Community Report 2014/2015

COMMUNITY K ARI REPORT 2014/2015

1 2 CONTENTS

KARI VISION AND MISSION STATEMENTS 4

CHAIRPERSON REPORT 5

CEO REPORT 6

BOARD OF MANAGEMENT 8

OUR SERVICES STRUCTURE 10

OUR SERVICES 11

OUR VALUES AND STANDARDS 12

OUT OF HOME CARE PROGRAM (OOHCP) 14

BRIGHTER FUTURES 27

COMMUNITY PROGRAMS 32

BROADER COMMUNITY PROGRAMS 36

FAMILY SUPPORT PROGRAM 42

SPONSORSHIP AND COMMUNITY GRANTS 44

FUNDING AND PARTNERSHIPS 45

3 OUR VISION OUR MISSION

WHAT WE SEE FOR THE FUTURE Flourishing Aboriginal families, youth and communities.

WHAT WE ARE HERE TO DO Building strength in families and services.

OUR STATEMENT KARI is committed to providing quality, sustainable services to OF COMMITMENT Aboriginal communities, especially in the areas of Aboriginal child TO THE COMMUNITY protection and Aboriginal community support programs. We will continue to seek further opportunities to expand programs and our service capacity. We will continue to develop local partnerships with our key stakeholders to enhance our resources and service delivery. We will endeavour to deliver all our programs in a culturally appropriate manner and promote the ideals of self-determination. The service will conduct itself in a professional manner, and deliver programs that are of a high standard and deliver good outcomes. This will be achieved by adhering to quality policies and procedures, good recruitment practices, staff support, involving community, maintaining partnerships and open communication.

4 CHAIRPERSON REPORT

It has been a very good year for KARI, one highlighted by service growth challenges and by service achievements. It has also been a year where we decided to consolidate our position around Out of Home Care transitioning and a continuance in providing a quality foster care support program for our children and young people. I would like to congratulate all of the KARI staff for their inspirational and exceptional work achieved in the areas of foster care support, community programs, early intervention and prevention, brighter futures as well as clinical and cultural support. Our holistic approach to servicing our community truly provides great results in assisting all sections of our community and this is the model that we will continue to develop and deliver into the future. I would like to congratulate our senior management team in all locations for their high level leadership and commitment to the service. I make special mention of wonderful work done by our foster carers in supporting our children and young people in foster care. Finally, I would like to thank my fellow Board members for your dedication and great contribution to KARI. I am very excited about the year ahead as I am certain that it will be filled with more great challenges and equally more great achievements. I am very confident that our Board and staff are well up to the challenges that lay ahead, therefore reaffirming our position as being leaders in the field of Indigenous community engagement and servicing.

Gary Potts Chairperson

5 CEO REPORT

2014/2015 proved yet again to be another exceptional year for KARI in terms of service growth and service branding. We are well on track with our plans to expand our programs and services in our newest locations, Penrith and Rosebery. A priority for the coming year will be to ensure that our business infrastructure and service systems are at a high level in preparation for the next big service growth challenge. We will continue the practice of recruiting quality people to the service, as well as providing important training and development opportunities for all staff. This investment in our staff is seen to be an investment into the future. I would like to acknowledge the support provided to me during the year by the KARI Board of Management, and in particular the Chairperson Gary Potts. I would also like to acknowledge the hard work achieved by our Chief of Operations, Casey Ralph and her expert team in delivering such a high quality Out of Home Care Program as well as other important programs and services. In closing, I would like to sincerely thank all of our wonderful foster carers for their great commitments to our children in care. I want to personally thank all of our staff in all locations for a job well done, and finally I would like to pay tribute to our excellent service Ambassadors, sponsors and community partners for their great support during the year. Yours Sincerely,

Paul Ralph Chief Executive Officer

6 7 BOARD OF MANAGEMENT PROFILES

GARY POTTS ISABELLE PHILLIPS ANNE MARTIN CHAIRPERSON DIRECTOR DIRECTOR Gary is a Wiradjuri Man from Parkes Isabelle is the founder and Managing Born at La Perouse in Sydney, NSW, however he spent most of his Director of Mackerel Sky – Leadership Anne has held a range of senior life in Campbelltown NSW. He is a Matters. She has an undergraduate public and non-government sector proud father and grandfather, and a degree in adult education majoring in roles across Indigenous affairs, devoted husband to his loving wife human resource development, post including State Manager for ATSIC Debbie. Gary has been involved in graduate studies in linguistics, and is and Senior Advisor to the Chair. Aboriginal Affairs since 1992, and completing a PhD bringing together Anne has always placed an has held a number of positions on the fields of positive psychology and emphasis on the health and several boards and committees in the leadership. Isabelle is an experienced wellbeing of Aboriginal youth, and Campbelltown/Liverpool areas. Gary and accredited coach and trains has been instrumental in establishing is currently employed with the NSW coaches around Australia, in New innovative education programs that Dept. of School Education where Zealand, Singapore and China. operate both nationally and locally. he holds an important Aboriginal Isabelle started her career in Specialist position. Both Gary and Anne has also worked on programs education, working first with Debbie are current foster carers, in South Africa, Israel, New Zealand children at Redfern Primary School, and both know first-hand the many and Canada. Currently, Anne is and then with migrants and refugees trials and tribulations associated with the Co-Chair of the National NAIDOC in Fairfield and Cabramatta. Prior to being a foster carer. Gary is honoured Committee. starting Mackerel Sky – Leadership to be the Chairperson of KARI and Matters, Isabelle worked for Vedior; sees the service as being a leader in the the world’s third largest human area of Aboriginal child protection, capital company, running HR and prevention and community capacity Talent Management consulting building. businesses for the Eastern seaboard of Australia. Today her consulting business primarily designs and runs leadership development programs for government, corporates and the NFP sector. Her pro bono work involves coaching prisoners. Isabelle is the adoring parent of two gorgeous children who adopted her as their mum when they were three. 8 BOARD OF MANAGEMENT PROFILES

