setting our sights on the future
ANNUAL REPORT 2020 Contents
About MDAS About us 04 How we work 06 Our Board 07 MDAS leadership structure 08 Highlights and milestones 2019/20 11 MDAS at work Here for our Mobs in the Mallee during COVID-19 18 Mental health 20 Aged and disability services 21 Finding the right fit 22 Traditional healing 23 A team approach to health 24 An eye for health 25 Reports Chair Report 2019/20 27 CEO Report 28 Health Services 30 Director of Health Services Report 31 Mildura Health and Clinical Services Report 32 Swan Hill and Kerang Health and Clinical Services Report 34 Social and Emotional Wellbeing Report 36 Aged Care and Disability Services 37 Early Years Report 38 Family Services 40 Director of Family and Community Services Report 41 Swan Hill Family and Community Services Report 42 Robinvale Family and Community Services Report 43 Care and Culture 44 Family and Youth Services 46 Family Violence Services 48 A place of safety - Meminar Ngangg Gimba 49 Corporate Services 50 2019/20 Major Highlights 51 Swan Hill and Kerang Report 51 Human Resources 52 Warning: Aboriginal and Torres Our Mob Speaks 53 Strait Islander people are warned Back on Country at Menera farm 54 this document may contain images of persons who are now deceased Financials Photography in this report courtesy: NewsAlert PR, AdMedia, Gange Financial Reports 55 Productions, Lisa Milne, Sunraysia Daily, Swan Hill Guardian, Staff MDAS Mildura, Robinvale, Swan Hill and MDAS team Kerang Thank You Team 66 Our Services 68
2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 3 HEADERABOUT MDAS HEADER
About us
We acknowledge the First Peoples Symbolism of our logo Our offices of the Millewa-Mallee, The Latji Latji, Ngintait, Nyeri Nyeri and Our logo is based on a design Our Mallee communities are serviced Werigia, as the Traditional Owners by Sharon Kirby by MDAS offices in Mildura, Swan and Custodians of the Country on Hill, Robinvale and Kerang. which we are. We pay our respects to Our vision Mildura (administration) the Elders past and present of First Generations of vibrant, healthy Peoples of Millewa-Mallee and the and strong Aboriginal communities. 120 Madden Avenue, Mildura ancient connection they hold with PO Box 5134 Mildura 3502 their Country. Our values Phone (03) 5018 4100 We are the proud and strong Our values drive our culture, are Robinvale descendants of the oldest living central to how we make decisions culture in the world. 77 Perrin Street, Robinvale and ensure services are delivered in Phone (03) 4013 2000 a socially-responsible way. Swan Hill Our four values are Mallee District Aboriginal Services 70 Nyah Road, Swan Hill wishes to pay tribute to all community Optimism Phone (03) 5032 5277 members who have passed away in Community the Mallee this year, as well as those Kerang in other communities with a family Respect for Culture 9 Nolan Street, Kerang connection to MDAS members, staff Phone (03) 5412 6004 or community as a whole. Compassion
setting our sights on the future
MDAS is a proud Aboriginal As Aboriginal Australians, we are Community Controlled Organisation best-placed to decide and implement (ACCO) that has a 30-year history the programs and services that work of delivering sustainable, democratic, for our communities. grassroots services and providing With MDAS and the community working the local community with a together, we know we can positively vehicle for self-determination. enrich the lives of all Aboriginal people We believe the imposition of living and working along the many river structures without community systems across the Mallee District. control as a central tenet will fail.
4 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 5 ABOUT MDAS HEADERABOUT MDAS
How we work Our board
Therapeutic it focuses on the systems across Offering Reflective Practice MDAS, it really gets curious about Systems Team Reviewing and supporting revisions KEITH HAMPTON - CHAIRPERSON the space between people…in their of policies, processes and MDAS Board member since 2000; manager of the The safer and healthier our relationships with each other, their products Wiimpatja Healing Centre since 2011. Prior Communities and their working relationships, the better we all do. experience with the Department of Primary environments. Collaborating with leaders and Industries and working with Koori trainees We are proud to have implemented managers in building safe teams in horticulture and labouring. the Therapeutic Systems Team This means revising policy and (TST) across the whole of the MDAS process; supporting change Working alongside Human organisation during 2019-20. initiatives; assisting leaders to Resources to ensure MDAS is a JASON KIRBY - plan and reflect on their teams and person-first learning organisation The TST is an intervention which BOARD MEMBER strategic directions; supporting which really ensures adult intentionally and assertively observes teams to learn and grow; and APPOINTED 2020 learning and growth nurtured for PAM MCCORMACK - SECRETARY how healthy and trauma-informed individually holding space for our Jason Kirby is a all employees. Board member since 2011; Team Leader, the dynamics across MDAS are. employees who may need time for current and active Customer Service Officer; mother of three. their own inner consideration and The TST has two full time staff, Mildura community At MDAS we have “the person” at the support. and works alongside members of member assisting centre of all that we do. Our business many teams across MDAS to ensure mentoring to all ages. model is depicted as the “Helping Some of the ways that therapeutically safe practices are A teacher’s assistant Hand of MDAS”, where the person is the TST works include: being maintained. over 5 years at primary at the centre of our service delivery, schools and to all ages surrounded by the community. Embedded child-safe practices The MDAS TST was implemented JOSH KIRBY - BOARD MEMBER through TAFE across all of MDAS organisation-wide in the final month Board member since 2015; Previously By applying the ‘The Hand of MDAS’ Co-ordinates, coaches of 2019-20 and is beginning to build served Balranald Land Council, Dareton as the centre of TST thinking, Creating and delivering tailored & mentors the Mallee rich and reflective spaces across the Youth Centre, Swan Hill Aboriginal members of the TST create a training and learning packages Tigers Football Team safe base for all staff. The safe organisation. Cooperative and Bendigo and District Provision of 1:1 and group case (3 years) and player base practices flow into the work Aboriginal Cooperative. consultation (13 years) staff do in community. Because
MELANIE LANE - BOARD MEMBER (KERANG) Board member since 2017; Certificate 4 ATSI Primary Health Care Practice; Board member Kerang District Health; Manager Corporate Services Swan Hill-Kerang/Senior Aboriginal Health Worker/Kerang Community Facilitator MDAS Kerang; LMARG member Person-Centred Soul/Culture Family/Children Ages & Stages /Youth DEB CHAPLIN - BOARD MEMBER CARA-LEE BROWN - BOARD MEMBER (SWAN HILL) Board member since 2019; Bachelor BOARD MEMBER Social Work (Hons); Social Worker with the APPOINTED 2020 Social and Body Health/ Environment Department of Human Services; Mother of Swan Hill District Emotional Housing / Self-determination four children Hospital Aboriginal Community Liaison Officer.
6 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 7 ABOOUT MDAS
MDAS leadership
COMMUNITY BOARD ENGAGEMENT structure John Jackson (Mil) John Mitchell (SH) JUNE 2020 Keith Hampton (Chairman) Pam McCormack (Secretary) MANAGER Cara-Lee Brown (Director) CARE & CULTURE Jason Kirby (Director) SERVICES EXECUTIVE Alana Doe Josh Kirby (Director) ASSISTANT Melanie Lane (Director) Tamika Jenkins Deb Chaplin (Director) EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO DIRECTOR - FAMILY AND CEO MANAGER BOARD AND COMMUNITY SERVICES FAMILY SERVICES EXECUTIVE Andy Charles Vacant (SWAN HILL & Lisa Kalemkeridis (Acting) KERANG) Michelle Gadsby
MANAGER BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT & CULTURAL LEAD - WHC Keith Hampton MANAGER FAMILY VIOLENCE SERVICES (MALLEE) PRACTICE LEADER Deb Berg MANAGER SUPPORT AND FAMILY AND YOUTH SAFETY HUB MANAGER SERVICES (ORANGE DOOR) HUMAN Calvin Henry Ada Peterson RESOURCES Kelly Masters
MANAGER DIRECTOR - MANAGER CORPORATE FINANCIAL CORPORATE SERVICES SERVICES (SH) SERVICES Mel Lane Vacant PERSONAL Ian Wescombe ASSISTANT Jennifer Laurie
MANAGER DIRECTOR - HEALTH MANAGER HEALTH SERVICES & CLINICAL SERVICES MANAGER HOUSING/FLEET (SWAN HILL) Danielle Dougherty IT O&G SYSTEMS Stewart Falconer Zah Thebe Joseph Azzarelli ADVISOR Sherry Van Leuveren
MANAGER OHS COMPLIANCE O&G SYSTEMS HEALTH SERVICES OFFICER NAVIGATOR MANAGER (MILDURA) Fred Apthorpe Margrete SOCIAL EMOTIONAL Sam Brennan Hamence AND WELLBEING Raelene Stephens
MANAGER AGED MANAGER CARE & DISABILITY EARLY YEARS SERVICES Jacinta Molloy Connie Liakopoulos
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Highlights and milestones 2019/20
JULY 2019
The first combined gathering of the Swan Hill and Kerang Koori communities for NAIDOC celebrations at Menera Farm was just one of many activities now happening at the historic property. More than 100 people celebrated NAIDOC Week at the Menera community day –for many Elders and community members it was the first opportunity to get back “on country” at Menera. Boys and girls camps for local youth were held at Menera in the leadup to the Community Day.
NAIDOC 2019’s theme was “Voice. Treaty. Truth.”. It celebrated the Indigenous voice – over 65,000 plus years old. The Indigenous voice was the first words spoken on this continent in languages that passed down lore, culture and knowledge for millennia and NAIDOC celebrated their importance to our history. Support for NAIDOC celebrations continues to strengthen across the Mallee. Flag raising ceremonies for NAIDOC Week 2018 were well attended in Mildura, Swan Hill, Kerang and Robinvale.
Voting began in the First Peoples’ Assembly elections in Victoria. The Assembly is to be the voice of Aboriginal people in Victoria, in the future treaty process. Our Assembly Election Officer for North West Victoria was Sarah Nalder who is based at MDAS Swan Hill.
AUGUST 2019
There’s nothing like a new delivery of Deadly Choices shirts to get the mob motivated to get their health checks! The Deadly Choices program provided a focus for health messaging throughout 2019-20 – but promotional t shirts, hats and scarves that everyone loved wearing promoted deadly health messages all around our communities. MDAS also partnered with Deadly Choices for school programs in Mildura, Swan Hill and Kerang this year. Approximately 70 students aged between 10 and 17 completed the program in school.
A research project investigating gambling harm in Victorian Aboriginal communities in the Mallee and Gippsland was published in the national Journal of Gambling Studies.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria are more likely to gamble and to experience gambling harm than non-Indigenous people. The paper, by La Trobe University researcher Sarah MacLean, involved MDAS Social and Emotional Wellbeing Team members including Tiffany Griffin, (pictured) and looked at why gambling was a popular pastime and to work towards more effective interventions. The research involved interviews with 50 people in Mildura and Bairnsdale who had experience of gambling or had been affected by another person’s gambling.
2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 11 HEADERABOUT MDAS HEADER
Highlights and milestones 2019/20
SEPTEMBER 2019 DECEMBER 2019 After years of tireless advocacy from Aboriginal leaders, Victoria became the first state to enter into Treaty discussions.
The First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria became the voice for Aboriginal We reminded each other to check in on RUOK Day in September. communities across the state, representing them in the next phase of the Community and staff activities at all the MDAS sites focussed on how Treaty process. to start a conversation if you’ve noticed a change in a family member, friend or workmate. Jacinta Chaplin, Jason Kelly and Raylene Harradine were elected to represent the North West. Jacinta Chaplin (pictured), a proud Wadi Wadi woman from Nyahwest gave an emotional and heartfelt maiden speech to the Assembly in December.
OCTOBER 2019 JANUARY 2020
Our Mildura Aged Care and Disability Services team moved into their new Our Mildura Early Years families had a blast at our HIPPY Graduation at hub in an upgraded, central location that’s more accessible for Elders and Woodsies Rock Shop. HIPPY (Home Interraction Program for Parents people with disabilities. and Youngsters) is a two-year, home-based, early learning and parenting The site is adjacent to existing MDAS services and was chosen because program for families with young children. It’s a chance to learn and grow of its convenience for clients. The building is now the central hub for all for parents as well as children and families usually start with us the year Aged Care and Disability Services in Mildura so everything and everyone before their child is due to start school. Pictured are HIPPY graduates our clients need to access for aged care and disability services is in the Lillie Suckling and Kerrie Lamming, with Ada Peterson and HIPPY tutors one place. Rianne Bowden and Teonie Muggeridge).
Ten teams from across the Mallee competed in the Victorian Aboriginal Our Swan Hill community art competition gave some existing and Community Service Association Limited (VACSAL) Indigenous Football and emerging artists an opportunity to showcase their work, and have it used Netball Carnival at Ballarat…but the Mallee Tigers stole the show, taking in future MDAS promotions. We were blown away by the skill and creativity out the the coveted A Grade football title for the first time at the annual that’s right here in our own region – reflecting the ongoing strength and Victorian Indigenous football and netball carnival at the weekend. importance of art, culture, language and storytelling in our communities. The C Grade netballers and A Grade footballers made the finals of the The independent panel awarded prizes to: Under 12 years, Nioka Nalder; three-day competition, with the footballers taking out the title for their 12 -25 years, Ieesha Kelly; Open, Steven Wellington. The work of the division. winners will be incorporated into MDAS branding and imagery in future.
