St Vincent de Paul Society NSW Annual Report 2011/12 Contents

Message from the President 4 Message from the CEO 5 Message from the Spiritual Advisor 6 Message from the Cardinal 6 History of the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW 7 Our Mission, Vision and Structure 8 NSW State Council 10 Advisory and Steering Committees 12 Membership and Assistance 14 Social Justice and Advocacy 16 Who we help 18 Our Members and Volunteers 20 Building a Sustainable Future 24 Central Councils 26 Vinnies Retail Centres 30 Homeless and Addiction Services 32 Housing, Community Support and Financial Services 37 The Annual Report of the St Vincent de Responsibility for this document rests Disability Services 40 Paul Society NSW was produced by the with the State Council of the St Vincent de Community and Corporate Relations team Paul Society NSW. Food Services 40 of the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW, Privacy statement: The St Vincent de Mental Health Services 41 November 2012. Paul Society NSW respects the privacy of Youth Services 42 Written and edited by: the people it assists and our members, Yolanda Saiz, Communications Manager, volunteers and employees. As a result, the Refugee Support Services 44 [email protected] names of clients, members, volunteers or Overseas Partnerships 45 employees featured in this report may have Supervising Editor: been changed and pictorial models used. Rural Taskforce 45 Julie McDonald, General Manager, Community and Corporate Relations, St Vincent de Paul Society NSW ABN: Disaster Recovery 45 [email protected] 46 472 591 335 Our Employees 46 Designed by: Claudia Williams, Auditor: Grant Thornton Our Governance 50 Publications and Design Coordinator, Primary Bank: [email protected] Our Fundraising and Engagement 52 Commonwealth Bank of Australia Statistics collated by: Our Supporters 56 Primary Solicitor: Hunt & Hunt Jey Natkunaratnam, Senior Statistics Finance 58 Officer, [email protected]

2 Annual Report 2011/12 3 Message from Message from the President the CEO

Dear Brothers and Sisters, Society, I can say I have never seen such look forward to working with the new Dear friends, As our State President, Ray Reynolds funds and is actively working to expand a united and coordinated response to State Council and all of our Vincentian referred to in his report, over the past 12 our funding sources to meet this need. I was appointed President of the NSW As a relative newcomer to the St Vincent addressing poverty. members, volunteers and employees to months we have developed a strategic Provisional Board for a period of 12 de Paul Society, I am inspired by the Australia is a strong and prosperous implement the new strategic direction plan that outlines an exciting roadmap months during the last financial year. Through home visitation, the core work grassroots work that is being done by nation with much to be proud of. However, for the Society. This direction is clearly for the future. The Plan takes account of In July 2012, an election for a President of the Society for 150 years, Conference our members, volunteers and employees we can also do more to ensure that all underpinned by the charism of Blessed the challenges and opportunities facing to form a new State Council was held members visit people in their homes, across the State every day of the year. Australians have equal opportunity to Frederic Ozanam and the spiritual ethos the Society and will ensure we are in and I was very honoured to be elected hospitals, nursing homes and prison, The Society not only provides practical participate in the community. of the St Vincent de Paul Society. the best position to effectively address for a term of four years. In this capacity, providing support, friendship and assistance and emotional support to disadvantage in NSW. This Annual Report demonstrates I am proud to present the Annual Report financial or material assistance. Another We cannot do our work at the State people experiencing disadvantage the good that can be achieved when 2011/12. form of assistance we provide is our level without the tremendous support but continues the important work of The Society is fortunate to be in a sound people come together for a common Support Centres which are located at we receive from the employees in the advocating on behalf of people pushed financial position with the statement of The Society’s Annual Report is an cause. With a presence in nearly every many of our Vinnies Retail Centres. In Charles O’Neill NSW State Support to the margins of society. comprehensive income for the financial important way to document the work of community in NSW, the Society is in a 2011/12, members made more than Office, Central Councils and Special year ended 30 June 2012 reflecting a our members, volunteers and employees This Annual Report gives an important unique position to drive social change 223,000 visitations as part of their Works across the State. Thank you to consolidated surplus of $1.766m after in communities across the State. It insight into the range and scale of the and improve people’s lives and I am very day-to-day commitment to those people all of you who so zealously dedicate transfers to related entities. enables us to present statistics on work carried out across the State by pleased to be a part of that journey. most in need. yourselves to the work of the Society. the breadth and scale of our work at a the Society. In 2011/12, around 2.2 In line with the Society’s National Yours sincerely, grassroots level. It gives us a picture of The development of a new Strategic Plan I would especially like to thank our million hours of member and volunteer Investment Policy, funds have been the kinds of people turning to us for help means that the organisation can look former CEO, Mr Graham West for his service supported over 620,000 people. spread between major financial and the reasons why, as well as puts a forward to the next five years as it builds dedication and the skills he provided Through our homeless and housing institutions to diversify risk, as well as dollar value on the delivery of hundreds a strong platform to make the Society during a difficult time. Our new CEO, services, 310,000 bed nights and almost obtain competitive interest rates. Other of services and programs for people more sustainable, improving its capacity Mr Michael Perusco joined the Society 680,000 meals were provided to people notable movements in the balance sheet experiencing disadvantage and poverty. as a service provider to people affected in August and has already shown great without a home. The breadth and include the decline in receivables by Michael Perusco by poverty. initiative in assisting me to move the magnitude of the contribution of our $12.1 million due largely to the receipt But in real terms, our Annual Report Chief Executive Officer Society forward. I look forward to a long members, volunteers and employees to of the second last installment from the only tells half the story, because behind The six strategies that underpin the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW and productive association with Michael. the lives of others is extraordinary. aged care sale of $12.222 million. the 620,000 people we assisted last Plan are: year, there are confronting stories about 1. Strengthening our Spirituality Most importantly, I sincerely thank More than 130,000 people were helped Whilst the financial position is strong, average Australians facing unbelievable our members, volunteers, supporters, through our Special Works in the areas the Society has budgeted capital 2. Strengthening our Service challenges in their fight to keep their corporates, benefactors and trust and of homelessness; domestic violence; expenditure in excess of $51 million heads above water. 3. Developing our Membership foundations for making our good works support to migrants and refugees; mental over the next five years to support 4. Strengthening our Society possible, ensuring that we can continue to health programs; vocational services for the Society’s work in assisting those Every day we hear countless tales of change lives every day. people with a disability; drug, alcohol and people experiencing disadvantage and hopelessness and despair. Families who 5. Strengthening our Partnerships gambling counselling services; financial homelessness. During the year, cash are struggling to put food on the table, 6. Raising our Voice Yours sincerely, counselling and food vans. flows generated by operating activities pay their bills or cover rental costs. I am truly honoured to be a part of were $10.9 million, up 12% on the prior People who have run out of options, find However, to truly address poverty, something so significant that will enable year. In the same period, payments for themselves alone, sleeping in cars, tents we know that we need to look at long our Conferences, Centres and Special capital expenditure amounted to $11.6 or on the streets. In a year that saw the term strategies. That is why we are Works to continue to reach out to people million. Cash reserves including long- cost of food, electricity and rent soar, very proud of the work that has been experiencing the most extreme forms of term deposits at the end of 30 June 2013 new faces of poverty emerged, resulting Ray Reynolds done through training and educational disadvantage. are forecast at $65 million, although in a time of unprecedented calls for help President, NSW State Council centres such as the Ozanam Learning this is largely dependent on the timing on the Society. I would like to take this opportunity St Vincent de Paul Society NSW Centre (OLC). In 2011/12, the OLC of major capital works. to thank all members of the past NSW provided 16,212 occasions of service, In the fifty-eight years that I have been Provisional Board who provided me and ran 2,912 activities, programs, The Society is committed to ensuring blessed to be a member of this incredible with such great support. I very much educational courses and outings. the most efficient and effective use of

4 Annual Report 2011/12 5 History of the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW

1938 The Matthew Talbot Hostel 1975 A State Youth Committee, (below) was opened by Bishop Norman comprising a representative from every Gilroy in Kent Street to help the many Central Council and a spiritual advisor, Message from Message from men experiencing homelessness in was formed to coordinate and promote Sydney. It moved to Woolloomooloo in the involvement of young people in the the Spiritual the Cardinal 1965, where it now serves over 235,000 St Vincent de Paul Society. Advisor meals each year. 1990 Over 500 Vinnies Centres in operation in Australia. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God The past year has seen many more St Vincent de Paul Society to continue to 1833 The St Vincent de Paul Society It is right and just to do so Australians struggling to cope as the cost have a positive impact on people’s lives was founded in Paris in 1833 by 20 of living continues to rise. Families across each and every day. In 2012, the Catholic Church year old university student, Frederic NSW are being forced into making difficult acknowledged that fifty years have The St Vincent de Paul Society stays true Ozanam (above) and some friends. He decisions in order to make ends meet; passed since the start of the Vatican to the words of its namesake, who said, was startled by the poverty he saw and many turning to charity for the first time in Council in which ‘good Pope John’ had “Go to the poor; you will find God.” sought to respond with charity to replace their lives. Importantly, during this time, called to open the windows of the class struggle with social justice. The the St Vincent de Paul Society continued May the Lord continue to bless and help Church to the contemporary world. The first Conference was born. to assist the most disadvantaged people all those involved in the work of the Council fathers brought with them to in our community, providing them not only Society, and all those they serve. that gathering an acute awareness of the Charles Gordon O’Neill with crucial material assistance but giving 1881 The 478 Conferences of the inequality between nations and peoples, joined the St Vincent de Paul Society in 2005 them the capacity and skills to build a 1955 Xavier House (below) opened St Vincent de Paul Society NSW/ACT and they sought to offer a vision of joy Scotland at just 23 years of age. brighter future. and now provides affordable home style assisted over 230,000 people. and hopefulness. He moved to Sydney in 1881 where he accommodation in Sydney for young Agencies like the Society are always founded the first St Vincent de Paul This Annual Report sets out the work men looking to pursue further education quick to respond to this growing need, George Cardinal Pell Society Conference in NSW at 2006 The St Vincent de Paul of the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW and employment opportunities beyond and in many regional or remote areas, Archbishop of Sydney St Patrick’s Church Hill in Sydney’s Rocks Society celebrated its 125th anniversary over the past financial year. It does so their rural or remote communities. they are the only service providing this district. In the same year he established at St Patrick’s Church Hill. with a sense of gratitude for what has type of assistance. Many individuals Conferences at St Mary’s Cathedral and been achieved and also, as Frederic and families would go without if they Broadway. The Ozanam Learning Ozanam cautioned, with a need to look 2008 could not rely on the food, energy Centre opens in Woolloomooloo. It to the future at what still remains to be vouchers, furniture and clothing provided offers a range of education programs, done. Whatever has been achieved is the 1891 The first Special Work of the by the St Vincent de Paul Society. Just recreation activities, a drop-in day coordinated work of our community of Society was founded in Surry Hills. as important is the friendship and centre and extensive information and members, volunteers and employees who compassion provided to these people by referral services for men and women believe in their relatedness to people in The Society in Sydney the dedicated members of the Society, 1906 experiencing homelessness. need, and who constantly go out to others launched a junior sports association. who spend countless hours visiting in a spirit of joy and thankfulness. people in their homes, in hospitals and Vincentian House, for Until 1922 Parish Conferences 2009 detention centres. 1922 families and women experiencing had organised wardrobes of clothes Women were welcomed into 1967 homelessness opens in Surry Hills. We should all be immensely grateful for for people in need by collecting local the St Vincent de Paul Society. They the work of these members and the many Bill Johnston donations. When this practice became played a crucial role in the fast growth of thousands of volunteers, which allows the 2012 Through 665 adult and Spiritual Advisor too difficult to manage, the idea of shops Vinnies shops. where people could purchase second- youth Conferences and 97 Special hand items was born. Works over 620,000 people were assisted across NSW.

6 Annual Report 2011/12 7 Our Mission, Vision Organisational and Structure Chart Conferences : Parish, Youth, Special Purpose

Our Mission retail and assistance centres; mental experiencing disadvantage. The core The St Vincent de Paul Society is a lay health programs; vocational services for of Conference members work is home Catholic organisation that aspires to live people with a disability; drug, alcohol visitation, whereby they meet with Regional Councils the Gospel message by serving Christ in and gambling counselling services; people in their homes to determine how the poor with love, respect, justice and financial counselling; food vans; disaster to best assist them. recovery; rural assistance; and child care. joy, and by working to shape a more just In 2011/12 the Society had 424 Adult and compassionate society. and 241 Youth and Young Adult Special Works Regulatory Structure Advisory Groups Central Councils Conferences (includes High School and and Retail Centres Our Vision The St Vincent de Paul Society is Mini Vinnies) which are supported and The St Vincent de Paul Society aspires to incorporated under the Roman Catholic governed by 59 Regional Councils which be recognised as a caring Catholic charity Church Communities’ Lands Act 1942. in turn are supported and governed by The Society is a non-government Public offering a ‘hand up’ to people in need. 10 Central Councils. NSW State Council Special Works We do this by respecting their dignity, Benevolent Institution and is endorsed The State Council provides overarching sharing our hope and encouraging them to access the following tax concessions: support for the work of the Conferences, to take control of their own destiny. GST Concession from 1 July 2005, FBT Exemption from 1 July 2005 and Income Special Works and Vinnies Retail Centres through these Councils. State Councils Our logo Tax Exemption from 1 July 2000. are formed to provide a link between Australian National Council Our logo, which was designed The Society is endorsed as a Deductible Central and Regional Councils and by Australian sculptor Tom Bass, Gift Recipient and is an approved service Conferences within the State and represents the hand of Christ that provider registered with the: Department nationally. A decision of the NSW State blesses the cup; the hand of love that of Human Services NSW; Department of Council is binding upon all of the Councils offers the cup; and the hand of suffering Families, Housing, Community Services and Conferences. Each Central Council International Council General that receives the cup. and Indigenous Affairs; Department of President sits on the State Council along Immigration and Citizenship; Department with specified office bearers. of Health and Ageing; Department of Education, Employment and Workplace In addition, Advisory and Steering Relations; Department of Ageing, Committees are set up to assist What we do Disability and Home Care; Office of Fair Councils in managing those activities which require more attention and The St Vincent de Paul Society is a Trading; Department of Commerce; and expertise. The Society in NSW has a volunteer-based organisation that the Department of Health NSW. number of committees established (Vice President); Kerry Muir (Armidale Senior Staff In addition are the following Central has been assisting marginalised and The Rule and International Statutes including the Audit, Risk and Finance Central Council President); Bob Lulham Council Executive Officers: Andrea Turner disadvantaged people in NSW for more The names and positions of Senior Staff approved in October 2003 govern the Committee, Centres Committee and the (Bathurst Central Council President); (Armidale Central Council); Frank Moes than 130 years. who have the authority for planning, operations of the Confederation of the Volunteer Development and Advisory Barry Finch (Broken Bay Central Council directing and controlling the Society’s (Bathurst Central Council); John Kelly People are assisted by the Society either St Vincent de Paul Society. Members Committee. These committees make President); Brian Goodall (Lismore activities directly or indirectly are: (Broken Bay Central Council); Michael by Conference members or through have an obligation to abide by The Rule. Central Council President); Col Parker Timbrell (Lismore Central Council); recommendations to the State Council. • Michael Perusco, Chief Executive Officer our Special Works. A Special Work is a (Maitland/Newcastle Central Council Denise Lucas (Maitland/Newcastle On 11 July 2012, the NSW Provisional specialised service that is tailored to Organisational Structure President); Alan Ruff (Parramatta Central • Peter Miller, Chief Financial Officer Central Council); Tony Hoban (Parramatta Board was replaced by a NSW State meet the needs of a specific client base. The Society is a volunteer-based Council President); Barry Jones (Sydney • Jonathon Campton, Executive Officer, Central Council); Graeme Roche (Sydney Council. The current NSW State Council organisation formed by Conferences Archdiocese Central Council President); Members, Volunteers and Special Works Archdiocese Central Council); Eliza The St Vincent de Paul Society runs a consists of: Ray Reynolds (President); and Councils. Don Jones (Wagga Wagga Central Council • Dianne Lucas, Executive Officer, Malloy (Acting) (Wagga Wagga Central number of Special Works including: Peter Leckie (Vice President – Treasurer); President); Vince Toohey (Wilcannia/ Workplace Relations and Systems Council); Frances Scurfield (Acting) homeless services; assistance to Conferences are Parish groups of Beverley Kerr (Vice President); Gwen Forbes Central Council President); and (Wilcannia/Forbes Central Council) • Matthew Cleary, Executive Officer, migrants and refugees; home, hospital, men and women established in local Sampson (Vice President); Paul Shiel Cynthia Fenemore (Wollongong Central and Debbie Nixon (Wollongong Central Matthew Talbot Homeless Services prison and detention centre visitation; areas to provide assistance to people (Vice President), Matthew Kirkham Council President). Council).

8 Annual Report 2011/12 9 NSW State Council President and Central Council Vice Presidents Presidents

Ray Reynolds Beverley Kerr Peter Leckie Barry Finch Bob Lulham Brian Goodall Vince Toohey Kerry Muir Ray Reynolds is the President Beverley Kerr is the Vice Peter Leckie is the Vice Barry Finch is the President of Bob Lulham is the President Brian Goodall is the President Vince Toohey is President of Kerry Muir is President of of the NSW State Council. President of the NSW State President and Treasurer of Broken Bay Central Council. of Bathurst Central Council. of Lismore Central Council. Wilcannia/Forbes Central Armidale Central Council. Ray joined the Society 58 Council and President of the NSW State Council. Peter Barry joined the Society 30 Bob joined the Society four Brian joined the Society Council. Vince joined the Kerry joined the Society 40 years ago and is a member Matthew Talbot Homeless joined the Society 12 years years ago and is a member years ago and is a member of eight years ago and is a Society 10 years ago and is a years ago and is a member of of the Revesby Conference. Services. Bev joined the Society ago and is a member of the of the Forestville Conference, the St Joseph’s Conference. member of the Kingscliff member of the Sacred Heart, the Glen Innes Conference. Ray was responsible for 10 years ago and is a member Rural Task Force. Peter is also where he holds the position Bob has been on a range Conference. Brian was Forbes Conference. Vince Kerry is also a member of the Aged & Special Care of the Corrimal Conference. a Regional President and of Conference President. of community and sporting previously Conference is currently also the Rural the State Centres Committee Services company setup to Bev is also a director of the Central Council Treasurer. Barry is also the Treasurer management committees. Secretary and President Taskforce Coordinator. Vince and Strategic Planning consolidate aged care. Ray St Vincent de Paul Society Peter has a background in of Redfern Task Force and Bob is a member of the Audit, and Chairman of the Angela was previously a Central Steering Committee. Kerry is the chair of the St Vincent Housing Company and accountancy and worked in President, No Interest Risk and Finance Committee. Houses Committee. Brian Council Vice President and was previously Conference de Paul Housing Company. Advisory President for Ozanam a multi-national engineering Loan Schemes, Northern Bob has been admitted as a spent most of his career as has been involved in OH&S Secretary and President, Ray worked for Telstra, the Industries. Bev was previously component business for Sydney. He was previously solicitor of the Supreme Court a member of the NSW Police at Regional and Central Regional President, Disaster Australian Broadcasting Advisory President for the over 30 years rising to the the President Chatswood and was in private practice for Force, where he retired Council level. Vince has a Recovery President, Centres Corporation and was Rural Task Force, Migrant and position of Chief Executive Region, President of Broken five years and employed with with the rank of Inspector. background in farming and President, Chair of the State the Director, Broadcast Refugees and was Chair of the Officer. Bay Disaster Welfare and the Australian Legal Aid Office During this time, Brian was belonged to associated Centres Policy and Procedures Telecommunications for the Provisional Board. Bev has a Centres President. Barry has for 28 years. Bob now works an executive member of the bodies such as the Farmers Committee and Chair of the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games background in social services a background in the baking part time with the Aboriginal Police Association of NSW Association and Rural Fire Centres Safe Work Procedures Organising Committee. and worked for the Department industry, and continues to Legal Service. as well as a director of NSW Brigade. Committee. Kerry has a of Community Services. work as a baker in a limited Police Legacy. background as a school capacity. teacher and Principal.