NICOLA MICALLEF GEORGE VILLAFLOR PAUL RALPH DIRECTOR DIRECTOR CEO – DIRECTOR (APPOINTED 1ST DECEMBER 2014) Born in Queensland, George is a Paul is a founding member of Nicola was born in Canberra ACT descendant of the Wagiman peoples KARI and the current CEO. A and is a descendant of the Yuin (NT). He spent his early childhood in proud Aboriginal man with family people. Nicola has been exposed Darwin at the former police paddocks connections on the north and south to Indigenous affairs from an early which is now known as Stuart Park. coasts of NSW, Paul has spent 35 age through her grandparents’ Whilst not stolen, he spent time at years living in Gandangara Country, involvement in managing an a stolen children’s home – Retta located in south-west Sydney. Over Aboriginal hostel in Darwin, and Dixon in Darwin, before moving the years, Paul has worked across by her mother already being well to Queensland where he played A a number of important Aboriginal entrenched in Indigenous affairs grade rugby league. portfolios specific to employment through Indigenous education. outcomes, housing, education and George became involved with Land human services. This experience When the family moved to Sydney, Rights in the 80’s with the Alice has enabled him to travel to many Nicola continued on with her studies Springs-based National Federation Aboriginal communities across and in time went on to become of Land Councils before working Australia and see first-hand the a proud School Captain, House for the North Queensland Land many social issues that affect Captain and a member of the La Council. He was the CEO of the first Aboriginal people but at the same Perouse Dance Troupe. Cape York Aboriginal legal service time be privileged to see the diversity in the late 80s, and was admitted Nicola has 10 years of frontline and resilience of the world’s oldest as a barrister to the Supreme Court experience working in customer culture. of Queensland and the High Court. service and administration practices He has worked in Aboriginal and Since 1999 Paul has been committed with the Commonwealth Bank and Torres Strait Islander child care to working exclusively in the is now employed in a State public protection in New South Wales, Aboriginal community sector, and service department. Queensland and currently in the has found this to be the most Nicola is happily married and is Australian Capital Territory. George is challenging and exciting time of the proud mother of two children, actively involved in his local Canberra his professional career. Paul is Alexander and Eve. In the future primary school as Chair of the Board. now committed to assisting his Nicola has made a strong commitment He is not formally practising law. community for the remainder of to support her community where his professional career. possible, especially in the areas of Indigenous child protection and education. 9 SERVICES STRUCTURE

KARI BOARD OF MANAGEMENT

KARI TEAM

KARI PROGRAMS

PROGRAM SYSTEMS & NETWORKING FUNDING MANAGEMENT INFRASTRUCTURE

10 OUR SERVICES

WE RECRUIT, PREVENTION COMMUNITY PROGRAMS INITIATIVES TRAIN AND Our prevention services target Aboriginal youth, families, groups Our community programs target SUPPORT QUALITY and communities. We co-ordinate Aboriginal youth, families, groups ABORIGINAL PEOPLE programs and initiatives that are and businesses. We co-ordinate IN THE FOSTER culturally appropriate and responsive programs and initiatives that are in building capacity in individuals, not only culturally significant, CARE ROLE. families and communities. Our but also create opportunity and services and initiatives are developed benefit Aboriginal people and our and delivered by expert staff with the community. Many programs are ABORIGINAL FOSTER CARE ability to engage and assist clients in centred on education, or support We co-ordinate the delivery of a all circumstances. families or community unity. We will full case management model to our continue to implement programs or children and young people in care. initiatives that address self-esteem, We recruit, train and support quality ABORIGINAL ADVOCACY self-determination or personal and Aboriginal people in the foster We continue to provide an community development. care role. We provide placement advocacy support role to our opportunities for Aboriginal children community to ensure they are from birth to 18 years for medium, assisted in an appropriate manner. long-term or respite care. Our service We will advocate in a positive delivery area covers the south-west and professional manner on any and metropolitan west areas of matters or issues relevant to Sydney. improving better outcomes for Aboriginal people. PARTNERSHIP EXPLORATION Where possible, we will seek PROMOTING COMMUNITY opportunities to develop key CULTURAL AWARENESS relationships with a variety of Where appropriate, we will ensure corporates, agencies, funding bodies that cultural awareness is prevalent or groups in an effort to provide within our service model. We will better outcomes for our clients and always proudly promote local community. We will value and respect Aboriginal culture, history and Local Elder Uncle Ivan Wellington good partnerships with Aboriginal values through the co-ordination presents Veronica Kinchela with an and non-Aboriginal connections, of, or participation in community Education Award however, we will always ensure that events, service promotion, service Aboriginal people and Aboriginal literature and service delivery. Where culture is never compromised. possible, we will display local culture throughout our service resources, and will support local artists to ensure local culture remains prominent within our community. 11 OUR VALUES AND STANDARDS

COURTESY AND RESPECT Your views and needs are important to us, and in return you can expect our respect, professionalism, objectivity and confidentiality. You will be assisted by a polite, responsive and knowledgeable employee.

FAIRNESS Our services will be objective irrespective of the role you play in the services activities, and regardless of culture, race, colour, origin, sex, religion, age, disability, political beliefs and marital or familial status.

CLARITY We will clearly explain to you what we do, how our programs work and who to contact for further assistance. If our information is unclear, tell us so we can make it clearer for you.

ACCESSIBILITY We are available to serve you and talk to individuals and organisations about our programs. Just contact us for an appointment by letter, phone, e-mail or fax.

RESPONSIVENESS We will continue to seek your views, attempt to address your needs and take action based on them where appropriate. If you are not satisfied with any aspect of our service, programs or initiatives, tell us so we can continue to improve.

ADVOCACY We will always endeavour to advocate on behalf of our children in care, our foster carers and Aboriginal community where appropriate and possible. Our advocacy will ensure that Aboriginal views, concerns and feelings are heard and acknowledged.

12 13 OOHC PROGRAM

As one of the largest Aboriginal OOHC providers in the state, we negotiated IT WAS A VERY further growth plans with the south-west Sydney and Western Sydney Districts, EVENTFUL YEAR which saw our existing service delivery grow significantly across the year. The FOR THE OUT exciting addition this year was the establishment of our Rosebery office and the placement of 30 children and young people to this office, further strengthening OF HOME CARE our position within the sector as one of the largest Aboriginal OOHC providers PROGRAM WITH across the nation. THE TRANSITION The transition process has been successfully implemented by all sub-programs OF CHILDREN AND within the OOHC program. There has been overwhelming enthusiasm from external carers wanting to transition over to KARI, and we have worked hard to CARERS FROM achieve these transitions where possible. In total we transitioned well over 50 THE GOVERNMENT children and young people across to us this year. SECTOR OUT TO THE We will continue to work closely with Family and Community Services in the coming years to ensure that many more Aboriginal children and young people are NON-GOVERNMENT transitioned into our care, whereby they will be supported holistically by both the SECTOR CONTINUING case management and cultural wrap-around services provided by KARI. IN LINE WITH STATE- Aside from the transition, each year the OOHC team strives to deliver a number WIDE TARGETS. of program initiatives for carers, their families, and the many children and young people in KARI care. The purpose of these initiatives is to bring together all key stakeholders of the OOHC Program to celebrate culture, community, and the many successes that were achieved throughout the course of the year. Following is an overview of the programs and initiatives offered in the 2014/2015 financial year.

