From 2000 to 2008, profit, not-for-profit and government entities in different to his work at PwC, Luke has long-term commitments to American Express in the US. Her career with American Tony champions the firm’s pro bono and community He brings a considered and commercial approach he was Australian Senior Partner and Chief Executive industries, including telecommunications, infrastructure, community organisations and external Boards. He is on Express began in 1993 and spanned a number of roles, program and is particularly passionate about ABCN and to leadership across TAL's diversified life insurance of PwC and prior to this, he was Deputy Chairman of finance, education and specialised skills development. the Board of the Carlton Football Club and chairs the not- including at American Express Interactive, where she the difference the organisation can make to people’s lives. business. Brett is a member of the Financial Services Coopers & Lybrand and National Managing Partner of She has worked with various government and industry for-profit organisation e.motion21. He is also a member of drove digital awareness and online business results. His leadership has consistently been recognised at the Council Board of Directors and an Executive Officer of Taxation Services. In 2011, Tony was appointed a agencies, headed the Victorian Regional Council of Redkite Monash University's Industry Council of Advisors and the (retired as Director 11 November 2019) Australian Law Awards (Managing Partner of the Year) and Dai-ichi Life Holdings. Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in recognition for several years and was a founding director of Schools Victorian branch of the Male Champions of Change. in Best Lawyers in Australia. He also sits on the Board of the of his charitable work. Connect Australia, which merged with ABCN in 2016. (appointed 3 June 2019) Committee for Melbourne. (retired as Director 11 November 2019)

28 • ABCN Annual Report 2019 ABCN Annual Report 2019 • 29 Board of Directors Directors 28/08/2018 19/11/2018 04/03/2019 03/06/2019

Meeting Attendance Tony Macvean (Chair) * * * * Financial Year Allegra Spender (CEO) * * * * Ending 30 June 2019 Brett Clark NA NA NA NA

This includes all directors in office at Sharon Ford * * * * any time during the 2019 financial year. Tony Harrington A A NA NA

Richard Kelleway NA NA NA NA

Alison Lansley * * A *

Craig Perrett * * * A

Luke Sayers A * * *

Rob Sindel * * * *

Rachel Stocks * A NA NA

* = Attended A = Absent NA = Not eligible to attend.

financial information for year ending 30 june 2019

30 • ABCN Annual Report 2019 ABCN Annual Report 2019 • 31 Financial Information for abcn Year Ending 30 June 2019

Basis of Presentation of Financial Information Income Expenditure ABCN prepares a financial report in accordance with the Corporations Act and relevant accounting standards. Total income for the 2019 Total expenditure for the 2019 financial This financial report is approved by the Board of financial year was $2,693,855. year was $2,625,853. Directors and audited by Grant Thornton Audit Pty

Ltd. The statutory financial report is lodged with the ABCN’s main source of income is membership fees. Total Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission and Direct programs membership fee income for the 2019 financial year was is available for download there. 67% $1,832,500 compared with $1,780,000 the previous year. The financial information contained in this report is Grant program Other income in 2019 included $764,321 in combined drawn from the information used in preparing the disbursements grants, including from the following organisations: 11% audited financial report. However, as the full financial report contains other details and disclosures, including Indirect programs the basis of preparation of the financial report, reference 11% • Accenture Australia should be made to audited financial statements before Administration placing any reliance on this information. • American Express Australia 7% NOTE: ABCN operates on a financial year basis, • Commonwealth Bank of Australia Strategic Investments 4% however programs are reported on a calendar year • EY basis to align with the school curriculum. • JPMorgan Chase Foundation Therefore, in this report, the programs reflect the 2019 The percentages for each of these main areas of Surplus for the Financial Year • Microsoft Australia expenditure have remained stable since 2014. calendar year (1 January 2019 – 31 December 2019) but The surplus for the financial year to 30 June 2019 was $68,002 Appropriately, direct program expenditure is still the the financial information is based on the 2019 financial • nbn compared with $218,349 for the 2018 financial year. The reduction largest component as this includes all aspects of program year (1 July 2018 – 30 June 2019). in surplus reflects growth in costs associated with growing our • Optus delivery such as development, delivery, materials, programs with our existing members, as well as our strategic transport, coordination, evaluation and reporting, • Westpac investments to enable us to reach more students in the future. plus the costs of delivering grant programs excluding disbursements. Indirect costs include some facilities, insurance and professional fees, without which ABCN Business class income was $42,500 and interest income 2019 ($) 2018 ($) for the 2019 financial year was $54,534. could not continue to deliver programs in schools and member companies. Grant costs cover the disbursement of funds to support specific grants. Strategic investments Surplus for the year 68,002 218,349 cover investments ABCN has deliberately made to deliver its five-year strategy, focusing on building digital capabilities and scaling the network.