NOVEMBER 2020
The MDAS Social and Emotional Wellbeing Mental Health Demonstration Our Swan Hill Youth Program was nominated for the Children and Youth Project was invited to present at the International Criminal Justice Awards at the Loddon Mallee Regional Community Justice Awards. And Conference in Melbourne. The Demonstration Project is setting new we were extra proud that our fabulous youth worker Arron Nicholls was benchmarks in improving mental health outcomes for Aboriginal people nominated as well, for the Strengthening Culture Award. Arron and the in, or at risk of entering, the community corrections system. The program youth team have been doing some super work with our youth camps has had 260 referrals since it began, and has 85 active clients. Many and community days at Menera – and it shows in the growing cultural clients face life-long mental health journeys. Gloria Spencer (pictured) is learning and pride in our young people, which improves outcomes in all now leading the project for MDAS. sorts of areas.
12 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 13 HEADERABOUT MDAS HEADER
Highlights and milestones 2019/20
FEBRUARY 2020 MARCH 2020 When COVID-19 hit in March, we were pleased to be able to step up to the plate through our partnerships with SecondBite and Foodbank and provide a bit of a hand for people who might be struggling to put healthy food on the table. Our MDAS Robinvale Thank You Day was a huge hit. It was a great way Food insecurity is a lot bigger issue than many of us realise – and our for community to come out and farewell the school holidays – but also an partnerships are continuing to deliver dozens of boxes of fruit, vegetables, bread important way to say thanks to the Robinvale community for embracing and non-perishable items to community members in Mildura, Swan Hill and our Family Services over the past four years. Kerang right through the pandemic. Kane Smith is pictured doing a Mildura delivery.
APRIL 2020 Our Swan Hill Health Team received an excellence award for point of care We implemented Telehealth in response to coronavirus from late March. testing for our Diabetes Clinic. Because of social distancing rules, our clinics stayed open, but we were only doing face-to-face examinations when necessary. It’s important the systems we have are monitored to ensure the highest We were worried some people were putting off reviews or treatment for chronic quality results, so we can provide the best care. We do monthly checks conditions, or health concerns because of COVID-19 and by early April, many on our diabetes testing equipment through the QAAMS Program (Quality of our services and appointments were being done on Telehealth or over the Assurance for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Medical Services). In phone. 2019, our Swan Hill clinic received the only Award of Excellence in Victoria Our transport and support staff used I Pads and mobile phones to help Elders under this program. Well done team! This program is led by (pictured) and others who didn’t have technology available to be able to access Telehealth. Aboriginal Health Practitioner Nicole Davis (left) and Aboriginal Health It meant community could still see or talk to the doctor, like Dr Anand (pictured) Worker Tahlia Newman. just in a different way.
MARCH 2020 MDAS had more than 100 staff studying national accredited training during 2019-20, from certificate to master’s degree. It’s all about working to grow Our Mildura MDAS sites were reconfigured during 2019 and the work was our own success by investing in our staff – it strengthens our workforce finally finished early in 2020. Our new Early Years Hub and Aged Care and skills, builds succession planning into our organisation…and it helps and Disability Services Hub was at long last providing appropriate spaces build stronger families and role models. Justine Bowden and Angela Yates where the needs of our Early Years families and Aged Care and Disability (pictured with their manager Tiffany Griffin) from our SEWB team were clients’ can be met in appropriate, purpose-designed space. among those to graduate with Certificate IV qualifications in Community Services – while working in busy roles supporting the community, caring for their children and families and their community commitments.
MARCH 2020 APRIL 2020 Traditional Aboriginal healing practices and western medicine came together in an exciting new partnership at MDAS Mildura and Swan Hill. Proud Yorta Yorta man Andy Charles was appointed Acting CEO of MDAS. For the first time a Ngangkari Traditional healer from remote South Since starting at MDAS in 2011 as a Youth Justice Worker, Andy has Australia, practiced at MDAS Mildura and Swan Hill clinics, with the plan worked his way up as a manager of youth services, a senior program for the healers to continue to offer their services every two months. manager for families, and most recently, the Director of Family and Community Services. Andy took on the role when former CEO Rudolph The partnership between MDAS and the Aṉangu Ngangkaṟi Tjutaku Kirby stepped down for personal and family reasons. Aboriginal Corporation (ANTAC) is the first ongoing collaboration of its kind in Victoria.
14 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 15 HEADERABOUT MDAS HEADER
Highlights and milestones 2019/20
MAY 2020 Our groundbreaking Our Mob Speaks community consultation process was launched in May. Our Mob Speaks is a new way of listening to our communities. It’s about the community talking, and MDAS listening.
Our goal is to yarn with around 400 people every three months, across Mildura, Swan Hill, Kerang and Robinvale. This means we will be out yarning with people, young and old. We will be listening to what is on your mind and how MDAS can improve the support we provide.
A dedicated team of good listeners from our Community Engagement Teams will be doing the listening. They record only what is said, not who said it – so everyone can feel safe to talk about what’s on their mind.
The information gathered through these yarns will be essential for us to continue improving MDAS services and talking with government about community concerns and ideas, to make sure we are attracting the right investment to support our communities.
It was all hands on deck from our Men’s, Family Violence and Youth teams to transform the old San Mateo Avenue MDAS site into a Men’s Hub.
When complete, it will be a Men’s Hub and a Men’s Shed - a centre for all ‘Men’s Business’ and positive men’s and boys’ programs run by Coordinator Rocky Sloan and his team.
It so exciting - we will soon have a brand new, purpose-made space for all the great work they’re doing!
JUNE 2020
Our Mildura Family Services reception was revamped during the COVID-19 shutdown. MDAS at work The welcome desk was moved to the opposite side of the reception area Mallee District Aboriginal Services families and communities and to bring so our team can greet you as you arrive. Including Tessa Clark and Pam has a proud tradition of challenging, the wider community along with us on McCormack are pictured in the bright new area after the freshen up, which is questioning and innovating to bring our journey. making it a much nicer place to work and wait! about results and change within our The following pages show MDAS at communities. work – stories and case studies** that We are noted and respected as an demonstrate the effectiveness of our organisation that does not accept the programs and our willingness to lead. status quo – but works proactively to find new ways to break cycles of ** Names have been changed behaviour, to support our people,
16 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 17 MDAS AT WORK Here for our Mobs in the Mallee during COVID-19
It would have been impossible to imagine, before February 2020, the transformation we would see in our communities, our families, our workplaces and our lives during the second half of 2019-20.
COVID-19 has challenged all of us, in so many ways, and for a complex organisation such as MDAS, the scope of the challenge and the change was, at the outset, daunting. Fortunately, there was little time to consider – there was simply an imperative to adapt the transformation was dramatic, equipment and staff BYO devices. Our Early Years teams launched Newspapers closed, but community Online is now part of our new to continue meeting the needs with working from home, at least part online playgroup activities to members were isolated in their normal and a critical element The team rolled out Microsoft Teams of our communities. of the time, the “new normal” continue to engage with our families. homes, and hungry for information in the evolution of service within weeks – a project that would for most staff. Our Early Years Facilitators Elvie and support. They turned to social We’ve had to find new ways delivery at MDAS when normally be months in the making. It and Marissa began presenting media and to trusted organisations to reach and stay connected COVID-19 restrictions were At the peak of the pandemic, about 60 meant staff could stay connected via weekly video Dreamtime stories for information and advice – the with clients and each other. percent of MDAS staff were working PC, laptop or mobile phone no matter implemented in March. and activities, and, because our MDAS Facebook page, already with Keeping families and mob remotely, meaning critical and where they are located. playgroups had to be cancelled, we strong community engagement, safe and MDAS teams working MDAS was one of the first health frontline staff could implement social partnered with Sunraysia Arts and grew more than 30 percent from service providers in the Mallee to And as the nuts and bolts to allow cohesively has required huge distancing and keep working to keep Learning to bring a weekly Playgroup move comprehensively into the January to June. By June 30, the commitment, effort and vision services running at our main sites continued service delivery were Music Facebook Live for kids and page reached 2451 followers – the from every individual and Telehealth space. We launched the and to keep community supported. being put in place, right across MDAS carers to join in. equivalent of almost half of the Health Direct portal in March, with teams were turning their minds to every team. a large proportion of consultations And although that sounds simple Our Social and Emotional Wellbeing estimated Indigeous population innovating -- trying new things to The way our teams met the moving onto the online platform enough, the size of the technical team, concerned about losing in the MDAS coverage area. reach out to community in what was challenge, innovated and have over the following weeks and challenge, for a staff of nearly 250 engagement with vulnerable young a confronting and uneasy time. Throughout this crisis, we have gone above and beyond is months. This required 100 percent was substantial. people involved in traditional school found new ways to work, new ways something we are enormously staff engagement and significant Our January partnership with wellbeing programs, reached Little is heard, in normal times, of to stay connected, and new ways to proud of, as an organisation, community education and outreach – SecondBite to address the issue out with a Facebook Live Weekly the MDAS IT team, but these four support our communities – despite because we were at the a task that every MDAS Health team of food insecurity proved timely. Wellbeing with Team Leader Darlene quiet achievers made our online the challenges of COVID-19, with the forefront of so many initiatives member had a role in. We were able to ramp up this Thomas. Activity packs are regularly support of our dedicated, innovative aimed at continuing and transformation happen. partnership across the region, distributed to our Koori Women’s and community-focussed teams, Our Heath, Family and Community Diversion Program clients, and improving service delivery Resources were stretched thin at to ensure vulnerable Elders, teams all hit the phones to touch others who need them, and regular we continue progressing towards during this difficult time. first, but, thanks to a lot of MDAS families and community members base regularly with existing and new phone contact is kept up to keep our vision of generations of healthy, business functions having been could continue to safely access clients, to provide reassurance and clients engaged and positive. vibrant and strong Aboriginal moved to cloud-based services fresh food and essential supplies. support and to ensure continuing communities. previously, the required workforce Approximately 1500 food hampers In reaching out, our teams surprising engagement, a listening ear and was mobilised within a fortnight of have been delivered to community in also engaged with new community appropriate service delivery. the implementation of restrictions need in Mildura, Swan Hill and since members and families at this From an organisational point of view, by using a combination of MDAS its inception. difficult time.
18 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 19 MDAS AT WORK MDAS AT WORK Mental Health Aged and disability services Winning Victor’s Trust – Social and Emotional Wellbeing Mental Health Demonstration Project Opening up to Judy
MDAS is the lead agency in COVID-19 has been a the Mildura Mental Health challenge in many ways Demonstration Project. –but, strangely enough, it’s also It is a partnership with Mildura opened up new opportunities for MDAS Base Hospital that aims to build to reach Elders and community who a more integrated approach to are isolated and don’t access all of the mental health care for Aboriginal supports available to them. Support people with moderate to severe worker Judy Stafford joined the aged mental illness who fall between care and disability services team to the gaps due to the nature of their engage with and support vulnerable mental health and social support local Elders, and she says delivering needs. The program streamlines food hampers during COVID-19 has access to Mental Health had its up-side.
Case study Eventually, he was discharged from His case worker says the positive Case study acknowledging problems and She subsequently learned that his the mental health inpatient unit changes are “significant”, but the sourcing possible solutions,” frustrations stemmed from the fact Victor has a history of violence, drug and spent time in the (Prevention outcomes were not achieved without George is a loner who sticks to she explains. that a pharmacy which previously and alcohol abuse, self-harm and and Recovery Centre) step-down perseverance. himself. The single dad cares for a delivered vital medication for the She talked to Elders about their jail time. residential unit. child with a severe disability and his child had stopped its home delivery “Building a trusting relationship with life revolves around caring for the hobbies, what books they were service. He was angry, and his partner and Over time, Victor re-engaged with Victor took continuous contact and special needs of his child. reading, any artworks they were children had little or nothing to do his ex-partner and children and non-judgment of his past behaviour. making - even their favourite footy Judy the problem-solver arranged for with him. MDAS support worker Judy Stafford they are now re-united. He has also As we built trust, Victor became more teams! the medication to be home-delivered met George when she and a co- A motor vehicle accident at 30 left reconnected with his sister and confident in our decisions to support another way to a very appreciative worker delivered a hamper to his In follow-up phone calls, Judy noted Victor with serious injuries and her family. his mental and physical wellbeing.” George. home during the COVID-19 lockdown. that George was always polite, frequently in pain. Victor didn’t care He has a job, and after saving a but the pair never held a “real George and Judy now have long about the feelings of others and Judy recalls that George was deposit, has bank approval for a “Everything we said we conversation”, despite weeks of phone conversations! alienated himself. extremely grateful but reserved and housing loan to buy his own home would do, we did! We regular contact. said very little. They’re talking about the various He refused his medication, lost for his family. When he’s not working had to follow through “I knew I needed to be persistent,” social support groups available the will to behave appropriately, Victor likes cooking for the family, Working from home during the and build trust … Victor Judy says, so she kept calling and to Elders and George is actively exhibited suicidal tendencies and fishing to provide for local community pandemic restrictions, Judy hit was paranoid and hoping that eventually George would considering getting out of the house would not trust those offering help. members and hand-crafting the phones to keep in touch with occasionally to meet other people. open up to her. Aboriginal artefacts. He has become trusted no-one” the Elders and offer support However, working with a a mentor for local Indigenous youth, - MDAS CASE WORKER. where needed. Judy says she’s “honoured” to Demonstration Project MDAS “One day I sensed that he was commenting on his own chequered work with a supportive, committed caseworker has allowed Victor to Video calls were arranged between flustered, or there was something not past, reflecting on his journey with team that’s focussed on making a turn his life around. It’s an ongoing families and friends who could not quite right, so I asked if he was okay? the MDAS-led team and sharing his difference, person-by-person. journey for the 42-year-old, but it visit each another. Craft supplies, He replied ‘yes, but no’ … so I asked if goals and aspirations for a brighter, began with trust. books and food hampers were there was anything I could do, but he happier future. dropped off to those who were said he didn’t think so.” After successfully engaging with not mobile. various specialists and complying MDAS and the Demo team have been Determined to get to the bottom of with his medical regime, Victor with Victor every step of the way “Trust has been gained through what she sensed was a problem for found the confidence to re-join social throughout his remarkable journey lots of listening, opportunities for George, Judy changed her approach activities with others. and transformation. story-telling, asking questions, and asked about his child.