14 OOHC PROGRAM

CASE MANAGEMENT is confident that the team are on track in regard to maintaining The management team have accredited standards. worked very hard to ensure that the quality of case management As always, the team are very provision is at an all-time high in this committed to ensuring that all last 12 months. Current practices Aboriginal children that enter were reviewed across all core case our care have the best possible management areas and new systems opportunity to return to family, implemented to streamline processes or at least to extended family or and support casework staff. These community connections. This year changes were well received, and we saw 13 children and young the outcomes generated were people successfully restored to largely positive. Internal file audits family placements. All of these have demonstrated an overall children were restored or placed improvement in the documenting with kinship options prior to any final and recording of relevant order being made. information. OOHC management

15 OOHC PROGRAM

CHRISTMAS CAROLS CARER AWARDS The 2014 Christmas Carols event As with previous years, the was the biggest and best event to highlight of the OOHC calendar date. There was an overwhelming in 2014 was undoubtedly the Carer response from those invited with Awards events. almost every KARI carer and child The south-west Sydney office Carer in care attending. Great effort Awards evening was held in August went into turning the YMCA Whitlam 2014 at the Campbelltown Catholic Our Christmas wonderland Centre Hall in to a mystical winter Club. The western Sydney office wonderland. Carer Awards evening was held Numerous activities were facilitated in September 2014 at the Penrith by KARI staff and external service Paceway Function Centre. The providers to engage and entertain purpose of the Carer Awards is to those both young and old, including provide the platform to acknowledge jumping castles, arts and craft the hard work and commitment of activities, face painters, air brush our valued carers. tattooists, balloonists and the ever On the night a number of awards popular photo booth experience. were distributed, including The most magical moment of the acknowledging carers for their evening is the Christmas carols efforts in regards to training, segment. Performed by a merry recruitment of carers and years group of carollers, children and of service. The major awards adults alike were merrily singing however were given to carers via and dancing to various Christmas means of nomination from children, tunes in an enchanting display of staff or KARI Board of Management. Christmas spirit. These activities paled All award recipients received a glass in comparison to the excitement plaque, flowers, framed certificate generated from the arrival of Santa and gift as a sign of gratitude and his elves to distribute his many and congratulations. presents. All carers were entertained by the comedic talents of magician Jack Black and performances from two different Aboriginal dance groups on the night.

16 OOHC PROGRAM

BIG DAY OUT CARER TRAINING In late 2014 the KARI OOHC team KARI carers have embraced the purchased tickets for carers and opportunities afforded to them to children to attend Disney on Ice attend further training to up skill at Acer Arena. The theme of the and expand their knowledge base. Disney production was Disney The OOHC program has a blanket Princesses with many of our rule that all carers must attend children embracing the spirit of at least two training workshops KARI CEO Paul Ralph with award the event by coming dressed annually and in the past year we recipient Kate Young as their favourite character. have seen an increase in numbers of carers attending training with In early 2015 the KARI OOHC positive results. team invited all carers and children to a whole of day experience at In order to support carers in achieving Featherdale Wildlife Park. The Big Day their minimum training standards, Out initiative provides the opportunity KARI has joined forces with Carers for all carers and kids to come Connect who offer a range of training together in a relaxed environment workshops to carers at nil cost. for a day of interactive learning Across 2014/2015 KARI invested experiences and most importantly internally to design, develop and the opportunity to connect with one facilitate a number of in-house another and network. There were training packages. These programs over 300 people in attendance at and workshops were largely driven this year’s event with all feedback and facilitated by both the Cultural indicating that this initiative is much Unit and KARI Clinic divisions. loved and appreciated. These programs have been very well received by carers with high attendance in all in-house training programs delivered. It is the intention of management to develop further training packages and offer a KARI calendar of training in the coming financial year.

17 OOHC PROGRAM

CARER RECRUITMENT who had a nominated respite carer that could support the family and The 2014/2015 financial year for provide those necessary breaks that the Carer Recruitment team has a family needs. To date more than a been overly successful. The team third of our long-term carers have a grew in size to now consist of nominated respite carer attached to three Assessment Officers, a Carer their service provision. Support Officer and Program The KARI stall during NAIDOC Team Leader. During the past year the team has Week 2015 been busy getting out into the Unlike other agencies, KARI’s community promoting the KARI Carer Recruitment team have had brand. Various marketing strategies a constant flow of enquiries from were used to gain interest including Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal networking with other agencies, community members across the advertising across a number of Sydney metropolitan region to mediums and attending numerous become foster carers. A high number events including Yabun, Sorry Day, of these enquiries have gone on to KARI’s Community Unity Day, a complete the assessment process host of NAIDOC events and many and become full time authorised more local events across the districts carers. The Carer Recruitment team’s we service. effort in recruiting a high number of Aboriginal carers during the year The 2015/2016 financial year for means that KARI has been able to the Carer Recruitment team will not only meet our contract numbers, be exciting as they will be working but also place Aboriginal children in closely with KARI’s Clinic team loving and caring homes with high to compliment the current carer quality carers. training package that is delivered to all potential carers. The Carer In 2015 as part of our strategy to Recruitment team will also be support and ensure sustainability working with our current pool of for our carers, the team had a focus carers to increase the percentage of on increasing the number of carers nominated respite carers.