Paul Shiel Gwen Sampson Matthew Kirkham Barry Jones Cynthia Fenemore Alan Ruff Don Jones Col Parker Paul Shiel is Vice President Gwen Sampson is Vice Matthew Kirkham is Vice Barry Jones is the President Cynthia Fenemore is the Alan Ruff is the President of Don Jones is the President Col Parker is the President of the NSW State Council. President of the NSW President of the NSW State of Sydney Archdiocese President of Wollongong Parramatta Central Council. Alan of Wagga Wagga Central of Maitland/Newcastle Paul joined the Society 27 State Council and Centres Council. Matthew joined Central Council. Barry joined Central Council. Cynthia joined the Society 14 years ago Council. Don joined the Central Council. Col joined years ago and is a member of President. Gwen joined the the Society five years ago the Society 26 years ago joined the Society 32 years and is a member of the Rooty Hill Society 33 years ago and is the Society 44 years ago the Dulwich Hill Conference. Society 20 years ago and is and has previously held and is a member of the ago and is a member of Conference. Alan was previously a member of the St Mary’s, and is a member of the Paul started his time with a member of the Rural Task Youth Representative roles Kogarah Conference. Barry the Holy Trinity, Minto a Conference President and a The Rock Conference. Don Kurri Kurri Conference. Col the Society as a State Youth Force Conference. Gwen was at Regional Council, Central is a member of the Audit, Conference. Cynthia has a Regional President. Alan has was previously the Wagga was previously Conference Coordinator and has since previously Regional OH&S Council and State Youth Risk and Finance Committee. background in the Registered a background in corporate Wagga Regional President. President and Treasurer, and then been involved with Officer, Diocesan Centres Team level. Matthew has a Barry was previously a Clubs industry with 25 years regulation and held senior Don has a background in Regional Council President Ozanam Industries, Night President and Diocesan background as a disability Conference President, experience as a CEO. Cynthia management positions with retail management and was and Treasurer and Vice Patrol, Rendu Centre and President. Gwen has a support worker and now and Central Council Vice was also on the Board of the NSW Corporate Affairs previously employed as the President Special Works. as a Regional President. background in sales and works permanently as a President. Barry has a Bankstown Catholic Club and Commission and the corporate Centre Manager of the Wagga Col has a background in the Paul owns his own property finance. Primary School teacher. background in the building held the position of Trustee regulator now known as the Wagga Vinnies Retail Centres. meat industry and was an trading business. industry, specialising in of the Secretaries and Australian Securities and Area Manager for the NSW electrics. Managers Association. Investments Commission. Farmers Association.

10 Annual Report 2011/12 11 Advisory and Steering Committees

The St Vincent de Paul Society NSW Disaster Relief Committee has established various advisory and This committee oversees disaster relief steering committees to oversee specific operations throughout NSW and monitors areas of service. The committees provide such events in other states and territories. advice and recommendations to the St In NSW, the committee closely liaises Vincent de Paul Society’s State Council with Central Councils during times of so that informed decisions can be made. disaster to provide accurate and timely advice and recommendations to State Audit, Risk and Finance Council regarding additional assistance Committee to areas during disaster operations. This committee oversees the Society’s This committee also advises on the financial statements, internal controls distribution of monies from Disaster and risk management, project and Appeals; and for state-wide coordination agreement applications, compliance with and control of ‘convergence’, which is laws and regulations, and evaluation of parallel to NSW Government activities. the internal and external auditors. The The current membership of this current membership of this committee is committee is Jonathan Campton, Brian Peter Leckie (Chair), Tony Couper, Barry Emms, Brian Goodall, Gwen Sampson and The Committees provide advice and Jones, Bob Lulham, Peter Miller and Vince Toohey. Richard Stewart. More detail about the recommendations to the St Vincent de Paul work of this committee can be found on Edel Quinn Project Society’s State Council so that informed page 50 of this Report. Steering Committee decisions can be made. This committee provides supervision and Centres Committee advice on the Edel Quinn Project to the This committee oversees the operation State Council to ensure transparency, of Vinnies Retail Centres throughout probity and communication during New South Wales, recommending and the project. The committee reports to monitoring appropriate strategies and State Council through the Audit, Risk also reports to Government through committee is Beverley Kerr (Trustee), the cycle of homelessness for the directions to inform State Council. The and Finance Committee. The current Volunteer Development the Regional Development Australia Hazel Brooksbank, Catherine Carmichael, people it works with. The Committee current membership of this committee is membership of this committee is Advisory Committee Fund. The current membership of this Liz Fishbourne, Brian Goodall, Greg recommended the establishment of the made up of a large number of employees Beverley Kerr (Trustee), Frank Grant, This committee supports State Council committee is Beverley Kerr (Trustee), Hastie, Michael Irvine, Brett Macklin, Pat housing company, which was approved and members involved with the Vinnies Greg Hastie, Peter Miller, Peter Quarmby, in the development of members and Chris Cull, Frank Grant, Greg Hastie, Brett McDonald, Frank Riley and Scott Sears. by the State Council and it will operate Retail Centres from across all Central Frank Riley, Mick Rudd, Tanya Taowk and volunteers. An ongoing goal of this Macklin, Peter Miller, Kerry Muir, Frank as a subsidiary company of the St Councils including: Wayne Anderson, Trevor Urqhart. committee is to encourage and assist Glenn Bailey, Lee Barclay, Phillip Basti, Riley and Scott Sears. Housing Company Board Vincent de Paul Society NSW. members in their local areas, to promote Virginia Boyd, Glen Carter, Phil Coyte, Freeman House Project In late 2011, the State Council the Society’s work and to reach out Homeless Accreditation and Strategic Plan Implementation Alan Dickens, Joseph Fernandopulle, Steering Committee established a Housing Company to new people to join the Society’s Fire Audit Committee Committee to develop a business Committee Alexandria Fotiadis, Steve Gillespie, This committee provides supervision and work in assisting people experiencing This committee oversees the plan to establish a new entity and This committee is responsible for Kerry Hillen, Steve Irwin, David Johnson, advice on the Freeman House Project to disadvantage. The current membership accreditation, quality assurance and register it as a housing provider. It was overseeing the implementation of the Rhonda Keane, Billie Kirkland, Joanne the State Council to ensure transparency, of this committee is Paul Gleeson (Chair), fire audit to comply with laws and recognised by the State Council that the Strategic Plan. The current membership Lennon, Cate Logan, James Macey, probity and communication during the Wendy Baker, Geoff Barrett, Kate Dunn, regulations for all Residential Homeless Society needed to complement its well of this committee is Ray Reynolds Suzanne Mazy, Christine McGowan, project. The committee reports to State Melissa Green, Pat McCabe, Desmond Services throughout New South established homeless services with a (Chair), John Donnelly, Jared Ellsmore, Joeann McKay, Debra Ridley, Michele Council through the Audit, Risk and O’Toole, Norm Roberts, Kate Scholl, Paul Wales, with recommendations to State strong housing provider to strategically Barry Jones, Peter Leckie, Kerry Muir and Storrier, Bari Svendsen, Peter Walker, Finance Committee. The committee Shiel, Phil Sky and Anne Stanfield. Geoff Warrington and Richard White. Council. The current membership of this position the Society to better end Michael Perusco.

12 Annual Report 2011/12 13 On average, Vinnies Retail St Vincent de Paul each member/ Centres and Society members volunteer spent 93 Conferences gave made more than hours in 2011/12 out over $2.8 209,000 home Membership volunteering for million of donated visitations in and Assistance the Society goods at no cost 2011/12

Organisation Number of people assisted Number of: Type of service 2011-12 % Central Councils 10 Conferences and Regional Council Referral Rooms 436,818 71% Regional Councils 59 Special Works 131,743 20% Conferences 424 Vinnies Retail Centres 48,041 8% Youth and Young Adult Conferences* 241 Youth and Young Adult Conferences 1,036 1% Vinnies Retail Centres 252 Total 617,638 Special Works 97 * includes High School and Mini Vinnies Income source of people Family composition of people Accommodation and meal services assisted by Conferences assisted by Conferences provided by Special Works Conference visitations Number of: Home visitations by Conference members and volunteers 209,016 31% Disability Support Special Works providing accommodation services 45 Pension Average visitations per Conference member and volunteer 42 45% Single without Beds available in accommodation services 1,086 22% Newstart/Youth children Allowance Hospitals, prisons, nursing homes 31% Single with Total bed nights provided 310,812 and Special Works visitations 13,795 20% Parenting Payment children Meals provided 679,221 Financial support given to clients $17,332,025 13% Other Govt Pension 15% Couple with 6% Aged Pension children 3% Wages 9% Couple without Members and volunteers 3% Not determined children No Income Number of members and volunteers Members Volunteers Total % of total 2% Conferences (includes Councils) 4,676 243 4,919 20% Youth and Young Adult Conferences* 4,884 1,790 6,674 28% Vinnies Retail Centres - 8,343 8,343 34% Estimated value of donated goods Value of donated goods given † † Special Works 324 4,040 4,364 18% given out at no cost by Conferences out at no cost by Vinnies Centres Total 9,884 14,416 24,300 Armidale $11,710 Wilcannia/ * includes High School and Mini Vinnies Wilcannia/ Forbes $22,167 Forbes $17,258 Armidale $32,351 Volunteer hours by activity type Total hours Number of members and volunteers Bathurst $28,121 Lismore $63,876 below 50 years of age % of total Lismore $37,537 Maitland/ Councils 1,382 INCOME SOURCE OF PEOPLE ASSISTED BY CONFERENCES Newcastle $77,347 Conference members** 357 8% Maitland/ Conferences 96,486 Disability Support Pension 31%Newcastle $41,036 Bathurst $103,056 Vinnies Retail Centres volunteers 1,068 13% Youth and Young Adult Conferences 1,276 Newstart/Youth Allowance 22% Wagga Wagga $66,587 Wollongong $197,926 Special Work volunteers 1,661 41% Wollongong $82,146 Wagga Wagga $203,347 Vinnies Retail Centres 1,901,623 Patenting Payment 20% ** Does not include Youth, High School and Mini Vinnies Conferences Other Govt Pension 13% Parramatta $169,359 Parramatta $282,117 Special Works 265,677 Broken Bay $190,334 Broken Bay $285,551 Number of new members and volunteers % of total Aged Pension 6% Total volunteer hours 2,266,444 Wages 3% Sydney $360,000 Sydney $549,241 Conference members 347 7% On average, each member/volunteer spent 93 hours in Not determined 3% Total $1,004,088 Total $1,816,979 2011/2012 volunteering for the Society. Vinnies Retail Centres volunteers 1,130 14% No Income 2% Special Work volunteers 773 19% †These unaudited statistics are compiled outside of the financial systems based on information collated by Central Councils. These are subjective assessments of the value of donated goods and are not reflected in the financial statements.

14 Annual Report 2011/12 15

ArmidaleArmidale $11,710 $11,710 WilcanniaWilcannia Forbes Forbes $22,167 $22,167 WilcanniaWilcannia Forbes Forbes $17,258 $17,258 ArmidaleArmidale $32,351 $32,351 BathurstBathurst $28,121 $28,121 LismoreLismore $63,876 $63,876 LismoreLismore $37,537 $37,537 Maitland/NewcastleMaitland/Newcastle $77,347 $77,347 Maitland/NewcastleMaitland/Newcastle $41,036 $41,036 BathurstBathurst $103,056 $103,056 WaggaWagga Wagga Wagga $66,587 $66,587 WollongongWollongong $197,926 $197,926 WollongongWollongong $82,146 $82,146 WaggaWagga Wagga Wagga $203,347 $203,347 ParramattaParramatta $169,359 $169,359 ParramattaParramatta $282,117 $282,117 BrokenBroken Bay Bay $190,334 $190,334 BrokenBroken Bay Bay $285,551 $285,551 SydneySydney $360,000 $360,000 SydneySydney $549,241 $549,241 Total Total $1,004,088 $1,004,088 Total Total $1,816,979 $1,816,979 Charity is the oil“ being poured on the wounded traveller. But it is the role of Social Justice justice to prevent and Advocacy the attack.” – Blessed Frederic Ozanam

When we speak about social justice we and justice into our society. health, as well as campaigning for basic In 2011/12 the St Vincent de go to the heart of what the St Vincent de human rights for migrants and refugees As Vincentians we do not close our eyes Paul Society participated in: Paul Society stands for. We follow the and people with disabilities and those to the growing division in Australia and • Anti-Poverty Week NSW Committee as teachings of the Scriptures: living with a mental illness. the world between the increasingly Co-Chair “Speak up for those who cannot speak prosperous and the increasingly poor. The Society’s members, volunteers • Sydney Alliance for themselves, protect the rights of The accumulation of wealth on the one and employees are experts in the those who are helpless. Speak out and hand is connected with the accumulation issues faced by the disadvantaged and • Roundtable on the Rights pronounce a sentence of justice, defend of poverty on the other, characterised marginalised. Each day our members of Volunteers the cause of the wretched and the poor.” by race, gender, age, disability, mental meet with people in their homes and (Proverbs 31:8-9) and physical illness, forced migration, gain a real and first hand understanding The following submissions homelessness, unemployment, insecure of the issues facing those who find were prepared by the St Vincent We are called, as Vincentians, to feed, and poorly paid work and declining levels themselves seeking our assistance. de Paul Society National clothe, house and assist our brothers of social security and public infrastructure. Similarly volunteers and employees Council in 2011/12: and sisters who are forced onto the operate our many Special Works that • Submission to DIAC: Australia’s margins of society. We are also called to The people we help entrust a little of assist those who find themselves in Humanitarian Program 2012/13 and ask why they are left out and pushed out. their lives to us. We honour this trust by crisis. Few people are better placed to Beyond speaking the truth of their stories and As Blessed Frederic Ozanam said, “Charity understand inequality. calling on the people of our nation to • Submission to the Senate Community is the oil being poured on the wounded • Response to questions taken on notice The St Vincent de Paul Society address the structural causes of poverty It is through social justice that we are Affairs Committee, Stronger Futures in traveller. But it is the role of justice to regarding the request for inquiry by in NSW also supported the and inequality. able to animate the issues our members, the Northern Territory Bill 2011 and two prevent the attack.” In asking the simple the Parliamentary Joint Committee on following campaigns: volunteers and employees are seeing related bills question about the causes of injustice we The Society’s focus on social justice has Human Rights into the Social Security • ACOSS campaign on Budget Welfare and fulfill our mission to “shape a more issue a prophetic call to all people of good facilitated research into issues relating • Submission to the Coalition’s Policy Legislation Amendment (Fair Incentives Measures just and compassionate society.” will to work creatively to build equality to homelessness, poverty, disaster relief, Discussion Paper on Gambling Reform to Work) Bill 2012 • ACOSS campaign against changes to • Submission to the Independent Inquiry • Submission to the Inquiry into the the social security legislation on Insecure Work Australian Charities and Not-for-Profits Commission Exposure Draft Bills • ACOSS campaign to end off-shore • Submission to Treasury Review of Not- processing Working in partnership For-Profit Governance Arrangements • Discussion paper on the Proposed Pilot of a Private/Community Refugee • Australians for Affordable Housing In the Hunter region, the St Vincent “The grass roots approach puts you • Submission to DoHA, Draft 10 Year Sponsorship Program • Buy Nothing New Month de Paul Society is working in in touch with the environment and Roadmap for National Mental Health • Submission on the Homelessness Bill partnership with local health services the circumstances in which people Reform • Harmony Day 2012 to deliver change for a marginalised live and enables you to design and • Submission to the Australian Refugee • Homelessness Persons’ Week community living in the Coachstop deliver services that are acceptable Rights Alliance on current issues of • Submission to the inquiry into • International Year of the Volunteer Caravan Park in Maitland. The and accessible. The value of looking concern to refugee populations the Social Security Legislation caravan park is home to “at risk” someone in the eye and using their Amendments (Fair Incentives to Work) • Mental Health Month families and individuals who have name and having a conversation • Submission to the Standing Committee Bill 2012 no housing or have arrived directly cannot be overstated.” on Legal and Constitutional Affairs • National Youth Homelessness Day “As more and more people turn to us • Submission to the inquiry into adequacy from a refuge, prison, mental health St Vincent de Paul Society, NSW State for assistance, it is very important that • Request for inquiry by the of the allowance payment system for • Refugee Week facility or juvenile justice institution. Parliamentary Joint Committee on Council President, Ray Reynolds we look to the power of partnerships jobseekers 2012 • Schizophrenia Awareness Week Speaking about the project based at says that it is important for Society with government and other agencies Human Rights into the Social Security • Submission to the Senate Select the caravan park, Ms Loretta Baker, members to continue to think of new to get the best possible outcome for Legislation Amendment (Fair Incentives • World Homeless Day Committee on Electricity Prices Councillor Maitland City Council, said: ways of helping people experiencing those people we are trying to assist,” to Work) Bill 2012 disadvantage. said Mr Reynolds.

16 Annual Report 2011/12 17 Who we help

In asking the simple question about the Laura’s Story a future, a brighter future,” says Laura. causes of injustice we issue a prophetic In outer Sydney, the St Vincent de Paul Having never met her real father and not call to all people of good will to work Society provides a service that assists knowing where to turn after her mother creatively to build equality and justice young people who are experiencing kicked her out of the house, Laura went into our society. homelessness or are at risk of from one temporary solution to another, At the core of the St Vincent de Paul homelessness. Vinnies Youth Housing often finding herself on the streets. Society’s work is the commitment Macarthur addresses the often high After sleeping on a friends couch for to help the most disadvantaged and need areas of the Macarthur Local some months, Laura eventually ended marginalised people in our community. Government area and surrounds. up in foster care away from her school In 2011/12, the Society assisted almost The service provides safe, affordable and the few friends she had managed to 620,000 people in NSW. semi-supported medium to long-term make a connection with. Feeling isolated The St Vincent de Paul Society helps housing for young men and women aged and lonely, Laura eventually called her people through home visitations, 16 to 21 years, and sole parents and mother asking if she could return home Vinnies Retail Centres and a number young families aged 16-24 years of age. to Sydney. of services including: homeless Vinnies Youth Housing provides Back at her mother’s house, the mental services; assistance to migrants and accommodation for up to two years and physical abuse continued. After one refugees; home, hospital, prison and which allows a focus on maintaining violent altercation, Laura was forced to detention centre visitation; clothing family contact and restoring the young flee what should be every child’s safe and assistance centres; mental health person back to the family home if safe haven – her mother’s side. programs; vocational services for to do so. people with a disability; drug, alcohol “Not having any friends and no family and gambling counselling services; Each person is assigned an individual I was left with no other option but to financial counselling; disaster recovery; case manager throughout their tenancy go to a crisis refuge. When I got to the and food vans. to assist them to develop life skills, refuge I was shocked and scared, I didn’t complete their education, develop their know what to expect,” she recalls. parenting skills, maintain their tenancy Feeling at her lowest point, Laura was and prepare them for independent living. eventually put in contact with Vinnies. One young woman easing back into Laura was placed in a house and independence is Laura, a 21 year old explains that, for the first time in a long woman who says she feels like she has time, she felt comfortable and safe. been homeless forever. Laura has been “I had my own room and my own privacy. in and out of homelessness since she The experience had a really positive was ten, the product of a dysfunctional impact on my life.” home with a mother who suffered from mental health issues and drug addiction. After speaking at the 2012 Vinnies Vinnies really At far too tender an age, Laura was left CEO Sleepout, and with the support of changed“ my life. to fend for herself. corporates and Vinnies, Laura is now in a private rental property, continuing her This is a new “To me homelessness is feeling isolated, studies, and holding down a job. beginning for me. desperate and inferior. It’s meant ” struggling just to complete everyday life “Vinnies really changed my life. This is a tasks and fight to try and build yourself new beginning for me,” says Laura.