20 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 21 MDAS AT WORK MDAS AT WORK Finding the right fit Traditional healing Mallee Aboriginal Employment Program Restoring body and spirit
MAEP, through coordinator MAEP offers intensive assistance Kosha Shanahan, and the opportunity to be linked Traditional healing supports people who into a holistic range of services practices and western are unemployed, to increase the likelihood of a successful transition from medicine came together including candidates unemployment to long-term in an exciting new who experience multiple sustainable work. MAEP also partnership at our MDAS practical, physical, social works with employers to identify clinics in Mildura and and emotional issues sustainable employment Swan Hill and circumstances that opportunities. are a barrier to finding employment.
Case study - Kailey Clark For the first time Ngangkari across Australia. ANTAC is the first Pictured, Top: Ngangkari traditional healers at work (Photo courtesy ABC) Traditional healers from organization of Aboriginal traditional Kosha Kylie Kailey remote South Australia healers in Australia – a not-for-profit Below: Debbie (second from right) during social enterprise formed with a vision her healing visit to Mildura, with MDAS Kailey and I worked together for Kylie Henderson (Kailey’s Manager): MAEP not only helped me find work practiced at our MDAS clinics clinical staff to support, maintain and practice the about eight months. We talked Kailey coming on board has been one but it gave me the confidence in in February, and, prior to 60,000 year-old Aboriginal traditional about her strengths in admin and of my most treasured highlights of myself to look for work effectively, COVID-19, the service was medical knowledge system in the computing and her passion for working for MDAS. I am extremely communicate with those in the scheduled to continue every 21st century. culture and community - then blessed to have such a young, workspace and also with potential two months. tailored a resume to the type of work strong community member to work employers. I definitely (and already As health services, we usually focus The partnership between MDAS that she was aiming for. We talked alongside every day. Kailey not have!) recommended MAEP to primarily on the physical – but this and the Aṉangu Ngangkaṟi Tjutaku about her dreams for the future, what only completed her traineeship in community because it helps people partnership recognises there is a can get her there, what would she Aboriginal Corporation (ANTAC) is Certificate III three months before develop the confidence to just have whole separate element to health and like to invest her time in and what a crack at finding work. MAEP can the first ongoing collaboration of the nominal completion date, she wellbeing, that is around the spirit. interested her to learn more about. also excelled in her studies and uses be life changing and can help so its kind in Victoria and an exciting In that time, we applied for a variety the skills she developed to grow many people find their path. Before breakthrough in health service The first healing clinics in Mildura of jobs in and outside of MDAS, and our program area. Kailey is a very I started MAEP I was rather lost delivery in the Mallee. and Swan Hill were booked out, and Kailey obtained a few casual roles valuable member of our learning and and youth who are not sure where community members were so excited The 60,000-year-old traditional while we focused on securing a full development team and we learn from they want to go or what to do next to be able to access traditional healing practices are handed down by time role. As well as the chance to each other every day. She has fresh can really benefit from MAEP. My from generation to generation. healing practices. The partnership experience a few different roles, the new ideas that encompass cultural traineeship with Learning and also demonstrates the commitment casual positions were important to respect and safety. I’m very lucky to Development has now helped me to Today there are 14 Ngangkari of MDAS to cultural safety in our add experience to her resume as was have Kailey as my succession plan. realise where I want to go in life and descendent healers, offering clinics and practices. the opportunity to meet and impress She’s very connected to community help to achieve current goals and set treatment through bush medicine, potential employers… and she did. and always considers community and new big goals for the future. I’m so smoking ceremony and re-aligning The success of the visit prompted Kailey was always open and willing to the cultural wellbeing of our appreciative of MAEP and so thankful the spirit. The Ngangkari are strong interest and the return of try new approaches and ideas. Eight staff when making learning and for what it has done, not only for me highly-respected and sought- the healers, when it can occur months after starting with MAEP, development decisions. but also this amazing community we after for their expertise and for safely, is eagerly anticipated by our Kailey secured a Traineeship with are part of. what they’ve achieved with people communities across the Mallee. MDAS Learning and Development – she is an amazing trainee, and I’m so proud of her.
22 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 23 MDAS AT WORK MDAS AT WORK A team approach to health An eye for health MDAS Health Jock Peterson, MDAS AHPACC Officer
Heathers story By any stretch of the imagination, James Heather is 64 – but has struggled Peterson - Jock as he’s with multiple chronic health conditions since her late 40s affectionately known and early 50s. - has had his fair share of bad luck.
After the Ngemba man watched his father die of leukaemia, Jock himself was diagnosed with cancer and endured years of surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.
Case study: Health Endocrinology, Aboriginal Health ensure Heather could attend all Just when he thought he had NSW, years ago. Hollows was a New away. She called my name, waved Workers, Allied Health workers recalls for full cycle of care, with it beaten, Jock discovered he Zealand-Australian ophthalmologist and yelled ‘I can see you mate’. That Diabetes, asthma, chronic and a Diabetes Educator. Change minimal disruption. Community- had tumors behind his left who became known for his work in was absolutely awesome!” Jock says. kidney disease, sleep apnoea, can be scary at first, and it was for focused health care is our common restoring eyesight for thousands of eye and in his bowel. “She’s back to walking down the hypercholesterolaemia, arthritis, Heather. But regular contact and goal, and Heather is an example people in many countries around the street without aids. She can catch ischaemic heart disease and engagement supported Heather’s of the dramatic results that can be But Jock, who moved to Mildura globe. public transport by herself, go hypertension are just some of the journey to navigating her own health achieved. Heather feels empowered with his parents from Brewarrina in MDAS Health now has an optometrist shopping by herself. She does health challenges that Heather faces. care and helped her build belief and in control of her own health care north-east NSW when he was 10, is a visiting monthly and also uses the everything now.” Apart from the physical limitations in her ability to approach difficult and that she has the confidence and fighter - and a survivor! and psychological impacts of her services of two local optometrists situations. The client-centred ability to have a say on what she * Excerpts from a Melbourne University conditions, simply navigating the Jock is now drawing on his own life as well. Part of Jock’s role is to article by Nick Schubert published 2020 focus helping Heather to improve wants to achieve, rather than simply health system and the many services experiences to help mob throughout support community members to feel her understanding and awareness going with “the system”. she needs to engage with are a battle the Mallee in his role as an Aboriginal comfortable in accessing important of managing her conditions was Pictured: Aboriginal Health Worker Boris in a practical sense. But for Heather, Health Promotion and Chronic Care eye health screenings and services. also key to her success. With more Wilson; Allied Health Coordinator Crystal Integrated Team Care has a world of Kirby and former MDAS Aboriginal Health Officer at MDAS. control comes confidence. The Team “We’ve got some clients who don’t difference. Worker Rose McBride approach means every aspect of Initially employed as a health like to leave their homes, so I go and The diverse group of specialists Heather’s care, and all the clinicians receptionist, Jock has worked across pick them up and bring them in,” and health care workers involved in involved are on the same page about the organisation in health-related Jock says. Heather’s care implemented team her needs. MDAS Health Workers roles including coordinating eye One of his clients, an Elder who cares management. Working together in used opportunistic appointments health services across Victoria at for three grandchildren, was on a Heather’s care are nurses, a GP, and structured appointments to one point, criss-crossing the State surgery waiting list but at risk of with a retinal camera and screening losing custody of the kids because of Aboriginal people for eye problems. her failing eyesight. It’s still part of Jock’s role at MDAS, Then and now: 2005-06 2020 Knowing who to talk to and where, and he understandably has a Haemoglobin (diabetes monitoring) 12.7% 6.3% Jock was able to fast-track her passion for eye health. Jock fondly Weight 72.5kg 66kg surgery in Melbourne and sorted two recalls that both his father and Blood Glucose Level (diabetes) 24.6mmol/L 8.6mmol/L problems at once. ACR level (kidney function) 80.7mg/mmol 18.5mg/mmol his grandfather met the late Fred Insulin dose 70 units 55 units Hollows when Dr Hollows and his “I saw her a while ago and she team were working near Bourke, in recognised me from 200 metres
24 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 25 CHAIR REPORT 2019-2020
Working together
not mean we do not have challenges. We were aware and concerned about We do. As an organisation and as a the vulnerability of our mobs when community if we support and assist COVID hit early in 2020. As you will each other I believe we can overcome read elsewhere in this report, our these challenges. teams have done an amazing job in reaching out to community, providing Despite the progress we are making new services and new ways to deliver in service delivery and growth in services right through this pandemic. engagement, it was a disappointing aspect of the 19/20 year to be It has been difficult, but to everyone questioned by the Independent Broad- in every team who have had to make based Anti-Corruption Commission sacrifices and step out of your comfort regarding our operations. We have zone to keep our mobs safe I say thank cooperated with the work of IBAC you. We have most certainly been here and will continue to do so if that in new ways for our mobs in the Mallee investigation is ongoing. when they have needed us most.