18 OOHC PROGRAM

CULTURAL UNIT The Cultural Liaison Officers continue to nurture and maintain the cultural The 2014/2015 financial year saw connections to land and family for our exciting times for the Cultural Unit. children and young people in KARI’s With the growth of the organisation OOHC Program through cultural care and the growing need to develop planning. To enhance the cultural more culturally enriched programs capacity of carers to support children for our children and young people and young people in KARI’s OOHC and carers, a fourth Cultural Liaison Program on their cultural journey, Officer was added to the team. the Cultural Unit have developed a The Cultural Unit continues to play number of cultural training packages a big role in preventing another that will be offered to our carers in stolen generation by reconnecting the 2015/2016 financial year. our children in the OOHC Program During the 2014/2015 financial to their family land and culture. It is year the Cultural Unit started to through these connections that we accumulate more extensive data ensure our children have a strong around the cultural knowledge and sense of identity and belonging. understanding of our children and The Family Research Officer who carers in the OOHC Program. This has the arduous task of confirming has allowed the Cultural Unit staff Aboriginality, and ensuring that all to develop specifically targeted children and young people in the programs to roll out in the 2015/2016 OOHC Program have extensively financial year. researched and developed family In June 2015 the Cultural Unit was genograms, now has a new invited to be a guest speaker at charter. Due to the changes in the Nowra Family History Fair and present Children’s Court around cultural care a session on KARI and Aboriginal planning for permanency the Family Family Research. Research Officer now has the task of researching and developing cultural care plans for FACS to present to court when advocating for final orders for a child or young person that has been placed with KARI.

19 OOHC PROGRAM

CULTURAL VACATION CARE CULTURAL CAMPS The Cultural Unit has now taken Cultural camps are always the on the charter of providing cultural highlight of the year and for the vacation care programs during Cultural Unit the 2014/2015 financial each of the school holidays. The year has been no different. The programs that are offered include Cultural Unit were very excited to Indigenous art, Aboriginal dance, be able to increase the number of cultural excursions and digeridoo/ cultural camps over the 2014/2015 basket weaving. This will enable the financial year, therefore providing unit to provide cultural experiences a greater number of children and and cultural knowledge to a greater young people the opportunity to number of children and young develop their cultural knowledge, people in the OOHC Program. and engage in and experience their In the 2014/2015 financial year two culture through in-depth culturally of the abovementioned cultural appropriate hands on programs. programs were facilitated, being Staff in the Cultural Unit worked the Indigenous Art program and the endlessly to revitalise the Cultural Some of the children’s completed Aboriginal Dance program. Camp program to ensure they artworks Indig-Art is an Artist in Residence maximised the cultural content of program that gives children and each program delivered over the young people associated with the duration of the camp. Activities OOHC Program, the opportunity to included Aboriginal leadership participate in an art program that workshops based on traditional will enhance and build upon their aspects of roles and responsibilities cultural knowledge base, whilst within community, traditional art, enabling them to connect with traditional humpy making, Aboriginal their community. dance, bush walks through National Parks whereby sites of significance Some of our boys shake a leg The Aboriginal Dance program is were visited and explained, lessons facilitated by KARI Cultural Unit on traditional medicines, lessons on staff, and intends to teach children hunting and gathering (how to track basic movement and ultimately animals and find yams and berries), provides the opportunity for children traditional Indigenous games, and and young people to learn about traditional weapon and tool making. the significance of dance within Aboriginal culture.

20 OOHC PROGRAM

Attempting to make a camp fire and Uncle Tyson demonstrating the art of spear throwing

Combining theoretical applications This year four cultural camps and a hands on approach allows were held at Vision Valley which children to utilise all their senses enabled the Cultural Unit to provide when learning about culture, programs that had extensive cultural and through their experiences content embedded into them. children are more connected and This enabled a total of 120 children gain a stronger sense of identity and young people in KARI’s and belonging. OOHC Program aged 8-17 years, to be immersed in their culture and gain more cultural knowledge and understanding.

21 OOHC PROGRAM

KARI CLINIC currently in discussions to replicate neglect and the need to engage these services through our Penrith across sectors, agencies and The KARI Clinic has had a very busy and Rosebery offices. professions to best prevent and time during the 2014/2015 financial address child maltreatment. The year. Individual assessments and therapy presentation was well received by services have continued to be We now have eight members within all in attendance with many post- provided by the Speech Pathologists, the clinic team on site at Liverpool conference connections made for children experiencing difficulty inclusive of: two Speech Pathologists, and maintained. with their communication skills. Also two Psychologists, one Occupational with the addition of our Occupational Also during the year the team Therapist, one Early Childhood Nurse, Therapist, Psychologists and Early travelled to Victoria to visit other a Clinic Administration Officer and the Childhood Nurse we are now able to Aboriginal services such as the Clinic Program Coordinator. meet all the children’s developmental, Victorian Aboriginal Child Care We have entered into partnerships emotional and psychological needs. Association and the Wadja Clinic. with South Western Sydney Local Whilst interstate the team also visited The reputation of the KARI Clinic Health District and Gandangara Berry Street, a trauma informed and the work the team does, was Health Services. This partnership care service and the Victoria Royal recognised and highlighted when will see KARI having our own GP on Children’s Hospital. These visits their abstract was chosen, and the site on a fortnightly basis. We have enabled the team to gain more ideas team were asked to present at the also made a straight referral pathway to expand on current service delivery. 2015 Australasian Conference on by gaining a partnership with South Child Abuse and Neglect (ACCAN) Western Sydney Local Health District in Auckland. The over-arching to have access to a dental chair at theme for the conference was Ingleburn Oral Health clinic. This cultural responsiveness in a multi- will provide our children in OOHC agency world which recognises a clinic once per fortnight. We are the complexities of child abuse and

22 OOHC PROGRAM

MULTI-DISCIPLINARY CLINIC Our fortnightly Multi-Disciplinary Clinic continued throughout the year, offering comprehensive initial and review assessments for KARI children. The Multi-Disciplinary Clinic continued its partnership with the South Western Sydney Local Health District who provide paediatric, physiotherapy and occupational therapy support.