32 • ABCN Annual Report 2019 ABCN Annual Report 2019 • 33 Financial Information for Financial Information for abcn Year Ending 30 June 2019 abcn foundation Year Ending 30 June 2019

Financial Position ABCN Foundation — Profit and Loss ABCN continues to maintain a strong financial position, The 2019 financial year was another strong one. As the ABCN Foundation does not receive any government with our balance sheet showing Total Equity of funding, we would like to acknowledge the generous philanthropic support we received from a variety of sources: $2,644,820 at the end of June 2019. ABCN corporate members and corporate fundraising, philanthropic trusts and foundations as well as individuals, including our ABCN Foundation Council. A strategic focus on grant-seeking resulted in a tripling of donations A summary of cash flows in 2018 and 2019 is available through trusts and foundations compared with the previous year, which offset a drop in corporate donations. in the statutory financial report that we register with the The increases in scholarship awards and program expenses reflect costs associated with scaling up our program Australian Charities and Not-for-profit Commission. and the absorption of full staffing costs. ABCN is endorsed as a tax concession charity (TCC) and as a deductible gift recipient (DGR). The company’s constitution prohibits the distribution 2019 ($) 2018 ($) of any part of the profits or income or property as income dividends or otherwise. Bank interest 26,202 30,428

Foundation donations 374,203 366,295

Total Income 400,405 396,723

scholarship awards

Payments to students 170,000 132,000

expenses

Program, management and administration expenses 203,294 156,873

Total Expenses 373,294 288,873

Surplus for the year 27,111 107,850

34 • ABCN Annual Report 2019 ABCN Annual Report 2019 • 35 governance statement 2019 contact us

Australian Business and Community Network The Australian Business and Community Network executive management of ABCN’s member organisations. • Approval of ABCN’s annual budget Sydney | Melbourne | Brisbane | Perth | Adelaide The company’s constitution specifies: (ABCN) is a company limited by guarantee. It is a not- • Approval of ABCN’s annual financial report for-profit, business-funded organisation that partners • The maximum term for the chair as a director is six years schools with business through the development and • Monitoring key risk areas by ensuring the implementation of a ABCN Head Office suitable risk management and internal controls framework delivery of mentoring programs for disadvantaged • The maximum term for other directors is three years  Level 3, 141 York Street, Sydney 2000 students from high-needs schools. • There will be a majority of non-executive directors, and • Reviewing the adequacy of systems to comply with all laws and PO Box Q394 Sydney 1230  the Board will review its size, composition and performance, regulations, which apply to ABCN and its programs (02) 8988 6850  [email protected] including each director’s performance, annually. Council • Approval of ABCN’s insurance arrangements, and  www.abcn.com.au

• Ensuring that all legal and commercial requirements are met in The organisation’s council is comprised of the chief executives or terms of proper reporting and disclosure. senior business leaders of each member organisation. The role of the council members is to facilitate and enable the achievement of ABCN’s Roles and Responsibilities of the Board In discharging its role, the Board considers the guidance and advice of mission and objectives by leveraging their professional networks, The Board fulfils its primary role of meeting ABCN’s objectives and the Council but will not be bound by such guidance and advice. profile, reputation, energy, experience and influence to: complying with the relevant Corporations Act requirements through: • Serve as a source of independent advice to the Board with regards • Governing, rather than managing, ABCN by ensuring that there is Board Oversight to ABCN strategy and external relations a proper governance framework in place to promote and protect The Board oversees and monitors management’s performance by: • Ensure that ABCN remains focused on high impact engagement ABCN’s interests for the benefit of its members • Meeting at least three times per annum • Participate personally with ABCN and encourage and inspire other • Setting goals and policies and, specifically, approving ABCN’s • Receiving detailed financial and other reports from management business leaders to commit to joining as ABCN members, thereby strategies and strategic plan at these meetings expanding the resources and influence of ABCN in the wider, • Monitoring the performance and contribution of Board members • Requesting and receiving additional information and input general community • Selecting and regularly evaluating the performance of, and if from management when necessary, and ensuring regular • Raise ABCN’s profile and build its brand and reputation, and necessary, replacing the CEO communication between the chair and the CEO. @ABCN

• Engage with schools and the broader community. • Setting standards for proper governance practices (including appropriate standards of ethical behaviour, corporate @AusBusinessandCommunityNetwork governance, and social and environmental responsibility) and Board Members monitoring the processes to ensure adherence to these standards Vale Anton Hermann As at 30 June 2019, there were 11 directors on the Board, including the @ABCNoz • Selecting, appointing and monitoring the performance of the In 2019, ABCN was deeply saddened by the passing of Anton chief executive officer. Other than the chief executive officer, Board external auditors Hermann, former ABCN company secretary, devoted champion members are non-executive directors and receive no remuneration for of our programs and mentor to countless young people. their services. The non-executive directors are drawn from the senior • Monitoring financial performance and reporting @ABCNoz

36 • ABCN Annual Report 2019 ‘For some kids — all it takes is that one ‘It’s worth every minute and you will learn conversation and it just changes their more than you can imagine. It’s been an whole entire lives. I now want to be that eye-opening experience and I could not person, so that I can also talk to the next be prouder of being part of this.’ generation to say: “I know what you’re going through and there is light”.’ Arya, GOALS mentor, Korn Ferry

Ali, former GOALS student

Partner with us [email protected]