A lot of work and effort over the past During this year, our chief executive Keith Hampton eight years has been centred on officer for the past eight years Rudolph Chairman building an organisation that is robust Kirby stepped down from his position in its processes and procedures. Not for personal and family reasons. I just for MDAS, as an emerging ACCHO, thank Rudy for his work over this time Our vision for MDAS but also for other ACCHOs. This is an and would like to say thanks to him is for “Generations of ongoing process and one that needs and the many previous staff and Board Healthy, Vibrant Aboriginal constant attention. There is a lot we Members who have helped build MDAS reports have done, but there will always more to where it is to today, with a special Communities”. to be done. thanks to Lauris McCormack for the tireless work with our Aboriginal It’s a vision that is true and that I MDAS will do their best if our mobs Community as the Manager of the hope for in our organisation and work together and a lot of the time, we Health Service for many years and for communities for the future. do. There are many different voices and all she worked towards and achieved opinions on how things should be done. When I first took on the role as for the community in funding for the We don’t always agree. But unless we chairman eight years ago, I wanted new Health building at MDAS. continue to find ways to work together to help build an organisation that not as a mob, the way forward will be I am proud that one of our own only provided important services to our very difficult. young leaders, our MDAS Director mob, but also to build a pathway for of Family and Community Services our future generations and community. I am grateful for the support of a Andy Charles, was able to step up committed MDAS board and it is great The business of MDAS continues to as the acting CEO until a permanent to see younger faces coming to the deliver strong, reliable, culturally appointment is made. This role will be table – this year 19/20 we welcomed safe services to our communities in advertised in the new year. Kiea Charles for a short time, a young the Mallee, as you will see elsewhere mum from Swan Hill and Jason Kirby As I said at the start of this report, in this annual report, I hope these a young father from Mildura to the our vision is for “generations of culturally safe services continue. board. Both have great ideas; these vibrant, healthy and strong Aboriginal Year after year, our Kerang, Swan Hill, young people are our future with the communities”, and that is a job that is Robinvale and Mildura communities Governance of MDAS. not yet finished. are coming through the doors in I wish to thank and congratulate every As outgoing Chair of MDAS I wish to greater numbers for MDAS to help one of our current 250 staff and Board thank all who have supported me and I them with their health, family, members for their work in a year will continue to support MDAS in some community, cultural needs and I hope that has provided many challenges. way and wish all of MDAS the best in the community continues to support Despite the worries of the situations the future. MDAS. with coronavirus and the ongoing There is a lot of good news in the investigation, we have still achieved MDAS story this year, but that does so much. 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 27 CEO REPORT
Looking ahead
voices can be heard relating to being exciting and innovative new ways of the program in having a more a member of MDAS, receiving the connecting mob to services and vice streamlined service; services community is entitled to and versa. Some of these innovations will everyone can be part of what MDAS certainly extend post-COVID as new The development of a Men’s/Elders looks like as an Aboriginal Community ways of doing things that enable far hub that is central as a “safe space” Controlled Organisation. greater outcomes and engagement for all Aboriginal Men in community than ever before. with outreach support services to be The dissatisfaction has been a bitter provided from MDAS. (The facility will pill to swallow operationally, though, Going forward we are taking a strong also include accommodation support because as an organisation, we have focus on consolidation of current for men in community who are at risk done some great work over the past 12 program areas and services delivered or involved with police or the justice months. by the organisation to further enhance system). and build stronger and better This report outlines the achievements integrated services for Mob across all We continue to achieve key goals in of the essential and in many cases areas of support. line with our Strategic Plan 2018- life-changing services MDAS provides. 2021. Outcomes aligned to the Every day I see demonstration of This includes: Andy Charles Strategic Plan were highlighted in our the true passion and commitment previous two years of annual reports, Acting CEO within all 250+ staff who work across Mens’ services/Justice Services and within the operational reports in Mildura, Robinvale, Swan Hill and Aged and Disability/Elders Services Kerang, including now 120+ Aboriginal this annual report. This year has been one of staff who are, themselves, part of Housing and Homelessness Support We will continue working in a many challenges, both for ‘Community’. determined and systematic way MDAS as an organisation, and Early Childhood and Family Support towards aspirations that are yet to for our local communities. The external questions should not, Services in any way, shape or form, take away be reached. As an organisation, we MDAS is an organisation working from the value and achievements of Cultural Care Services are proactively and positively looking hard on all levels to ensure that our their work. I am incredibly proud to ahead - as a leader, I am committed Health/Specialist Services community and mob are receiving the lead a team that is committed and to building a culture that strives to best possible quality care and support focused on enabling positive change Some initiatives underway in support provide the best level of service to our to achieve positive outcomes. in our community and I would ask you of these goals include: mob possible at all times. to recognise the enormous value of We acknowledge that this past year the individuals and teams I am proud Phase 2 of the Common Elements Embedding our key MDAS has brought a level of dissatisfaction to work with. This report outlines just Approach project with MDAS Men’s organizational values of: Optimism; from both a number of stakeholders some of our achievements together services. We had good outcomes with Community; Respect for Culture; and community across the Mallee. over this past year. the first phase (including the Early and Compassion not only in our With this has come heavy scrutiny of Years and Family Support Services organisation but in our communities Internally this is a challenging time, MDAS’ organisational governance and programs); will ensure we continue progressing our financial management. but to say COVID-19 has added in a meaningful way towards our to the complexities would be an The integration of a new MDAS vision: “Generations of Vibrant, We do not shy away from scrutiny or understatement. The pandemic since Therapeutic Systems Support team Healthy and Strong Aboriginal accountability at any time, and we are the start of the year has been unlike across the whole of the organisation communities”. proactively working towards change anything that the world has seen, and headed up by Kathy Crouch as Lead and processes which will reassure hopefully will ever see again. Practitioner; community and reinstate confidence. As difficult as it has been however, it The integration of the Wiimpatja We, acknowledge there are has further highlighted the quality, Healing Centre (now aligning with the opportunities to do things better, and flexibility and commitment of our Social and Emotional Wellbeing team) in moving forward we are wanting to MDAS teams. Through these difficult to further support the rehabilitation reconnect with ALL of “Community”. times MDAS staff and community of Aboriginal men engaged in We are committed to ensuring all have rallied together to create some
28 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 29 HEADERHEALTH SERVICES REPORTS Innovation and commitment
Our commitment to our vision of its inception. “generations of healthy, vibrant and strong Aboriginal communities” As we continue to consider the requires a growing focus on possibilities and improvements in preventative health care, and to this our program delivery, we are also end, it is pleasing to have more people focussed on the practical clinical than ever accessing GP Management necessities for safer service delivery. Plans to take charge of their own During this year, our Mildura clinic Health health. Good signs are also emerging benefitted from developments that in our chronic disease management allow an ambulance entrance to the space, with more engagement among building and an isolation room to allow clients with chronic disease and us to respond to infectious disease Services Integrated Team Care allowing more safely. people to gain support to access In the COVID-19 space, we worked specialist services. quickly and proactively to implement We are looking to the longer term best practice for information flow, Danielle Dougherty by increasing our focus on initiatives risk management and outreach. Director of Health Services which make generational change This included a partnership with the possible, and achievable. Kirby Institute to provide on-the-spot COVID-19 testing at our Mildura clinic The past year has presented A highlight in this space is the from late June 2020. The point-of- many challenges, but I implementation of our food security care testing was the first of its kind am proud that our MDAS partnership across our communities in Mildura and makes a positive or Health and Clinical Services with Second Bite in January. Food negative result available within 45 Insecurity includes lack of access minutes, rather than waiting up to teams have responded with to food, inadequate food and four days for a result to come from innovation and commitment inappropriate use of food. Although the pathology tests. It meant we could to finding a way to continue to prevalence of food insecurity among effectively deal with a potential case service the community during the general Australian population is of COVID-19 much more quickly this difficult time. approximately 5%, some groups (the and ensure we take every possible Aboriginal community, those out of measure to slow any spread of We have initiated many changes, work, single parent households, low the virus among our vulnerable and we have learnt a great deal income earners, rental households community members. about different ways of doing things. and socially isolated people) often Although it has been challenging COVID-19 has forced us to be experience food insecurity at higher and uncomfortable, the pandemic innovative and creative in service rates. People may experience food has provided many learnings for the delivery. We have developed new insecurity due to lack of resources future. We are committed to a greater platforms and behaviours for reaching (including money and resources such focus on collaboration, both internally people during isolation (Facebook, as transport), affordability of nutritious and with partner organisations. telehealth, Facetime consultations, food, geographic isolation, and a lack daily contacts through telephone and of motivation or knowledge about a MDAS Health and Clinical Services social distancing). nutritious diet. Food insecurity can looks forward to a new year of negatively impact the short and long- achievements ahead with a new leader This year has been a time to reflect term outcomes for children and is and Executive team, continued growth on learnings and consolidate our also linked to chronic health issues through more effective community program areas, but, as you will read such as obesity, Type 2 diabetes engagement and continuing to tailor elsewhere in our reports, COVID-19 and Cardiovascular Disease. Our programs and services that meet and has provided some unexpected up- Second Bite program has delivered exceed community expectations. sides, with opportunities to grow in between 1250-1500 food hampers to new ways, and to reach more of community in need in Mildura, Swan our community. Hill, Kerang and Robinvale since
2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 31 HEALTH SERVICES REPORTS Mildura Health and Clinical Services Report
Highlights Health Promotion Nutrition and Public Health Allied Health
208 New ATSI clients were seen by Deadly Choices In-house Catering Allied Health service delivery has Mildura Health this year continued to increase over the Partnered with 4 schools Completion of planning and past year. Despite the challenges Services provided to 2018 ATSI clients development of a Healthy Catering of COVID-19, we were able to and 710 Non-ATSI clients Approx. 50 students completed menu for staff. All food provided to recommence services including program from ages 10yrs-17yrs Three Flu clinics – 500 staff, community and visitors for Podiatry, Physiotherapy, Speech events, meetings and functions will Pathology, Audiology and Optometry. immunisations completed Community Events be created in-house, are healthy, Specialists such as Cardiology, Reduced risk of medication Christmas party at Mildura Waves tasty and low in salt, fat and sugar. Endocrinologist continued to be mismanagement for 100 clients on – We were thrilled to have 367 The program is being rolled out in accessible via Telehealth. more than five daily medications community members attend. A July 2020 (QUMAX Webster packs) It’s pleasing that despite the barbecue was provided with different difficulties of COVID-19 from March, Indigenous foods for community to Cooking with the Elders Integrated Team Care for over 150 client encounters with Allied Health try, including wild boar, kangaroo Sam Brennan chronic disease clients to attend In 2019 our weekly cooking group services was similar to and, in some sausages and bush yoghurts Manager medical appointments or treatment with the Elders began, offering a cases, higher, than in 2018-19. (Another 92 clients not enrolled in space to share information on healthy ITC program also supported) Men’s Health Week foods and revamp our favourite recipes to support the health Allied Health Snapshot GP Chronic Disease Management Health Promotions staff presented and medical conditions of Elders Podiatry 335 encounters Plans increased from 2018/19 recorded videos each day promoting what men’s health means to them. attending. It also emerged as a space (2018-19 367) for the Elders to yarn and connect ATSI Health checks (715s) on track to Physiotherapy 197 (224) exceed 2018-19 (pre COVID) Morning tea and lunch with 23 with MDAS staff. Elders chose a men attending recipe each week to prepare, cook Cardiology 91(127) Clontarf and Stars school programs and eat Audiology 237 (158) actively partnering with MDAS Health Community engagement Public talks/cooking groups Speech Pathology 85 (255) Get Yourself Tested campaign (GYT) Partnership with BreastScreen Optometry 52 (37) response to increased Syphilis Victoria (Female Artist Competition A regular schedule of talks and infection rates to design a shawl for BreastScreen monthly cooking groups with Dietician/Nutritionist 327 (585) initiative) Art Competition for youth Meminar, Resi-Care, and Warakoo Our Mildura Health and Clinical Pharmacist 369 (664) to create artworks for Health Service to support and promote healthy, Services teams have sharpened their internal walls nutritious and safe food for Allied Health Coordinator/Care focus on preventative health care community. Public talks also Coordination 1117 (620) and health promotion initiatives, with occurred for the Robinvale Clontarf the result that we have engaged with Foundation and at a number of Health more than 200 new clients this year. Promotion events.