18 Annual Report 2011/12 19 Our Members Our Members and Volunteers and Volunteers Supporting our Youth and Young Adults

The Member and Volunteer Engagement Vincentian vocation, increases volunteer In 2011/12, Youth and Young Adult Key challenges • Undertook training of all key volunteers team provide support to members and participation and best practice in members continued the legacy of • Implementing strategies to bridge the in Armidale Central Council. volunteers. The team brings together volunteering in the Society and empowers the founder of the St Vincent de Paul gap between youth members and the • Continued work to re-establish membership, volunteering, corporate members, volunteers and youth to speak Society, the 20 year old Frederic broader Society. the local university Conference in volunteering, social justice and youth. out against the economic, political and Ozanam. At a grass-roots level, preparation for running Buddies Days The team supports members in their social structures that cause poverty. young Vincentians continue to build • Ensuring flexibility and new approaches in Armidale Central Council. on the future of the Society through to engaging young people in all aspects Conferences involving primary or high of the Society. • Expanded Mini Vinnies in Armidale schools, young adults, parishes and • The capacity to recruit youth Central Council with two new groups in From the universities. representatives and staff members the region. Key activities coordinated through in all Central Councils and Regional • Held a successful annual retreat for Supporting our Members frontline the youth teams include: Councils. High School Conference members in Just recently my colleague and I Armidale Central Council. visited a couple with three young • Vinnies Kids Camps, a respite program • Facilitating appropriate volunteering In 2011/12 the St Vincent de Paul Society the Membership Project Plan in children. It was a really sad providing children aged 6–12 with a opportunities to meet the high demand • Established relationships with the local had close to 10,000 members, many of partnership with Wollongong Central situation, where the father had break from any hardships that they from high school and university Catholic Education Office to develop whom are based in Conferences across Council. been stricken with a progressive may be experiencing by offering a fun students and other young adults. the Mini Vinnies program in Bathurst holiday involving enriching activities. Central Council. NSW Parishes. Other members belong • Implemented a successful ‘Recruitment illness and lost his job as a result. • Addressing the spiritual development to Youth Conferences and Special Works. Month’ in the Wollongong Central Council The money had begun to run • Buddies Days, a one day care and and formation of young members and • Established a new Young Adults Many of these members undertake the area as part of National Volunteer Week out and a glitch in government respite program for children aged 6-12 volunteers, especially as there is not a Conference and held a number of Good Works of the Society, with the in May 2012. Worked closely with the 38 support payments left the family years to participate in recreational one size fits all approach. highly successful Kids Camps and core of their work being visitations. In Parish Conferences in the area to invite on the brink. activities. Buddies Days in Broken Bay Central 2011/12, members undertook 209,000 • Provision of high level training and new people to join them in their outreach The Society was able to come in • Teen Camps, three day programs other resources which equip young Council. home visitations and almost 14,000 to people seeking assistance in their and fill that gap, making sure that providing teenagers with an members and volunteers to run high • Extended the Immersion Program to visitations in hospitals, prisons and local community. Special Works. the family had adequate food and opportunity for respite and a holiday quality programs and meet the growing include Yamba and Bowraville and • Organised public speaking training for assistance. filled with fun activities. and often changing demand. established Youth Camp Committees in Key challenges Conference members to assist them in As members, we encounter all sorts • Green Team, a gardening assistance Key achievements 2011/12 Lismore Central Council. • Better coordination of existing promoting the Society’s Good Works of circumstances of need. People program for predominantly elderly resources within the organisation to • Held a number of Advanced Training • Grew and further developed programs and heighten public awareness. sometimes say to me, “do such people or people living with a disability. support members in their work. Weekends which offer experienced for young people in Maitland/ needs exist in our community?” • Reviewed and improved the Conference • Mini Vinnies, primary school students leaders and Youth Program Coordinators Newcastle Central Council. • An ageing membership means that The answer is yes and the needs Recruitment Kit, adding several new of any age who use the simple SEE, additional training and information. the organisation needs to look at are very genuine. • Reached a milestone of 50 Mini Vinnies resources for local groups to use in THINK, DO model. SEE involves seeing recruitment strategies to attract new • Undertook ongoing evaluation of groups in Sydney Archdiocese Central their recruitment efforts. It is with a ready heart that an injustice, THINK involves thinking members. A recent internal report training and formation activities to Council. • Instigated a state wide discussion Vincentians come to visit. We like about the injustice, and DO encourages identify any gaps around facilitating revealed that the organisation had • Established 8 new Mini Vinnies about changes to the Society’s core to come in as their friends, sit action to change the situation. spiritual reflection and formation 4,871 regular Conference members in groups and the Albury Young Adults practice of visitation. around the kitchen table and chat. NSW. Of these members, the 50 to 79 • High School Formation Weekends for across the regions. Plans to address We know people are finding it hard Conference in Wagga Wagga Central years old age group had the highest students in Years 10 to 12 to learn, this are in place for the Advanced • Acknowledged Vincentian volunteers and we offer our help and most of Council. representation of 2,714 or 56%. reflect, and discuss on a range of social Training in Formation and Spirituality in Australia and across the world all, someone to listen to them. We justice issues. Weekend in 2013. Key achievements 2011/12 on International Volunteer Day on hope that we bring that love that 5 December 2011 with the theme • Investigated the expansion of the • Supporting members in their work Jesus taught us to have. ‘Vincentian Volunteers: Enfolding the Buddies Days concept to Teen Days Out. of recruiting new members. In World in a Network of Charity.’ Paul, Newcastle particular, the implementation of

20 Annual Report 2011/12 21 Our Members and Volunteers Supporting our Volunteers

In 2011/12, 14,416 dedicated volunteers Ninety-two lent their time and expertise to the St Vincent de Paul Society. Volunteers and still play a crucial role in assisting the Society deliver important assistance and going strong quality services to people experiencing disadvantage. Volunteers work alongside members and employees in many of the Society’s Special Works and Vinnies Retail Centres. Key challenges • Attracting and retaining new, suitable volunteers to meet changing requirements in service delivery. • Attracting new volunteers for the Key achievements 2011/12 volunteering across Central Councils Vinnies Retail Centres, who have the • Provide crucial support across a broad including activities such as fashion capacity and skills to operate shops. parades in Wilcannia/Forbes Central At the age of 92, Gayus Donoghue When he joined there was only one He went to visit a young man who had range of Society services and programs, In some regional Central Councils, Council. doesn’t look a day older than 75. vehicle in the Conference — a truck appeared in court, and found him working ensuring that the growing demand from Vinnies Retail Centres have reduced A sprightly man, he reads without they bought for £20 as they used to under a car in the backyard. When asked the community can be met. • Undertook upgrades to a number of operating hours to match the capacity glasses, still drives and continues to walk to most of their home visitations. what he wanted by the young man, Gayus our facilities and services; improving of volunteers. • Volunteers dedicated 2,266,444 hours undertake home visitations to help He remembers collecting bottles as a told him he’d like to find him a job. across Central Councils, Conferences, working conditions for many of our people in need in his local parish. method of fundraising (receiving two volunteers especially to Vinnies Retail “The only people who work are fools and • Ensuring that consistent training is Youth and Young Adult Conferences, shillings and two pence per corn bag), delivered to volunteers across all Centre in Armidale Central Council, Gayus was born in 1919 on the Feast of horses,” said the man. Vinnies Retail Centres and Special and he remembers the purchase of the Central Councils. Sydney Archdiocese Central Council, St Anthony. Raised in the small seaside Works. first St Vincent de Paul Society Retail “We found him a job,” says Gayus with Parramatta Central Council and Broken town of Corindi on the New South Wales • Managing boundaries between Centre at Seven Hills. a smile. • Recruited 1,903 new volunteers in Bay Central Council. North Coast, he left school in the middle volunteers and clients, especially in Vinnies Retail Centres and Special He recalls visiting a terminally ill man of the depression in 1934 to undertake a programs or services where volunteers Works. • Enlisted a large number of volunteers carpenter’s apprenticeship. and asking; “What can we do for you?” are working directly with clients. in some Central Councils as a result of • Implemented new initiatives to volunteer strategies initiated in 2010/11. “‘Give me a decent funeral,’ was all he He married a few years later and has The most promote community engagement and now been married for 74 years. “The “ said, and so we did,” recalls Gayus. Irish either marry young or not all,” common form In his time working as a Vincentian, he says. of assistance Gayus has seen many things but the He and his wife Billie had three children given is simply to most difficult is seeing young children I’m volunteering at the Vinnies Retail and now have eight grandchildren, crying from hunger. “ 14 great-grandchildren, and two provide food. Centre in Randwick, which I am really ” “Some of the cases I go to I can’t stand great-great-grandchildren. to see the children hungry. The most enjoying - the team there is really lovely About 50 years ago, Gayus received a common form of assistance given is and I feel very appreciated every week, What stands out most in his memory tap on the shoulder and was invited to simply to provide food,” he says. are some of the thousands of home join the St Vincent de Paul Society. He which is really nice too! visitations he’s done. He said he often “The biggest problem in this city now ” has been working tirelessly in his local – Volunteer, Vinnies Retail Centre, Randwick thinks of the people he has visited and is the rents; many people can’t afford to Conference ever since. what became of them. buy food.”

22 Annual Report 2011/12 23 Strengthening our Spirituality Strengthening our Service Developing our Membership Strengthening our Society Strengthening our Partnerships Our Society, Our Plan – building a sustainable future Raising our Voice

The St Vincent de Paul Society has, The organisation also identified that it These include external challenges such as: central to everything we do. consultation was conducted with Society implementation of the Plan as well as since its establishment in NSW over was imperative to develop a detailed map members, volunteers, staff, clients, measure its effectiveness. In addition, • ongoing societal changes including • attracting new members and 130 years ago, adapted to meet new for the future; a new strategic vision. Over donors, benefactors, and clergy and attached to each strategy will be a series globalisation and modernisation, volunteers across all age groups. challenges and demands, ensuring that the past twelve months extensive work other external associates. The end result of actions and timelines that will be economic upheaval and changes to it continues to provide assistance for had been done in the consultation and • developing organisational capability is the Our Society Our Plan Strategic included in a separate Action Plan. Australia’s demographics. people experiencing disadvantage. development of a new strategic plan that and capacity to respond to the Plan; the beginning of what will be a The Our Society, Our Plan 2013-2018 identifies future goals and the resources • increased professionalism of charities increased demands on our services. period of renewal and reinvigoration for The Society is a large and complex Strategic Plan provides a pathway to a needed to accomplish them. and the need to ensure that the the Society in NSW. organisation run by a network of • positioning the Society as a thought more sustainable organisation, better Society supports people experiencing members, volunteers and employees. The Rule states, “The Society constantly leader in the areas we specialise in. Over the next five years, the Strategic equipped and capable of providing disadvantage by being the best strives for renewal, adapting to changing Plan will assist the Society build its assistance to those in the community With the advent of the Australian organisation it can be. The Society also has significant world conditions. It seeks to be ever capacity by focusing on the following six who need it most. Charities and Not for Profits Commission opportunities including using our asset aware of the changes that occur in human • increased regulation, compliance key Strategic Goals: drawing closer, all charities will come portfolio to invest in improving existing society and the new types of poverty measures and the need to demonstrate under closer scrutiny by the Federal services and delivering new services. 1. Strengthening our Spirituality that may be identified or anticipated. It tangible outcomes. Government. The main aim of this With an increased demand on our The organisation gives priority to the poorest of the poor 2. Strengthening our Service Commission is to improve public • increased competition for donations services, we also have a great opportunity and to those most rejected by society.” 3. Developing our Membership identified that trust and confidence in the sector, and volunteer time. to build stronger relationships with This challenges the Society to stop and it was imperative through promoting good governance, businesses and other charities. 4. Strengthening our Society take a look at what we are doing in order • donor fatigue and its impact on overall accountability and transparency. 5. Strengthening our Partnerships to develop a to meet the current needs of people donations. It is important for any Strategic Plan, To meet these requirements, the NSW to have ownership. Experience has 6. Raising our Voice detailed map for experiencing poverty and disadvantage. The Society also faces a number of State Council saw the need to incorporate shown that to achieve this ownership, Under these six key Strategic Goals the future; a new The Society understands that it operates internal challenges, including: as a company limited by guarantee, the genesis of the plan should begin are a series of strategies and key in a changing environment full of strategic vision. a process that is well underway and will • developing ways to enhance our at the grass roots. With this in mind, measures of success that will guide the challenges and opportunities. be completed by July 2013. organisational culture so spirituality is

24 Annual Report 2011/12 25 Key services: Allambie Court; Greene • Expanded services at Louise House Key achievements 2011/12 Villa; Mary O’Leary Centre; Night Patrol including placement of trained volunteer • Doubled the size of the Matthew Talbot Van and Vinnies Café, Orange; Mini counsellors and additional services to Clothing and Recycling Centre in Lismore. Vinnies; and visitation to private homes, the local community. nursing homes and hospitals. • Planned a Care and Support Facility Central Councils • Louise House was successful in obtaining for people experiencing homlessness Key achievements 2011/12 a State Government grant to conduct at Tweed Heads which is due to open in • Participated in a new initiative building works to provide more office May 2013. “Breaking the Barriers” which works in space to cater for the increase in demand. Key services: Nine accommodation • Employed a part-time Youth collaboration with schools to provide • Provided funding for one year’s units for older residents on low Coordinator which is in-line with the assistance to children experiencing education scholarships for 25 students Armidale incomes in Inverell; Freeman greater focus on youth programs. disadvantage and encourages them to in the Assist-a-Student Program through Lismore House (State Council); managing remain at school. the fundraising efforts of both a local • Elected a 20 year old member from Government Emergency Relief Funds Youth Conference and other members. a local Youth Conference as Regional in five communities; Mini Vinnies; and • Upgraded the Night Patrol Van, Orange President Wilcannia/Forbes visitation to private homes, nursing to improve the operation of this valuable • Continued NILS on the Northern service. • Employed a full time Workplace Health Maitland/ homes and hospitals. Beaches, Northern Sydney and recently and Safety Officer. Newcastle Key achievements 2011/12 • Completed the construction of a the Wyong Region. Over the past five years, NILS has lent around $500,000 to • Continued an extensive maintenance • Commenced construction on the new three bay garage at Allambie Court, Bathurst several hundred clients. and refurbishment program of Vinnies Broken Bay Freeman House (State Council) which Coonabarabran to house tenant’s mobility scooters and gardening equipment. Retail Centres and other facilities. Parramatta received a grant of $8 million from the • Provided a free legal aid service from Sydney Federal Government Rural Development • Completed renovations of Vinnies Rosalie’s Garden which has proven to be a Australia Fund. Completion of the new valuable community service and resource. Maitland/Newcastle Wagga Retail Centres to improve facilities for Central Council Wagga Wollongong state-of-the-art facility is expected in 2013. members, volunteers and customers, • Awarded the Gosford City Council The Maitland/Newcastle Central Council with the most recent Centre to be Australia Day Award for the best local • Appointed a new Vinnies Support includes the major cities of Newcastle, completed in Coonabarabran. community volunteer organisation in Officer to assist over 600 volunteer Lake Macquarie and Maitland, the coastal members in Vinnies Retail Centres. recognition of St Jopseh’s Workshop. Broken Bay Central Council areas of Port Stephens and Great Lakes, • Finalised plans for the construction • Advocated on the issue of suicide and the rural areas of Upper Hunter and The Broken Bay Central Council includes In NSW there are ten Central Councils • Ensuring the economic viability of of a new Care and Support Centre and through a targeted advertising campaign Manning. The demand for assistance is the Central Coast of NSW, Sydney’s with a total of 59 Regional Councils and Vinnies Retail Centres as ongoing sources Vinnies Retail Centre in Gunnedah. via our Mental Health Project. The Mental spread across the Central Council with Northern Beaches, and the Upper North 424 Conferences. The Central Councils are of income for the Society. With almost Health Project also worked extensively to many large regional centres recording • Developed planning for refurbishment Shore through to Galston and Arcadia. Armidale, Bathurst, Broken Bay, Lismore, 50% of program and services funding build relationships with the coroner and an increase in home visitation and of a Care and Support Centre and Vinnies The area has a mix of socio-economic Maitland/Newcastle, Parramatta, Sydney raised through Vinnies Retail Centres, new local police commands in the areas of assistance. The Central Council has 8 Retail Centre in Walgett. profiles from multi-million dollar homes Archdiocese, Wagga Wagga, Wilcannia/ ways of attracting donations and buyers suicide prevention and mental illness. Regional Councils; 50 Conferences; 35 to public housing. The Central Council Forbes and Wollongong. need to be explored. • Developed planning for a new Vinnies Youth and Young Adult, High School and has 5 Regional Councils; 38 Conferences; Retail Centre in Quirindi and the Lismore Central Council Mini Vinnies Conferences; 30 Vinnies Each Central Council has a President and • As the new Social Community Home 19 Youth and Young Adult, High School refurbishment of the existing building Retail Centres; 8 Special Works and 1154 an Executive Officer, as well as a mix of Care and Disability Services Award and and Mini Vinnies Conferences; 28 Vinnies Lismore Central Council is located in into a Care and Support Service facility. volunteers. Maitland/Newcastle Central members, volunteers and employees to Equal Remuneration Order come into Retail Centres; 9 Special Works and 1050 Northern NSW and despite being a popular holiday destination has areas Council provided $2,131,703 in assistance run services in their areas including the effect, many Special Works may struggle • Installed computers in all Vinnies Retail volunteers. Broken Bay Central Council of significant social disadvantage. The to the local community in 2011/12. respective Vinnies Retail Centres. to continue to provide services with Centres to facilitate communication and provided $1,946,719 in assistance to the available resources. towns of Lismore, Casino, Coffs Harbour, Key services: Matthew Talbot Centre; Key challenges data collection. local community in 2011/12. Macksville, Kempsey and Tweed Heads Compeer; Hunter Homeless; No Interest • Conference members made 1,972 Key services: Youth Reach Brookvale; • Throughout NSW Central Councils Armidale Central Council have pockets of severe need where Loan Scheme; Mini Vinnies; and continued to see increased requests visits to private homes and 1,270 visits No Interest Loan Scheme, Northern entrenched poverty and public transport The Armidale Central Council covers visitation to private homes, nursing for assistance with utilities and other to nursing homes and hospitals in the Beaches, Northern Sydney and and health issues are endemic. The fifteen local government areas in the homes and hospitals. household expenses. This increase Central Council area. Wyong; Financial Counselling; Louise Central Council has 5 Regional Councils; Northern Tablelands/ North Western represents a challenge for Central House; Rosalie’s Garden; St. Joseph’s 34 Conferences; 38 Youth and Young Key achievements 2011/12 NSW, with a population of around Councils as they work to balance Bathurst Central Council Workshop; Mental Health Project; Mini Adult, High School and Mini Vinnies • Received additional funding from 198,000. Armidale, Tamworth, Gunnedah demand with available resources. The Bathurst Central Council covers Vinnies; and visitation to private homes, Conferences; 28 Vinnies Retail Centres; the National Australia Bank for the No and Moree are major regional centres of an area in excess of 103,000 square nursing homes and hospitals. 7 Special Works and 1520 volunteers. Interest Loan Scheme which is set for • Conferences reported a worrying education, commerce and rural business. kilometres from Lithgow to Coonamble Lismore Central Council provided expansion into the Lake Macquarie and increase in the number of people seeking The Central Council has 4 Regional Key achievements 2011/12 and from Cowra to Mudgee. The Central $1,968,139 in assistance to the local Port Stephens areas. assistance with accommodation, either Councils; 25 Conferences; 12 Youth and • Re-opened the Wyong Regional Centre. Council has 4 Regional Councils; community in 2011/12. to locate secure housing or to assist with Young Adult, High School and Mini Vinnies The Centre also offers facilities for other • Provided an expanded outreach 27 Conferences; 6 Youth and Young rent arrears. Conferences; 19 Vinnies Retail Centres community organisations. Key services: Amelie Lodge; Angela program in the community via the Adult, High School and Mini Vinnies and 741 volunteers. Armidale Central Houses; St Canice Respite House; Matthew Talbot Centre at Wickham. • Attracting and recruiting new Conferences; 17 Retail Centres; 5 Special • Brookvale Youth Reach ran two very Council provided $632,760 in assistance Matthew Talbot Clothing and Recycling Conference members and volunteers in Works and 835 volunteers. Bathurst successful Midnight Basketball Programs • Expanded the Compeer program to the local community in 2011/12. Centre; McCosker House; MacKillop ageing communities is a challenge faced Central Council provided $821,948 in with close to 200 youth participating in beyond the Newcastle area. Lodge; Rosalie Rendu Homes; Mini by many Conferences across NSW. assistance to the local community in the latter half of 2011. Vinnies; and visitation to private homes, 2011/12. nursing homes and hospitals.

