YEAR IN REVIEW FY 2017 / 2018
1 Our mission is to work side by side with those who serve and protect Australia, and their families, HELPing them to secure their future.
Soldier On is the gateway to a successful future for service personnel and their families.
Soldier On staff work side by side with individuals and families, to strengthen resilience and develop meaningful connections with family members, mates, and the local community through a diverse range of health and wellbeing services, employment opportunities, learning and education programs, and participation in community, social, and sporting activities.
Grounded in the principles of Trauma Informed Care, Soldier On’s model of care ensures individuals and family members are at the centre of all our services.
We leverage our extensive networks and partnerships to provide employment and volunteering opportunities to service personnel and their families.
We are a “can do” organisation. We embrace our values of responsibility, professionalism and positive leadership understanding that these are the same values our contemporary veterans and families live by. Soldier On’s respect for service personnel and their families requires us to advocate for, champion and ensure they can be the best they can be.
2 YEAR IN REVIEW FY 2017 / 2018
p4. A Message from the Chairman p6. CEO Address p8. State Stories p12. Activities and Sport p14. Fundraising Stories p16. Pollie Pedal 2018 p18. Employment Services p20. Psychology Services p22. Education Program p23. National Campaigns and Challenges p26. Big Programs p32. The Board p35. Directors Report p39. Expense Distribution p40. 2017 / 2018 Financials p42. Major Sponsors p43. Our Network p44. Our Co-Patrons and Ambassadors A Message from the CHAIRMAN
What a year we have had at Soldier On. FY17 / 18 has been one of our busiest and best years to date. A lot has occurred throughout the past 12 months and I would firstly like to thank all who have supported us along the way. Without your generosity Soldier On cannot provide the support that we do to service personnel and their families. So, thank you.
In October 2017, Solider On undertook somewhat of a makeover with a brand refresh and expansion of services. Prior to this date, Soldier On supported those who had served in the Australian Defence Force (ADF), and their families. Since October 2017, our services have been made available to all who have served Australia in a national security capacity. This includes personnel from Australian Border Force, Australian Federal Police, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and other security agencies. We also continue to support those from the ADF and the family members of all service personnel.
Just as when we began providing support to those from the ADF, it will take some time for news to spread that services are available to a broader community, but we are already encouraged to see individuals and families from these other organisations taking up the support of Soldier On.
The organisation has focused strongly on our programs and activities over the past 12 months. I truly believe we have hit our stride and are delivering the best services we ever have. Participant numbers have doubled since FY16 / 17 and we are now supporting over 1400 individuals at any one time. This does not include those who are undergoing psychological support, which I will touch on later.
4 Our employment and education program has moved forward in leaps and bounds with over 400 individuals currently taking part in the program and over 120 placements occurring this financial year. We have over 90 organisations who have signed on to the Soldier On Pledge and supporting employment of service personnel and their families. I have no doubt we will hit 100 pledge partners early next financial year. The program continues to focus on ensuring that individuals are truly job ready and are being placed into the right roles. If your organisation has not signed on yet, please look to join us. We continue to provide this service at no cost to all, so it truly is a no brainer.
We have seen staff vacancies, particularly within the Psychological Services team. It is very important that we employ the right people in these roles, people who have the necessary skills and understanding of the community we support. Even with these challenges, counselling sessions have still increased from over 1000 to over 1250 this financial year. The team should be incredibly proud of all they have achieved within these constraints. The team were also successful in becoming a member of Mental Health Australia, the peak body for mental health support across the country. Soldier On is the only Ex-Service Organisation to become a member of MHA.
Soldier On is now active in eight physical locations across the country and is in great health moving forward. The continued support of our corporate sponsors, trusts and of course, community fundraisers and supporters, has enabled us to continue to expand our network across Australia. We hope to continue to have a presence in more locations in the years to come.
Financially, we have seen a small surplus this year and I thank all who have supported us along the way. Last year, I defended our expenditure on staff salaries. Our success and growth throughout this year has shown just how imperative it is to have professional staff delivering our services. I again reiterate that without our staff, the programs and activities that we run across the country would not be possible. As I said last year, the impact of what we do far exceeds the value of salaries and the reach of funds goes well beyond the original donated or sponsored dollar.
The future for Soldier On is incredibly bright and the team will continue to evolve and improve the services that we deliver. Once again, to all our supporters, thank you. Your continued support to our organisation enables us to help so many. We have some major projects ahead of us this coming year and we hope that you will all continue to join us along the journey.
LTGEN Peter Leahy AC, (Rtd) Chairman, Soldier On
5 CEO ADDRESs
At the start of every year I say to the Soldier to give back through community projects and On team that it is going to be our ‘busiest yet’. activities. Well this year, we can all agree that it truly has been. Soldier On’s services have matured and Early in 2018, the Soldier On Innovation Hub was we as an organisation are delivering high quality opened at North Head. The Hub will allow Soldier employment and education programs, mental On to test and adjust these types of programs, health support and a range of social activities assess their achievements and suitability to across the country. The number of those who become long term projects for Soldier On. This are serving or have served, and their families, facility is in the historically important area of the seeking our sevices, is continuing to grow rapidly. old School of Artillery, Manly and is the second Soldier On facility in Sydney. While our core services mature, we continue to add others that provide better benefits to the During April 2018, Soldier On developed our service community. We have developed several Force 4 Good campaign that gave the community programs in collaboration with Beyond Blue, the an opportunity to directly thank those who have Movember Foundation, Outward Bound, Rotary served and recognise that they are a force 4 good. Club of Sydney and the Ian Potter Foundation, While the conversation on veterans, and those just to name a few. These programs are about who have served in recent times, has gravitated providing a range of targeted outcomes for towards wounds, both seen and unseen, we must different groups that we have been working with remember that there is an opportunity to ensure through Soldier On’s journey. Some examples the best outcomes for those that have served our include Vet Connect - a program focused on country. I believe that the programs and services men’s mental health in conjunction with the that we are delivering at Soldier On do this. They Movember Foundation, Family Ties – a program drive a recovery mentality for the entire family providing families the opportunity to reconnect and take a positive approach to life after service. and learn how to work through day to day issues that some of our service personnel face and Serving On – a pilot volunteering program held in NSW, enabling service personnel to continue
6 We do of course understand that there are validation of the trauma informed care approach individuals facing complex issues and a new taken here at Soldier On including the suite of approach to treatment is required. Soldier On services available to national service personnel has been working with Concord Hospital in the and their families. development of a national centre of excellence. The aim of this facility will be to provide Pollie Pedal had another great year in 2018, with comprehensive, holistic and integrated mental the team arriving at the Australian War Memorial health and physical services, underpinned by in Canberra on their final leg. Soldier On had 13 Patient and Family Centred Care principles where service riders on the journey, alongside corporate the patient, their family and carer(s) are kept at sponsors and politicians including; Angus Taylor, the centre of care provided. We recognise that the Kevin Andrews and of course, the founder of family are key to recovery and should therefore Pollie Pedal, Tony Abbott. Together they rode be more involved at the point of treatment. This over 1000km from the Shrine of Remembrance in is not always easy, with major treatment facilities Melbourne VIC, up through the Snowy Mountains unable to accommodate family members. Our and onward in to Canberra. Along the way they partnership with Concord will change this and faced soaring heat, freezing lows, 60km head and accommodation will be provided on-site, for side winds, rain, sleet and to top it all off, snow. families to be close to their loved ones during All were tested over the eight-day activity and we treatment. This facility has been the focus of our thank all who were involved and hope to do it ‘buy-a-brick’ campaign which will help ensure that again next year. Soldier On can achieve our aim of having parts of the accommodation ready by ANZAC Day 2019. As you can see, it has certainly been a busy year and I have only scratched the surface of Soldier On has recently been accepted as a what has been occurring across the country. member of Mental Health Australia (MHA). This The daily efforts of Soldier On staff should not peak, national, non-government organisation go unnoticed. The regular activities and services represents and promotes the interests of they are providing the service community are the Australian mental health sector and is second to none and I am proud of all they have committed to achieving better mental health for achieved throughout the year. I look forward to all Australians. seeing what is to come in the next 12 months. I know that we will all remain focused on ensuring The membership group is made up of national we are delivering the best programs and services organisations representing consumers, carers, we can. special needs groups, clinical service providers, public and private mental health service providers, researchers and state/territory community mental health peak bodies. Some examples of other members include, beyondblue, The Black Dog Institute, The Australian Psychological Society and headspace. Soldier On is the first organisation specifically supporting service personnel, to be accepted as a member and we are exceptionally proud.