32 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 33 HEALTH SERVICES REPORTS Swan Hill-Kerang Health and Clinical Services report
members to take health and However, this important initiative in Community engagement fitness classes combining Western and traditional Quit success healing methods was one of the most Partnership with BreastScreen Introduced the “Road to Deadly welcomed initiatives by community Victoria (Art Competition to design a Throughout 2019-20, we have Health” once a month with the Elders and we are committed to ensuring the shawl for BreastScreen initiative) had a significant client load group (led by Monica Doherty) healers return when the coronavirus wanting to reduce or quit Women’s Health event Our Swan Hill and Kerang Health staff situation allows. smoking. are a very positive and optimistic team, Deadly Choices stall at our Swan Hill- The flexibility and commitment of our Quitting is never easy and our and I congratulate and thank them for Kerang 2019 Community Day in which teams was tested in the difficult early major success this year has a very successful and collaborative we had raffles, prizes and information days of COVID-19, but I am proud of been in clients who have been year in working towards improving about health services the way our teams responded and able to reduce dramatically the community health. stepped up. The implementation of Men’s Health Event morning Award of excellence amount they are smoking. One Telehealth quickly and efficiently, We took a huge step forward early in tea and lunch client has stopped completely, a Our health team received an this reporting year. We were thrilled and the willingness of our teams to significant number have reduced transition to new models of care and excellence award for point of to secure the services of a permanent International Overdose Awareness smoking substantially. Zah Thebe GP, Dr Atiqul Islam, who has brought find new ways to work allowed us to Event giving education to Community care testing for our MDAS Health Manager consistency, stability and a new level continue to provide responsive, much- about how to help those in an Diabetes Clinic. In addition, we have had great needed and culturally safe services to overdose with the recovery position staff support for enforcing our of trust to the Swan Hill and Kerang We do monthly checks on our our communities. and how to contact emergency MDAS on-site smoking policy community’s engagement with MDAS diabetes testing equipment Highlights health. services. – there has been a marked Our annual flu vax clinic was highly through the QAAMS Program successful this year, with an increase decrease in smoking around Recruited a full time GP Dr Atiqul A highlight this year was the (Quality Assurance for Aboriginal in the number of vaccinations – Integrated Team Care the community hall as a result. Islam for Swan Hill and Kerang recruitment of an Allied Health & Torres Strait Islander Medical especially important during the COVID-19 provided additional Trainee and an Aboriginal Health Chronic Disease management Services). pandemic. Some home visits were challenges in this space, but Consistent GP clinic in Kerang for the Worker Trainee. Both of these young program continues to grow and done by our nurse immunisers for In 2019, our Swan Hill clinic our Health Promotions Officer past year women have shown wonderful support clients towards improved vulnerable clients. received the only Award of Suszanna Aertssen has been commitment to their studies and their health and lifestyle outcomes Launched a combined Swan Hill Excellence in Victoria under this proactive in continuing to communities, and will continue to be a reception team with Family Services Health Promotion Chronic care program supporting program. support clients over the phone, great asset to our service delivery into clients eg Blood Glucose monitoring or with opportunistic catch-ups Membership of Southern Mallee the future. Deadly Choices schools program equipment (diabetic clients) and This program is led by (pictured) when they are in the clinic for Primary Care Partnership for delivered in Swan Hill and Kerang. An important step forward in blood pressure machine (clients Aboriginal Health Practitioner other appointments. community wide health initiatives Overall, we had about 40 students take improving eye health for our with hypertension) to allow them to Nicole Davis (left) and Aboriginal part in the program. We received a Strengthened relationship through community occurred with the manage better at home Health trainee Tahlia Newman. letter of thanks from Koori Education MOUs with Swan Hill District Health/ availability of a Retinal Camera. This Student Support Officer at Swan Hill Northern District Community Health service has been well-utilised from the Primary about how well the program outset and is an important investment was run and that they wish to continue Partnering with SHDH to recruit into the future management of our it in future medical personnel and health Diabetic and chronic disease clients. professionals to the area The entire community was energised Get Yourself Tested New paediatrician service every by the visit to MDAS Swan Hill of the – STI prevention promotion of STI second month ANTAC Traditional Healers for the awareness and testing first time. The experiences of those Engagement in health agency Strong engagement with quit who had sessions with the visiting COVID-19 planning meetings in Swan smoking programs healer Debbie created huge interest Hill and Kerang in the second visit, scheduled for Fluoride Varnish program in schools Partnership with the Leisure Centre April, and it was disappointing that through LMARG (81 children receiving Swan Hill to allow community this had to be shelved due to COVID. treatment)
34 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 35 HEALTH SERVICES REPORTS HEALTH SERVICES REPORTS Social and Emotional Aged Care and Wellbeing Report Disability Services
Alcohol and Other Drugs COVID-19 restrictions. Adaptations to the National Disability Insurance program delivery included suspension Agency was a positive step. It is In the first quarter that COVID-19 of weekly groups, with clients being helping people access Disability restrictions were in place (Jan- provided with supplies to complete supports for the help they need to live March), client contacts jumped by 85% art activities at home instead to help independently. compared to the previous quarter. keep them motivated and engaged. The Navigator Project in partnership Despite the obvious challenges, the Clients have been supported with with the Institute for Urban Indigenous AOD team was able to assist eight mobile phones to aim to facilitate Health has increased client individuals to complete withdrawal more consistent contact with Case participation. The trial is helping over this period, followed by referral Workers whilst face-to-face contacts people over 50 to access the My Aged to a rehabilitation facility – a huge are minimized. Care platform and get the support they achievement. need to live independently at home. Mental Health We also have a new Aboriginal Access Bringing Them Home / Demonstration Project: Support and Community Linkages Gamblers Help & Prevention / Program to roll out in the first half of Family Wellbeing Programs: The model of support and care has the new financial year in the Swan changed significantly over the past Hill area. Raelene Stephens BTH and Gamblers help workers are Connie Liakopoulos two months due to COVID-19. These Reading the needs of our Elders Manager at the forefront of delivering the family Manager COVID-19 certainly provided some changes are reflective of social in isolation – Aged Care and additional challenges both for us, as wellbeing empowerment program to distancing and implementing relevant Disability Services a largely face-to-face service delivery the community, even during COVID-19. safety measures to ensure that Highlight In a space where human model, and for our clients. Our social During a regular welfare check, Innovations have included care and individuals are receiving supports connection and engagement The highlight for MDAS Aged Care and support groups had to cease, taking a MDAS staff member became activity packs, healing smudge sticks, and services reflective of their needs. is so critical to success, the Disability Services this year was the away a much-needed weekly outing aware Aunty June was struggling pamper packs and in-home support Non-engagement has been much less MDAS Social and Emotional official opening of our Mildura Aged and social connection for many clients. because she could no longer being delivered to clients, families and than in 2019. We have a psychiatric Wellbeing (SEWB) team Care and Disability Services Hub on pursue her passion for reading. Elders, and a focus on finding new registrar overviewing assessment But it has been inspiring to watch our faced significant challenges October 17, 2019. Aunty June was living alone and ways to reach and support community. this year, giving a higher degree of dedicated teams find new and creative this year and on-going with as well as no longer attending her oversight for the moderate to The hub is more accessible and user- ways to work (see story), to support COVID-19. Two new gambling support workers clients, engage with them, help them weekly social support group, she severe groups. friendly for Elders and people with are focusing on community disabilities and its position, adjacent stay motivated, connected and feeling was also unable to access new But the second half of 2019-20 has engagement, resulting in new to existing MDAS services, was supported. reading material or share what she has been reading with others. been remarkable in the collaboration relationships and better visibility in the AOD: 502 chosen because of its convenience to This was particularly so with our and adaptation our team has shown, community. clients. The building is now the central The worker shared her own books Home and Community Care Programs finding new ways to connect to ensure Mental Health Demonstration hub for all Aged Care and Disability with Aunty June as a stop gap, (which provide yard maintenance, clients receive the care and support With Family Wellbeing face to face Project: 155 referrals Services and it’s wonderful to have then set to work. An email to all domestic help, personal care and they need more than ever in these and in-school sessions on hold due (82 active clients) everyone and everything our aged staff resulted in a substantial other specialised support services) most challenging times. to COVID-19 the FWB Coordinator care and disability services clients library of reading material to – these have continued to be began weekly Facebook Live Wellbeing Koori Women’s Diversion Project: need to access in the one place. share with Aunty June and other increasingly busy this year, but our Our SEWB team has grown rapidly sessions. The average views per 18 clients (11 active) Elders and the “Swap and Go” The opening of the hub allowed the wonderful workforce made all the over the past 12 months with a session were 605, with the highest Project was born. reintroduction of our social support difference to the lives of clients in this large focus being on recruitment, Bringing Them Home: 78 1500 views. This has allowed the groups and a new “men’s only” difficult time. During regular weekly calls training and succession planning. The program to carry positive messaging/ Gamblers Help: 17* group has been a success. Our social with Elders, the support worker SEWB team now consists of 35 staff coping strategies into the community support groups enjoy speakers seeks out others who might be PHN Clients: members - 22 Indigenous identified during COVID-19 but also to reach new 55 from various organisations, attend interested in receiving books and Staff and 16 non-Indigenous. community members. being part of a new “virtual book Local Justice Worker healthy cooking classes, an exercise program, arts and crafts, bingo and club”. The library of books now Program: 4** Koori Women’s a weekly golf day in conjunction with on hand is being categorised into Diversion Program: *101 community members engaged in Mildura Rural City Council’s “Move-it” areas of interest, from picture presentations and group work activities program. books for non-readers, to fiction, Koori Women’s Diversion Program **On hold due to COVID-19 non-fiction, history crime and exceeded KPIs for 2019/2020 despite The Information, Linkages and romance. the challenges we are facing with Capacity Building program through
36 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 37 HEALTH SERVICES REPORTS Early Years Report
Highlights The Early Years team has been driving conversations and thinking MDAS continues HIPPY, our Home Interaction around autism and developmental to lead in infant Program for Parents and Youngsters, considerations in our region. mental health had record enrolments in 2020, with Aboriginal families are not often parents all eager to be the best ‘first Our work in the infant mental feeling heard or supported educators’ for their children health space has been when questions around unusual recognised internationally, with Playgroups needed to be shelved due development arise for their children both submissions to present at to COVID-19 – but we implemented and MDAS is stepping into that space the World Congress of Infant three sessions a week broadcasting to learn how we might serve our Mental Health (WAIMH) via Facebook – one story, one activity, community better. being accepted. one live music session. All Early Years staff completed One of the presentations Two have been sent to all 21 KPSA the in-house tailored course on was part of a symposium on sites and phone contact maintained childhood sexual exploitation which culturally diverse use of New Born Observations (NBO) during the term. is a necessary and vital mandatory and how MDAS has been Jacinta Molloy learning and review for our staff Dr Erin Kelly was recruited to the learning alongside Community Manager and community. Koori Maternity Service, and the and workforce to improve Promise Keepers continued collaboration with Prof Ian An innovative self-paced training relationships for infants in their families. program was called Promise As difficult and challenging Pettigrew means more women can be package for staff was created TAFE approached the MDAS About Keepers and was delivered to 13 as 2019-20 has turned out to seen antenatally at MDAS around the topic of Infant and Early The other was a workshop Tomorrow project to present a program to their VCAL students to students 10 of whom completed Childhood Mental Health. MDAS case on ‘Wondering From The be, I am incredibly proud the KMS recruited Tarina Sailor, in pre and post feedback sheets Womb’ and how it is being address the high rate of drop out MDAS Early Years team has response to COVID-19, for her workers now have a quality learning which demonstrated great interest used in community, across the and disengagement because of connection to community. The course available for staff in any team in continuing the program in continued to strive towards organisation and in training relationship breakdown amongst the cultural support role she plays with in any part of MDAS that can be 2020 .The faculty of the VCAL creating true generational spaces to help the voice and male and female students. A pilot done in their own time, in their own were keen to have us present the change in this difficult time. women and families in the Antenatal spirit of the unborn child heal program was created to address environment that keeps them aware program again and we are currently period and into early childhood adult trauma, fear and this need using principles from of good practice and knowledge engaged in negotiating the best Throughout this year, early years has has been extremely positive for the parenting concerns. Circle of Security, Family Wellbeing continued to strengthen our focus on service and community. development in the infant space, and Collaborative Therapy. It mode of presentation taking into data and research to demonstrate ensuring that the foundations of life was overseen by Aboriginal staff consideration the restrictions our models are having a positive The Swan Hill team facilitated a long mental health and wellbeing are members to ensure that it was in place because of COVID-19 beautiful Welcome Baby to Country pandemic. impact on the families we are identified and strengthened for our culturally relevant. The resulting ceremony attended by more than working with. This year we partnered future generations with the Centre for Excellence 15 families. in Child and Family Welfare to The Swan Hill team of Malinda Loats document our Early Years model and Connected Beginnings success story start to track outcomes for families. and Elvie Kelly-Britten presented We are also working with Melbourne at the 2019 Secretariat of National The Connected Beginnings and non-Indigenous children. Gibbons Speech Pathologist to University to look at historical data Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island project integrates early attend Ranfurly Primary School The deployment of Dr Erin Kelly GP and tell the story of success over the Child Care Conference (SNAICC) childhood, maternal and child to capture children that may Obstetrician to work at the Mildura past six years. in Adelaide. Mildura’s contribution health, and family support have siblings who will attend the Primary School clinic has seen was led by Kelly Taliloa and Amanda services with schools, in Mildura school in coming years to have mums getting the best possible When COVID-19 occurred, I am proud McCole who presented on the value and is flourishing with the them school ready. Also joining care in a COVID-19 safe location. that our MDAS Early Years teams led and healing capacity of reflective introduction of new services. the CB team is Dr Peter Beggs It’s encouraging to see the number many of the innovations through with practice in organisational health Over time, this will contribute to Pediatrician with a much need of pregnant mums coming to the an innovative online presence that reducing the disparity in school service for our children. across the Early Years team. clinic. Connected Beginnings has has grown and attracted many more readiness and educational also employed the services of Brook families to the MDAS online platform outcomes between Indigenous and to engage with our services.
38 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 39 FAMILY AND COMMUNITY SERVICES REPORTS Family and Community Services Report
our most at need children and Victoria for the Orange Door and families’ critical supports are met importantly the Aboriginal-specific with whatever support has been Practice Leader and Practitioners required. roles across the Mallee. This is to ensure that the increased support and Therapeutic Care Residential. For a quality of service remains for all of our period of time during first onset of Aboriginal communities experiencing COVID our unit relocated out to Cal Family Violence. Family Lal station to ensure safety needs of Aboriginal youth were met. Snapshot:
Family Violence has also been quite 77 families in family support Services innovative and savvy in continuing 7,014 hours Intensive Family Support to provide Family violence support services to community in one of the Case managed 112 youth most critical times. Andy Charles 207 clients in housing support We continue to have a key area of Director of Family Services focus in Family and Community 129 episodes of crisis Services on the transition of Aboriginal accommodation. (Totalling in 1680 COVID-19 has presented Children in Out of Home Care. This is bed nights) many challenges for MDAS through the Road to Reform Initiative Family and Community still being undertaken by the Victorian Government and Department of Health Services and the Aboriginal and Human Services and includes community for the majority the Kinship Care and Foster Care of 2020. program areas.
However, with this, our teams have Aboriginal Children in Aboriginal Care still found ways to ensure that mob (Section 18) is an area that Mallee have been supported over this District Aboriginal Services continues significant and challenging time. to strive to enter. We seek to have line- of-sight and decision-making powers The major areas affected and needing for vulnerable Aboriginal children in innovative ways of providing support the Mallee region, as VACCA, BDAC included: and now NJERNDA and BADAC are doing through the preauthorisation The Youth Services programs areas phase. with case management, education support and statutory involvement There is also a review being completed with limited contact. into evidencing the value and positive outcomes that have been achieved Homelessness support and crisis through the program over the past accommodation supports, due to four years and the push to have it social distancing requirements and funded ongoing and rolled out across restrictions put in place in homes. the state.