The KARI Clinic team at the ACCAN Conference in New Zealand

23 OOHC PROGRAM

SENSORY GYM A sensory gym is an invaluable PLAYGROUP resource for our Occupational With the generosity of The Rotary Playgroup in the 2014/2015 financial Therapist to provide intervention for Club of Caringbah, we were able year saw some exciting times with children who have sensory processing to set up a child-friendly sensory an outstanding number of KARI difficulties and to assist them to learn gym in our clinic. Current research children and carers participating in to regulate and function in everyday has shown that children in foster the program. Last term the team situations and environments. care are more vulnerable to saw an average of nine to ten Children are able to learn about disruptions in sensory modulation. children each week. During the themselves and their body, and Sensory processing difficulties may be term the team saw 16 different develop functional skills for everyday manifested as negative behaviours, children which equalled 91 occasions activities. It is also a safe and friendly such as oversensitivity, under- of service. This was an increase environment that our Psychologists sensitivity and avoidance behaviours, from the previous term’s 51 occasions and Speech Pathologists can use to or inappropriate sensory seeking of service. build therapeutic relationships, and behaviours. have fun therapy sessions with our KARI children. TRANSITION TO SCHOOL The Transition to School (TTS) Program was another highlight of the year. We saw 15 children take part in the 10 week program which ran weekly from August 2014 until November 2014. This program increases our children’s language and literacy skills in preparation for Kindergarten in 2015. All 15 children achieved outstanding results and their achievements were celebrated at a graduation ceremony at the conclusion of the program which was attended by carers and staff.

The sensory gym in full operational swing

24 OOHC PROGRAM

The children’s artwork during TTS

The playgroup room set up ready to go

SPOT PROGRAMS CARER TRAINING The Clinic team rolled out an exciting Therapeutic carer education and new initiative during the 2014/2015 training was a focus for the team financial year, this being SPOT this year and saw our Psychologists (Speech Pathology and Occupational continue to provide carers with Therapy) 3 and SPOT 4. This program valuable insight through our is for three and four year old children Reparative Parenting Programs within the OOHC Program. The (RPP). RPP is an attachment- program is facilitated by KARI’s based program around the needs Speech Pathologist and Occupational of children affected by trauma, Therapist as an early intervention that seeks to help foster and model to try and identify language kinship carers learn reparative and literacy problems prior to the parenting, not just behaviour children entering the Transition to management. The purpose is to School Program and Kindergarten. increase the understanding, skills Once a child has been identified as and resources of carers to ensure needing support the child and their placement stability. Placement carer will be engaged in individual stability for our children in OOHC is therapy. associated with a range of positive mental health, behavioural and educational outcomes.

25 26 BRIGHTER FUTURES

Brighter Futures (BF) is an early In the last 12 months Brighter intervention program designed to Futures has been realigned, to build the resilience of families and target the program towards children that are at risk. working with children and families at Risk of Significant Harm (ROSH), KARI is one of 14 lead agencies to prevent them escalating into across NSW that delivers the the child protection system. The Brighter Futures program, helping program works collaboratively with to connect families to relevant Family and Community Services and services to improve outcomes for allows FACS to refer children and their children. By providing early families who meet ROSH thresholds. support, these services intend to help Approximately 40% of the families prevent problems from escalating to in the program have been identified crisis point. as ROSH. Our program continues to improve in The team consisting of the Program the delivery of services to Aboriginal Co-Ordinator, Early Childhood families in the Liverpool and Fairfield Coordinator, three Family Support area. Throughout the year, Brighter Workers and Administration Support, Futures has supported 35 families have all worked hard to improve the consisting of 170 children and existing program structure and to be young people. Of the families that innovative with new program ideas. have exited our program, 55% have achieved case plan goals established by the family.

Learning about the Stolen Generation 27 BRIGHTER FUTURES

THE BRIGHTER STRUCTURED HOME VISITING QUALITY CHILDREN’S SERVICES FUTURES TEAM Structured home visiting occurs when each Family Support Worker The Brighter Futures program service HAVE SET A visits the family within the home specifications allow for the team TARGET OF EVERY environment and facilitates a skill- to enrol and financially support a FAMILY WITHIN based program to support building number of children into high quality parenting capacity. Each structured early childhood education and THE PROGRAM home visiting program is designed care. Early childhood education has PARTICIPATING IN A to assist the family to develop skills been shown to extend meaningful that are specific to their needs such learning opportunities for young STRUCTURED HOME as budgeting, routine organisation, children, improving overall outcomes VISITING PROGRAM. cooking and behaviour guidance as children grow and develop. of children. Each structured home Providing parents with support visiting program runs a minimum to access early childhood education of six weeks. and care services gives parents To support this each of the Family the opportunity to pursue individual Support Workers have been educational and employment facilitator trained in a number of pathways. KARI Brighter Futures courses including 123 Magic, Circle has established a partnership of Security and Money Minded. with Ability Options facilitating parents improved access to pre- Family Support Workers have employment courses and subsequent participated in a variety of other Some of our staff with Santa employment. Recently parents using training such as Accidental supported early childhood services Counselling, Child Protection and have engaged in and completed Domestic Violence to increase areas recognised vocational education of service delivery. and training. Families have responded well to In this financial year the Brighter the structured home visiting Futures team supported over nine program with noticeable children to engage in early childhood improvements across a number education. of families identified.

28 BRIGHTER FUTURES

PLAYGROUP GROUP-BASED PARENTING The Brighter Futures team continued The team successfully delivered four to deliver playgroup in an outreach group-based parenting programs in and in-house situation in the 2014/ the 2014/2015 financial year period. 2015 financial year. Feedback was Family and Community Services regularly sought from families specifications require two evidenced- indicating different families had based programs designed to develop different preferences for sites. parenting capacity delivered in a The Early Childhood Coordinator group presentation. The Aboriginal designs and delivers the program Triple P Program and the Circle of with the support of Family Support Security Program were delivered in Workers. In the past 12 months this format. the program has been facilitated The two non-evidenced-based in both KARI and Ashcroft programs were equally successful. Public School. Representatives from a selection of Parents and children alike enjoy the relevant community organisations playgroup and it has become evident were invited to share information that while parenting skills develop, about the delivery of their respective children’s growth and development services. is benefiting through learning KARI Brighter Futures continued an experiences. established partnership with Mission Australia to deliver a budget-based cooking program. This program supported participants to expand their knowledge around nutrition and cooking easy meals on a budget. Those who completed the program were rewarded for their participation with cook books and a choice of a kitchen appliance. Two of our young children having fun at our arts and crafts program

29 BRIGHTER FUTURES

FAMILY CAMP BF VACATION CARE The team facilitated a family camp The Brighter Futures team offered in January 2015 delivering an a vacation care program for interesting and culturally rich range children 5-16 years during school of experiences for all members of holidays. The vacation care each family. All Brighter Futures program is designed to support families were invited to participate children’s learning throughout the in the three day camp that was school holidays whilst developing designed to bring the families relationships with peers and together to network and develop having fun. friendships, share parenting skills Activities provided for this program and strategies, allow the program include, but are not limited to, staff to have insight into the families’ Taronga Park Zoo and Featherdale working relationships, and encourage Wildlife Park, the Aboriginal Heritage participation and learning. Museum, movie days, cooking, Nine families attended the camp bowling and Aboriginal art. Our BF families loved coming together that was hosted at the Lutunda for group learning experiences Christian camp in Toukley. The Brighter Futures team sought feedback from the families throughout the camp and once they had returned to family life. All families indicated their experience had been positive with many discussing the event for some time afterwards. The Brighter Futures team continues to provide opportunities for each family to learn and experience Aboriginal culture.