John Bale The recognition by the MHA of Soldier On’s work CEO and Co-Founder, Soldier On in the area of mental health is an incredible honour and a reflection of the great work being carried out. Our membership with MHA is
7 STATE STORIES
Every year Soldier On activities are held “It was awesome to be able to get out and do around the country. The aim of these something exciting, with my lower limb injuries it activities is to encourage veterans and makes it difficult to join in a lot of things I want to their families to engage with others, do. But this event, perfect!” - Participant share experiences and learn from one another. It brings them together, with the community to create meaningful connections.
QLD
Office Opening Soldier On QLD has recently reopened, but in Brisbane, and we’ve welcomed a new Employment & Operations Officer (John) and a new Psychologist (Kaye) in Queensland. We are very excited that they have joined us, and it’s great to be working with the Soldier Recovery NSW Centre at Gallipoli Barracks in Brisbane. We look forward to the program expanding in QLD and Adventurous Training supporting more service personnel and families. Wing Expedition Six Soldier On participants joined eight soldiers Kayaking for Ex Battleback, a 10-day expedition with the Soldier On and Riverlife Brisbane teamed up to Adventurous Training Wing of the Australian offer our participants a BBQ and guided kayak Army. The first few days were focused on making tour around Brisbane. This activity allowed lifestyle adjustments and identifying optimal participants to spend time reconnecting with behaviours and responses. The next seven days each other, and to build friendships with other were spent undertaking physical activities such likeminded individuals, while being guided as abseiling, kayaking, canyoning, and caving to around the beautiful city of Brisbane from the provide significant opportunities to implement water. these skills and theories to help the participants This is just the first of many activities to come in develop tools for future success. After spending Brisbane, and the surrounding area, as we build 10 days together tackling some challenging up our participant numbers and connect with activities, comfort zones were certainly stretched. more organisations. Alongside making new friends, new skills were
8 learnt, and new goals were identified. The zeal with which this group tackled the program makes us incredibly proud to have been a part of such a life-changing expedition. VIC Sailing Soldier On’s Sailing Program has continued. The Spouse Self Care Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club have remained Soldier On held a self-care workshop for spouses a huge support to Soldier On participants, by of service personnel. This workshop aimed to offering them sailing days where they can come assist spouses to understand the importance and learn under the direction of experienced of self-care, develop a self-care program, and instructors. create some beautiful products to assist in self- The Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club have also care including: bath salts, bath milk, foot soaks, jumped on board, to offer our Newcastle families shower melts, and essential oil roller stick blends. the chance to sail. We would like to thank both Developing a program and having products to clubs for supporting our participants, allowing assist with self-care is important because every them to reconnect with themselves, their family, act of self-care increases a person’s ability to help and others, whilst learning some new skills. others. This workshop is something we aim to hold again soon. Roar and Snore Soldier On once again hosted our annual Roar & Snore Family Weekend at the Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo. The weekend gave families the opportunity to come together for a bit of fun, adventure, and to reconnect. They also had the chance to visit and learn about animals from all around the world, experiencing close encounters with scaly suspects and jungle giants, before going back to the campsite for a hearty dinner and marshmallows by the fire.
“Would do it again in a heartbeat. Really brought the family together as it has been a very long time since we were able to have a weekend getaway due to life and work commitments.” Guard of Honour - Roar and Snore Weekend participant. The ANZAC Day game between Soldier On’s sporting partners GWS Giants and St Kilda saw Soldier On participants form an honour guard for the players as they came out onto the field. To make this occasion a little more special, a participant was kitted out as the St Kilda Mascot. We’d like to thank GWS and St Kilda for allowing our participants to attend and spend time reconnecting.
“I’d like to start off by saying thank you very much for the opportunity to be a part of the Guard of Honour and also a big thank you to the St. Kilda football club.” - Participant.
9 ACT
Purple Ink Soldier On and the ACT Writer’s Centre teamed up at the start of the year to offer our participants the chance to learn how to approach writing, be it a novel, a script, or a piece of poetry. Soldier On hopes that by allowing our participants the opportunity to express themselves better through writing, they are able to communicate better with the world. So far, the pilot program is going well, with all involved thoroughly enjoying themselves. This is a program that we aim to run Sailing again next year. The sailing program that started in NSW and Victoria has spread to Canberra. The Canberra Yacht Club and Soldier On joined forces to provide our participants in the ACT with a sailing day. The CYC kindly donated equipment, boats, and instructors necessary for the day, with our participants having the option of being taught the ropes, so to speak, or having just a casual sail around the lake. The day was enjoyed by all who attended, and it is an activity we are looking at holding again once the weather warms up.
Taste of Canberra A recent activity that our new ACT officer (Debbie) has started is ‘Taste of Canberra’. This activity, which runs approximately every six weeks, is primarily aimed at the spouses of service personnel who have recently moved to Canberra. It helps them connect with new people whilst exploring the nation’s capital. Participants get to enjoy a walk in a new location, followed by coffee and a chat. Places explored so far include One Tree Hill and Lake Burley Griffin.
“Thanks so much for this morning. It was so good to see you again and get out for some fresh air, exactly what I needed, so thankyou again.” - Participant
10 Perth Thunder (Ice Hockey), and the Perth Heat SA (Baseball), and were invited to the Soldiers and Sirens Memorial Hockey Game (Ice Hockey) on Soldier On has recently hired a new Employment Remembrance Day. These days are important and Operations Officer in SA (Di). We are very for our participants as it allows them to spend happy that she has joined us and has already time reconnecting with their families, making made herself known by organising a surfing memories, and having a day full of fun. We look day and attending the Reception for the 50th forward to more participants and their families Anniversary of the Battle of Coral-Balmore. Di attending the games this coming season. also assisted in the organisation of the first South Australian Pathways Networking Event, held in Women’s Day Picnic May this year, which resulted in four participants The Soldier On WA team have held two Women’s securing jobs. Picnics, one on International Women’s Day, and one a few weeks later. These events were for serving women and female spouses to come together, celebrate what they have achieved, and to foster new relationships. The last one that was held was attended by Victoria Dixon (Defence Families Australia WA Delegate) and Lisa O’Malley MLA (Member for Bicton). The intent is to hold more of these picnics throughout the year to help develop these networks.