Case contracting/Kinship care During the past year, further provided to our vulnerable Aboriginal investment and resources have children in care and ensuring that been provided through Family Safety
2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 41 FAMILY AND COMMUNITY SERVICES REPORTS FAMILY AND COMMUNITY SERVICES REPORTS Swan Hill and Kerang Family Robinvale Family and and Community Services Report Community Services Report
work delivered consistently across out of the Youth House (prior to the Mallee. COVID-19) were successful with youth Angelika Fevaleaki enthusiastic about having their own COVID-19 restrictions have seen Co-ordinator space. Family Services work on a rotating basis from home. Our team has The Youth Mentoring program We had a great start to the worked really hard to ensure there initiated an “Iso Art Competition” year with a Thank You Day has been minimal interruption to with many amazing pieces of – a day of celebration and program delivery. Staff are now artwork submitted. Once COVID-19 giving back for allowing very well trained in the online world restrictions are lifted the Youth and linking in to meetings via video staff will be very excited to resume MDAS to continue servicing conferencing is now part of the program delivery with lots of ideas the community, as well as workday. and planning occurring around appreciation for past years of innovative program delivery service and support delivered A highlight of this year was the particularly around Culture. to within Robinvale. relocation of Youth Programs from Michelle Gadsby the MDAS Community Hall to a new One of the highlights was when Our staff have come a long way with Manager Family Services Youth House more central to the CBD. the Youth boys participated in the the changes of programs within The Youth House will be where the Welcome to Country at a Community the last year and have adapted to to residential areas, but it’s also very Youth Hub will be delivered twice per Day at Menera by performing several delivering those services within the noticeable, and it’s more important We are delivering some great week and the gathering place for the Traditional dances. The boys had Robinvale area. than ever that we are visible and and innovative work in Family Youth Mentoring program. Prior to been practising for two days. On accessible for the community. Services, and I am proud COVID-19 restrictions the Youth Hub the day they were painted up and Our program areas across MDAS have been a wonderful support to of the way our Swan Hill- implemented a new trial where the wore lap laps. They danced in front Staff have persisted during our Robinvale case workers, allowing Kerang team has responded program was delivered on a Tuesday of approximately 120 Community challenging times with engaging us to enhance the delivery of the the community and steering them positively and with leadership night for 8-12 years old and over 12 members. years old on a Thursday night. This programs we now operate from the in the right direction of support. We to a challenging year. Their pride in their Culture was appeared to be working well with Robinvale MDAS office: continue to promote the programs evident to see in the wholehearted We are currently a team of 15 – with youth staff able to make activities as we grow and we are developing manner in which they danced. The Alcohol and Other Drugs 9 of our staff members Aboriginal. more age specific to promote new spaces and areas within our dancing was an amazing way to There are 15 programs delivered by engagement. Youth Services compact office to fit the needs of the cross the generational gap and it our team and we have put a more community and supporting networks. The Youth House will also provide was inspiring to watch the way the Early School leavers cohesive structure in place to have We are proud of the achievements an opportunity for one-on-one catch dancing connected everyone present we have made through our services two Coordinators sitting across Youth Justice ups with mentees and youth staff in at the Community Day. Family Services programs. Training is and assisting community to create a familiar and safe space. The few ongoing with some staff participating Aboriginal and Child Specialist Advice a better future for our people in sessions that have been delivered in TAFE qualifications and due to service (ACSASS) Robinvale. COVID-19 some online learning. Staff have become more confident Family Services staff work very within themselves as individuals collaboratively with other MDAS working in a great team environment. programs within Social, Emotional I am amazed by the support we have Well Being, Health and Early Years. received from the community and Our ongoing program-specific peer external service providers with the support program across all MDAS changeover. Family Services sites is bringing The eye-catching orange MDAS great development and growing building in Robinvale’s main street is confidence in our workforce, and a great asset. It’s central and closer there has been some really great
42 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 43 FAMILY AND COMMUNITY SERVICES REPORTS Care and Culture
the Aboriginal Child Specialist Advice and Winona Bhatia presented on available when staff reach out. and Support program, Aboriginal their unique work at the Aboriginal Staff have been able to re-engage Kyra’s** story – One-on-one back to her country over Christmas Family Led Decision Making and Children’s forum in Lakes Entrance, one of our teenage boys back into safety and support and New Year allowed her to Cultural Support Plan program speaking passionately about the school after a significant decline in reconnect with family. Kyra is now There is no “one size fits all” to areas. We provide Child Protection benefits of the program and the attendance and engagement. moving into a transitional property working in the Care and Culture Practitioners advice about culturally changes required to achieve better to begin the next phase of her life. space. Our Targetted Care Package appropriate intervention and service outcomes. Therapeutic Kyra has faced challenges with (TCP) team is a prime example. delivery in decisions made regarding Residential Care COVID-19, but has still engaged TCPs play a critical role in enabling Aboriginal Children and Families. Out of Home Care consistently with mental health Over the 2019-2020 financial year the children and young people to As a specialised team we have built, /Kinship Care and AOD counselling; maintained TRC has some 27 young people enter transition from residential care into maintained and fostered strong consistent contact with TCP Our Senior Caseworker, Children’s the facility. Each child has presented alternative living arrangements relationships with the Department of workers; built independence while Cultural Care, Manu Paul, built a with different needs and varying that better meet their needs, and Health and Human Services (DHHS) workers were unable to have as positive relationship with one of case plan directions and each has to prevent entry into residential particularly Child Protection. much face to face contact; and the fathers of a young girl we have been able to make varying forms of care. Our MDAS TCP worker has a was selected for interview for a First Supports: in Foster Care. The dad previously progress. The TRC has been built and pivotal role in case management Alana Doe position with DELWP which had hadn’t engaged with services, but maintained to resemble a ‘normal in line with the child or young many applicants. For Kyra and the Manager The First Supports program Manu’s connection has allowed the Family Home’ where celebrations person’s case plan and cultural other young people we support, is focused on children in care child to build a relationship with and events such as birthdays and support plan. For one young client, we celebrate these achievements placements. Our team has doubled her Dad for the first time. She also Christmas are supported for each Kyra, the appropriate supports Our work with young people and milestones with the children in size in the past 12 months and received a birthday gift from her Dad child in a way that they are familiar have allowed her to make exciting and families has become and young people we support, and referrals continue to increase. with. Other Cultural events such as progress in her life and to step for the very first time. Another of our continue to be there for them as more complex in this past Families are being well supported Foster Carers completed renovations NAIDOC and reconciliation week confidently into her future. She with new placements. The FS team they navigate new challenges and year – but the challenges of to their home in order to make room are highly regarded, and celebration graduated foundation VCAL at are working closely with the Kinship work towards their goals. COVID-19 have only added for a child in their care. The child now activities are developed and planned TAFE in 2019, and a two-week trip team on families engaged with both another layer of importance has a space in the family home that by the youth in care with full support teams, ensuring families receive a to the critical work we do. is theirs and feels incorporated into and encouragement from MDAS wraparound service. We are excited the family unit. We were so proud Care staff. about the engagement of some of The Care and Culture team is when some of our children did an our non-indigenous carers within The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic saw dedicated to safeguarding Aboriginal amazing job dancing their hearts the program. They are absorbing a number of changes to the care children and young people, and out at the Mildura show. We also all the information provided and arrangements for the children ensure they are empowered and had a recruitment marquee at the are embracing MDAS to ensure residing in the TRC. During this protected in decisions on their show, which stood out in the crowd lives, safety and family and cultural the children are linked with their trying time each young person was and attracted a lot of attention. New connections. We strive to ensure community and culture. able to reside on country and remain advertisements for Foster Care have all decisions made are in the best safe. This situation provided some also generated a lot of interest. We interests of the child or young person Kinship Reunification: unexpected and dramatically positive have been able to support Permanent and consider their connection to changes in the young people’s social Our Kinship Reunification team Care Orders for some of our children their Aboriginal heritage, family and presentation with one young person is achieving positive outcomes to family. We also have several community. having a complete turnaround in his with the parents engaged in the pending in the coming months. Our trauma related behaviours- this child Cultural Advocate program. Parents are supported Carers have access to a large variety is now able to process situations Support Team to be involved with the children of online training. This has rolled out and assess circumstances before during their important milestone during the COVID-19 period. Overall reflecting and responding to The Cultural Advocate Support moments such as birthdays, first engagement by families/carers has concerns in a more thoughtful and Team provided over 500 clients with haircuts etc. It allows the child and been very positive during COVID-19. planned manner. tailored support and advice during parent to strengthen their bond in Staff have been contacted regularly 2019-20. The team is responsible for the hope of future reunification being when families/carers have needed managing all service delivery within achieved. Caseworkers Rachael Farr support and carers have been readily
44 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 45 FAMILY AND COMMUNITY SERVICES REPORTS Family and Youth Services
but are culturally appropriate. In the program also supported young Leadership Program/School We have also been able to utilise a skills and expertise of the workforce. the 2019-2020 year, Koori Youth people who attended the Midnight Holiday Program 4-bedroom house and 4 single room The program was beneficial to Justice received 14 referrals from Basketball Program. Due to Covid-19 units for emergency accommodation everyday client delivery, particularly the Department of Justice. Our restrictions and safety concerns, the The Leadership Program was run options to assist our clients in with implementing strategies for main Youth Justice worker battled service was temporarily suspended during the School Holiday program. Mildura. These extra emergency heightened behaviours. We are very with serious illness and other case between March and June. There was Out of every two-week holiday slot accommodation options are a useful thankful for the opportunity. managers within the Youth Services an attempt to restart the program one of the four days of the program option to have as the prices of the In 2019-20 Family Services team helped to support Youth Justice close to the end of the financial was run as a leadership workshop. emergency accommodation (caravan supported over 45 families within clients in his absence. year, but state restrictions were This was in conjunction with the parks/motels) around the district are the Loddon-Mallee Area within: tightened at that time and the Department of Justice and the too expensive and not sustainable for community engagement team at Youth Support Services program’s commencement was clients on low Centrelink payments. Aboriginal Stronger Families furthered delayed. the Mildura Police. Some Elders These emergency properties also Youth Support Services provides a came and shared cultural sessions, give clients the opportunity to have a Family Preservation more intensive case management Koori Connect and leadership skills activities were reference/rental history to assist with model for a shorter period of time. Integrated Family Services provided. private rental applications. It is aimed at clients that may be Koori Connect is a re-engagement Our commitment is to engage Calvin Henry regarded as having a higher risk program that runs during the school Housing services – The Aboriginal Tenants At Risk of with community members with Manager of offending and need immediate term at the MDAS Youth Hub. It is Coordinator, Patricia Watson Eviction program works with clients compassion, dignity and respect, and intervention through positive and aimed at students who have been who are at risk of being evicted The 2019/20 year in the Supported the result is many positive outcomes. purposeful interactions with the YSS disengaged from school for some from their rental for reasons such In 2019-2020 financial year, Assistance Accommodation Program The majority of Families supported case managers. During the 2019- time and that need some extra as environmental condition of the (SAAP) and Aboriginal Tenants At during this time were self-referrals MDAS Family and Youth 2020 year, the team have received 26 support to them to gain the skills to property or rental arrears. Mildura Risk of Eviction (ATRE) programs has and received support around: Services has continued to referrals and have supported those re-engage with education. It has a ATARE has assisted 114 clients from strong cultural focus and provides a been a period of renewal with staffing offer a wide range of support clients. being at risk of eviction or homeless. NDIS packages changes – but we now have a strong for the community’s young lot of wrap around holistic support The vast majority of this assistance and solid base which we are looking people and their families. Early School Leavers to the students who access the has been in supplying over 100 skip Trauma to expand in the new financial year program. In the second half of 2019 bins to improve the condition of Our Early School Leavers program with the addition of a new Mental Health We continue to have many levels the program engaged 11 students – clients’ properties. is the early intervention arm of the team member. of support through both case all of whom were reconnected with Education expectations management and various programs. Youth Justice program. Its aim is to their previous school or connected In the last year the Supported Family Services – Coordinator reconnect disengaged young people with a new education pathway. Wrap around support Assistance Accommodation Program Hine Billing Youth Services – Coordinator, with education or employment The program was rewritten in the (individuals and families) pathways. The ESL case managers has supported 233 clients along Vanessa Dyke summer school holidays. At the start In March 2019 Department of Health supported 54 clients in the 2019-2020 with their partners and/or children Court Matters of 2020, the program supported the and Human Services, Centre for Our case management levels are – year. There was diverse range of with emergency accommodation previous year’s students to make sure Evidence & Implementation and Food Assistance Youth Justice, Youth Support Services, needs and supports across the many and long-term housing assistance, they had a complete and successful Centre for Excellence proposed a Early School Leavers young people that were supported, advocacy and referral, through public, transition to their various pathways. Pilot Program of “The Common Sorry Business Support and there were many good news private and Aboriginal housing. 118 of Our programs have been – Koori There was continued support for one Elements Approach” where MDAS stories of clients achieving positive these clients have been new clients Youth Night Patrol, Koori Connect client through case management, as Family and Early Years Services outcomes. to the program. The SAAP team Re-engagement Program, Leadership they build up their confidence and has successfully assisted 41 people took advantage of for approximately Program, School Holiday Program hours at their host school. There was in securing long term permanent 12months. The program aimed Koori Youth Night Patrol one new accepted student who was housing in either private rentals, to provide a more integrated and Youth Justice severely disengaged, and he started Our program for transporting young Social housing or Aboriginal Housing person-centred service system his engaging with the program. Youth Justice continues to support people home or to a safe place Victoria properties. The private that is informed by principles of Covid-19 brought Koori Connect to a Koori young people that are court continued in the 2019-2020 year. The rental sector is where the majority self-determination, client voice halt. It is set to return in Term 3. ordered to engage with services that program ran as per usual from July of community have gain and secured and experience, the best available not only work towards rehabilitation 2019-March 2020. During this time, these tenancies. research evidence and builds on the