26 Annual Report 2011/12 27 • Renovated a property in Wickham Central Council area and receives an • Rolled out a new client database • Distributed approximately $227,000 Wollongong Central Council which now provides short-term housing average of 15,000 calls per year. system which provides a common from the Wagga Wagga Mayoral Fund The Wollongong Central Council covers for families experiencing homelessness. database across all Sydney Archdiocese Flood Appeal to around 198 families to Central Councils • Management of two Special Works, the area from Glenfield in the north Central Council regions for the first time. help them rebuild their lives after the • Held a successful recruitment Caroline Chisholm Centre for Social to Ulladulla in the south and west to across NSW floods. campaign during Orientation Week at Justice and Margaret Druitt Day Care • Commenced building on the new the Southern Highlands. There are a provided more Newcastle University. Centre, previously managed by the Amelie House women’s refuge. • As part of the NSW State Disaster number of low socio-economic areas State Council, were transferred to the Welfare Plan, provided families and including broad acre housing estates than $17 million • Mini Vinnies programs are now • Commenced operations of Bailly House Parramatta Central Council. individuals affected by the floods with in Campbelltown and areas of need established in most Catholic schools which offers short-term accommodation worth of financial blankets, personal packs, mattresses in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven. The across the Central Council area. • Commenced an outreach service of at an affordable cost to individuals and essential clothing. Central Council has 6 Regional Councils; assistance in the Caroline Chisholm Centre for Social attending medical treatment in Sydney • Increased Vinnies Retail Centres 38 Conferences; 20 Youth and Young Justice in Katoomba with a Social Worker or for people travelling from intrastate to 2011/12 sales by 9% on previous year, reaching Wilcannia/Forbes Adult, High School and Mini Vinnies to supplement the material support visit family members in Sydney hospitals. revenue of $4 million for the first time. Central Council Conferences; 25 Vinnies Retail Centres; provided by the local Conferences. • Increased sales in Sydney Archdiocese 22 Special Works and 1951 volunteers. • Relocated the Taree Vinnies Retail Wilcannia/Forbes Central Council covers • Embarked on a detailed program of Central Council Retail Centres by 4.7%; Wollongong Central Council provided Centre to larger premises which saw a over half the area of New South Wales. maintenance of Vinnies Retail Centres an excellent result during a period of $1,737,427 in assistance to the local 30% increase in sales on the previous The area extends west from Parkes and Conference with a special focus on Work, Health and uncertainty for the retail sector more community in 2011/12. year. A new Retail Centre was opened at Forbes, down to Broken Hill near the Safety compliance. broadly. members in Edgeworth. South Australian border, up to Lightning Key services: Vinchez Refuge; Vince’s • Opened a new Vinnies Retail Centre in Ridge in the north, and down to the Place; Allambie Housing; Mingaletta Central Councils • Employed a Regional Retail Manager to Sydney Archdiocese Leichhardt. Victorian border at Barham. The towns Family Centre; Metro South West provide support to Vinnies Retail Centres Central Council volunteered more have always been supported by strong Brokerage; Pathways; Vinnies Youth operations. • Celebrated 120 years of service of Sydney Archdiocese Central Council family farming businesses but severe Housing Macarthur; St Vincent de Paul than 96,000 the Hunters Hill Conference, who have covers an area that extends from Crows weather patterns over the past 10 years, House; John Purcell House; Jim da Silva Parramatta Central Council provided crucial support to people needing hours in 2011/12 Nest to North Sydney and down to have devastated many family farming Farm; Nagle Care and Support Centre; assistance in the Hunters Hill community. Parramatta Central Council covers he The Spit and from Bondi in the east businesses. The Central Council has 5 Maryfields Day Recovery Centre; Tom areas from Granville in the south-east, to Liverpool in the south west and Regional Councils; 20 Conferences; 6 McGee Holiday Flats; Mollymook Wagga Wagga Central Council Kenthurst in the north-east, Warragamba Sutherland in the south. This area Youth and Young Adult, High School and Holiday Units; Vinnies Van; Compeer in the south, Richmond in the north comprises some of the most densely The Wagga Wagga Central Council area Mini Vinnies Conferences; 15 Vinnies Illawarra/Shoalhaven; Compeer and Blackheath in the west. It has a rich populated suburbs in Australia. The extends from Tumbarumba in the east Retail Centres and 606 volunteers. Macarthur/Wingecarribee; St Vincent de Central Councils cultural diversity and it is estimated that Central Council has 12 Regional Councils; to Griffith in the west and includes Wilcannia/Forbes Central Council Paul Society Social Recreation Program; more than 100 languages are spoken in 119 Conferences; 76 Youth and Young the regional cities of Wagga Wagga provided $636,220 in assistance to the Animation Program; Kalon House assisted the Central Council area. Western Sydney Adult, High School and Mini Vinnies and Albury. In this area, the largest local community in 2011/12. of Welcome; Claymore Community 620,000 people is expected to double in population Conferences; 46 Vinnies Retail Centres; contributors to annual gross product are Key services: Financial Wellbeing Laundromat and Coffee House; Rosalie by 2036 as people move west to new, 20 Special Works and 2128 volunteers. agriculture, retail and manufacturing. experiencing Program; Rural Task Force; Bishop Fox Rendu Volunteer Home Visitation emerging suburbs. The Central Council Sydney Archdiocese Central Council The Central Council has 4 Regional Meal Centre; Mini Vinnies and visitation Program; No Interest Loan Scheme; Mini disadvantage in has 6 Regional Councils; 46 Conferences; provided $3,901,556 in assistance to the Councils; 28 Conferences; 12 Youth and to private homes, nursing homes and Vinnies; and visitation to private homes, 17 Youth and Young Adult, High School local community in 2011/12. Young Adult, High School and Mini 2011/12 hospitals. nursing homes and hospitals. and Mini Vinnies Conferences; 26 Vinnies Vinnies Conferences; 15 Vinnies Retail Key services: Marian Centre; Retail Centres; 3 Special Works and 2016 Centres; 5 Special Works and 1092 Key achievements 2011/12 Key achievements 2011/12 St Louise Lodge; Marian Villa; volunteers. Parramatta Central Council volunteers. Wagga Wagga Central Council • Held a Vinnies CEO Sleepout in Amelie House; Claffy House; Rosalie • Implemented a refurbishment program provided $1,709,663 in assistance to the provided $1,572,647 in assistance to the Wollongong for the first time, raising at Maryfields Day Recovery Centre. House; St Jude’s Refuge; Rendu Youth of Vinnies Retail Centres with 13 Centres local community in 2011/12. local community in 2011/12. over $80,000. Service; Margaret House; Como Social completed, improving facilities and • Renovated three bathrooms at the Tom Key services: Caroline Chisholm Centre & Leisure Centre; Mary MacKillop Key services: Micah House; Marillac resulting in a 2% increase in sales. • Launched the Vinnies Van in McGee Holiday Flats with a donation for Social Justice; Margaret Druitt Day Outreach; The Cleveland Centre; & Charles O’Neill Housing; No Interest • Provided 20% more assistance through partnership with the Diocese of from financial institution, Credit Union Care Centre; Vinnies Van; Caroline Financial Counselling services; Eastern Loan Scheme; Humanitarian Settlement our Conferences on the previous year; the Wollongong Catholic Education Office. Australia. Chisholm Centre Outreach Service, Services; Mini Vinnies; and visitation The Van operates Monday, Wednesday Suburbs Migrant & Refugee Service; majority of this coming in the form of food, • Relocated the St Vincent de Paul Social Katoomba; No Interest Loan Scheme; to private homes, nursing homes and and Friday evenings visiting Warrawong Food Barn; Night Patrol; Xavier House; electricity vouchers and household goods. Recreation Program to a more central Mini Vinnies; and visitation to private hospitals. and Wollongong Railway Station. The Bailly House; Jacinta Villa; Mt St Vincent location in Wollongong; enabling the homes, nursing homes and hospitals. • Continued to implement the Financial operation will be expanded to the Village; Mini Vinnies; and visitation Key achievements 2011/12 program to extend the catchment for Wellbeing Program in Wilcannia in Shoalhaven area in 2012/13. Key achievements 2011/12 to private homes, nursing homes and referrals north and south of the city. hospitals. • Resettled 100 families in the Riverina partnership with Centacare, assisting • Opened a new Vinnies Retail Centre at • Adopted a new Parramatta Central region as part of a partnership with the clients to manage their finances and • Secured funding from FAHCSIA for the Culburra Beach, which will service the Bay Council Strategic Plan with considered Key achievements 2011/12 Multicultural Council of Wagga Wagga move on from hardship and uncertainty. Animation Program which will maintain input from members, volunteers, • Established a new Community Support to deliver Humanitarian Settlement and Basin area of the Shoalhaven region. • Extended the contract for the Financial support work at the Campbelltown employees and clients. Centre in Bankstown to assist the local Services in the Riverina region. Wellbeing Program for a further three • Hosted AGL Executive Officers at housing estates and extend work to Conferences to provide assistance to • Implemented a new retail point-of-sale • Selected as the preferred charity by years. the Nagle Care and Support Centre in Rosemeadow for the first time. people experiencing disadvantage. system which allows for more accurate the Wagga Wagga Council to distribute Campbelltown as part of the Corporate • A Mini Vinnies Coordinator commenced • Recruited a Program Assistant and and timely reporting of sales data. • Adopted a three year Sydney Archdiocese all proceeds raised by the Mayoral Flood Volunteering program. in the Central Council area, distributing extended work of the Rosalie Rendu Central Council Strategic Plan, providing a Appeal to the flood victims in Wagga • Implemented a call centre service information on the program to local • Secured three years funding for a Volunteer Home Visitation program. sound framework for the future. Wagga and Coolamon. which now covers all regions in the schools. Mental Health Project worker to be based

28 Annual Report 2011/12 29 A lucky shopper finds the Passion Pit shirt in Moby was one of more Freemantle, WA than 80 famous musicians who got involved with the Our Services campaign

Vinnies Retail Centres

Vinnies Retail Centres are the much loved face of the St Vincent de Paul Society in New South Wales. With a presence of 252 shops across most cities and towns, Vinnies Retail Centres are largely run by volunteers and offer affordable preloved items for sale. Behind the bargains and vintage finds, Vinnies Retail Centres are an important This Signed Finder picked up John first point of help for people living in Butler’s shirt in Coffs Harbour, NSW poverty. Clothing, furniture and other items are given away free of charge or people are referred to their local Some of the big names attracted over 33,000 fans, and requests Conference for person-to-person supporting the Vinnies for the campaign came from afar as assistance, budget counselling or campaign were Moby, Canada and the USA. financial, material and emotional support. Sneaky Sound System, Fans also shared stories of having visited Gotye, Peter Garrett, Funds generated through the sale of numerous Vinnies Retail Centres to spot Missy Higgins, Roger donated items in Vinnies Retail Centres a Signed Find, and going home with a Waters (Pink Floyd), Nikki are used to support other St Vincent de number of other Vinnies items instead. Sixx (Motley Crue), Kasey Paul Society services and programs. In Chambers, John Butler, Jimmy Signed Finds is a campaign that really is 2011/2012 this accounted for 49% of the • Dumping of unsaleable goods Beach and Retail Centres at Old Bar, Barnes, The Living End and of benefit to all those involved. Signed total revenue generated. continued to be a major concern to Taree and Swansea were relocated to Julia Stone. Find hunters hit the Vinnies Retail Centres In the last financial year Vinnies Retail the Society. Across the State, over improve access and trade. in search of a piece of music history but Ordinary t-shirts won’t necessarily Sam Armstrong was one of those Centres directly helped over 48,000 180,000kg of unsaleable items were may have instead walked away with • Re-opened the Wyong Regional Centre pull people to Vinnies Retail Centres, lucky enough to pick up a Signed Find, people giving away $1.8 million in donated each month. The Society another Vinnies treasure, helping their which now offers a brand new multi- but when they are signed by world- rushing to Newtown from Peakhurst as donated items. 8,343 volunteers continued to explore new ways of local community at the same time. purpose building. renowned musicians, they will. soon as she saw the clue. She managed undertook 1.9 million hours of service. recycling and managing waste and to find the Gotye t-shirt in 10 minutes The Signed Finds campaign enjoyed great rising costs. • Completed renovations on Vinnies This is exactly what saw the success Key challenges and it cost her only $4. success and recently picked up a range of Retail Centres across many Central of Vinnies Signed Finds flourish; a • Wagga Wagga Vinnies Retail Centre prestigious awards at the Effies and the • Ensuring the economic viability of Council areas. Planning also began for campaign initially designed for NSW “Awesome t-shirt, my favourite colour as was destroyed by a fire in April 2012. Australian Direct Marketing Awards. Vinnies Retail Centres as ongoing new Retail Centres in Gunnedah and Vinnies Retail Centres that culminated well… I’m so glad I got one that’s not only The loss of the Wagga Wagga Centre sources of income for the Society. Quirindi. in a nation-wide drop in February 2012. awesome but something I would wear by The second instalment of the Signed caused tremendous disruption and New ways of attracting donations and The pro-bono campaign was the idea choice,” Sam tweeted after her find. Finds music campaign has recently • Doubled the size of the Matthew shoppers need to be explored. dislocation in the area and great of George Patterson Y&R Sydney who kicked off and a spin-off Signed Finds sadness to members, volunteers and Talbot Clothing and Recycling Centre believed they had a unique idea that The campaign engaged fans through • Increased competition from major Sports will take place in 2013. customers. in Lismore. would drive young people into Vinnies social media, with clues plugged through retailers who are now offering low-cost the official Signed Finds Facebook More information on the campaign can Key achievements 2011/12 • The Wagga Wagga Central Council is Retail Centres across NSW. clothing and household items. page. The Signed Finds Facebook page be found at www.signedfinds.com.au • Vinnies Centres experienced a 5% presently negotiating the lease The concept was to have well-known • Maintaining, recruiting and training a increase in sales across the State. of a shop to accommodate the retail artists and musicians donate a signed large number of volunteers to operate business in the central business district pre-loved item, such as a shirt or dress, the Vinnies Retail Centres across the • Opened new Vinnies Retail Centres at of Wagga Wagga for the short-term. which would then be dropped in Retail The Signed Finds Facebook page State continues to be a complex issue. Edgeworth, Leichhardt and Culburra Centres for fans to find with the help of “attracted over 33,000 fans. Facebook clues. ”

30 Annual Report 2011/12 31 More than 60% of people In NSW, 28,000 105,000 people experiencing people are are experiencing homelessness experiencing homelessness in are under the age homelessness, Australia of 35 a 21% increase Homeless and on 2006 figures Addiction Services

The St Vincent de Paul Society NSW • Macarthur Ozanam Centre – Vinchez’s offer pathways out of homelessness Women’s Refuge, Vince’s Place, by providing services that support Allambie Refuge, Minto Transitional an individual back to independence. Housing, Metro South West Brokerage, Whilst providing traditional services Pathways and Mingaletta Family Centre such as accommodation, meals (Wollongong Central Council) and medical assistance, people • Marian Centre (Sydney Archdiocese experiencing homelessness are also Central Council) supported through intensive case management, education and training, • Marian Villa (Sydney Archdiocese addiction services, advocacy and social Central Council) reconnection. The Society’s homeless • Maryfields Day Recovery Centre services across the State provide refuge (Wollongong Central Council) for some of the most marginalised members of the community. • Mary’s Place (State Council) Adopting a holistic and person centred • Matthew Talbot Centre (Maitland/ approach, employees work intensively Newcastle Central Council) with clients to not just resolve their • Matthew Talbot Hostel (State Council) homelessness but to help rebuild their lives. • McCosker House (Lismore Central Council) In 2011/12, the Society’s homeless services across the State provided • Our Lady of the Way (State Council) 310,812 bed nights and 679,221 meals. • Ozanam Learning Centre (State Council) The St Vincent de Paul Society NSW has 34 homeless and addiction services that • Pathways (Wollongong Central Council) provide assistance to men, women and • Quamby House (State Council) misuse is untreated and coupled • Matthew Talbot Hostel provided a children as listed below: Key challenges Key achievements 2011/12 • Rosalie House (Sydney Archdiocese • Access to affordable accommodation with chronic homelessness and child • Delivered the Inner City Integrated case manager seven days a week • Amelie House (Sydney Archdiocese Central Council) remains the most pressing issue in protection issues. Services Project, a housing first program to the Common Ground building at Central Council) Camperdown which houses low income • St Jude’s Refuge (Sydney Archdiocese metropolitan and regional areas. • Difficulties in engaging mainstream which aims to house some of the and social housing tenants. The idea is • Cardinal Freeman Centre (State Council) Central Council) Waiting times for social housing have services that are often operating most complex and long term people increased at the same time that private experiencing homelessness in the inner to provide a socially integrated mixed • Claffy House (Sydney Archdiocese with restricted resources to provide • St Louise Lodge (Sydney Archdiocese rental affordability and access city. Matthew Talbot Hostel is a vital community of tenants which maximises Central Council) meaningful support to complex clients. Central Council) remains low. member of this Coalition, positioning opportunities for tenants to become • Access to specialist health services reconnected with the mainstream • Edel Quinn Hostel (State Council) • St Vincent de Paul House (Wollongong the service as a relevant and vital agency • When clients are housed, there are such as dental services remains a community. Central Council) in the work of combating homelessness. • Frederic House (State Council) limited resources to provide post crisis problem. • Provided service to people • Vincentian House Family and Women’s support. This has meant being more • Worked with 19 complex needs • Freeman House (State Council) • No enduring or accessible mental health experiencing homelessness on 16,212 Services (State Council) creative in engaging other service clients, housing 14 of these into their • Gambling Help (State Council) providers and building stronger cross services available for clients. own tenancies through the Matthew occasions at the Ozanam Learning • Vinnies Services Deniliquin (State agencies networks. Talbot Hostel; some of whom have Centre. 36,400 individuals accessed • Jim da Silva Farm (Wollongong Central • The need for service model Council) been experiencing homelessness for this service over this period and 2912 Council) • Supporting families who are facing reconfiguration and/or physical decades. activities, programs, educational • Vinnies Youth Housing Macarthur a number of challenges, particularly redevelopment in line with the Specialist • John Purcell House (Wollongong courses and outings were held. (Wollongong Central Council) where mental health and substance Homeless Services Reform Agenda. Central Council)