WA
Counselling rooms Thanks to a generous donation from HMAS Dechaineux, the Soldier On WA team (Shannon and Danielle) were able to update the décor of the counselling room. This is to provide a more comforting space for mental health support, and for the RSLWA advocates and welfare officers to also use. We would like to thank the crew of HMAS Dechaineux for their support.
Sporting Games Last year Soldier On participants were invited to attend the games of the Wildcats (Basketball), the
11 11 ACTIVITIES AND SPORT Surfing
Soldier On’s Surf Therapy program has continued around the country, as part of its three- year partnership with Surfing Australia. This partnership, generously supported by Nudie Juice, provides funding for eight service personnel, on four occasions each year, to attend Surfing Australia’s Hurley High Performance Centre on the Gold Coast. These weekends are fully funded, covering accommodation, meals, coaching, and video analysis. In addition to these weekends, Surfing Australia facilitates 4 x 4 weekend sessions for 10 service personnel on each occasion, to take part in a ‘Learn to Surf’ program at various locations around the country. These locations have included the Gold Coast, Newcastle, and Adelaide. This program is made possible thanks to a variety of donors and organisations, including local surf clubs.
Golf Golf has continued to be popular with great opportunities provided due to the support of a number of golf clubs around the country. These include: Golf Australia, The Eastern Golf Club, RAAF Williams Golf Club, Bendigo Golf Club, Geelong Golf Club, Royal Park Golf Club, the Yarra Bend Golf Club, the Mornington Golf Club, and Long Reef Golf Club. Other, anonymous benefactors have helped ensure Soldier On can continue to offer this program to help service personnel socialise with like-minded individuals whilst keeping active. The highlight for this financial year’s golf program was the ISPS Handa Clyde Pearce Cup 2017 held in Noosa, where 10 Australian veterans teed off against 10 UK veterans. Unfortunately for the Australians, the UK team managed to hit some better shots, and won the Cup for the third year in a row.
12 On the water The Purple Warriors Australia (PWAUS) is a new boat club solely for serving and retired Australian Defence Force personnel who have been adversely affected by their service. Soldier On was invited to become involved with the PWAUS late last year and supported the outrigger canoe team in their first international race at the Na Koa Wounded Warrior Canoe Regatta 2017 in Honolulu, Hawaii. Soldier On ACT teamed up with PWAUS again to host a ‘Come & Try Dragon Boating’ Day at Lotus Bay early in April. Dragon Boating is the ultimate team sport; the camaraderie and friendly atmosphere that develops whilst everyone works together helps achieve the best results in great team spirit. This open day was well attended, with everyone involved thoroughly enjoying themselves.
Other supporters We’d like to thank all of our outstanding supporters who have provided opportunities for service personnel and their families in the activities and sports recovery space over the past 12 months. These include Cycling Australia, the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club, the Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club, the Canberra Yacht Club, Tennis Australia, the University of Canberra, GWS Giants, St Kilda Football Club, Club Lime, and the Australian Ice Hockey League. Your support means so much to Soldier On and to those we help.
13 Fundraising Stories
Each year, the team at Soldier On are amazed and so grateful for the generosity of our community, particularly through fundraising activities and events. Every dollar raised enables us to deliver services to more service members and families across the country. We don’t receive government funding, so the community truly is backing Soldier On and the men and women we support. We can’t thank every person who has been involved enough. You are all true champions!
Here are a few highlights from some of the fundraising activities that have been Mt Everest held across the country in the past 12 John Dooley was determined to hike to Mt months. Everest’s base camp and decided to turn it into a fundraising challenge. After preparing for months Kokoda Treks by trekking around Canberra and using special Once again, a number of people tackled the breathing masks that replicated the conditions Kokoda Trail this year to raise awareness and he would face in Nepal, he made the journey. funds for Soldier On. At least five teams trekked From there, he hiked to Base Camp where he the 96 km trail through the Owen Stanley Range proudly unfurled a Soldier On flag. John said in Papua New Guinea, dealing with hot, humid that he chose Soldier On because of the amazing days and cold nights. There were efforts by work we do helping service personnel, and their individuals, a team of three, and two teams of five families, overcome the issues they face. people who challenged themselves to make it to the end. One team even timed it so they arrived at Bomana War Cemetery just before ANZAC Day. The groups were made up of a variety of people, some were ex-serving, others were civilians who had heard about the work Soldier On does. The reason each team chose Soldier On was the same: to help us continue to help other service personnel around Australia and allow us to expand our reach. We would like to thank them all for their efforts and congratulate them on making it to the end.
14 Camino de Santiago 2018 Melbourne Military Officers Ian and Ross had been friends for more than 30 Annual Ball years and had served together in Afghanistan The Melbourne Military Officers Ball 2017, hosted in 2011-12. Whilst deployed, they agreed they by the Victoria Barracks Officers Mess, was held would walk the Kokoda Trail with their children, on 19th August. This year, the Ball honoured something that they achieved in 2014. the 75th Anniversary of the Kokoda Campaign After retiring, they decided to test themselves once and the significant battles fought in Papua New again. Walking the Camino de Santiago seemed Guinea. like a natural progression after completing the Kokoda Trail, and so in April 2018 they set off. Ian These fundraising events, coupled with other fundraisers, managed to raise over and Ross chose to use this incredible experience $80,000 as a way to raise awareness and funds for a matter close to their hearts: the wellbeing of • Cape Cod Muster and Wagga Takes Two service personnel and their families. They chose • Mereweather Steps Soldier On as the organisation to support so the • Macquarie Group Trivia Nights organisation could continue to help the service • Glenbawn Fishing Competition community. After completing the 1009km walk • DLGC Gala dinner through the European countryside, they took a • ACT WarGamers few days for themselves to sightsee and relax • CANCON before coming home. • SMPUI group • Matthew Locke Charity High Tea (inaugural) • CEO Circle Charity Golf Day
The Annual SGT Matthew Locke MG Charity Weekend The annual SGT Matthew Locke MG charity weekend was held this year in honour of Sgt. Matthew Locke MG, whose life was cut short in 2007 after an attack by Taliban fighters. Since then, Matthew’s family have organised a rugby league charity match between the Magpies and the Army team in his memory. This year’s game was a nail biter, but the Army Thunder managed to come back in the last quarter to win the game. Other events included a golf day with Governor David Hurley (a co-patron of Soldier On) and a concert with the Army Band.
15 Pollie Pedal 2018
The Australian War Memorial was a fitting location to end one of the toughest routes the Pollie Pedal charity ride has seen in its 21-year history.
Soldier On had 13 service riders on the journey, alongside corporate sponsors and politicians including; Angus Taylor, Kevin Andrews and of course, the founder of Pollie Pedal, Tony Abbott. Together they rode over 1000km from the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne VIC, up through the Snowy Mountains and onward in to Canberra by 14th April. Along the way they faced soaring heat, freezing lows, 60km head and side winds, rain, sleet and to top it all off, snow.
The ride spanned eight days, stopping at multiple rural community locations and RSLs to talk with the locals about the ride and the work that Soldier On does. Each evening provided an opportunity to rest, refuel and, for our service riders to share experiences from their time served. This allowed the Pollie Pedal supporters to develop a greater understand of the impact of service life.
As the crowd watched the group come to their final stop, it was smiles all around as they were greeted by family and friends. It was only 12 degrees at the Australian War Memorial, but it is no doubt that those hugs warmed everyone up.