30 BRIGHTER FUTURES

CHRISTMAS PARTY Families and staff then came together for the exciting arrival of Santa and In December 2014 the team hosted his elf. The children were very excited its annual Christmas Party inviting all and all received a Christmas present. Brighter Futures families to attend. Throughout the day parents and The Christmas Party was held at the children also enjoyed activities such Mt Annan Botanical Gardens, Mt as face painting, balloon animals Annan. The families were treated to and a photo booth. The Christmas a catered lunch and participated in a Party is a positive way to celebrate cultural tour of the Stolen Generation the end of a very successful year Garden along with a Bush Tucker and acknowledge all the hard Tour facilitated by local Elder, Aunty work the families have contributed Fran Bodkin. to participating in the program throughout the year.

Vacation care providing our children with a creative outlet

Santa’s visit was undoubtedly the highlight of the BF Christmas Party

31 COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

Our Community Programs team had AGEING, DISABILITY AND another productive year under the HOME CARE PROGRAM NSW Government guidelines. Our (ADHC) programs were accessed by 1,984 In 2014 Community Programs members of the community through received funding from Ageing, the facilitation of programs designed Disability and Home Care to roll to build strength, skills and capacity out a new series of programs for of the Aboriginal community of members of the community who south-west Sydney. Highlights for are seeking assistance in accessing A young participant attends our this year include the implementation programs that are more inclusive Term One Playgroup of a range of successful new than many of their predecessors. programs under newly acquired The successful procurement of Ageing, Disability and Home Care these funds has enabled the team Funding. to grow with the addition of our fourth team member and the successful implementation of the following programs.

Activity Type Number of Clients Clients accessing broader Community Programs 305 Clients accessing KARI Community Events 1,254 Clients accessing KARI Scholarship Program 85 Clients accessing KARI Family Support Program 128 Clients accessing Vacation Care 185 Clients accessing ADHC funded programs 27

32 COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

Community Multi-Disciplinary Our first group began in April 2015 playgroup and saw one family with two children complete the 10 week playgroup with KARI’s Community Multi-Disciplinary a complete assessment provided to playgroup is held at our Liverpool the parent at completion. A referral Office. KARI’s Community playgroup was then able to be made so that the offers a support-based program with children can continue to receive the a Psychologist, Speech Pathologist appropriate therapy. and Occupational Therapist, who are able to address any concerns Interest in this program has proven A young participant attends our parents may have about their child’s to be immense and it is hoped that Term One Playgroup development. The many benefits this program will continue to be our first group encountered were: accessed by our community and provide positive outcomes and • Receiving support on their results. child’s speech, language, motor skills, behaviour and overall learning. • The child’s development is monitored by a multidisciplinary team week to week. • The child has the opportunity to engage in free play, hear a story and do some craft. • Opportunities to socialise and meet other children.

33 COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

Learn to Swim Program weeks. Sixteen out of 20 children successfully completed this program KARI’s Free Community Swim Group with KARI referring one child to is a learn to swim program targeted the YMCA NSW fee assistance towards Aboriginal children between program for a further six months of the ages of 0-16 years. The purpose of free swimming lessons. Outcomes the program is to increase water safety reported for this child, who had and confidence and to teach water a pre-diagnosis of Asperger’s, wise skills. This program is designed were that the regular swim lessons to run for a term of 10 weeks “Look mum I can finally swim” provided consistency and routine (one lesson per week). This is a and greatly improved the child’s free program for Aboriginal children behaviours at home, outside of in the community to learn, enhance the pool. or build on their current swimming ability. This program will continue to run due to its popularity and positive This program was advertised via outcomes. It is envisaged that we will social media and interagency see up to 80 children complete the networks and filled within 24 hours. program within the next year. The program also established a healthy waitlist, proving that learn to The ADHC program will continue swim programs are not only needed to expand into new areas with the by the community but highly sought 2015/2016 year already projected after by parents and care givers. to provide programs on key matters such as high school transition Our first program hosted 20 children programs and the continuation and was run at the Michael Wenden of our homework centres into Leisure Centre in a partnership with new areas. The YMCA NSW for 10 consecutive

34 A participant learning vital swimming skills 35 BROADER COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

KARI Music and Singing Vocal Identification Program Program (VIP) The Campbelltown, Liverpool and The VIP program identifies young, Bankstown areas have been bursting talented singers from the local with creative energy this year as we south-west Sydney area and provide continued the Music and Singing them with performance workshops. program. The popularity of this Twenty-three participants took part program is evident with more in a series of workshops over July and students returning from previous August 2014 with the opportunity years many of whom are improving to perform and be mentored by the at an accelerated rate. All students VIP consultants. The VIP program participating in the program receive closed with a spectacular showcase free vocal and/or guitar lessons on Friday 15th August 2014 at Casula by consultants well known in the Powerhouse. In partnership with music industry. the NSW Department of Education and Communities, the VIP program This program continues to reach Jade Fisher & Sarah Bertram continues to get bigger and better new heights with even more new perform before a crowd every year. participants accessing the program. We are also seeing a continuing trend with participants of this program applying to the Vocal Identification Program (VIP).