32 Annual Report 2011/12 33 The St Vincent The St Vincent de Paul Society de Paul Society provided 679,221 provided 310,812 meals to people bed nights through experiencing its homeless homelessness Jill’s services in 2011/12 in 2011/12 Story

• Vincentian House developed a activities provided. Cardinal Freeman • Relocated John Purcell House in Nowra Memorandum of Understanding with also purchased more warehouse space in preparation for a rebuild of a larger, Child Protection increasing the level that will be used for additional programs purpose-built facility. of support to assist families to stay and activities. • Opened a Men’s Shed at Jim da Silva together whilst ensuring the wellbeing • Provided whitegood packages to 18 Farm in partnership with the Vietnam of the children. clients through Edel Quinn Hostel in Veterans Association. • Introduced or improved a number of Wagga Wagga. • Completed refurbishments of building initiatives at Vincentian House including: • 130 men attended the Back On Track and grounds at Vinchez Refuge, with the the ‘Wrapped in Angels’ therapeutic program at the Edel Quinn Hostel. assistance of volunteers from Bunnings. group and school holiday program; an onsite specialist children’s counsellor for • Coordinated a Men’s Indoor Cricket • Expanded the Vinnies Youth the Kids Engaged in Education Program Program which is now run and funded Housing Macarthur service into the (KEEP); kid’s cooking classes, swimming independently by the players at Quamby Wingecarribee area. The service was classes and self-defence; and KidZone House. also recognised for excellence in service homework club, school holiday program provision by the local councils and the • Improved processes around Corrections and play group. community. referrals and the ability to support men • Received an $8 million grant through the leaving prison through Quamby House. • Mingaletta Family Centre formed a Regional Development Australia Fund to strong corporate partnership with • Expanded the Home Based Outreach In late 2010 Jill was evicted from the flat “I lost count of how many times I had to were consumed by queues at Housing rebuild Freeman House. Daly International who will undertake Support program at Quamby House she’d rented for five years. The owner report her missing. Once I even hired NSW and getting forms filled in by ongoing work with upgrades and wanted vacant possession and so Jill a private investigator to find her, and various professionals. • Received $2.065 million funding therefore guaranteeing public housing improvements to the Centre. and her family had to go. She applied another time she was hospitalised,” through the Department of Health allocation for participants. Jill’s health and that of her kids went for many places but for the first time in says Jill. and Ageing to continue and expand • Expanded the outreach program of downhill quickly. • Decommissioned the sleepover staffing her life she could not find a home. As Jill Freeman House services with a focus on the Matthew Talbot Centre in the local With no family in Australia, there was model at Quamby House and instead explains, “being an unemployed single “I was offered a place which would only services specialising in mental health community. no-one to turn to, nowhere to go. A embraced “Active Overnight Staffing” mother of two teenagers doesn’t look take me and my daughter, but not my 13 and substance use. This will include friend offered Jill the use of his walk-in which saw a marked improvement in • Vinnies Services, Deniliquin was good on a tenancy application.” year old son. I declined. I would have a full-medical Detoxification Unit and wardrobe to sleep in. He wasn’t joking. client engagement. a finalist at the National Inaugural preferred to be on the street as a family specialist mental health staff; the first of It had not been a good year — her teenage Jill and her kids stayed in three different Homelessness Services Awards – rather than abandon him,” she says its kind in Regional NSW. • Quamby House continued to work daughter was getting into trouble with the motels in a month. Rural Section. strongly. closely with the Albury Community law and drugs, disappearing sometimes • Freeman House Rehabilitation Program The situation was dire. Providing Health Pharmacotherapy Program • Expanded the operations of Vinnies for weeks on end, and Jill had given up her Just as things seemed most desperate, treatment data reflected significant nutritious food was extremely difficult ensuring that clients are able to Services, Deniliquin to the Intereach job to supervise her, even walking her to she was offered a place for her and her improvements in client’s overall quality on a limited budget with no kitchen. commence or continue Alternative Hub in Hay, enriching the services and from school at times. She would get children in Vincentian House. The service of life and severity of dependence on Privacy was non-existent and basic tasks Medication treatments to reduce the risk relationship with the Hay community phone calls from police at all hours of the offered Jill and her children a safe haven drugs and alcohol and improved social like doing the laundry became major of relapse to high risk illicit drug use. and service providers. day and night to pick her up from police and a place in their program. Jill explains and emotional well-being. undertakings that had to be planned and stations all over Sydney. that she arrived at the service not • Exceeded standards of the Aged Care • Supported clients and their families with budgeted for. Whole days • Continued integration of quality systems Accreditation Agency in the three year gambling related issues in the Hills and knowing what to expect. to underpin operations and clinical accreditation check at Frederic House. Windsor districts through the Gambling “It was clean and light and had a garden. practice at Freeman House, resulting in Help Counselling Service. It felt safe. When we arrived, we were more efficient services and evidence- • Launched the Vinnies Van in Wollongong each given a quilt made by nuns. I sat based decision making at all levels. which is based at St Vincent de Paul Just as things seemed most desperate, House. The Van operates Monday, “ on the edge of the bed with it wrapped • Introduced in-house programs at the she was offered a place for her and her Wednesday and Friday evenings visiting around me and relaxed for the first time Cardinal Freeman Centre, enabling two sites. children in Vincentian House in months. I could finally see the light at clients to participate and focus on the ” the end of the tunnel.”

34 Annual Report 2011/12 35 Volunteering to make a difference The Nagle Family Care and Support Centre is a Special Work of the St Vincent de Paul Society in Campbelltown (Wollongong Housing, Community Support Central Council) that offers a diverse range of services such as a community kitchen, and Financial Services case management, literacy programs, counselling and advocacy. Brenda has been volunteering at the Nagle Centre for three years helping to The St Vincent de Paul Society runs • Tom McGee Memorial Holiday Flats Community Support and manage the kitchen outreach program. a range of Special Works tailored to (Wollongong Central Council) Financial Services This is a big operation that last year meet the specific needs of individuals • Village Court (State Council) St Vincent de Paul Society Community provided nearly 12,000 people with hot and families and the communities Support and Financial Services in meals. The kitchen serves up breakfast Key challenges in which they live. Many of these NSW are: and lunch five days a week and dinner on services fill the gaps in people’s lives • Many Central Councils are seeing Wednesday nights. in various ways whether it is through a severe shortage of affordable • Bailly House (Sydney Archdiocese the provision of accommodation, food, Central Council) “Volunteering here is very rewarding. accommodation and clients are turning financial assistance, counselling or It definitely puts things in perspective for to the Society to help fill this gap. • Budget Counselling (Various Central companionship. These services help you. It makes you realise how lucky you Councils) ease the pressure on families and • Linking into low cost housing to are with your situation in life,” • Care and Support Cottage (Maitland/ communities and include long term facilitate transition from supported says Brenda. Newcastle Central Council) subsidised housing, short and medium accommodation into private rentals is Brenda explains that she finds the Nagle term housing, carers and holiday increasingly difficult. • Caroline Chisholm Social Justice Centre Centre so special because it provides respite, care and assistance centres, • Maintaining and repairing properties is (Parramatta Central Council) so many important services. “You have community services and financial a growing expense for the Society. • Financial Counselling (Broken Bay and vouchers, counselling and the kitchen, budgeting and loan programs. Sydney Archdiocese Central Councils) which is really good for people when they • Building capacity to form partnerships come to have appointments, as they can Housing Services with corporates that can facilitate in-kind • Hunter Homeless (Maitland/Newcastle supplies and services to offset costs. then come and eat and sort out a few St Vincent de Paul Society housing Central Council) things in one place.” services in NSW are: Key achievements 2011/12 • Margaret Druitt Day Care Centre (Parramatta Central Council) Volunteering here • Allambie Court (Bathurst Central • Provided affordable accommodation “ Council) for 37 residents living on low incomes • Micah House (Wagga Wagga Central is very rewarding at the Jacinta Villa and Mt St Vincent Council) ” • Angela Houses (Lismore Central Council) Village. Brenda explains that volunteering at the • Nagle Family Care and Support Centre • Amelie Lodge (Lismore Central Council) • Provided temporary housing Centre has seen her build many close (Wollongong Central Council) arrangements to various families relationships with people who attend • Charles O’Neill and Marilac (Wagga through the Angela Houses and St • No Interest Loan Schemes (Broken the Centre. Brenda recalls a bittersweet Wagga Central Council) Canice properties affording them some Bay, Maitland/Newcastle, Parramatta, moment she had with a woman who • Jacinta Villa (Sydney Archdiocese stability and facilitating their transition Wagga Wagga and Wollongong Central attended the Centre regularly. Central Council) into low cost housing. Councils) “I saw her walking down the street and • Rosalie’s Garden (Broken Bay Central • MacKillop Lodge (Lismore Central • Continued upgrading and repairs to I asked how she was. She asked for a Council) Council) low-rent accommodation for older cuddle. It made me very sad that she independent residents in Inverell. • St Joseph’s Workshop (Broken Bay didn’t have anyone in her life to do that • Margaret House (Sydney Archdiocese Central Council) for her. It shows how important the Centre Central Council) • Renovated a property in Wickham to is for people.” • Mollymook Holiday Flats (Wollongong provide accommodation for families • The Cleveland Centre (Sydney experiencing homelessness, providing Archdiocese Central Council) Jan has been the Manager at Nagle Central Council) short-term housing prior to transition • The Vincentian Social Action Centre: Centre for 18 months. She explains • Mount St Vincent Village (Sydney to private rental. Animation Project, Claymore Laundromat that volunteers and members are the Archdiocese Central Council) backbone of the Nagle Centre. “Without • Undertook extensive renovations at and Coffee House, Kalon House, Rosalie them, we would not be able to provide the • St Canice’s Respite House (Lismore the Tom McGee Holiday Flats with the Rendu Volunteer Home Visitation level of service we do.” Central Council) support of Credit Union Australia. Program (Wollongong Central Council) • St Jude’s Forster (Maitland/Newcastle Central Council)

36 Annual Report 2011/12 37 treatment in Sydney or for people travelling from intrastate to visit family members in Sydney hospitals. • Offered financial counselling in the Northern Beaches and Wyong Regions through a range of financial counsellors and volunteer budget counsellors. Crafting a better world • The No Interest Loan Scheme will be expanded into the Lake Macquarie and at St Joseph’s Workshop Port Stephens areas with funding from the National Australia Bank.

• Provided a free legal aid service from As the patron saint of workers, St Joseph housing. Most struggle to pay the ever Over 60 volunteers dedicate their time Rosalie’s Garden which has proven to oversees the effort of those volunteers increasing rental prices of the private and skills to the special work of St be a valuable community service and working to help others at the St Joseph’s market, leaving very little if anything at Joseph’s Workshop. The benefit that resource. Workshop in Gosford. all to furnish a home. they receive from being involved with the service is also an important part of • The Animation Program extended Volunteers work with a healthy Furniture becomes a treasured luxury the process. its work to the Rosemeadow social vigour crafting household items for and each piece provided by the kind housing area for the first time. those who can’t afford them; making hands at St Joseph’s Workshop helps Many of the volunteers are retired and beds, drawers, cabinets and tables, those trying to get by day to day. It is elderly, living up north and often isolated Key challenges • Expanded services and implemented • Continued to provide a crucial regional anything to make life easier for people just another cost they don’t need to from their families. The workshop gives • As more families and individuals trained volunteer counsellors at service to clients with a meals service, experiencing disadvantage. worry about. the volunteers a community to belong struggle to make ends meet, demand Louise House, providing more relevant shower facilities, computer access, and contribute to. on community support services is services to the community. Louise and recreational activities through Over the past year, 1843 items were crafted Every piece of furniture made at the increasing. The Society needs to look House will provide outreach services Micah House. in the workshop and provided free to the workshop is master crafted with a “The best part about working at at new ways of meeting these demands to the newly opened Wyong Regional most disadvantaged and marginalised sharp coating of quality paint. It is part St Joseph’s is the camaraderie,” says with limited resources. Centre, empowering local members people in the Central Coast community. and parcel of creating sustainable and Mr Dent. and assisting clients. reliable items for those people enduring • Appropriate training and skilling of The service helps people in many “Most of the people here are retired; hard times. Quality control is still a members and volunteers in these • Received a grant from the NSW State different situations, those escaping we give them a place where they can major part of St Joseph’s work. services is crucial so that that can Government to undertake building domestic violence and trying to rebuild meet and interact with each other on meet the complex needs of many of works at Louise House which will their lives, those with barely enough “Making a good product helps people a daily basis. Applying their creativity the clients turning to the Society for provide more space to cater for NILS Northern money to pay for the bare necessities, or feel great. They won’t feel as if they to their work keeps them mentally and assistance. increased demand. Beaches, Northern simply those people going through a bit were given second hand offcuts. We are physically fit.” of a rough trot. committed to creating quality products Key achievements 2011/12 • Hosted nine AGL executive officers Sydney and There are hopes to expand the reach of including the Chief Executive Officer that will make them feel better no matter • Established a new Community Support Public housing shortages in Gosford St Joseph’s Workshop, which currently for a volunteer experience at the Nagle Wyong have the situation,” says the President of St Centre in Bankstown. Planning is have forced people to seek private services the Central Coast, Hornsby and Centre. The AGL volunteers assisted loaned close to Joseph’s Workshop, Bruce Dent. underway for a further Centre to be Chatswood. in the kitchen, planted the vegetable based at Mt Pritchard. $500,000 to people garden, set up and served a BBQ lunch While the expansion is a while off, the experiencing noise of an overworked panel saw in • Assisted over 100 people through and painted a room at the Centre. Most of the people here are retired and The Cleveland Centre via a number of disadvantage over Gosford is the sound of a brighter future • Opened Bailly House which offers “ programs including a new parenting isolated, we give them a place where they for many people on the Central Coast. short-term affordable accommodation the past five years skills initiative. can meet and interact with each other to individuals attending medical ”

38 Annual Report 2011/12 39 Ozanam Industries achieved accreditation and became a Quality Assured • Ozanam Industries, Stanmore Service by meeting Disability (State Council) Mental Health • Ozanam Industries , West Ryde benchmarks set by Services (State Council) the Commonwealth Services Key challenges Government. The Society’s Disability Services • Covering operational costs whilst The Society’s commitment to support involve three major employment operating the employment services people living with a mental illness services in Sydney and Northern NSW. is becoming increasingly difficult due that costing is competitive. continued in 2011/12 through a range of These services focus on providing to the impacts of the global financial social support and care and recreational • Completed Nationally Recognised skill development opportunities for crisis and the tightening of local programs. With over 45% of Australians Training for 33 staff, a majority of these people living with a disability to gain markets. experiencing a mental illness at some employment in a range of areas including living with a disability, in Certificate III point in their life, the issue of mental mail fulfilment, general packaging work, • Maintaining existing clients and Transport & Logistics – Warehousing health cannot be ignored and work must recycling of textiles, commercial laundry attracting new business. Business & Storage. continue to remove the stigma associated development has a direct impact and shrink wrapping. This enables • Ozanam Industries achieved with living with a mental illness. people to work in services within the on the Society’s capacity to provide accreditation and became a Quality The St Vincent de Paul Society believes Society or progress to open employment ongoing employment opportunities for Assured Service by meeting that creating a sense of community if they wish. people living with a disability. in a larger location in close proximity to • Held a successful Women’s Pamper benchmarks set by the Commonwealth removes the risk of social isolation which public transport. Day at Mary MacKillop Outreach with The Society’s disability services are: Key achievements 2011/12 Government. is a known factor in exacerbating mental the assistance of local beauticians, • Established an alliance with a number health issues. Services assisting people • Mary MacKillop Outreach continues • Castlereagh Industries Coonamble • Continued to provide an essential service massage therapists, yoga instructors of disability services giving the Society affected by mental health issues are: to see growing demand from licensed (State Council) to Greene Villa residents who have lived and caterers, for women otherwise the capacity to vie for larger contracts boarding houses and unlicensed • Greene Villa, Coonamble in the service for more than two decades. • Central Coast Mental Health Project unable to access these services due to (Bathurst Central Council) and jobs. The Alliance also ensures boarding houses, where large numbers (Broken Bay Central Council) illness and/or disadvantage. of people with a mental illness or • Como Social and Leisure Centre disability reside in unregistered • Celebrated 15 years of the Compeer (Sydney Archdiocese Central Council) rooming houses and other forms of low program in NSW. • Vinnies Van (Parramatta Central Council • Provided welfare assistance and income unsupported accommodation. Food and Wollongong Central Council) referral services to people experiencing • Compeer (Maitland/Newcastle and • Recruited over 130 volunteers and homelessness through the Vinnies Van Wollongong Central Councils and State Key achievements 2011/12 matched 75 people living with a Key challenges Services Coordinator in Wollongong. Council) • Provided monthly health information mental illness with a new Compeer • Meeting the growing demand on the talks to members of the Men’s Shed on volunteer including 25 friendships in • Upgraded the Orange Night Patrol Van • Illawarra Social Recreation Program The St Vincent de Paul Society provides Society’s food services especially the a range of topics important to ageing the Wollongong Central Council and to allow volunteers to provide a more (Wollongong Central Council) tens of thousands of meals across Food Vans, means that building new men at the Mary MacKillop Outreach, 20 new matches in the Maitland/ efficient service to people experiencing the State each day through homeless partnerships and attracting ongoing • Mary Mackillop Outreach (Sydney with the support of the MLC Foundation. Newcastle Central Council. homelessness. services, refuges, community support funding for these services is growing Archdiocese Central Council) • Provided computer and internet usage • Focused on augmenting partnerships centres, as well as a number of food more crucial. • Food Barn distributed over $1,750,000 Key challenges training tailored to the individual within the community, mental health specific Special Works. Food services are: worth of food, grocery and welfare • Continuing to meet the demand for • Demand on the Compeer program needs of people using Mary MacKillop services, and government and non- items at cost price to clients. • Bishop Fox Meal Centre (Wilcannia/ volunteering opportunities for the very continues to grow and exceed the Outreach and members of the Men’s government sectors in the Wollongong Forbes Central Council) popular Vinnies Vans and Night Patrol • Assisted the work of the Asylum number of volunteers. The program Shed with the assistance of Telstra Central Council Compeer programs. Services. • Breakfast Club (Maitland/Newcastle Seeker Centre (ASC) through Food supports over 240 people living with a Connected Seniors Program. • Illawarra Social Recreation Program Barn by providing access to food so mental illness; another 200 people are Central Council) Key achievements 2011/12 • Tailored community based activities has relocated to a more central location that ASC can supply regular food waiting to be matched with a Compeer • Food Barn (Sydney Archdiocese Central • Launched the Vinnies Van service at Mary MacKillop Outreach, with in Wollongong; enabling the program hampers to its clients. volunteer. Council) in Wollongong Central Council in the support of Ageing, Disability and to extend the catchment for referrals north and south of the city. • Orange Food Bank (Bathurst Central partnership with the Diocese of • Provided food, drinks and blankets • Limited funding means that the Home Care, to include library, walking, Council) Wollongong Catholic Education Office. as well as companionship to people Compeer program is stretched to recruit, swimming and gym groups. The Vinnies Van operates Monday, who are experiencing homelessness screen, train and match volunteers • Orange Night Patrol Van and Vinnies Café Wednesday and Friday evenings or social isolation through the Night particularly in regional areas and (Bathurst Central Council) visiting two sites in Warrawong and Patrol in Sydney CBD and Liverpool. shortfall areas such as male volunteers. • Vinnies Night Patrol (Sydney Wollongong. The operation will be Night Patrol provided well over 65,000 • Mary Mackillop Outreach continues to Over 45% of Australians experience a Archdiocese Central Council and expanded to the Shoalhaven area in meals and was operated by over 500 search for a new location so that it can mental illness at some point in their life Bathurst Central Council) 2012/13. volunteers who contributed over deliver better and expanded services 26,000 hours of their time.