Congratulations to all involved in this year’s Pollie Pedal. We would like to extend a huge thank you to all those who helped the team along the way. Your hospitality and gratitude meant the world to everyone involved.
16 This years’ service riders were:
• Bruce Ashford (RAAF) • Mark Blake (ARA, ACT Fire & Rescue) • Todd Berry (ARA) • Adam Campbell (RAAF) • Michael Hannaford (ARA, NSW Police) • Trevor Gardner (RAAF) • Rob Marshall (ARA) • Lindsey Smith (RAN) • Paul Smith (ARA) • Neil Stanton (ARA) • Natalie Watson (RAAF) • David Welch (ARA) • Adrian Whitby (RAN)
17 Employment Services
Pathway Networking Events Soldier On’s new Pathway Networking Events are being rolled out around the country. These events allow for service personnel and their family members, to meet representatives from the corporate sector in an informal environment. This provides the opportunity for the participants to talk to potential employers in a more open and direct way than is possible in interviews or large-scale expos. It also gives employers a chance to gain a better idea of the skills of each participant. This in turn enables them to provide advice on; what roles participants may be suited to, how to communicate their transferable skills in the application process, and how to secure that sometimes elusive interview, which could ultimately result in a role within the organisation. While there has been a strong focus on employment for service personnel in the past 12 months, there is still greater need to ensure that individuals and employers truly understand their skills and finding the right job. Underemployment should be just as concerning as unemployment, as job satisfaction is a key contributor to maintaining one’s overall health. Soldier On’s overarching aim for the employment program remains focused on ensuring individuals are truly job ready and finding the right job for them. The Pathways Networking Events are a key way to help us achieve this goal. In the 2017/2018 Financial Year Soldier On has held eight Pathway Networking Events; these have been attended by 196 participants and 68 Pledge partners, education providers or potential pledge partners (some organisations have attended more than one event). These events have seen 25 people attend an interview with
18 seven of them securing a job as a direct result of them attending a Pathway Networking Event.
Feedback from those who attended our events has been extremely positive. Everyone we’ve heard back from, both the attendees and HR representatives, have found the events to be extremely helpful, as it allowed them to connect directly, in a relaxed atmosphere, whilst still being able to have confidential conversations about employment.
“This event helped me to extend my network and allowed me to see where my skills would be used” – Participant.
“The organisations who have come on board to help out [service personnel] is truly amazing” – Participant.
“I received an email the day after the pathways event inviting me for an interview, I would never have had the opportunity to sell myself like I did without Soldier On helping me.” – Participant
“The Networking is a great idea to help people back into the workforce, or find new employment” – Participant
“It let me see that there are companies out there willing to help and meeting people who are serious about helping” – Participant
“Gave us the opportunity to see the skills and background veterans have locally – could be an opportunity to host out at Defence Precinct in Williamtown” – HR Representative
“Event was well organised – got to see some specific skills and ex-military experience that suits our program” – HR Representative
Pathways Events have now been held in Canberra, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Newcastle, and Brisbane. Our aim is to hold these events in more locations.
19 Psychology Services
This has been a busy year for Psychology Services engaging with national service personnel such as with numerous staffing changes, relocating the Australian Federal Police. This new population Queensland service provision and supporting has required ongoing learning and development two new residential programs developed in- for our Psychologists to ensure they are providing house. Throughout this our clinical services have appropriate and informed services. The team has maintained their high standard of care, and this met this greater challenge admirably and there has been recognised and is well regarded within has been good uptake of services supported by the sector. this group of staff.
Clinical Services Staffing Clinical and counselling services are available As mentioned above, staffing has been variable in five locations across the country; Canberra, across this year. There were vacancies in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, and our newest Canberra, Sydney and Queensland (including location in Brisbane (services relocating from the relocation to Brisbane from Currumbin). This Currumbin). The Brisbane location was launched resulted in a total of over nine months of staff at the beginning of May, and we have already vacancies (each being a 0.6 FTE position) across established links to its veteran and national the team. It is testament to the team’s hard work service personnel communities. and diligence that they were still able to provide Having established services in five locations has so many occasions of service. It also highlights meant we have seen growth in appointment the challenges of recruiting the appropriately numbers from just over 1000 sessions offered qualified and skilled clinicians in this space. The last financial year to just over 1250 for the current strategy has been to wait for the right person in financial year. This is despite significant periods order to maintain the high level of service and of staff vacancies and needing to establish new respect the team has achieved. employees in these roles. To meet the challenge of serving a new client The team has maintained a high level of clinical population the team has undertaken a range of care for clients. We focus on working with professional activities to develop the required complex trauma presentations which are often relevant clinical skills. There has been an uptake not sustainable in other settings. The team has in the use of EMDR, an evidence-based therapy worked with a diverse background of veterans, for trauma processing. There are now four both current and former serving, as well as clinicians on the team trained in this approach.
20 Other training undertaken included: schema embedded into our policies, and on-going therapy, DBT skills and managing chronic pain. discussions are important to ensure we provide All these are relevant to our client group and the best service to our clients/participants. This enable their presenting issues to be managed. will ensure that we have a framework for staff It was with great excitement that Psychology who are at the front line working with traumatised Services were able to support the Activities people. Part of the on-going education regarding Team in the development and implementation trauma-informed care meant a “team learning” of the Family Ties and Vet Connect programs was conducted by one of the Psychology Services this past year. Both programs were developed team on the topic of vicarious trauma. entirely from within Soldier On utilising the skills, The psychology team has continued to produce knowledge and experience of the two teams. monthly Mental Health Monday emails. These Both of these programs are being evaluated are summarised versions of peer-reviewed by external experts. We are keen to see the journal articles across a range of topics and help effectiveness of the two programs, with the view link theory back to practice for staff. The team to roll out these innovative programs in other has also produced numerous short articles on a locations around the country. range of relevant topics which are included in the The Family Ties program gained national media Soldier On Journal published each quarter. These attention with the ABC running a story online and are designed to be brief and informative for on radio discussing the aim of the program and readers to be able to digest and increase health participants reporting on the positive outcomes literacy relevant to our client population. for having participated. Vet Connect weekends have been held in both Melbourne and Sydney, Sector Collaboration and will be rolled out in Adelaide, Perth and A major undertaking this year has been the Brisbane in the next financial year. collaboration with the Concord Repatriation General Hospital on the development of the Organisational support clinical model of care for the National Centre The Psychology Services team were proud for Veterans’ Healthcare. Regular working party to support activities being run by other meetings were attended to provide knowledge organisations, and provided clinical expertise and expertise regarding veterans’ care to the through psychology screening for participants group. The model of care was finalised in late on the Pollie Pedal ride and the Clyde Pearce May, when the focus shifted to the design of Cup trip to the UK in August 2018. This required the Centre, including the co-location of Soldier approximately 60 hours of psychology time to On enabling seamless service provision for our complete and helped ensure that participants clients and participants. were able to engage safely with the activities, Soldier On continues to establish itself as a leader and were not placed in situations that may in trauma and veteran care. This is recognised by exacerbate their symptoms or impinge on their invitations to present at the Strategic Leadership recovery. One of the team will be attending the course run at the Centre for Defence and Clyde Pearce Cup in the UK to provide on the Strategic Studies, pre-deployment training for ground support across the trip. This will include the AFP and at the Emergency Services Gathering developing support plans prior to leaving and organised by Gallagher Bassett. However, one of support on return, if required. the biggest achievements and acknowledgement of the work Soldier On does, was becoming a In October 2017, the trauma-informed care member of Mental Health Australia. This peak framework was introduced organisation body represents and promotes the interests of wide. This includes the principles of Safety, the mental health sector to achieve better mental Choice, Collaboration, Trustworthiness and health for all Australians. Membership with this Empowerment. These principles have been group is recognition of the great work being achieved across the organisation. 21 Education Program