Some of our talented vocalists from the 2014 VIP Program

36 BROADER COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

KARI Production Program Indigenous Art Program This music program, now in its sixth The purpose of this program is to year, sees selected students from teach up to 10 Aboriginal community both music and singing studios in members about Aboriginal art Liverpool and Bankstown undertake (traditional and contemporary), music industry performance and provide them with the skill workshops concluding in the set to teach other members of recording of a personal demo CD. the community by increasing their In partnership with Blake Ralph confidence in the creative arts. Students from Holsworthy High Recording Studio and Songbirds During the 2014/2015 period KARI School stand in front of their completed mural Music Studio, students develop their ran two Indig-Art programs again talent, self-esteem, self-confidence, facilitated by renowned Aboriginal skills and cultural connections. artist Danielle Mate. The first was run from October through to December 2014 at Holsworthy High School as part of our In-School Indig-Art program. As done in past programs, these students used the opportunity to showcase culture in their school by painting a contemporary mural for the school hall. The second series of workshops was community- based with the Fairfield Elders Group. This series of workshops proved to be popular amongst the Elders with high attendance rates each week. The success of this program was evident with a number of participants entering their works into the 2015 Mil-Pra Art Exhibition Competition.

37 BROADER COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

Living Skills Cooking Program Homework Centre Program During the 2014/2015 period our During the 2014/2015 period KARI cooking program received a fresh, successfully continued our homework new look taking place at Jamie centres at two Department of Oliver’s Ministry of Food, Wetherill Education and Communities schools Park. Participants completed in the Liverpool area; Ashcroft Primary a short, five week course that School and Heckenberg Primary increased participant’s knowledge School. The homework centres about healthy eating and cooking are an opportunity for Aboriginal options as well as give participants students to receive assistance in an opportunity to whip up some completing their homework on Our homework centre programs culinary magic from scrambled eggs a weekly basis and practice their provide a space to nurture young to homemade meat balls in a state English and mathematics skills with learners of the art kitchen. This program qualified tutors and teaching staff. was completed on Tuesday 28th Overall, numbers average a July 2015. 95% attendance rate across both centres. The intention of this program is to improve the literacy and numeracy results of Aboriginal students in schools in the 2168 area and encourage the completion of class-based homework.

KARI Scholarship Program In 2014/2015 the Scholarship program saw 85 successful applicants accepted into the program. The KARI School Scholarship program is an education-based initiative that is offered to Aboriginal senior high school students across south- west Sydney. These scholarships provide monetary assistance to cover Our graduating participants from our first Ministry of Food Cooking Program schooling costs. Building upon the expansion of the program, the team continued to conduct regular visits with a select cohort of 35 students to share, discuss and plan career and education opportunities in a one-on- one mentoring capacity.

38 BROADER COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

KARI U16 Australian Rugby Community Unity Day 2015 League European Tour 2014 KARI Community Unity Day occurred This year and in partnership with the on Wednesday 15th April 2015 at NSW Rugby League, we sponsored The Whitlam Centre, Liverpool. This an under 16’s Indigenous Rugby free family event was open to all League tour to Europe. The touring members of the south-west Sydney squad was led by inspirational community. The day included having Performers and Volunteers at our Indigenous leader Steve Hall along information stalls, rides, arts and Unity Day event with a number of tour quality craft, live entertainment, live animals, mentors including some KARI staff. and lots more. The team played a number of Attendance was well over the 650 games across selected regions in expected, and this year’s event France, visited the famed Somme was officially the biggest with Memorial Site to pay homage to more families and young people our fallen war heroes, visited Euro in attendance than ever before! Disney and were invited to attend a Highlights of the event included special event at the famed Wembley our many interactive stall holders, Stadium in London. The tour was also our show bags and the wide variety an opportunity to learn more about of rides including bumper cars, Some of our U16’s Indigenous our culture from others, and sharing the sizzler and carousel for the Tour players of our culture with other cultures. little ones. The tour proved once again to be a No doubt the most exciting part of great success for all the participants, this year’s event was the NRL’s media their families and their respective launch of the City V Country game communities. which took place in front of our main stage with many community members witnessing the launch live!

39 BROADER COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

2014 KARI Gala Dinner Dance The Amazing Mr Black then thrilled our guests with a magical Our 2014 KARI Gala Dinner Dance performance like no other, with tricks was held on Saturday 18th October that amazed guests and had them 2014 at Campbelltown Catholic laughing all at once! To round off the Club’s premier venue ‘The Cube’. entertainment and get everyone up We saw up to 500 people attend on the dance floor performers Sarah the event and they were treated to Bertram and Blake Ralph and band a night of entertainment and culture. gave us some wonderful renditions of Respected local Elder Uncle Ivan some modern floor fillers and some Wellington opened the evening with old favourites. a stirring Welcome to Country and Undoubtedly, one of the most our MC for the evening Tim Gilbert exciting elements to the event was lifted the energy in the room right the silent auction, in which over 12 from the beginning with his opening fantastic prizes were donated by address. Our guests were treated to the South Sydney Rabbitohs Rugby a variety of entertainment beginning League Club, Canterbury Bulldogs with the BAAYAAMA and Doonooch Rugby League Club, Wests Tigers Dance companies performing Rugby League Club, Captain Cook another spectacular cultural piece. Cruises, Australian Turf Club, Nepean Belle Paddle Wheeler, Artist Kayelene Terry, Amalgamated Holdings Limited, QBE, Starshots Photography, York Jewellers, Penrith and Pandora We hosted a variety of performances Jewellers, Liverpool. at our 2014 Gala Dinner Event

40 BROADER COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

2015 KARI and NSW Police On Saturday 4th July 2015, the Force Debutante Ball fourth Annual KARI and NSW Police Force Debutante Ball event was held The KARI and NSW Police Force in front of community members, Annual Debutante Ball is a special guests and the families of partnership program designed to the Debutantes. This year we had forge greater relationships between 12 young ladies make their debut, the Aboriginal community in south- each of whom were partnered with west Sydney and the NSW Police a Police Officer from the respective Force Liverpool and Green Valley area commands. A fantastic night Local Area Commands. was had by all in attendance.