46 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 47 FAMILY AND COMMUNITY SERVICES REPORTS FAMILY AND COMMUNITY SERVICES REPORTS Family A place of safety Violence Services Meminar Ngangg Gimba
down. Precautions have been put Adolescent Program Meminar is our family in place to ensure safety guidelines violence refuge that gives This program is for adolescents, were followed including PPE being women and children a safe male and female, aged 11-17 who used when conducting home visits place to dwell when they are and limiting the number of clients choose to use or who are at risk escaping family violence. attending programs. of using family violence. Women’s business and men’s business is Meminar has remained almost Men’s Family Violence separated, and pre-COVID-19, clients continually full again this year, were engaging well. Face-to-face Programs Case Management/ with alternative accommodation group work and cultural programs Perpetrator/ Cultural Healing being sourced from time to time have been impacted by COVID-19, Program to keep women and children safe. but plans are in place to ensure it is Our outreach services provide case Men’s Case Management up and running as soon as possible. management to women and children Staff are continuing to work closely Clients are being case managed who are experiencing or at risk of with schools to focus on at-risk from Mildura to Kerang. Clients family violence from Mildura and Indigenous students. Deb Berg are linked one-on-one to a case Robinvale, through to Swan Hill and Manager worker and are engaged in the Men’s Behaviour Kerang and into NSW. development of a supported case Change Group plan. The program provides practical Cultural safety and cultural Jenny’s** story Our MDAS Family Violence assistance such as accommodation The Men’s Cultural Healing connection is an increasing focus of services continue to work and basic supports to the men, as Behaviour Change Group works our work with traumatised women Jenny came to Meminar after for items to be purchased but her well as help to address contributing and children. Our Family Violence requests for aids and medical holistically and innovatively with men who choose to use or police were called to an incident issues such as employment, helping are at risk of using family violence. Therapeutic Team provides cultural at her home. Police removed her services she needed were mostly in this challenging space. them to obtain licenses and jobs. The Men can be self-referred or police/ healing through yarning, activities, for her safety and Jenny asked to denied. The psychological and case management program provides Family violence is the biggest killer service referred with groups held at programs and camps for adults, stay the night with a friend. Police emotional abuse kept her isolated cultural healing and working through of women aged 14 to 44 in Australia, Mildura, Swan Hill and Robinvale. The adolescents and children who have also referred the case to Meminar from services and community. family violence issues to identify and for Aboriginal women, deaths Men’s Family Violence Coordinator experienced family violence. Cultural – we contacted Jenny and she was Jenny had been convinced over negative behaviours and make Rocky Sloan completed a Graduate from family violence are double. healing occurs around the yarning able to move into the safety of the many years that she could not changes. Certificate to become a qualified Tackling family violence has come circle or through cultural activities refuge immediately. (Although a survive without her partner to care Men’s Behaviour Change Facilitator into sharp focus during COVID-19 and Meminar has engaged three victim is removed from immediate for her, so when family, community Cultural Healing Program to ensure our program is culturally because of the heightened danger Elders (Aunty Dawn, Aunty Raels and danger by police, often the risk or police attempted to intervene led and delivered. This program created, particularly for women and All our Men’s Family Violence clients Aunty Margie, pictured) who attend she would deflect the truth. Jenny has been highly successful, with of violence escalates once the children, as a result of isolation, had absolutely no self-confidence are taken out onto country to feel outcomes including clients who have fortnightly to take part and to mentor perpetrator no longer has control highly stressful situations and and connect with culture to begin changed their behaviours and have clients. Our amazing support worker of the victim). Jenny has a disability or independence and her spirit was confinement with family violence their healing journey. Numerous not reoffended. Many men from the Leanne also well and truly made her and had been in a relationship lost. During her time in the refuge perpetrators. interactive activities and social program have been reunified with mark in a beautiful way this year, by with her partner from a young age. she became empowered and cultural gatherings are carried out partners and families. The program doing art work on all of the doors in Jenny told her caseworker she reconnected to her spirit through MDAS operates a range of programs with the men from the Men’s Family carries a strong cultural focus, with Meminar’s communal areas to reflect had endured severe violence over cultural healing camps and days aimed at ending family violence in Violence programs and men from men who have not reoffended invited the cultural safety of our space. many years, including physical out, yarning with Meminar Elders, Mallee communities. Despite the other programs. Conversations to camps including Camp Jungi, abuse that resulted in many black Tidda’s day in, art therapy and challenges of 2019-20 we have regarding cultural history and Melbourne Dreamtime and Warrakoo. other activities. Jenny has showed continued to progress towards this eyes and bruises. Her partner had connection along with education, incredible resilience and self- goal by working with women and control of her disability pension knowledge and support on changing determination and now lives a life children, as well as men, in new and and Jenny was denied access to behaviours and maintaining healthy free from violence. positive ways. money. She had to ask her partner relationships are the major focus of Due to COVID-19 numerous the programs. The majority of our programs were put on hold following programs and case management are restrictions that were handed held on country.
48 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 49 HEADER CORPORATE SERVICES REPORTS 2019-20 Major Highlights
We have 248 employees Each Direct Workgroup has A total of 278 incidents were working some 525,000 hours an accredited Health and reported, Report Only accounted on an annual basis. Safety Representative (HSR) in for 70.50% of the total reports. accordance with OHS Legislation. Staff are working at a total of 16 Risk Assessments are conducted locations throughout the Swan HSR’s conduct monthly Audits on as required, a total of 9 Hill, Robinvale, Mildura Region their respective DWG’s. assessments were carried out Corporate and remote Western NSW. 19/20. The WorkSafe Inspectorate has In the last financial year 19/20 made 3 on-site visits in 19/20 9 OH&S Spot Audits were there were no lost time injuries, and were satisfied that the OHS conducted 19/20. the Industry Standard Rate is 9.5 Act and regulations were being Services Registered as a COVID-19 safe per 250 employees. followed. business with NSW government. All Incidents are reported to Managers in a timely manner.
Swan Hill and Kerang Report
The creation of a new Corporate We are expecting these to be long and Services Manager Role for Swan beneficial partnerships to our local Hill and Kerang is an indication communities. of the growing importance of our communities within MDAS service The Our Mob Speaks listening provision. program was introduced at the end of the financial year, and this was This role allows the Corporate welcomed with enthusiasm from Services requirements of the community members who have had an Swan Hill and Kerang operations opportunity to be involved. to be administered at a more local Another major achievement this year level, with greater understanding was the streamlining of our reception and response to local needs and services at Swan Hill and Kerang conditions. under the corporate services banner. This year, we were proud to secure This has been a positive step. Melanie Lane local Food Relief, Foodbank and the I am looking forward to the important Secondbite partnerships to allow a and influential role that a local Swan Hill and Kerang better response to community in need Corporate Services Corporate Services Manager can in Swan Hill and Kerang. This was play in improving service delivery much appreciated by local community and infrastructure development in The year 2019-20 was an extremely members, particularly during the the Swan Hill and Kerang exciting one in terms of the months of COVID-19 and the delivery communities. There are important development of MDAS Services of food hampers was a critical challenges ahead, and I look forward within the Swan Hill and Kerang outreach at a time when community to working with the community in communities. was feeling confused and vulnerable. reaching our shared goals.
2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 51 CORPORATE SERVICES REPORTS CORPORATE SERVICES REPORTS Our Mob Speaks Human Resources - a new way of listening
family services, social and emotional and the wider corporate services wellbeing and administration areas space. that motivates this decision. The For the first time MDAS has had four investment in an individual also has trainees in the Corporate Services flow-on benefits in so many ways. space with all completing their In strengthening our workforce and traineeships prior to their final State building succession planning through Training Board deadlines. Extensions upskilling, we are also supporting were not required to be applied for the individual to reach their goals, and this is the first time this has we are helping them to create occurred in my time at MDAS. resilience in their family unit, we are The Corporate trainees all came strengthening community capacity through the MAEP program and look and we are creating role models to to have promising careers following inspire others. a succession plan to be future MDAS Kelly Masters The decision to study or return leaders. We are proud to have be out and about yarning with how important this is so everyone can HR Manager to study is a big commitment, individuals as well as talking with feel safe to talk about what’s on their The commitment to their studies is developed and launched what particularly when many staff have full existing community organisations, mind. Information and feedback is not only an asset to their own drive we believe is a community time work commitments and a busy social groups and school groups, confidential. Guaranteed. Growing our own success to succeed but to external mentors, engagement process that home life. MDAS has worked hard to hear what’s on their mind and teachers and in-house support. will be a game-changer for The information is essential for us to has continued to be our to put in place support networks to to understand how MDAS can best mantra in the MDAS Human Aboriginal and Torres Strait continue improving MDAS services. enable student success: teachers; We have some real talent among support families and communities to The feedback will also be used to talk Resources team, and we are external student support; inhouse our trainees and the goal for us is Islander communities across thrive. with government about community now seeing the success from support through mentoring; and the that they stay at MDAS and strive to Australia. Because of COVID-19, we reshaped concerns and ideas, to make sure we our commitment to investing flexibility from managers to allow become future leaders – hopefully This year we developed and began our plans so that our first yarns are are attracting the right investment to in our own staff. students to manage the balance on the table at management and the rollout in community of “Our Mob one-on-one, about how MDAS can support our communities. between study commitments and executive level. The concept of working to secure Speaks”, a new way of engaging, support community recover from daily working life. We will regularly provide feedback on committed personnel and investing talking and listening to our mobs COVID-19. We are working in new 120 staff (nearly our website and through Facebook in those people to strengthen our MDAS currently has 120 staff studying to make sure we are providing the ways and have formed some new half of our workforce) are about what our mob are saying. workforce from within is now having nationally-accredited training from support that is needed to help our partnerships – we want to know currently undertaking success both in terms of sustaining Cert level to Master’s degree. We communities thrive. what people think. In our first round It is part of a new process that will our organisation and supporting our have also supported 20 trainees in further training of yarns, we spoke to 77 different Our Mob Speaks is about the shape the future we want for our communities. the 2019-20 financial year who are individuals about how we can best community talking, and MDAS children today, and their children into currently studying across all program recover from COVID-19. We’ll keep Investing in our staff is empowering listening... the future, but hearing the voices of areas in the organisation. These talking to more people in 2020-21. our community and advancing our our mobs and generations across trainees were strongly supported by It was launched early in 2020 – but the Mallee. shared future. Some of that talking has been face- their direct line manager and worked COVID-19 didn’t stall our plans. to-face, other times it has been over It is not only the ongoing shortage alongside their direct line manager the phone. But our commitment is to of skilled practitioners in health, daily, supported by their own team The new consultation method is not about community meetings or draw on the deep wisdom, strength forums. and resolve of the widest possible number of Aboriginal people living in It’s about listening to people who the Mallee to guide our future. sometimes don’t get heard. Our MDAS community engagement Every month our Community staff record only what community Engagement Team is tasked to says, not who says it. We know just
52 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 53 CORPORATE SERVICES REPORTS HEADER Back on Country at Menera Farm
Menera Station, at Mellool, is leased from the Indigenous Land Corporation by MDAS on behalf of the Swan Hill and Kerang communities
The 1455-hectare freehold station is on Wamba Wamba country on the NSW side of the Murray River, 25 kilometres from Swan Hill. It is operated as a sustainable farming enterprise and is used for an increasing number of community activities.
More than 100 people celebrated NAIDOC Week at a community day at the property, and for many Elders and community members it was the first opportunity to get back “on country” at Menera. Financials The successful submission to lease Menera was made by MDAS in partnership with, and at the Reflection on Menera: Keith Uncle Rick Kirby, Justice Worker request of, the Swan Hill and Kerang Hampton, MDAS Chairman and Wadi Wadi Mudi Mudi Elder communities in 2015. The submission was chosen by the ILC because of the “It was just a fantastic feeling at “The Community Day was a real lasting benefits to Koori communities the Community Day. It was really eye opener for people. It was our in the Mallee and southern NSW. special for the Elders and the first chance to show off Menera young ones connecting across and I think people were excited More than 1000 hectares of Menera the generations. We’d had a boys’ about what’s happening here and is under irrigation and the property is cultural camp before the day, when the possibilities for the future. currently producing irrigated, dryland boys from Swan Hill and Kerang crops, running cattle, and sheep “The community absolutely needs were doing things like learning to under a share-farming agreement. a place to be out on country, throw spears and hunting witchetty practising our cultural traditions grubs and a girls camp was also – it’s the closest thing we have to held in the leadup. being ‘out bush’ and the old people “On the day itself, we had the loved it and the young people young boys put on the dances loved it. they’d learnt in front of the oldies, “More community cultural days, and the Elders were just so more activities out here, especially pleased to see their grand kids and ones that will connect youth to nephews getting to understand Elders across the generations on a their culture and being proud of it. place like this…it’s good medicine.”