“I believe that because of Education assistance, I am better prepared and more confident in finding future employment within industry” - NSW Participant
Soldier On has continued with its aim of providing Further education is important as it can assist service personnel and their families with the best someone who is in the process of seeking transition possible, by expanding the range of employment, but who wishes to begin the process services it provides to include Education courses. of re-skilling or upgrading (or learning something The program had a “soft” launch in November of interest) their skills and knowledge first. It is 2017, one year after the employment program also important that current abilities, attributes, started. and skills of service personnel gained whilst We have now partnered with education providers, serving are recognised so they can be translated recognition of prior learning (RPL) organisations, into qualifications understood by workplaces and other registered training organisations unfamiliar with the national security agencies. (RTO’s). Additionally, by offering courses that allow for personal growth, such as how to paint or how The aim of the education program is to build the to use a computer program, Soldier On offers a skills, confidence, employability, and certification holistic approach that helps service personnel of current, and ex, service personnel and and their families not just in the vocational their families, as well as provide an avenue for and career area, but with personal growth and engagement in a new or current field and training development; all with the aim of making their environments. transition more successful. The education program works to connect Soldier These courses are available through a range of On participants to our Education Partners and delivery options such as: face to face, online, or courses across Australia. This is done by our blended. This means that even if a person is in Program Officers who assist in identifying the a remote location, they are still able to access most appropriate training, education, and career some of the courses that we have available. development opportunities that may be required for a new career. Soldier On works with RTO’s to access funding programs that are available to each participant. The education courses fall into three main Funding is state-based, and we are grateful streams: for the support of our education partners in • Recognition of prior learning - to translate providing courses at lower prices, when and service skills and qualifications into where possible. vocational qualification, has been the area Currently, 11 Memorandums Of Understanding of most engagement as it allows skills and (MOU’s) have been signed with RTO’s that have experience of ADF careers and elsewhere joined as part of the education program. Thanks to be translated into vocational certification. to these organisations there are on average, over • Personal and career development 200 courses available to Soldier On participants, courses that can build skills for life, This number is growing as the number of RTO’s business and families continue to join our education program. • Vocational Qualifications - new qualification and skills development in a range of courses
22 National Campaigns and challenges
#SideBySide In October 2017, Soldier On officially expanded its provision of services to awider base to include all those who have served Australia in a national security capacity. This includes those in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Australian Border Force, and the Australian Federal Police and other national security agencies.
This was for two key reasons. The first is that we understand that serving and protecting Australia in complex environments, both domestically and globally, requires teams of people with multiple disciplines, from a variety of agencies. In recognising this, Soldier On feels that we should be offering personnel from these organisations the same level of support that we were providing to the ADF.
The second reason was that over the five years Soldier On has been in operation, we have developed a deeper appreciation of the sense of isolation and alienation non- ADF service personnel and their families can also experience when they are impacted by service. We have seen the positive benefits individuals and families from non-ADF service backgrounds experience when they are able to access services, support, and connection alongside those they have served with.
We have found that this expansion has been well received and we look forward to working side by side with those who serve and protect Australia, and their families, helping them to secure their future.
23 Host a BBQ The campaign was a considerable success, with November last year saw Soldier On once again more than 300 service personnel, or spouses, run a ‘Host a BBQ’ campaign. This was aimed to entering the program and accessing support. Our helping people reconnect with family and friends programs are educating both service personnel whilst enjoying the warmer weather, and at the and industry and continue to be a great success. same time raise awareness and funds for Soldier This program has encouraged a number of On. new organisations to come on board and sign the Soldier On Pledge in support of employing Connecting with family and friends has been service personnel and their families. proven by numerous studies to be important in maintaining positive mental health. Sharing Our sporting partners came on board during this experiences and catching up on what’s been campaign, with St Kilda Football Club and the happening in an enjoyable way reduces a person’s GWS Giants joining forces in a video of support stress levels, and the likelihood of depression that was shown at the ANZAC round match. There and anxiety drops dramatically. These studies were also a number of community fundraising have also shown that socialising with friends and efforts linked to Force 4 Good, who wanted to family improves a person’s health and wellbeing, help see our service personnel make a successful relationships, and economic prosperity. career transition. This campaign was a success, raising awareness BrickByBrick about Soldier On’s social activities that aim to In May, at the Sydney Gala Dinner, Soldier On reconnect service personnel with their families officially launched its BrickByBrick campaign, and friends. At the end of the campaign, Host A to raise awareness and funds for the Michael BBQ had raised $26,000, enabling us to continue Fussell Centre of Excellence. This centre will to provide first class activities and programs to be based at the Concord Repatriation General the service community. Hospital (CRGH) in Sydney, but whose services Force4Good Between 16-20th April, Soldier On ran its first Force 4 Good week, which aimed to raise awareness about service personnel and their transition into the workplace. The campaign was officially launched at Parliament House on 27th March, with the support of Minister for Defence, Senator Marise Payne.
Force 4 Good had three aims: • Educate Australia’s corporate sector and government departments about the ways in which they can recognise the value of service personnel. • Educate the wider public about supporting service personnel and their families to thrive, not just survive. • Raise funds so Soldier On can continue to be a Force 4 Good for those who have been a force for good for Australia.
24 can be used by service personnel and their families from around the country. The centre will provide a patient-centric care model to serving and ex-serving personnel, and their families. On- site accommodation will be available for families to join their loved ones while they receive this critical clinical support through CRGH, and Soldier On will provide support and services to the family.
Studies have shown that keeping the family together, and involved during the treatment phase, is important so they can not only learn how to provide support to the service member, but also be provided support as a unit. The reason for this is because the impact of service affects more than the individual, it affects the entire family - particularly when a loved one is undergoing treatment.
This is why the Michael Fussell Centre of Excellence is an important step in the right direction to creating Australia’s first, world-class facility to provide integrated, holistic and cutting- edge specialist services for service personnel and their families.
Fundraising efforts have included the Sydney Gala Dinner, which raised over $200,000 thanks to the numerous attendees and our supporters, who were contacted about the campaign and provided with detail about the facility. This appeal has been an amazing success, with many supporters who have not supported us since 2013/2014 coming forward to buy a brick. Additional efforts saw information about the campaign regularly going up via social media channels to inform our audience about the Michael Fussell Centre, and what we aim to achieve. Other fundraising efforts have included community fundraisers, and people who have heard about the centre who wish to donate. So far, over $300,000 has been raised for the Michael Fussell Centre of Excellence.
25 Big Programs
Soldier On has started a number of new programs this financial year, in concert with various organisations around the country. One of these programs, Pathway Networking Events, is explained elsewhere in this report. These programs have provided our participants with incredible opportunities and experiences that we believe will assist them in building successful futures.