40 Annual Report 2011/12 41 The rate of youth unemployment in Australia is well above the national average, Youth Services hitting 17.3% in late 2011.

The St Vincent de Paul Society takes • Xavier House (Sydney Archdiocese • Provided crucial access to extensive a holistic approach to youth issues, Central Council) computer facilities for young people providing a range of programs tailored to use for the preparation of resumes, • Youth Reach Brookvale (Broken Bay to the varied needs of young people. school work or job searches through Central Council) These programs provide care and Youth Reach Brookvale. support services and a range of Key challenges • Youth Reach Brookvale developed social, educational and recreational • Higher youth unemployment is leading important relationships with local opportunities to marginalised young to a significant increase in financial schools, Brookvale TAFE and people and their families. pressure on families. government agencies in order to There are many factors that compound • An increasingly unaffordable housing facilitate services for young people. the complexity of social issues Xavier House market is forcing many young people • Assisted 26 young men from regional surrounding young people: into unsafe or overcrowded housing or NSW by providing them with affordable • The latest Australian Bureau of even primary homelessness. housing allowing them to pursue Statistic figures on homelessness further education, undertake training • The complex needs of many young For many young men, converting their dream of becoming a teacher. Originally “The house mates took me out on the show that over 26,000 people aged courses or seek employment in Sydney people means services need to dreams or aspirations into reality, can be from the North Coast, the most renowned town on my first night. You become between 12-24 years of age are through Xavier House. implement new ways of building referral a difficult undertaking. For young men schools of his chosen profession were friends very quickly after that,” says Will. homeless in Australia each night. networks to assist young people. • Assisted 93 young men in the last year living in regional or remote Australia, miles away in Sydney. Most of the homeless youth aged Step inside Xavier House, and it instantly with transitioning from supported the task is even more challenging; 12–18 years in 2011 were in ‘severely’ Key achievements 2011/12 At first, Will tried to commute between feels like a home away from home. accommodation and rehabilitation compounded by high unemployment, crowded dwellings (56%) or in • Held two successful Midnight his home and Sydney, an arduous two Computers, free internet access, cable towards their goal of independent higher than usual rates of depression supported accommodation for people Basketball programs involving nearly and a half hour trip each way, every day. television, a pool table and even home living through Rendu Youth Services. and substance abuse, and a range of experiencing homelessness (28%). 200 young people in the latter half of Will’s eyes glaze over as he recalls those cooked dinners, easing the transition for other social issues. While 8% of people experiencing 2011 through Youth Reach Brookvale. • Operated the Illawarra High School commutes. “There wasn’t much to do on most young men. homelessness aged 12–18 years Support Program in three high schools Pursuing further education or employment the trips, either try and study or get some • Assisted more than 950 teenager and “The best part of the house is its location. were staying temporarily with other in the Illawarra region running activities outside of their communities is often out of restless sleep. It was a good idea to have young adult drop-ins through a number It really is just a short train ride to households, this proportion increases such as Breakfast Clubs, tutoring reach and unaffordable. For many families, a fully charged iPod,” he quips. of programs aimed at assisting youth anywhere in Sydney,” states Will. to 14% for youth aged 19–24 years. programs and fundraising for students. supporting a child in the city is impossible, with their education, exploring artistic The daily grind eventually started to as they have seen their livelihood stripped Will has now completed his teaching • One in four young people aged 16 to 24 and sporting talents and counselling impact on Will’s grades and personal from them by the devastating droughts degree and is working casual shifts in will experience mental health problems. through Youth Reach Brookvale. life, but unfortunately the cost of living and the collapse of local industries and schools around Sydney. With his own in Sydney was more than he could • The rate of youth unemployment in businesses as a consequence. determination and the help of Xavier afford. While dedicated to his dream of Australia is well above the national House, Will has well and truly left As a result, young people from these becoming a teacher, it seemed that the average, hitting 17.3% in late 2011. behind the obstacles that originally communities are often robbed of the relentless commute was pushing the Almost one in five people aged 15 to 19 stood in his way. opportunity to pursue further education dream further out of Will’s grasp. and not studying, are out of work. and employment. As for the future, an overseas trip is on This was where Xavier House stepped in, Vinnies Youth Services the agenda, before returning to work as a In Inner-Western Sydney, the St Vincent offering Will a place to stay close to his full-time teacher. • Illawarra High School Support Program de Paul Society’s Xavier House is helping University, freeing up time for study, part- (Wollongong Central Council) to relieve some of this burden by offering time work and a personal life. “I’m planning a trip to Italy with my affordable home style accommodation partner. We haven’t booked the tickets • Rendu Youth Services (Sydney Although the transition would be tough; for young men hailing from regional or yet, but we want to see the sights and Archdiocese Central Council) leaving his family behind for the first remote parts of our country. absorb the culture, then return home and time, the ambience at Xavier House and • Vinnies Lodge (Maitland/Newcastle start full time teaching.” Central Council) For Will, 22, Xavier House has made all the camaraderie with fellow housemates, the difference in helping him achieve his would make all the difference.

42 Annual Report 2011/12 43 Refugee Overseas Rural Disaster Support Partnerships Taskforce Recovery Services

In 2012 the Refugee Support Services The Overseas Partnership and Much needed relief from the financial The role of the St Vincent de Paul team moved under the management Development Committee administers and social effects of the drought came Society’s Disaster Recovery team under of Matthew Talbot Homeless Services. Key challenges • Provided 15 clients with roadworthy the Society’s assistance to some at the end of 2010. However, the effects the State Government’s Disaster Plan The service provides clients with a • Fuelling negative public perceptions bikes through the Pedal Power program overseas countries through the Twinning of flooding through rural NSW means is to provide clothing and personal broad range of client-focused support of asylum seekers as ‘queue jumpers’, that ensures an affordable means of and Assist-a-Student Programs. that the assistance required by local items such as mattresses, blankets services such as referrals and advocacy, the media fails to report that in 2011 transport. Conferences in Australia are partnered communities has been as high as ever. and toiletry packs to disaster affected employment support, recreational and Australia received less than 1% of the • 439 children and parents/carers from 34 with Conferences within the Asia/ The Rural Taskforce provides assistance people. In addition, they are responsible educational activities and case work. world’s asylum seeker applications. different nations participated in SPARK Pacific Region who support each other including food and energy vouchers, for the state-wide coordination of the through prayer, shared experiences help with medical expenses and farm donation of second-hand goods during Refugee Support Services supports over the year. They received over 11,660 • Compounding the experience of and financial donations. The Assist-a- machinery repairs. The support also times of disaster. and empowers asylum seekers and hours of educational, cultural, language isolation and fear for many asylum Student Program provides education helps rebuild communities; working refugees living in NSW. The majority and social support from 464 volunteers. As of 30 September 2012 the Society seekers is limited access to services scholarships to students in partner with them through difficult financial and of people supported are experiencing ceased to be an active partner of the and support in a culture that differs • SPARK expanded to three new primary Conferences across the Asia/Pacific. emotional times. financial hardship and are at risk of greatly from their own. schools, bringing the service to 13 Memorandum of Understanding with homelessness, living in substandard Key challenges Key challenges the State Government. The role of the • Lengthy waits for resolution of schools in total. accommodation or are actually • Communication between twin • The continued effects of a nine year Society is being absorbed by the NSW immigration status means an inability • Supported migrant and refugee parent’s homeless. Many are not eligible to Conferences is difficult because of drought and the devastating floods on Rural Fire Service, NSW State Emergency to plan for the future, a disquieting participation in school communities receive government assistance and are language barriers, incorrect contact the local community. Services and the Adventist Development experience many describe as “living through SPARK’s Family Group Program isolated and alone. details and inadequate postal systems. Relief Agency. in limbo.” which is now in eight schools and • Price increases for utilities, fuel and Over the past year, Refugee Support • Auditing and accounting for funds household expenses have caused However, the Society is firmly committed • Preserving the family unit as a support reaches 75 parents and carers. Services assisted 79 adults and 36 distributed by local Conferences to continued financial strain on families to providing long-term assistance to the mechanism remains a challenge. • In partnership with a number of children with ongoing case work, twin Conferences can at times be and farmers. many Australians affected by disasters. Unfortunately for many migrant organisations and agencies, SPARK financial assistance and advocacy. complicated. Assistance will continue to be provided • In some areas harvesting prospects and refugee families, the financial, established referral pathways, through financial and material aid, Services include: have been devastated; combined with emotional and social challenges make volunteer opportunities and facilitated Key achievements 2011/12 referrals and other services. • Vinnies Asylum Seeker Allowance it difficult for them to remain together. information sessions for new • Raised $973 through the Broken high stock prices, farmers were not able to purchase more cattle or sheep. Key challenges Program (State Council) • Housing shortages and long waits communities in Western Sydney. Hill Conference to enable the twin • Multiple natural disasters across such • Riverina Humanitarian Settlement for public housing force families to • Facilitated community-building Conference in India to build a new Key achievements 2011/12 a large area of NSW put extensive Services (Wagga Wagga Central move further west, away from their forums covering a range of settlement house for a local family. • Provided more than $350,000 in pressure on disaster relief services Council) established networks. and social issues including adult assistance to drought and flood- • Raised funds through the Nyngan meaning that demand was often education and employment pathways, affected areas across the State. • Migrant and Refugee Special Work • Some families face discrimination in Conference for a twin project in the greater than the supply of donations. understanding the Australian school (Maitland/Newcastle Central Council) the private rental market. Solomon Islands to build water tanks in • Provided financial support to small town system, family violence and positive Key achievements 2011/12 • North Coast Settlement Service a local community. businesses including corner shops and Key achievements 2011/12 parenting. (Lismore Central Council) hardware stores along with funding • Responded to 27 natural disasters • Provided financial and case work throughout NSW between June 2011 • Eastern Suburbs Migrant and Refugee • Provided 102 migrant, refugee and to schools for excursions, graduation support to asylum seekers living in the and March 2012 including multiple Service (Sydney Archdiocese Central asylum seekers with adhoc assistance ceremonies and swimming lessons. community through the Vinnies Asylum flooding incidents across NSW, Council) including employment support, Seeker Allowance program. • Distributed 70 Christmas hampers and emergency accommodation and The St Vincent bushfires in Sydney, Bathurst and the • Kingsgrove Youth Conference (Sydney toys in rural areas to families struggling South Coast, and power outages in the • Assisted an average of four clients a material assistance. de Paul Society Archdiocese Central Council) to make ends meet. Blue Mountains. week with resume writing, job market • Refugee Employment Support Service responded to 27 familiarisation and job applications • Continued support provided to people (State Council) through the Refugee Employment natural disasters in in remote and rural areas, supporting • SPARK (State Council) Support Service. NSW in 2011/12 the work of Society Conferences.

44 Annual Report 2011/12 45 The Workplace Our Employees Relations team provides support for employees, members and Workplace Relations Our Executive volunteers

create a new Workplace Relations Policy Industrial relations Michael Perusco – including currently as Director on the roles in the Human Resources, Employee numbers by and Strategy position. This position will In 2011/12 the Workplace Relations Chief Executive Officer National Seniors Australia Board and Organisational Development and more category as at 30 June 2012 be primarily responsible for enhancing team were successful in running an Michael was appointed Chief Executive Chairman of the Audit, Risk and Finance recently Information Systems and the strategic services the team will offer Committee, previously as Director of Communications functions. Dianne has No. % extensive consultation process to Officer in August 2012. Prior to joining to Central Councils and Special Works. develop a Retail and Distribution Centre the St Vincent de Paul Society, Michael Outward Board Australia and a Member worked in the NSW Public Service and Special Works 624 47.5% The priorities for this position will be the Collective Agreement which covers over had a mix of experience in the corporate, of the Finance Committee for YWCA and NSW Local Government sectors with Centres 537 40.9% development of a more extensive range 390 employees working at Vinnies Retail community and government sectors. the Royal Rehabilitation Centre Sydney. this appointment being the first in the of policies and procedures, workforce Centres. This new agreement has seen Peter holds a Bachelor of Commerce, not-for-profit sector. Dianne holds a Support staff 152 11.6% Michael was recently appointed to the planning and employee training the Society introduce Staff Development and is a Fellow of Australian Society Bachelor of Commerce and Business Total 1313 Federal Government’s Australian Institute initiatives. and Performance Reviews and more of Certified Practicing Accounts, a Administration. Dianne has recently *These figures have not been adjusted to reflect of Health and Welfare Board. Fellow of the Australian Institute of become a member of the Advisory Board full-time equivalent employees only. effective working conditions which Recruitment and Selection meet the needs of the Society and its Michael’s experience includes nine Company Directors, and an Associate for CentaCare Wilcannia/Forbes. of the Australian Chartered Institute of The Workplace Relations team provides An enhanced recruitment process was employees. years as CEO of Sacred Heart Mission, a developed in 2011/12 ensuring all Victorian organisation that works with Secretaries and Administrators. Matthew Cleary – Executive support for employees, members and Over 400 employees in the Society vacant positions, which are to be filled people experiencing homelessness. Officer, Matthew Talbot volunteers across recruitment, work are employed under the Social, for six months or more, are advertised During this period he was also Jonathan Campton – Homeless Services place safety and health, industrial Community, Home Care and Disability externally and filled through an open Chairperson of the Council to Homeless Executive Officer, Members, Matthew began working for Matthew relations, workers compensation Services Award 2010 (SCHCADS). merit process. The Society implemented Persons, the peak body for organisations Volunteers & Special Works Talbot Homeless Services as the and rehabilitation and training and The Workplace Relations team worked a process where a member of the working with people who are experiencing Jonathan has sat on various boards Executive Officer in August 2012. development. with the Central Councils and Special Society is included, where possible, on homelessness in Victoria. He has served and presently is the Secretary to the St Matthew’s role oversees 13 services Works to meet a number of requirements The St Vincent de Paul Society NSW selection panels to ensure the Mission, on the Council of Catholic Social Services Vincent de Paul Society’s new housing across NSW. Matthew previously worked under the new award that are scheduled employs a number of specialists across Vision and values of the Society is a key Victoria and as Chairperson of Australians company. He has volunteered with the for PricewaterhouseCoopers focusing to be implemented in the 2012/13 its Special Works, Central Councils, component of the selection process of for Affordable Housing. Society for over 20 years and remains an on Aboriginal Primary Healthcare for Vinnies Retail Centres and at the Charles new employees. Significant work was financial year. active member. He has been involved in the Australian Government. With a Michael also previously worked in the O’Neill State Support Office. Workplace undertaken to streamline the recruitment various advocacy campaigns, especially background in nursing, Matthew has commercial sector including KPMG and Relations manages the employee related and selection process and provide in regard to housing and cost of living worked in emergency departments in Arthur Andersen, and has worked at matters for all part-time and full-time recruitment support to Central Councils pressures. He has appeared before Sydney, remote Aboriginal communities the Department of Prime Minister and employees who work across NSW. and Special Works. various parliamentary committees in NSW and Western Australia as well as Cabinet where he was responsible for a and government committees. He has international experience with Médecins Employees are engaged in a broad range of social policy areas including worked in law, in research and advocacy. Sans Frontières in Sudan, Niger, range of areas including but not limited the social inclusion and not-for-profit Jonathan holds a Bachelor of Law/ Kurdistan, France and Somalia. Matthew to: homeless services, retail, disability reform agendas. services, youth services, fundraising, Bachelor of Science (combined) and a is currently the Chair of the Board of Bachelor of Information Systems (Hons) Directors for Médecins Sans Frontières marketing, information technology, Peter Miller – and is a Member of the Australian Australia. He holds a Masters Degree in human resources, media management, Chief Financial Officer finance, member engagement, Institute of Company Directors and a Health Services Management from the Peter is a senior finance and accounting volunteer recruitment, bequests, event Member of the Institute of Arbitrators University of Technology, Sydney. executive with extensive experience in management, property services and and Mediators Australia. financial management and control with administration. a number of leading organisations. He Dianne Lucas – Executive Note: Graham West was the Chief Review of Workplace previously held roles as Commercial Officer, Workplace Relations Executive Officer, St Vincent de Paul Relations structure Director, BP Australia; Finance Director and Systems Society NSW until August 2012. Australia & NZ, Castrol Australia; Dianne began working for the Society A review of the Workplace Relations and Group Financial Controller, AGL. in April 2012. Dianne has many years structure was conducted during 2011/12. Peter also has extensive experience experience in senior management This review highlighted the need to as a member of not-for-profit boards

46 Annual Report 2011/12 47 My lesson in humility

After more than a decade as Manager of It’s a common problem. With families Claffy House, a crisis refuge in Sydney’s already on the brink of breakdown, it is Inner West, Vivian says that she so important that we accommodate this counts herself lucky to have met some important need,” she says. incredibly strong and resilient women. The women and children that access this “These are women, who will fight to the service have experienced many forms end to protect their little ones. They have of abuse and trauma and come from all survived horrendous abuse and worry, walks of life. Violence has no socio- but are still able to smile and be thankful economic boundaries, it can and does for life,” says Vivian. affect all. Claffy House, a Special Work of the The main aim of the service is to St Vincent de Paul Society provides provide a safe, secure and nurturing accommodation and support for women environment that supports women, and children who are experiencing children and families while they address homelessness as a result of domestic and a myriad of complex issues. family violence, family breakdown and a “Getting to know the women and range of other personal issues. It is one children that come to Claffy House has of the few refuges that accommodates been my lesson in humility. There are teenage boys as part of the family unit few women who have lived here that enabling families to stay together. I don’t remember. Each has their own “Mothers would rather have their story of sadness but also of survival and family sleep in a tent or car than see it makes me so proud that the Society is their teenage sons housed elsewhere. part of their healing.”