54 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 55 FINANCIALS FINANCIALS Financial Position and Performance
Snapshot The graphs below show More detail of revenue Mallee District Aboriginal Services charity and discloses its financial ACNC through the 2020 Annual a snapshot of MDAS’ revenue, and expenditure can Limited is registered with the performance annually to the ACNC. Information Statement (AIS) process expenditure and result be found within the Australian Charities & Not for Profit The financial statements and notes and will be available for the public. Commission (ACNC) as a large will this year be lodged with the over the past five years. financial statements.
REVENUE $’000 RESULT $’000
40,000 GRANTS OTHER REVENUE 8,000 30,000 6,000
4,000 20,000 2,000 0 10,000 (2,000)
0 (4,000) 2019/20 2018/19 2017/18 2016/17 2015/16 2019/20 2018/19 2017/18 2016/17 2015/16
EXPENDITURE $’000
35,000 30,000 25,000
20,000
15,000 10,000 5,000
0 2019/20 2018/19 2017/18 2016/17 2015/16
EMPLOYEE PROGRAM DELIVERY DEPRECIATION INTEREST OCCUPANCY OTHER
56 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 57 HEADER FINANCIALSHEADER
2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 59 HEADERFINANCIALS FINANCIALSHEADER
60 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 61 HEADERFINANCIALS HEADERFINANCIALS
41A Breen Street Bendigo, Victoria 3550 PO Box 448, Bendigo Victoria 3552 As part of an audit in accordance with the Australian Auditing Standards, we e ercise professional udgement and maintain
Ph: (03) 4435 3550 professional scepticism throughout the audit. e also: [email protected] www.rsdaudit.com.au • dentify and assess the ris s of material misstatement of the financial report, whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those ris s, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. he ris of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF MALLEE DISTRICT ABORIGINAL SERVICES LIMITED control.
Opinion • btain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the association’s internal control. We have audited the consolidated financial report of Mallee District Aboriginal Services Limited, which comprises the consolidated statement of financial position as at 30 June 2020, the consolidated statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income, • Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related consolidated statement of changes in equity and consolidated statement of cash flows for the year then ended, and notes to the disclosures made by the directors. financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies, and the directors declaration. • Conclude on the appropriateness of the board of director’s use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated financial report of Mallee District Aboriginal Services Limited, is in accordance with audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty e ists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt Division 60 of the Australian Charities and Non-for-profits Commission Act 2012, including: on the association’s ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor’s report to the related disclosures in the financial report or, if such disclosures are (i) giving a true and fair view of the company’s financial position as at 30 June 2020 and of its financial performance for the inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor’s year then ended; and report. owever, future events or conditions may cause the association to cease to continue as a going concern. (ii) Complying with Australian Accounting Standards - Reduced Disclosure Requirements (including the Australian Accounting • Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the financial report, including the disclosures, and whether the Interpretations) and the Australian Charities and Non-for-profits Commission Regulation 2013. financial report represents the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation. asis for Opinion e communicate with the board of directors regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. Our responsibilities under those standards are further audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit. described in the Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Report section of our report. We are independent of the Information Other than the Financial Report and Auditor’s Report Thereon Company in accordance with the accordance with the auditor independence requirements of the Australian Charities and Not-for- profits Commission Act 2012 and, the ethical requirements of the Accounting Professional and Ethical Standards Board’s APES 110: he directors are responsible for the other information. he other information comprises the information included in the Company’s Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (the Code) that are relevant to our audit of the financial report in Australia. We have also annual report for the year ended 30 June 2020, but does not include the financial report and our auditor’s report thereon. fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with the Code. ur opinion on the financial report does not cover the other information and accordingly we do not e press any form of assurance We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. conclusion thereon.
Responsi ilities of the irectors for the Financial Report n connection with our audit of the financial report, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial report or our nowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to The directors of the Company are responsible for the preparation of the financial report that gives a true and fair view in accordance be materially misstated. with Australian Accounting Standards and the Australian Charities and Non-for-profits Commission Act 2012 and for such internal control as the directors determine is necessary to enable the preparation of the financial report that gives a true and fair view and is f, based on the wor we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. to report that fact. e have nothing to report in this regard.
In preparing the financial report, the directors are responsible for assessing the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern, R Audit disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the directors either intend to liquidate the Company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.
Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Report
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial report as a whole is free from material misstatement, athie easdale Partner whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of ated: 12 ovember 2020 assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with the Australian Auditing Standards will always detect a
material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of this financial report.
Richmond Sinnott & Delahunty, trading as RSD Audit ABN 60 616 244 309 Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation
62 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT 63 HEADERFINANCIALS HEADER
41A Breen Street Bendigo, Victoria PO Box 448, Bendigo, VIC, 3552
Ph: (03) 4435 3550 [email protected] www.rsdaudit.com.au
Auditor’s Independence Declaration under Australian Charities and Not or pro its Co ission Act s to the Directors o allee District A ori inal er ices
In accordance with Subdivision 60-C of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012, as the auditor of Mallee District Aboriginal Services Limited for the year ended 30 June 2020, I declare that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, during the year ended 30 June 2020 there has been no contraventions of: We are proud and (i) the Auditor independence requirements of the Australian Charities and Not for Profits Commission Act 2012 in relation to the audit; and strong descendants (ii) Any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to the audit. of the oldest living
D Audit culture in the world.
athie easdale artner 41A Breen Street Bendigo VIC 3550
Dated: 12 November 2020
Richmond Sinnott & Delahunty, trading as RSD Audit ABN 60 616 244 309 Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation
64 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT MDAS TEAM HEADER Thank you Team!
Well done to our entire 2019-20 team for another year of hard work and progress.
Suszanna Aertssen Ethan Chilly Julia Goodes Carol Logan Melissa Pippin Jacinta Tyers Donella Akers Matthew Chilly Norma Gowers Marie Mah Kathy Potter Sherry Van Leuveren Chantelle Appoo Robert Chinnian Tiffany Griffin Jerome Makalio Jackson Neive Price Mincy Varghese Fredrick Apthorpe Loretta Circosta Brady Hall Lola Masasso Mou Rashid Bose Jessica Versteeg Naomi Archer Tessa Clark Blake Hall Jayde Masasso Jane Reid Milka Waithaka Joseph Azzarelli Kailey Clark Tamara Hamence Kelly Masters Paul Roberts Alan James Walsh Kimberley Bacon Quentin Clark Margrete Hamence Peter Matsumoto Isabella Robertson Kokwam Wapau Ryan Bailey Wayne Coe Keith Hampton Terri McArdle Kerry Russell Leslie Warburton Taylah Baird Karley Connelly Stephanie Harradine Amanda McCole Tarina Sailor Patricia Watson Shannon Baker Becky Cooper Courtney Harvey Pamela McCormack Darlene Sanders Harold Webster Sally Barker Katherine Crouch Jadan Havea Toni McCormack Kosha Shanahan Toni Webster Yvonne Barnes Lorraine Cruse Briana Hayden Leanne McDermott Leah Shanaughan Ian Wescombe Tiarni Baskin Alida Cubbage Skye Hayden Rachael McGann Ruchika Sharma Cody Whelan Marissa Bennett Rebbecca Curphey Kylie Henderson Rhonda McInnes Margaret Sharman Lace Whitford Deborah Berg Jade Curphey Calvin Henry Rhiannon McInnes Gregory Sloan Amanda Whitton Jennifer Berry Michelle Dahlitz Ross Hensgen Jack McSwain Lisa Maree Sloan Zachary Wilksch Glenn Bertalli Carolyn de Jong Dana Hollis Alex McWilliam Kane Smith Kelly Williams Aaron Paul Best Salvatore Deluca Amy Hunt Kara Merritt Derek Smith Ashton Williams Winona Bhatia Robert Dini Leanda Hynes Elizabeth Milazzo Dylan Smith Martin Williams Hine Billing Alana Doe John Jackson Lalueni Minoneti Robyn Smythe Michelle Williams Jennifer Blackman Monica Doherty Tamika Jenkins Joanne Mitchell Latiesha Soanes David Williams Jennifer Blake Danielle Dougherty Brendan Johnson Caitlin Mitchell Gloria Spencer Rebecca Wilson Keith Blore David Douglas Georgina Johnson Timothy Mitchell Donna Stacey Joanne Wright Jeannette Blundell Cassandra Duck Ami Johnston Jacinta Molloy Judy Anne Stafford Nathan Yates Carol Bonnett Kehan Dyce Diane Jones Greta Monaghan Jesse James Staker Angela Yates Justine Bowden Ikeya Edge Simone Jones Travis Morvell Raelene Stephens Mahalia Zeilke-Soden Rianne Bowden Leilani Eggmolesse Jacquelyn Josephs Teonie Muggeridge Andrea Stewart Steven Bowden Rinwalla Eggmolesse Nathan Kelly Nakita Muggeridge Katrina Stockman Samantha Brennan Dominic Eggmolesse-Smith Pettina Kelly Sarah Nalder Aroha Sykes Terrance Brennan Roslyn Evans Karen Kelly Maralea Nau Joshua Symons Bradley Britten Stewart Falconer Kaneesha Kelly Laetitia Nelson Kelly Taliloa Elvie-Marie Britten Belinda Fanshaw Erin Kelly Tahlia Newman Russell Taylor Allison Buchanan Rachael Farr James Kennedy Glenda Nicholls Leanne Taylor Kerrie Burton Kim Faulkner Belinda King Arron Nicholls Katina Taylor Jennifer Byrnes Angelika Fevaleaki Crystal Kirby Kristie Nixon Lois Taylor Jacob Byrnes Belinda Fidura Isaiah Kirby Carly Noll Anthony Taylor Nakiah Cahill Rebecca Fitzgerald Harold Kirby Tariq Odegaard Zanele Thebe Billie-Lee Carruthers Brody Flowers Ricky Kirby Rachel Pask Terry Thomas Shayne Carter Joseph Fonte Jan Michael Koopmans Anand Patel Darlene Thomas Kylie Cawley Celia Fox Terrence Kuchel Manu Paul Kaitlyn Tisler Jacinta Chaplin Matthew Fulton Melainie Lambert Shiloh Peila Isaiah-Levi Togo Andrew Charles Michelle Gadsby Melanie Lane Brianna Peters Crystal Toogood Alisha Charles Krystal Gadsby Jennifer Laurie Ada Peterson Jonathan Toscano Madina Charles Leonie Garner Connie Liakopoulos James Peterson Laura Traeger Damien Charles Jenny Gaulke Jody Little Tina Philp Vaasili Tuifao Kieaminda Charles Emma Geyer Malinda Loats Caterina Pickup Fiona Turner
66 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT HEADER
CLINICS FAMILY AND COMMUNITY Meminar (Family Violence refuge) OUR Well Women’s Clinic SERVICES Men’s Case Management Immunisation Clinic Time out Services CHILDREN’S PLACEMENT SERVICES Men’s Behaviour Change Group TACKLING SMOKING AND SERVICES Koori Youth Connect HEALTH HEALTHY LIFESTYLES SERVICES Aboriginal Children Specialist Quit Smoking Support Advice Support Service (ACSASS) HOMELESSNESS GP Boot Camps AND HOUSING SERVICES Nurse Home Based Care Community Gym Kinship Care Crisis Support Aboriginal Health Workers Transition Support SOCIAL EMOTIONAL Aboriginal Family Led Outreach Workers Aboriginal Tenants at Risk of WELLBEING TEAM Decision Making Chronic Disease Management Eviction Local Justice Worker Program Cultural Support Planning Maternal Child Health Koori Private Tenancy Worker Bringing Them Home Program Therapeutic Foster Care Nurse Health Checks Community Housing Transport Drug & Alcohol Counselling Therapeutic Residential Care Gamblers Help Therapeutic Residential SPECIALIST SERVICES EARLY YEARS SERVICES Koori Women’s Diversion Case Management Nephrologist Maternity Services Wiimpatja Healing Centre Drug And Alcohol Worker FAMILY SERVICES Maternal and Child Health Services Mental Health-AOD (Youth Psychologist Integrated Family Services Family Support Services; Specific) Maternal And Child Health Nurse Aboriginal Stronger Families - In Home support Adult Mental Health Dietician Family Preservation and Restoration - Cradle to Kinder Gambling Community Podiatrist Parents Under Pressure Early Intervention and Early Prevention Project Cardiologist Youth Services Learning Services Psychiatrist Urologist Koori Night Patrol - Supported Playgroups Paediatrician AGED AND DISABILITY Soccer Club - Circle of Security Optometrist Commonwealth Home Support Community Development Project - Collaborative Therapy Cardiologist Programme (CHSP) Youth Justice HIPPY (Home Interaction Program Respiratory Specialist Audiologist Home and Community Care Early School Leavers for Parents and Youngsters) Physiotherapist Program for Younger People Emerging Leaders Program Koori Preschool Assistant Program Personal Trainers (HACC-PYP) Family Violence
www.mdas.org.au
66 2020 MDAS ANNUAL REPORT