VetConnect Vet Connect is a program that aims to help service personnel find that sense of brotherhood and camaraderie after they’ve left the services. This program is run with the support of Movember’s Social Innovators Challenge and is the first men’s program of its kind. It has been designed specifically to help male service personnel build a healthier lifestyle, create solid friendships, and develop connections to their local community. The program has already started, with our first VetConnect weekend running in Melbourne in March, with six male Army and Navy service members. Together they undertook team building and self-evaluation activities. It was incredibly successful, and the participants are looking forward to the next weekend. We’ve also run our first NSW Vet Connect weekend, with our service personnel enjoying it so much that some of them did not bother emptying their bags. Ultimately, it is the impact this program has had on the family that is just as special:
“Well ‘thank you’ is not a big enough word to use tonight. I have one very exhausted and extremely happy husband who keeps telling us he feels like a weight has been lifted from his shoulders. Whatever you did, you did it extremely well, even this morning’s walk! He has not stopped telling us what an amazing time he has had. We have heard all about the paddle boarding, football and most importantly the way he got along with other veterans and yourselves. He is still sitting outside talking and laughing to the family about it now.” - Spouse of Participant
26 our participants talked to ABC radio about these activities, and there was an article about the program published by the ABC that received a lot of attention nationwide. This pilot program was run by Soldier On and generously funded by the Ian Potter Foundation. The program is now under independent evaluation, with the goal to build on the findings to make a bigger and better program for more families to partake in, around the country. Direct feedback from participants was incredibly positive.
“A positive impact for our family. Reminds us Family Ties that we are all of value and important decision Earlier this year, Soldier On’s inaugural Family makers.” - Family Ties Participant Ties Program wrapped up. This program was developed to assist families to reconnect and Serving On have an opportunity for some downtime in a place January 2018, marked the start of a new initiative away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. at Soldier On that has seen service personnel The need for this program was evident through being given the chance to volunteer their time community consultation and engaging with our in Sydney. In collaboration with the Rotary participants on the ground. Club of Sydney, the project will be running over the course of this year and aims to assist The program ran over an eight-month period, contemporary service personnel gain new skills, utilising the school holidays, with the five families offer an opportunity to continue to serve through coming together and spending three weekends purposeful work, and have a hand in impactful away from home. Each weekend had a specific projects helping people and communities. We theme and focused on learning techniques to recognise there are some amazing skills amongst assist families in their everyday lives. our participants that local communities should The first weekend was adults only, where couples be aware of and take advantage of. focused on their relationships through various So far there have been three projects: activities and sessions. They were then taught relaxation techniques to aid them day to day at The first project got underway at the PCYC home. (Police Citizens Youth Club) in Woolloomooloo on Jan 19th to aid the locals by repainting the The second weekend was a three-day outdoor gym. The gym was in desperate need of some adventure, in conjunction with Outward Bound new life and volunteers and supporters from Australia, for the whole family. This weekend saw both Soldier On, PCYC, and Rotary joined forces the families take on high ropes courses, abseiling, to get this done. Big thanks to one of our local bush cooking, and much more. It enabled them Canberra participants who is qualified in large to support one another through the adventure scale painting jobs and project managed the day. whilst having a bit of fun. Our second project got underway at North Head The third weekend included more activities and in Manly near the old Artillery School under techniques on how to work together as a family. brilliant blue skies, perfect for some outdoor It finished off with a scavenger hunt around work. In concert with Sydney Harbour Federation Lake Burley Griffin in Canberra, and a Teddy Trust, eight enthusiastic volunteers came out Bears picnic by the Lake. Additionally, some of
27 to do something positive for the local Manly well as enjoying the produce from the garden. community by prepping and painting camouflage Therapeutic gardens have been researched patterns on and around Gun Emplacement 2. and developed in hospitals, prisons, nursing This was part of the North Battery site which was homes and schools since the 1950’s. There is instrumental in the defence of Sydney during a significant body of evidence that supports WWII. This feature is part of the regular North therapeutic gardens as a successful rehabilitation Fort historic tour and is in desperate need of methodology. cleaning & painting to preserve its cultural & The day was spent assembling a garden shed, military heritage. metal garden beds and clearing large amounts of After a couple of hours of work in the hot sun, vegetation from the overgrown garden. A great a much-needed break was taken. To reward BBQ lunch was provided by the Navy. A fulfilling our hard work, we were given a guided tour of day was topped off by a tour of the Garden Island the old artillery school, and the WW2 tunnels facility. and installations that played such a vital part in defending Sydney. At the end of the day all the “Serving On provides me with opportunities to targets had been met and even surpassed! As a constructively engage with the community. I have celebration, a yummy BBQ was held back at the found that veterans programs can be good for Innovation Hub. building a supportive network and self-esteem. Unfortunately, most programs are short and can be expensive and/or exclusive. There is no regular activity or centre of belonging that provides me with an opportunity to participate on a day to day basis. I see Serving On as a tremendous opportunity for veterans to continue to participate in community life and engage with their contemporaries in a positive way. I feel very proud to have worked on projects that have united veterans, rotary, the ADF, Sydney Harbour Trust, and private business. Volunteering to support others and make the world a nicer place, is something I devoted my Our third project was held at HMAS Kuttabul at life to. It’s really good for [my] self-esteem to be Garden Island on another fine day. The team of out doing something constructive with likeminded seven volunteers were working in conjunction people, building a network of friends and bridging with a contingent of naval personnel from the gaps. Personnel Support Unit on the establishment of a rehabilitation garden at HMAS Kuttabul to assist Therefore, I am as active as I can be within my sailors who have been impacted by their service, limited budget and am very thankful to anyone as well those transitioning out of the Navy. It was that gives me the opportunity to continue to also a great opportunity to provide the sailors serve.” - Participant with the opportunity to have a positive interaction with ex-service members. The rehabilitation garden is a project that is aiming to enable members who are undergoing rehabilitation to experience a meaningful activity that fosters team work, planning and organisational skills as
28 29 Facing Forward threw whatever I had in the cupboard on and left to go meet Shannon. I thought I knew what I was Facing Forward is a program currently running in getting myself in to when I agreed to a day that WA, with the team partnering up with several big was all about me but I was very wrong. First stop brands in 2018, to provide women with the skills, was the Soldier On office residing within the RSL resources and contacts they need to successfully HQ in Perth. I met the team and they were all very transition out of the defence force. welcoming. We then made our way to Endota Spa. This program aims to assist women with their To say that I was out of my comfort zone would personal appearance and to help build confidence be an understatement, however I knew I needed as they transition from uniform to the civilian and to put that behind me and delve head first in to corporate world. Ultimately the program aims to be able to experience all of what the day had to build confidence for social interaction, career offer. The team at Endota were amazing, they progression, and further education. were extremely warm and accommodating. I had a skin analysis on my face and was asked a series In the Facing Forward program, Soldier On will of questions about my skin routine (which I do provide six women with the opportunity to work not have). They explained that this was normal with specialists from Mecca, Endota Spa, Maurice for a guy my age and then proceeded to explain Meade, Enex 100 and F-45 Studios as they begin in a very basic way that I could understand, the to develop the tools and confidence necessary to importance of skin care and started me off with sustain a positive self-image. This program is also an easy to follow/use skin care range. After this I being offered to five male service members. was taken to where I would spend the next hour This is the experience of a Facing Forward in pure bliss and relaxation. The massage was participant and how important it has been to incredible. It was surprising that small things like them: allowing me to choose the essence to be used “It was like any other morning. I woke up, showered, and the different oils made the experience that