The 2015 KARI Debutantes partnered by Police Officers of the NSW Police Force, Green Valley and Liverpool Local Area Commands

41 FAMILY SUPPORT PROGRAM

Following the successful Fathers and Son’s Camp implementation of the Family KARI also ran our Fathers and Sons’ Support Program during 2014/2015, Camp during the 2014/2015 period. the team provided advice and The group returned to Myuna support services to 128 families Bay Sport and Recreation Centre and children. Parenting programs in February 2015. This program facilitated included the ‘Triple P supports the development of strong Participants from our 2015 Program’, ‘Hey Dad’, and ‘Circle relationships between fathers and Mothers and Children’s Camp of Security’. their sons through the application of practical parenting programs such as Mothers and Children’s Camps ‘Hey Dad’ and ‘Circle of Security’. The Fathers and Sons’ Camp also provides 2014/2015 saw the Community social and cultural development Programs team successfully opportunities for parents and their coordinate and deliver the KARI children through recreational and Mothers and Children’s Camp in culturally appropriate activities. May 2015. Our camp provides an opportunity for parents to network and practice content delivered from programs ‘Circle of Security’ and ‘Triple P’. We provide a safe and supported learning environment where discussion can be held openly and ideas exchanged from parent to parent. Over the course of our camps, mums in attendance form relationships and peer networks that have resulted in continued contact and peer support long after they Vacation Care participants enjoy have returned home. a variety of activities across the school holidays

42 FAMILY SUPPORT PROGRAM

Vacation Care In the continuation of our move towards excursion-based activities, the Vacation Care program for 2014/2015 delivered quality activities to school aged children across south-west Sydney. Our program continues to focus on exposing children and youth to social, cultural and historical opportunities. Activities for this period included: • Aboriginal Sand Art Class • Visits to Calmsley Hill Farm • Flip Out Indoor Trampoline Centre • Putt-Putt Golf • Sports and Recreation Days • Bowling • Indoor Climbing • Visits to the Cinema • Cooking Classes Vacation Care is one of our most consistently attended programs and provides children with an opportunity to be exposed to a variety of opportunities.

Vacation Care participants enjoy a variety of activities across the school holidays

43 SPONSORSHIP AND COMMUNITY GRANTS

SPONSORSHIPS AND This year we supported a range COMMUNITY GRANTS of community-led initiatives. These included: The KARI Community Programs team encourages individuals and • NSW Police Liverpool, Green organisations to bring forward fresh Valley and Macquarie Fields and exciting programs and initiatives Local Area Commands Good to better their community. Kids Camp and Debutante Ball events This ensures that our programs are community-led and are reflective • Mil-Pra Awards 2014 of community needs. In order to • Indigenous Art Awards ascertain this need the Community Programs team undertakes a process • Koori Knockout (10 of engaging with the applicant and communities were supported) assessing the proposed program • Da Country Bike Ride 2014 initiative. This ensures that all KARI • Local Men’s Groups (La Perouse, Community Programs are carefully Illawarra) targeted outcome-based initiatives. • Local Elders’ Groups • Local Women’s Groups

We also continued our long tradition of providing support and assistance to individuals and organisations conducting NAIDOC events and projects. Recipients of NAIDOC Week funding included: • Chester Hill High School Flag Day • John Warby Public School NAIDOC • BCRG Koori Homework Club

It was a spectacular at the NSW Golf Club for the Annual KARI Charity Golf Day

44 FUNDING AND PARTNERSHIPS

SPARTAN Race Corporate Partnerships In 2014 KARI was selected as the KARI receives support and Charity Partner for the Hurricane sponsorship from a variety of local WOD and SPARTAN Race. SPARTAN businesses and other corporate Race CEO Max Delacey saw this as partners in the delivery of many an opportunity to help secure further of programs and services. This funding for the KARI Scholarships corporate support allows us to Program for 2015. The event saw ensure that the organisation is The KARI SPARTAN team getting participation from KARI staff, well resourced and able to deliver ready for the big race Liverpool Police and several players in quality programs and services for the the NSWRL U16’s Indigenous team. benefit of the Aboriginal community. KARI successfully acquired new partnerships, and maintained existing Winter and Christmas Appeals partnerships with the following In 2014/2015 KARI recognised the organisations during 2014/2015: importance of raising money to NEW further assist the growing number • Australian Institute of of disadvantaged Aboriginal Professional Education children. KARI recognises winter Corporate Partners PRO IT and AIPE at and Christmas as evidently the most • Commonwealth Bank the Annual KARI Charity Golf Day difficult times of the year, which led • Westpac to the launch of these appeals. With the help of KARI staff members, CONTINUED volunteers and the cooperation from • PRO IT existing partners, KARI was able to raise money through both appeals. • Souths Cares • Corporate Club Australia • National Rugby League • NSW Rugby League Westpac volunteers assist with Christmas hampers for the Elders

45 FUNDING AND PARTNERSHIPS

Souths Cares Rugby League Sponsorship In 2014 and 2015 KARI and the In 2014 KARI partnered with the Rabbitohs community arm Souths South Sydney Rabbitohs, West Tigers Cares, continued with their joint- and Cronulla Sharks to support them funding of the Community during the ‘Close the Gap’ round. Coordinator role based at the This opportunity enabled KARI to Souths Cares office in Redfern. further showcase its brand to a The coordinator continues to be mainstream audience and the wider responsible for facilitating programs NRL community via brand activations KARI representatives meet with Greg benefiting Aboriginal community and social media. Other benefits Inglis at the launch of the Souths members in the South Sydney of this key partnership included ‘Close the Gap’ round. Crown Resorts catchment for at least the next opportunities for KARI to fundraise kindly donated their front of jersey two years. and communicate with fans at the logo position to KARI respective matches.

2015 Annual KARI Charity Golf Day City Origin Partnerships The 2015 KARI Charity Golf Day 2015 saw a new level of partnership was held at NSW Golf Club and was emerge with the NSWRL through proudly sponsored by AIPE and PRO CEO David Trodden. This partnership IT. It was also supported by many entitled KARI to have their logo within the Aboriginal community, prominently displayed on the front numerous local businesses, NRL of the City Origin playing jersey and players Braith Anasta and Benji all training apparel for the City Origin Marshall, as well as KARI’s own team in place of the longstanding KARI CEO Paul Ralph and Sharks position holder GIO. This offer player Jonathon Wright display the Ambassador Beau Champion. The Sharks ‘Close the Gap’ jersey event in its second year generated emphasised the importance of the over $15,000 in ticket sales, partnership and the connection the sponsorship and raffles raising much two organisations have. needed funds to support KARI’s children and families.

KARI partners with the NSWRL City Origin team

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KARI ABORIGINAL RESOURCES INCORPORATED PO Box 207 Liverpool NSW 1871 T: 02 8782 0300 F: 02 8782 0353 www.kari.org.au