The women and children that access this“ service have experienced many forms of abuse and trauma and come from all walks of life”

48 AnnualAnnual Report Report 2011/12 2011/12 49 49

Our Governance In September 2011 the Audit, Risk and Finance Committee was established; further improving the Society’s governance The St Vincent de Paul Society NSW is Audit, Risk and Finance by each of the members during the The Internal Audit and Risk Manager employees; reporting of identified framework. incorporated under the Roman Catholic Committee financial year was: is the Chief Audit Executive as outlined hazards through a systematic approach; Church Communities’ Lands Act 1942. The State Council on 8 September in the Institute of Internal Auditors appropriate corrective, preventative and The Society is a non-government Public 2011 formally established the Audit, Member A B – International Standards for the proactive measures being implemented; Benevolent Institution and is endorsed Risk and Finance Committee as its key Professional Practice of Internal Auditing. and monitoring of safety issues on an to access the following tax concessions: on-going basis. advisory committee for the oversight Peter Leckie (Chair) 6 6 The Internal Audit and Risk Assurance Plan GST Concession from 1 July 2005, FBT of the Society’s financial statements, identified business risks, expected internal It is the aim of the Society to have Key achievements during 2011/12 were Exemption from 1 July 2005 and Income Tony Couper 6 6 effectiveness of its internal controls and controls, risk factors and audit procedures a safety culture where among the delivery of the Society’s budget; Tax Exemption from 1 July 2000. risk management, review of project and Barry Jones * 2 2 for activities undertaken by the Society. other things: senior management the completion of the year-end audit agreement applications, compliance The Rule and International Statutes Bob Lulham * 3 4 Some of the key focus areas contained demonstrates its commitment to and consolidated statutory accounts; govern the operations of the with laws and regulations, and within the Plan include human resources safety by integrating safety and risk timely monthly reporting and analysis Peter Miller 6 6 Confederation of the St Vincent de Paul evaluation of the internal and external and payroll, workplace health and safety, management principles into decision to senior management, the Audit, Risk Society. As per Article 9 of The Rule, auditors. Its activities are governed by Richard Stewart 5 6 income and expenses, government making and operations; employees take and Finance Committee and State Councils are formed to provide a link the State Council approved Audit, Risk funding, finance, investment management, responsibility for safety by adhering Council; and the development of the key Des Goonan ^ 3 3 between Conferences and Councils and and Finance Committee Charter. compliance of internal and external to safety rules and procedures and by organisational policies of the Investment between Councils at different levels and requirements, information technology and developing and maintaining a high The current members of the Committee A - Number of meetings attended Policy, Dealing with Fraud Policy and facilitate joint action to assist the effective capital projects. During the year, internal level of risk awareness; and safe work comprise the State Council Vice-President B - Number of meetings held during the time Conflict of Interest Policy. working of Conferences and Councils. Treasurer (the Chair), the Chief Financial the Member held office during the year audits were performed in accordance with practices, processes and lessons learnt Officer, two elected State Council * appointed during the year since ARF the Plan and reports presented to the are communicated at all levels of the Code of Conduct The role of State Council members and two external members Committee established Audit, Risk and Finance Committee. organisation. The Society developed a new Code of ^ resigned during the year The NSW State Council comprises the appointed by the State Council. Safety Officers have been appointed Conduct which guides employees in President, all NSW Central Council Workplace Health and Safety appropriate standards of behaviour Key achievements 2011/12 Internal Audit and in each Central Council and training Presidents and up to five appointed The workplace health and safety of all programs are progressively being and conduct that are consistent with • Established an Internal Audit and Risk Risk Management Vice Presidents. This Council provides members, volunteers and employees of rolled out to all employees. Work the tradition, Mission and Vision of the function. overarching support for the work of the During the year State Council formally the Society and the health and safety of Health and Saftey is a standing agenda Society, as well as The Rule. It reflects established an Internal Audit and Risk Conferences, Special Works and Vinnies • Formalised the Projects and all clients, contractors and visitors is of item for both the Audit, Risk and the Society’s commitment to work Management function. The primary Retail Centres. A decision of the NSW Agreements recommendation the utmost importance. Finance Committee and State Council, together to promote a professional and State Council is binding upon all of the objective is to enhance the delivery of procedures. During the year, the Society reviewed its demonstrative of its importance. accountable work environment which Councils and Conferences within the services and operations of the Society Work Health and Safety Policy with the promotes transparency and strong, State. The NSW President also serves as • Reviewed and endorsed key policies via the coordination of risk management objective of establishing: work places Finance compassionate leadership. The Code a member of the National Council. such as the National Investment Policy activities and provision of audit services. and practices that are safe and healthy The Society’s Finance and Accounting refers to the Rule’s essential virtues and NSW Addendum, Dealing with Fraud Independent assessment of risks and On 11 July 2012, elections were held for employees, clients, customers, activities are the collaborative which include simplicity, humility, Policy and Conflict of Interest Policy. controls complements the external audit for a new State Council President. Ray contractors and others; a culture where responsibility of the State Support Office gentleness, selflessness and zeal. activities the Society already has in Reynolds was elected to a four-year • Reviewed the General and Workers there is genuine care for the welfare and the finance teams of each Central place, further strengthening the overall The Code of Conduct gives a framework term in accordance with the Rule of the Compensation insurances and made of employees, clients, customers, Council, Matthew Talbot Homeless governance framework of the Society. to employees in working with Society. At that time, the NSW State recommendations to State Council. contractors and others; and compliance Services and Ozanam Industries. The The scope of internal audit and risk colleagues, members, volunteers, Council was formally reinstated. with legislation that bears on work Accounting Network chaired by the Chief • Reviewed the budget and made management covers all operations and clients and communities. It refers to health and safety. Financial Officer and comprised of the The Chief Executive Officer is appointed recommendations to State Council. programs of the Society. the need for behaviour to be based Financial Controllers from each location, by the NSW State President and reports The Work Health and Safety Management on professionalism, transparency, • Oversaw the year-end audit, financial The activities of this function are representative Executive Officers and directly to the NSW State Council. The System established by the Society accountability, collaboration, respect, statements and cash flow forecasts. governed by the Internal Audit Charter, key finance employees from the State Chief Executive Officer is charged with will among other things facilitate: confidentiality, and compliance with and headed by the Internal Audit and Support Office, held three meetings responsibility for the overall operational The number of Audit, Risk and Finance consultation about health and safety lawful and appropriate requests. Risk Manager who reports directly to during 2011/12. management of the Society. Committee meetings held and attended issues between management and the Audit, Risk and Finance Committee.

50 Annual Report 2011/12 51 Our Fundraising and Engagement Grants The Society is continually evaluating As the demand for assistance and costs grant project outcomes and feedback of addressing complex needs continues from funders, and acknowledge the to increase, the ability of the Society increasingly competitive environment to leverage and expand relationships grant projects now face. To ensure we with funding stakeholders, both within remain at the cutting edge, the Grants the Society and through external and Foundations Officer accepted a partnerships is vital. The Society is post graduate scholarship in the Centre committed to forming partnerships with for Social Impact program at UNSW public (Government) and private (Trusts with the intention to develop the way and Foundations) bodies, to help those social impact is demonstrated and most in need achieve positive outcomes, communicated in the future. whilst maximising social impact. During the year, the Society was a The Society has developed a Grants & fortunate recipient of grant funding from Foundations Policy & Process framework a variety of sources. These funds enabled for applying for external grants. The the Society to increase and develop Society is committed to ensuring grant new, innovative opportunities to achieve funds are generated via clear strategic positive change for our clients. Details project scoping and development. of some of our successful applications include:

Funder Description Amount

Australian Government

Department of Regional Regional Development Australia $8,000,000 Australia, Regional Fund Round 1 for redevelopment of Development and Local Freeman House, Armidale, a Special Development Work operating under Matthew Talbot Homeless Services

Department of Families, FaHCSIA Mark II Grants Program and $171, 264 Housing, Community NAB and Good Shepherd Youth and Fundraising and Events Works, meant that donations from our Due to the success of the annual Vinnies Partnerships Services and Indigenous Family Service, for NSW No Interest ® With the cost of living on the rise and generous supporters, benefactors, CEO Sleepout and Hotels Have Hearts Partnerships established in the financial Affairs Loans Schemes (NILS ) increased competition for donations, the trusts and foundations and corporate Gala Dinner, the Society’s events saw year greatly contributed to help CCR financial year was a challenging one for partners were reasonably encouraging a significant increase of 20.5% on the offset fundraising and operational Department of Families, Volunteer Grants 2011 for NSW $35,000 fundraising. While the number of donations in a difficult climate. previous year. costs. The Society continued to explore Housing, Community Society Volunteers Services and Indigenous generated through the Community and The CCR team are committed to Events not only generate crucial income opportunities arising from the Vinnies Affairs Corporate Relations team decreased on offsetting costs where possible, but give the Society positive exposure CEO Sleepout and other channels. the previous year, the average donation resulting in fundraising costs being 19% and advocacy opportunities, and Partnerships with News Limited Other given to support people experiencing under budget and 8% lower than the unprecedented access to engage in ($300,000), Janssen ($150,000); Hilton disadvantage in the community increased previous year. partnerships with a range of community Sydney ($110,000); Real Estate Institute Claffy Foundation NSW Society projects to directly $361,379 during some campaigns. and corporate organisations. NSW ($33,000); Commonwealth The Society saved a significant amount Bank Australia ($30,000); Abergeldie assist people experiencing Overall, gross donations including all of funds through in-kind products and ($30,000); Nestlé ($20,000); disadvantage appeals and events were up 6% on services, free of charge advertising and Carriageworks ($15,000); iGroup the previous year. This, combined with media exposure and a range of specialist ($10,000) and many other partners NSW Community NSW Community Building $119, 442 additional funds sought directly in support from corporate and community enabled the offsetting of costs and the Building Partnerships Partnerships 2011 for community aid of specific projects for our Special partners. provision of services crucial to our works. infrastructure improvements

52 Annual Report 2011/12 53 The St Vincent de Paul Society continues to engage in media relevant to younger demographics

Bequests Media and Communications In 2012 the Bequests continue to be an important Media management was undertaken Vinnies CEO source of revenue for the Society and throughout 2011/12 with commentary Sleepout contribute significantly to the running provided on a number of issues of services and programs. During the including homelessness, cost of living generated 436 financial year, bequests income from pressures, energy costs, asylum seekers media items to generous Forever Friends and supporters and refugees, poverty in Australia, the generated $6,785,000. inadequacy of the Newstart Allowance, the value of cuts to Sole Parent payments and A number of marketing campaigns over $1.7 million dumping of non-saleable goods on the past year have seen the number of charities. confirmed bequests to the St Vincent Hotels Have Hearts Committee: John Ryan, (Ryan’s Hotel Group), de Paul Society and Matthew Talbot In 2011/12, over 300 media enquiries Stephen Harvey (Cheers Bar & Grill), Kim Maloney, Chairman (Maloney The www.ceosleepout.org.au website Hotel Corporation), Br Dan Stafford C.Ss.R. (Matthew Talbot Homeless Homeless Services increase by 50 during were received and 70 media releases Services), Jenny Farrell (Schwartz Family Co), John Lucas (John Lucas the year to a total of 886. were sent. Extensive media coverage was was also developed and optimised Hearts of Gold Hotel Management) and Martin Short (Short Corp). garnered across a number of campaigns for mobile usage. The Vinnies Retail Vinnies Retail Centres including the following: Centres website www.visitvinnies.org. Marketing au was redesigned and launched in • Vinnies CEO Sleepout 2012 generated October 2012. These platforms have They can usually be found in the training kitchen, computer lab, art studio CCR supported Vinnies Retail Centres 436 media items across television, been used to build a database of online middle of the hustle and bustle of and other engagement strategies for with State-wide marketing support over radio and print to the value of supporters. During the year monthly the hotel scene, but since 2002, a clients to begin their journey back into the the financial year. The most successful $1,792,149. The audience reach for electronic newsletters were sent to the number of NSW hoteliers have been community. In 2009, Hotels Have Hearts campaign undertaken was Vinnies Signed this campaign was 23,678,183 in total, database to ensure an ongoing dialogue. working tirelessly behind the scenes provided funding for the refurbishment of Finds, which ran in Retail Centres and peaking at an audience of 4.8 million In addition, engagement and monitoring to raise vital funds for Matthew Talbot the rooftop recreation and garden space through social media in December 2011 people on the day of the event. in NSW and February 2012 nationally. of social media including Facebook, Homeless Services, a Special Work of of the women’s and families service, Over the course of the campaign 33,000 • Christmas Appeal 2011 generated 65 Twitter, YouTube, Linkedin and Flickr was the St Vincent de Paul Society. Vincentian House. In 2010, it assisted media items across radio and print to managed by the marketing team. by funding education and recreational fans posted over 550,000 post views Through the Hotels Have Hearts Gala the value of $51,692. programs at the Ozanam Learning Centre. on Facebook. This and other locally The St Vincent de Paul Society has a Dinner, the committee has raised more run promotions accounted for a 9.5% • Signed Finds generated 20 media items number of key publications it uses to than $2 million over the past decade, This year’s Hotels Have Hearts Gala Ray Reynolds, The Hon. Barry O’Farrell MP and increase in sales over the two months across radio and print to the value of communicate with key stakeholders. which has gone towards much needed dinner raised an incredible $460,000 his wife Rosemary O’Farrell, Beverley Kerr the campaign ran and approximately $141, 238. These include the flagship publication, projects and helped the Society improve which funded food programs and the $750,000 in additional sales to Vinnies Vision, the Spiritual Reflection Guides The St Vincent de Paul Society also services to meet the complex needs of Sydney Archdiocese Central Council Retail Centres. Signed Finds was and donor newsletters, One Voice and continues to improve technology people experiencing homelessness and Night Patrol Van. recognised at the Effie Advertising Awards Frontline. CCR continues to provide platforms and engage in media relevant ensure lasting positive outcomes. and the Australian Direct Marketing design assistance to Special Works The event was attended by the industry’s to younger demographics of supporters. Awards winning several awards. and Central Councils across the State, In 2002, the first Hotels Have Hearts biggest players as well as the Premier In 2011/12 the marketing team in ensuring that all information is uniform event funded the Homereach Service, of NSW, Barry O’Farrell, Sir William conjunction with the National Website and professional. which was the precursor to today’s Deane AC KBE (Patron for Matthew Coordinator undertook important Community Support Team. In 2004 to Talbot Homeless Services) and The Hon. stakeholder research to inform the future All printed editions can be found online 2006, Hotels Have Hearts funds enabled Minister Pru Goward. direction of our national website www. at www.vinnies.org.au the Matthew Talbot Hostel Clinic to gain The event has gone from strength to vinnies.org.au. This will be rolled out in accreditation as a health service and strength and in 2010, Hotels Have Hearts 2012/13. increase their range of services. Sir William Deane won the national award for Outstanding AC KBE QC, Patron In 2007, their contribution refurbished the Community Service from the Australian of Matthew Talbot Homeless Services Activity Centre in the hostel, providing a Hotels Association.

54 Annual Report 2011/12 55 Our Supporters

IGT (International Gaming Technology) O’Mara’s Valuers & Auctioneers SME Association of Australia Thank you Inghams Enterprises Opus Group Solotel InLink OSKY Interactive Southern Cross Media Group Intense Technology OzHarvest St Albert’s College Armidale Janssen Packer Family St Scholastica’s College JP Morgan Chase Patchetts Pies St Vincent’s College 2GB Carriageworks DMG Radio Kim Waugh, Matthew Talbot Race Day Paynter Dixon Sufi Order Balmain Abergeldie Complex Infrastructure Catholic Care Doyles on the Beach Ambassador Peter Doyle @ the Quay Sydney Boys High School Aces Security Catholic Church Insurances Easton Pearson Kimberley Clark Australia Peter Switzer SydneyCare ACP CEO Forum Echo Entertainment Group Lindt & Sprungli Peter V’landys Sydney Water Ainsworth Game Technology China Doll Restaurant Elliott Turner Lindwall and Ward Printers Pfizer Australia Tabcorp AMP Chris Waller Emerald Press Lion Premier of NSW Mr Barry O’Farrell MP Telstra Aristocrat Technologies Australia Churchills Sports Bar Emirates Loretto Kirribilli Prime The Australian Government Regional Austereo Christine Page Eveleigh Market, Australian Technology Luna Park Sydney Qantas Airways Limited Development Australia Fund Australian Broadcasting Commission City of Sydney Park Macquarie Radio Qantas Foundation The Hon. Clover Moore MP Australian Hotels Association NSW Claffy Foundation Fitzco Meats Maddocks The Hon. Sir William Deane AC KBE, Gallagher Hotel Management Racing NSW Australian Stockbrokers Foundation Claude Group Patron, Matthew Talbot Homeless Manildra Group Ray Murrihy Australian Turf Club Clayton Utz George Patterson Y & R Services marie claire Ray White Double Bay Avant Card Clubs NSW GlaxoSmithKline The Marion & EH Flack Trust Mary MacKillop Foundation Real Estate Institute of NSW Bankstown City Council Coca-Cola Amatil Global Gaming Industries The Walter and Eliza Hall Trust Matthew Talbot Raceday Committee Redemptorist Monastery Bar 333 & Infusion Restaurant Commonwealth Bank Goldman Sachs JB Were The Wiggles Metcash Roche Diagnostics Bella Zanesco Photography Coolmore Australia Goldstein & Eswood Therese Rawsthorne Mikey Robins Roche Group – Hunter Valley Gardens Benjamin Andrew Footpath Library Coors Chambers Westgarth Good Shepherd Youth and Family Service Ticketmaster Moonee Valley Racing Club Rockit Advertising Beaumont Consulting Corporate Express GP Israel Diamonds Tim O’Mara Auctioneers Moving Presentations Cinematography Romance was Born Big Screen Projects Crown Street Public School Guillaume at Bennelong Tim Webster MPM Marketing Services Ross Greenwood Bigpond MSN De Bortoli Wines Halo Security Trinity Catholic College Auburn Multi Channel Network Ryan’s Hotels Bill Woods De Lorenzo Hanna Group Val Morgan National Australia Bank Samuel Smith & Son Blake Dawson Department of Education, Employment Hayman Resort Valad Property Group Nestlé Professsional Sass & Bide Bowermans Office Furniture and Workplace Relations Heckler Victoria Racing Club Network Ten Sassy Models & Promotions Bravo Coffee Department of Families, Housing, Helen Dalley Vinnies CEO Sleepout Committee Community Services and Indigenous News Limited Schwartz Family Co Brother Dan Stafford C.Ss.R Help-Portrait Australia Visy Affairs Nine MSN Schweppes Bunnings Goup Limited Her Excellency Professor Marie Bashir Wagga Wagga City Council Department of Health and Ageing AC CVO Nine Network Australia Seven Network C. Inc Whites Wires Department of Immigration and Hilton Worldwide NSW Community Building Partnerships Shad Partners Camilla & Marc Citizenship WIN His Eminence, George Cardinal Pell NSW Department of Ageing, Disability Shuffle Master Campbelltown Catholic Club Department of Trade and Investment and Home Care WN Bull Funerals HLW LMG Bottlemart Sidney Myer Foundation Captain Cook Cruises Diageo Australia NSW Department of Community Services Woolworths Limited Hotels Have Hearts Committee Sir Patrick Hogan K.N.Z.M. C.B.E. Carl Kapp Diamond Traders NSW Department of Health Yahoo 7 IBM SKY News Business Channel Carlton United Brewers Dimension Studios Nudie Foods Australia Yellow Squares iGroup