30 more personal. When it came time to finally leave made me realise that I need to start to look after the room I was in total relax mode. Every stress me. I now feel as though I have the right tools and and worry I had about the day had faded away knowledge to ensure that I look as good as the way and was replaced with a feeling that can only be I feel. I feel comfortable that if I need to go to an described as “floating”. We then made our way to event or job interview that I will look professional Mecca cosmetics where the team there helped me and confident. This may seem like a small thing choose what skin products (based off of the skin but not having to worry about whether I look and analysis) I should be using. dress good enough means I can focus on the more Once we were done there, we made our way to important things. This is definitely not something Claremont Quarter to have my hair washed and I would have gone out and sought for myself. cut. Although the salon was full of women, I didn’t However, this experience has been amazing and feel out of place. The team there were incredible something I would highly recommend [to] anyone and the haircut was brilliant. I have even booked in the same situation or similar, as myself, to do. my next haircut with them. That was the end of I would like to thank Shannon who put this all day one. I came home feeling re-energised and together and dragged me around to each activity. feeling like a million bucks! It was such an amazing day and I am very grateful to have been given the opportunity to do this.” Saturday saw me meeting with stylist Marcia Ball for a look in to what kind of clothes I should be We can’t wait to see what other participants wearing. It would be hard to find someone who experience through the Facing Forward program is as warm and nice as Marcia. She was kind and and hope to expand across the country. asked questions to gauge what kind of style I was after. We only went to two stores but she absolutely nailed it. I went in to this with the impression I was not going to purchase anything, only to gain insight on how I could better wear the clothes I already have. I ended up walking out with a new wardrobe. Not because I was talked in to buying anything but purely because the clothes that she selected for me gave me a look I have never had before. I was very reserved when I first met Marcia and tried on everything that was put in front of me. I do not like photos being taken of myself or the spotlight on me, after every outfit Marcia took a photo of me. I went through these once I had finished the hour and you could tell from the first few photos how uncomfortable I was feeling. But after a few clothing changes I started to really enjoy the experience and tried on clothes I would have never given a second look. I felt good about myself when I was in my new clothes and it made me feel more confident with my appearance. After the last two days I have definitely taken a step in being more confident in my appearance. I have never really put a lot of effort in to looking after myself and the last two days have definitely
31 The board
CHAIRMAN LTGEN PETER LEAHY (Ret’d) AC Former Chief of Army and Director of the National Security Institute, University of Canberra Director Qualifications: AC, Professor, BA Mil Studs UNSW, MMAS USACGSC, GAICD.
Peter Leahy retired from the Army in July 2008 after a 37-year career, concluding with the rank of Lieutenant General in the appointment of the Chief of Army. Since leaving the Army, Peter has joined the University of Canberra as a Professor and the foundation Director of the National Security Institute. He is a member of several advisory, commercial and charity boards. Peter is a regular commentator on defence and security matters on television and radio and in the print media in Australia.
BOARD MEMBERS CDRE MICHELE MILLER Royal Australian Navy Director Qualifications: AM, MAICD (March 2018), BSC (Hons) UNSW, Grad Dip Mgt (Defence Studies) UC, Grad Cert Maritime Studies UoW, MArts (Strategic Studies) Deakin
Michele has 30 years’ experience in the Royal Australian Navy, with nearly 15 years in seagoing positions, including serving on operations in the Middle East, East Timor and in border protection both in the north of Australia and in the Southern Ocean. As a Maritime Warfare Officer, she has been the Commanding Officer of a patrol boat and the frigate HMAS PERTH, and staff positions
32 have included in capability development, career management and strategic workforce management. Michele was the Director General of the Navy People Branch until the start of 2018.
ANTHONY COURT Partner – Defence and National Security, KPMG Director Qualifications: BSC (Hons), MSC (Military Electronic Systems Engineering), Grad Dip Acc, AICAA, GAICD.
Anthony is the KPMG Defence Partner, has been a management consultant for 22 years and was a former Army Officer for 14 years.
DR PAUL ALEXANDER Major General (Ret’d) AO Director Qualifications: AO, MBBS, MLM, FRACMA, FACLM, FACTM, DTM&H, Dip Sport Med.
Paul has had an extensive career in the Australian Defence Force (ADF). He is an experienced senior medical officer with over 30 years working across clinical executive posts, and has held board positions in military, private practice, commercial and not for profit organisations. Paul completed his tenure as Commander Joint Health and Surgeon General, ADF in December 2011. Paul is Chairman of the Metro North Hospital and Health Service, the largest health service in Queensland and Chairman of the Immigration Health Advisory Group.
JOHN BALE CEO, Co-Founder & Managing Director Soldier On Director Qualifications: BA (Hons) UNSW, MA UNSW, MMgtStud UNSW, GAICD.
John Bale served in the Army for 12 years and finished his career as a Chief of Army Scholar writing on the de-stigmatisation of Post- Traumatic Stress Disorder in the Australian Army. John was state finalist for 2014 Young Australian of the year and winner of the EY Entrepreneurs of the Year 2016 Eastern Region and was the joint recipient of the 2017 UNSW Young Alumni Award.
33 HUGH RIMINTON Journalist Director Qualifications: MA (Macq.)
Hugh is a multi-award winning political journalist and foreign correspondent with particular exposure to military activity in Africa, the Middle East, the Balkans, East Timor, Iraq and Afghanistan. He is currently a senior news presenter and journalist on the TEN and WIN networks and plays a board and advisory role in a number of charities and community organisations. Hugh Riminton resigned effective 27 September 2018.
MICHAEL BRENNAN
Managing Partner – MinterEllison Canberra Director Qualifications: BSc LLB (Hons)
Managing Partner of the Canberra office of MinterEllison. Michael has been in commercial legal practice for over 20 years, 13 of those in a partnership role.
NEIL FLETT
Director Qualifications: 12 years Director Starlight Children’s Association, 15 years Director The Australia Day Council of NSW
Neil Flett is an author, journalist, public relations and sales communications specialist, founder of the international management, leadership and sales coaching organisation Rogen International.
BENJAMIN FARINAZZO (Observer to the Soldier On Board) Director Qualifications: BA (Hons)
Ben is a Soldier On Ambassador. He was an Australian Army Officer and served as part of the International Force in East Timor (INTERFET). He successfully transitioned from the military across to several senior executive roles in Australia and offshore. He previously held Chief Executive Officer roles in both corporate and not-for-profit sectors.
34 Directors Report
Vision Soldier On’s vision is to have the best supported generation of service men and women – and their families – in Australia’s history.
Mission Soldier On’s mission is to work side by side with those who serve and protect Australia, and their families, HELPing them to secure their future.
Objectives Soldier On is a company with a minimum of five (5) and no more than ten (10) Directors. The company is established as a not-for-profit, non-political charitable entity to raise and administer funds for the purpose of relieving the suffering, and supporting the health and wellbeing of Australians whose physical and/or mental health and wellbeing is being adversely impacted as a result of serving their nation in a national security capacity since 1990; and the family members of these individuals where those family members are being adversely impacted as a result of the physical and/or mental health and wellbeing issues being experienced by these individuals from their service.
Soldier On commenced operation as an incorporated association in January 2012. On 20 February 2014 the Association became a Company. The objectives as well as the services and programs provided by the organisation as an Association continue to be provided as a Company.