Committee

Committee

56 Annual Report 2011/12 57 Review of results government support is provided for many of our services, During the year, investments were made in long-term deposits The surplus reported by the Society of $2.910m prior to unfortunately this alone does not fully fund many of these with maturity periods up to 12 months and in accordance with Finance related party transfers for the year-ended 30 June 2012 services. The shortfall in funding of the people in need and accounting standards these were reclassified to other financial was above expectations, with a deficit budgeted for the homeless services of $32.6m is largely sustained by the Centres assets. In line with the Society’s National Investment Policy, On behalf of The St Vincent de Paul Society NSW (“the Society”) year of $4.977m. The strong result was largely due to of Charity surplus of $19.5m, net donations and appeals of funds have been spread between major financial institutions to we sincerely thank all of our supporters for their greatly valued favourable variances against budget for the following $11.2m and client contributions of $4m. Given funding from diversify risk, as well as obtain competitive interest rates. Other contributions towards our Good Works. It is our members and categories: Federal and State Government is generally provided on an notable movements in the balance sheet include the decline in volunteers, donors and sponsors, corporate partners, government annual to three year basis and subject to review there is the receivables by $12.1m due largely to the receipt of the second funders, each and every Vinnies customer and our dedicated staff Against budget Against last year risk of allocations of funding not being renewed which would last instalment from the aged care sale of $12.222m. ($’000) (%) ($’000) (%) that bring to life the mission and vision of the Society ‘offering a adversely affect the viability of those services. The Society Whilst the financial position is strong, the Society has budgeted hand-up’ to those people experiencing disadvantage. Other and works closely with Government and reports in accordance with investment income (+) 3,044 50% (+) 1,798 24% (a) capital expenditure in excess of $51m over the next 5 years the funding requirements including the provision of audited Bequests (+) 2,286 51% (-) 2,593 - 28% (b) supporting the work in the people in need and homeless Operating Results income and expenditure statements for each funded service. Government funding (+) 1,336 5% (+) 2,219 8% (c) services areas. During the year cash flows generated by The statement of comprehensive income for the financial year (e) Donations and appeals accounted for 11% of total revenues operating activities were $10.9m, up 12% on the prior year. In ended 30 June 2012 reflects a consolidated surplus of $1.766m Sales centres (+) 1,200 2% (+) 2,678 5% (d) at $13.95m, up 6% on last year. While the Society has seen the same period, payments for capital expenditure amounted to (2011: deficit of $6.489m) after transfers to related entities. Donations (+) 1,168 9% (+) 751 6% (e) some decline in the Christmas and Winter appeals, the $11.6m. Cash reserves (including long-term deposits) at the end (a) Other and investment income for the year was success of the annual Vinnies CEO Sleepout was a highlight of 30 June 2013 are forecast at $65m, although this is largely Income 2012 Use of funds 2012 significantly above budget and up on last year by $1.8m raising in excess of $1.8m which will be directed to assist our dependent on the timing of major capital works. many homeless services across the State, including Matthew or 24%. The main contributing factor was the receipt of Over the last 5 years, whilst income has increased by 29%, Talbot Homeless Services. During the year, there were also additional unbudgeted interest income of $1.6m on the expenses have increased by 42% over the same period. second last aged care sale instalment of $12.222m. Also unfortunate floods in Wagga Wagga and in and around Forbes, timing delays of major capital expenditure projects planned which saw an increase in donations in those areas. It is This trend is likely to increase as demand for our assistance to occur in 2012 financial year resulted in higher cash anticipated that donations will not increase significantly given continues to increase, and rising cost pressures impact on balances and more interest earned. It is expected that next costs of living pressures being now far wider reaching. Despite our clients as well as the Society’s operations. The Society is year other and investment income will be notably lower the strong favourable variances against budget noted above, committed to ensuring the most efficient and effective use of due to significant capital works committed, combined with the Society faces continued rising costs. funds and is actively working to expand our funding sources to 48.5% Sale of Goods 32.7% Cost of sales meet this need. 23.2% Government 28.0% Homeless & Mental Health lower interest rates being earned on term deposits. Against budget Against last year 11.4% Donations 23.0% People in need The Society has a portfolio of shares which have been 8.1% Other 13.3% Support & Other (b) Bequests for the year were significantly above budget, ($’000) (%) ($’000) (%) bequeathed from Estates. In accordance with the Society’s 5.5% Bequests 2.3% Fundraising although well down on prior period by $2.6m or 28%. The Operating expenses (-) 1,931 -9% (-) 2,252 -11% 3.3% Contributions 0.7% Other Investment policy, these are either sold or held for long-term Society is very fortunate to be the recipient at times of Repairs and maintenance (-) 619 -21% (+) 149 4% much valued bequests from estates, however given their with dividend income received. On an annual basis a fair Client expenses (-) 453 -3% (-) 1,027 -6% Five-year financial results summary uncertain nature it is difficult to budget for their receipt, value exercise is performed with gains or losses recognised in * note negative variances mean above budget or last year. reserves, and any impairment losses recognised. 5 year % therefore a 5 year average is used. Bequests account Income (‘$000) 07/08 08/09 09/10 10/11 11/12 change for 6% of total revenues, although the Society is very In the current year a fair value loss on shares was recognised in Donations & appeals 14,036 13,750 12,750 13,199 13,950 -1% cautious not to become reliant upon these funds. It is The combined cost of people in need, homeless and mental reserves of $150,594. Bequests 4,607 5,150 7,258 9,378 6,785 47% possible over the longer term that there will be a decline health services for 2012 was $61m, up 4% on last year. These The Audit, Risk and Finance Committee continues to assist Sale of goods & other 46,229 52,387 55,192 57,049 59,519 29% of giving in this area, which will naturally have a notable services are primarily funded by government, surpluses the Society’s State Council in oversight of the reliability of the Government funding 18,057 22,542 24,207 26,208 28,427 57% impact on the Society’s financial position. generated by our Centres and donations and appeals. financial statements, effectiveness of internal controls, risk Client contributions 3,017 3,785 4,151 3,958 4,042 34% (c) Sales from Centres of charity and others continue People in need services costs increased by 6% against the management, project and agreements reviews, and evaluation Other 9,207 8,632 5,989 7,816 9,912 8% to represent the most significant contribution to total prior period to $27.5m or 23% of total expenditure. Direct of the external auditors and internal audit function. Total income 95,153 106,246 109,547 117,608 122,635 29% revenues at 49% (2011: 49%). Sales from Centres were up client support costs for the year was $17.3m, up 6% on last Auditor’s Independence Declaration on last years results by $2.69m or 5%. Whilst challenges year and 3% up on budget. Demand for assistance continues to Use of funds ($’000) exist such as increasing competition and generally soft increase as cost of living pressures grow, particularly in areas of The auditor, Grant Thornton Audit Pty Ltd has confirmed their Fundraising costs 2,777 3,364 2,702 2,953 2,723 -2% retail conditions, Vinnies Centres collectively continue electricity, rent and food assistance. We anticipate at least a 5% independence for the year ended 30 June 2012. Cost of sales 29,789 33,600 35,360 37,268 39,184 32% to perform above expectations, at 2% above budget. increase in client support costs in 2013 financial year. People in need 20,426 24,666 25,644 25,901 27,538 35% Initiatives such as ‘Styled By Vinnies’ and ‘Signed Finds’ Homeless and mental health services costs increased by 2.5% Homeless & have been implemented to engage public interest, as well mental health 21,550 27,685 30,586 32,717 33,532 56% as promotion of the environmental benefits of buying on last year to $33.5m, representing 28% of total expenditure. The need for these essential services is clear as unfortunately Support costs & other 9,513 11,256 12,878 13,947 15,919 67% pre-loved items. The surplus funds for the year generated the numbers of those facing financial hardship continues to rise. Other - 696 231 740 829 100% by the Centres of $19.5m are vital in supporting the As noted before, government funding received is vital to the delivery of our many Good Works. Over 8000 volunteers Peter Leckie Peter Miller Total expenditure 84,055 101,267 107,401 113,526 119,725 42% ongoing viability of these services, however there is a notable assisted Society Centres throughout the year, making an Vice President - Treasurer Chief Financial Officer Surplus prior to transfers invaluable contribution. funding shortfall in these areas sustained by income generated to related entities 11,098 4,979 2,146 4,082 2,910 in other areas. Dated this 21st day of November 2012 % spent on delivery (d) Government funding accounted for 23% of total of services 85.4% 84.9% 85.3% 84.5% 83.7% revenues at $28.4m, up 8% on last year. During the Maintaining a strong and sustainable financial position Refer to detail in Annual Report for further information and www.vinnies.org.au % spent on support year an unbudgeted grant was received from the The Society is fortunate to be in a sound financial position with & fundraising 14.6% 14.4% 14.5% 14.9% 15.6% Regional Development Australia Fund relating to the net assets at 30 June 2012 of $377m. The main components of % of fundraising $18m redevelopment of Freeman House in Armidale, of this being property of $234m, cash and equivalents of $56m costs to donations 14.9% 17.8% 13.5% 13.1% 13.1% which $862k was recognised in 2012. While significant and long-term deposits of $62m. * 2008 figures exclude Canberra Goulburn Central Council

58 Annual Report 2011/12 59 Statement of comprehensive income Statement of financial position Statement of cash flows For the year ended 30 June 2012 As at 30 June 2012 For the year ended 30 June 2012 Declaration by 2012 2011 2012 2011 2012 2011 the NSW State $ $ $ $ $ $ Revenue and other income Assets Cash flows from operating activities Council Fundraising: Current assets Receipts from: For the year ended 30 June 2012 Donations and appeals 13,949,776 13,199,128 Cash and cash equivalents 56,244,596 101,554,459 Donations and appeals 13,953,776 13,199,128 The Council has determined that the Bequests 6,784,826 9,378,303 Trade and other receivables 14,267,547 14,533,078 Society is a reporting entity and that Bequests 6,784,826 9,378,303 Sale of goods - Other financial assets 59,495,718 - this general purpose financial report be centres of charity 57,546,664 54,868,475 Government funding prepared in accordance with the accounting Inventories 947,863 1,016,809 and grants 31,030,673 28,828,741 policies described in Note 1 to the financial Sale of goods - other 1,971,883 2,180,102 Other assets 868,372 719,829 Client contributions 4,042,426 3,958,125 statements. Government funding 28,427,052 26,207,946 Total current assets 131,824,096 117,824,175 Sale of goods 59,798,356 56,994,438 The Council of the Society declare that in Client contributions 4,042,426 3,958,125 their opinion: Dividend income 665,100 822,247 Investment income 8,079,818 6,110,129 a) The attached financial statements and Non-current assets Interest income 7,414,718 4,795,359 notes thereto comply with accounting Other income 1,362,074 1,533,445 Trade and other receivables 382,298 12,233,087 Other income 1,712,611 1,585,697 standards Net gain on disposal b) The attached financial statements and of fixed assets 470,502 172,047 Other financial assets 6,613,858 7,322,941 Payments to clients, suppliers and employees (114,499,510) (109,882,376) notes thereto give a true and fair view of Revenue and other income 122,635,021 117,607,700 Property, plant and equipment 256,413,502 254,044,783 the financial position as at 30 June 2012 Net cash flows from Intangible assets 799,949 1,153,706 and the performance of the Society for the operating activities 10,902,976 9,679,662 year then ended. Fundraising costs (2,722,900) (2,953,032) Total non-current assets 264,209,607 274,754,517 c) There are reasonable grounds to believe Cost of sales - Total assets 396,033,703 392,578,692 Cash flows from the Society will be able to pay its debts as investing activities centres of charity (38,005,711) (36,322,213) and when they become due and payable. Proceeds from sale of Cost of sales - other (1,178,784) (945,894) Liabilities Signed in accordance with a resolution of the property, plant and equipment 14,755,166 17,875,806 NSW State Council. People in need services (27,537,859) (25,901,349) Current liabilities Proceeds from On behalf of the NSW State Council. Homeless & mental Trade creditors and long-term deposits - 3,000,000 health services (33,532,125) (32,717,384) other payables 9,338,329 8,211,916 Investments in Support costs and other (15,919,207) (13,946,737) Borrowings 138,181 84,738 long-term deposits (58,995,718) - Impairment losses Provisions 7,579,282 6,960,217 Payments for property, recognised on fixed assets (745,691) - plant and equipment (11,634,219) (19,124,741) Total current liabilities 17,055,792 15,256,871 Ray Reynolds Net loss on disposal Proceeds from sale of President, NSW State Council of fixed assets (82,997) (739,574) available-for-sale investments 62,965 (143,226) Dated this 21st day of November 2012 Expenditure (119,725,274) (113,526,183) Non-current liabilities Payments for available-for-sale investments (4,476) Provisions 1,348,541 1,308,305 Net cash flows (used in)/ Surplus for the year 2,909,747 4,081,517 Total non-current liabilities 1,348,541 1,308,305 from investing activities (55,816,282) 1,607,839 Transfers to related entities (1,143,299) (10,570,277) Total liabilities 18,404,333 16,565,176 Net surplus/(deficit) for the year 1,766,448 (6,488,760) Cash flows from Net Assets 377,629,370 376,013,516 financing activities Loans provided (500,000) - Other comprehensive Income Loan repayments received 50,000 - Net changes in fair value Funds of available-for-sale Net cash flows used Funds for social programs 377,567,798 375,801,350 financial assets (150,594) 148,252 in financing activities (450,000) - Investments revaluation reserve 61,572 212,166

Total comprehensive Total Funds 377,629,370 376,013,516 Net (decrease)/increase income for the year 1,615,854 (6,340,508) in cash and cash equivalents (45,363,306) 11,287,501 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 101,469,721 90,182,220 Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 56,106,415 101,469,721

60 Annual Report 2011/12 61

 

 

Auditor’s Report 

Grant Thornton Audit Pty Ltd ACN 130 913 594 

Level 17,Grant 383 KentThornton Street Audit Pty Ltd Sydney NSWACN 130 2000 913 594 PO Locked Bag Q800 QVB PostLevel Office 17, 383 Kent Street   Sydney NSWSydney 1230 NSW 2000  PO Locked Bag Q800 T +61 2 8297QVB Post2400 Office  F Sydney NSW 1230 +61 2 9299 4445   E [email protected] +61 2 8297 2400 W  www.grantthornton.com.auF +61 2 9299 4445  E [email protected]  W www.grantthornton.com.au    Independent Auditor’s Report on the  Summary Financial  Statements    Grant Thornton Audit Pty Ltd To The Trustees of the Society of St Vincent de Paul (NSW) The potential misstatement of the auditedACN financial 130 report 913 594is The accompanying summary financial statements, which comprises described in our qualified audit opinion in our report dated 21 the summary statement of financial position as at 30 June 2012, November 2012. Our qualified audit opinionLevel is based 17, 383on the Kent Street  the summary statement of comprehensive income and summary completeness of revenues from DonationsSydney & Appeals NSW and from 2000 PO Locked Bag Q800 cash flow statement for the year then ended, related notes and Sale of Goods – Centres of Charity. Cash from donations and other the responsible officers’ declarations, are derived from the audited fundraising activities is a significant sourceQVB of revenue Post Officefor the  Sydney NSW 1230 financial report of The Trustees of the Society of St Vincent de Paul Society. The Society acknowledges the importance of a strong control (NSW) (“the Society”) for the year ended 30 June 2012. We expressed environment and has implemented a number of controls to safeguard T +61 2 8297 2400 a qualified audit opinion on that financial report in our report dated at best and practically the collection of cash donations and revenue  F +61 2 9299 4445 21 November 2012. Those financial reports, and the summary from the sale of donated goods, although theE [email protected] difficulty in achieving financial statements, do not reflect the effects of events that occurred control over the completeness of revenuesW at their source prior to Contacts  www.grantthornton.com.au subsequent to the date of our report on that financial report. entry into the financial records is recognised. Accordingly, as the   evidence available to us regarding revenue from these sources was The summary financial statements do not contain all the disclosures  limited, our audit procedures with respect to such revenues had to required by Australian Accounting Standards (including the Australian  be restricted to the amounts recorded in the financial records. We Charles O’Neill State Lismore Central Council Wagga Wagga Central Council Accounting Interpretations) and self-imposed national reporting Support Office   therefore are unable to express an opinion as to whether revenues PO Box 660, Lismore 2480 PO Box 356, Wagga Wagga 2650 requirements of the confederation of State and Societies. Reading from Donations & Appeals and from Sale of Goods – Centres of PO Box 5, Petersham NSW 2049 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] the summary financial statements, therefore, is not a substitute for  Charity are complete. Our qualified audit opinion states that, except Email: [email protected] Ph: 02 6621 5835 Ph: 02 6971 7175 reading the audited financial report of the Society.  for the effects, if any, of the described matter, the financial report  Ph: 02 9568 0262 Fax: 02 6621 9636 Fax: 02 6971 7188 Responsibility of the Trustee for the financial report presents fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the  Fax: 02 9550 9383 The Trustees of the Society are responsible for the preparation and Society as at 30 June 2012, and its financial performance and its cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with Australian Maitland/Newcastle Wilcannia/Forbes fair presentation of the summary financial report. Armidale Central Council Accounting Standards. Central Council Central Council Auditor’s responsibility PO Box 267, Armidale 2350 PO Box 64, Islington 2296 PO Box 997, Parkes 2870 Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the summary financial  Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] statements based on our procedures, which were conducted in  Ph: 02 6772 1785 Ph: 02 4967 6277 Ph: 02 6862 5758 accordance with Auditing Standard ASA 810: Engagements to Report  on Summary Financial Statements. Fax: 02 6772 5772 Fax: 02 4967 6233 Fax: 02 6862 5450  Independence GRANT THORNTON AUDIT PTY LTD Bathurst Central Council In conducting our audit, we have complied with the applicable Chartered Accountants Parramatta Central Council Wollongong Central Council independence requirements of the Accounting Professional and  PO Box 8317, East Orange 2800 PO Box 573, Wentworthville 2145 PO Box 5259, MintoBC 2566 Ethical Standards Board.  Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Ph: 02 6362 2565 Ph: 02 9689 1900 Ph: 02 9820 8223 Qualified Auditor’s opinion In our opinion, the summary financial statements derived from the Fax: 02 6362 2830 Fax: 02 9689 3032 Fax: 02 9820 9058 audited financial report of the Society are consistent, in all material A J Archer respects with that audited financial report. However, the summary  Broken Bay Central Council  Director - Audit & Assurance Services Sydney Archdiocese financial statements are potentially misstated as described in the PO Box 1426, Chatswood 2057 Central Council Grant Thornton Australia Limited is a member firm within Grant Thornton International Ltd. Grant Thornton International Ltd and the member firms are not a worldwide partnership. Grant Thornton Australia Limited, together audited financial reportwith of its the subsidiaries Society and related for entities,the year deliver sended its services 30 independently June 2012. in Australia. Sydney, 21 November 2012  Email: [email protected] PO Box 266, Auburn 1835 Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation Ph: 02 9415 1492 Email: [email protected]

 Fax: 02 9415 3193 Ph: 02 9350 9600 Grant Thornton Australia Limited is a member firm within Grant Thornton International Ltd. Grant Thornton International Ltd and the member firms are not a worldwide partnership. Grant Thornton Australia Limited, together Fax: 02 9748 1676 with its subsidiaries and related entities, delivers its services independently in Australia.  Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation 



62 Annual Report 2011/12 63

 Grant Thornton Australia Limited is a member firm within Grant Thornton International Ltd. Grant Thornton International Ltd and the member firms are not a worldwide partnership. Grant Thornton Australia Limited, together with its subsidiaries and related entities, delivers its services independently in Australia. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation

Street address: Charles O’Neill State Support Office, 2c West Street, Lewisham NSW 2049 Mailing address: PO Box 5, Petersham NSW 2049 Phone: (02) 9568 0262 Email: [email protected]