35 Board Chair: Peter Leahy
Responsibilities The Board consists of Directors who have extensive relevant experience to bring independence, accountability and judgement to the Board’s deliberations. This ensures the Board acts in good faith, in Soldier On’s best interests, and primarily for the benefit of service personnel and their families.
The Board also ensures that Soldier On operates within an effective corporate governance framework.
In particular, the Board: • Ensures legal, regulatory and financial obligations are being met; • Sets and reviews strategic direction; • Monitors the operating and financial performance of the company; and • Evaluates the performance of the Chief Executive Officer and senior management.
In preparing this statement the Board has focused on its structure, principles and core values.
Structure The Soldier On Constitution provides for a minimum of five (5) and not more than ten (10) Directors. There are currently six (6) volunteer Directors and one (1) Executive Director.
The Chief Executive Officer is an Executive Director. The Chairperson is appointed by the Directors from amongst their numbers but may not be the Chief Executive Officer.
A Director will be ineligible for reappointment after serving two consecutive terms in office unless approved by all Directors to serve a further term(s) in office. A Director must however retire from office at the conclusion of the third annual general meeting after the Director was last appointed.
The Directors may by resolution appoint additional or replacement Directors.
Members and Contributions on Winding Up As at the date of this report there were six (6) members of Soldier On. If the company was wound up, each member would be required to contribute $2.
Company Secretary Joanne Gonsalves (BA, EMBA) was appointed Company Secretary 11 October 2017. Karlie Brand (BA, BCom, MlntBus) ceased as Company Secretary 11 October 2017.
Committees The Board has created a number of Board Committees to assist with its role in governing the organisation. All Committees operate under formal terms of reference which are updated as necessary.
The Board does not however delegate major decisions to Committees. Committees are responsible for considering relevant issues and making recommendations to the Board within the scope of their respective terms of reference.
Audit and Risk Committe The Audit and Risk Committee assists the Board in meeting its audit, accounting and reporting obligations, financial management, risk management and ensures compliance with legal and statutory obligations.
36 Chair: Carlo Cappuccio (appointed Chair 19 July 2017) Members: Anthony Court, Neil Flett
Fundraising Committee The Fundraising Committee assists the Board in the planning, coordination and implementation of all fundraising activities in support of the services and activities of the organisation.
Chair: Neil Flett (appointed Chair 19 July 2017) Members: Hugh Riminton (resigned 27 September 2018), Mark Hindle, Phil Hayes-St Claire (resigned 19 September 2018), David McMurdo (appointed 24 September 2018)September 2018), David McMurdo (appointed 24 September 2018) Remuneration and Nomination Committee The Remuneration and Nominations Committee advises the Board in its oversight of the remuneration arrangements for the CEO (including performance appraisal methodology), evaluation of Board performance and Board appointments.
Chair: Michele Miller Members: Anthony Court
Processes Meetings are structured to encourage active participation by all Directors at all meetings. Directors have access to information subject to maintaining its confidentiality.
The Board receives regular management reports from company personnel. The Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operations Officer certify the accuracy and completeness of financial information provided to the Board.
The Board operates under a formal Code of Conduct.
The Board periodically conducts a review of its performance and effectiveness.
External Auditor Independence. The Board monitors the independence of the external auditors.
The Audit and Risk Committee meets regularly including on an annual basis with the external auditors.
Strategy for Achieving Objectives Our strategic priorities include: • Establish a National Centre for Excellence to deliver world-leading programs to service personnel and their families; • Increase incidences of early intervention and help-seeking behaviour; • Develop and implement strategies to ensure long term relevance and sustainability; and • Develop and enhance strategic relationships with our corporate partners, ex-service organisations and government.
37 Principal Activities Soldier On meets its vision and objectives by working side by side with those who serve and protect Australia, and their families, helping them to secure their future. Our services aim to help individuals build resilience and create and expand meaningful connections with family, community and employers through: • Health and wellbeing – Psychology, social activities and programs, sporting activities and programs and service initiatives; • Employment – Transition services, employment support, career development assistance; • Learning – Education and training programs, vocational training; and • Participation – Social activities and programs focused on connections with family, friends and the broader community, volunteering and sports programs.
Performance Measures Soldier On measures and reports on both financial and non-financial data to the Board. These reports include financial performance as well as information on service delivery, work health and safety, human resource matters, and governance.
Financial Results The Company achieved a surplus of $132,245 for the financial year to 30 June 2018.
Significant Changes in State Of Affairs There were no significant changes in nature of these activities during the reporting period.
Meetings of Directors During the financial year five (5) meetings of directors were held. Attendance by each Director is as follows:
no. eligible no. Name to attend attended
Peter Leahy 5 5
John Bale 5 5
Anthony Court 5 5
Michele Miller 5 5
Hugh Riminton (resigned 27 September 2018) 5 4
Michael Brennan 5 4
Paul Alexander 5 3
Neil Flett (appointed 11 Oct 2017) 3 3
Mark Wallis (resigned 24 August 2017) 1 0
38 EXPENSE DISTRIBUTION
In-kind expenses These expenses relate to goods and services donated to Soldier On by other organisations or individuals. These contributions are valued conservatively and reflect necessary expenses that must otherwise be paid by Soldier On.
Cost of sales These expenses relate to fundraising events and merchandise.
Employment Expenses Majority of Soldier On staff responsibilities include directly providing services and programs to service personnel and their families. Employment expenses incorporate wages for professionals to deliver these services and programs. Services and programs include Psychology sessions, social connectedness activities and preparation for employment and educational programs. One hundred percent of staff are involved in raising awareness and fundraising activities to enable delivery of these services andprograms.
Event and fundraising Expenses These expenses are associated with logistics and operational costs of delivering coffee catch ups, family, men’s and women’s weekends, learn to surf weekends and sporting events. In-house expertise continues to be used where possible to reduce event expenses.
IT Expenses IT expenses include licences, hardware, software and implementation costs.
Occupancy Expenses This includes rent for office space and Soldier On program delivery centres, as well as maintenance of our buildings.
Office Expenses Office expenses include utilities, insurance, postage and general office operational expenses.
Professional Expenses The majority of these expenses are for technical services not able to be delivered in-house. Expenses include technical, human resource advisory, audit, professional training and education. Most professional services delivered to Soldier On are provided at no charge or at a much-reduced rate by corporate partners.
Travel Expenses Travel expenses include international and domestic travel for program delivery and operational requirements. One hundred percent of all International travel expenses are allocated to program delivery, seeing Soldier On participants take part in once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
39 Financials
STATEMENT OF PROFIT OR LOSS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME FOR THE YEAR 1 JULY 2017 TO 30 JUNE 2018
2018 2017 $ $ Revenue Fundraising 5,058,872 3,848,796 Merchandising 14,096 66,639 Other income 103,916 118,034
5,176,884 4,033,469 Expenses In Kind expense 351,708 - Advertising and promotion expenses - 38,723 Cost of sales 90,972 76,648 Employment expenses 3,323,091 3,032,024 Event and Fundraising expenses 210,734 230,431 IT expenses 6,096 32,870 Occupancy expenses 10,013 43,031 Office expenses 787,265 453,743 Professional expenses 139,012 141,976 Travel Expenses 125,748 93,869
5,044,639 4,143,315
Surplus (Deficit) before income tax 132,245 (109,846)
Income tax expense - -
Surplus (Deficit) after income tax expense for the year attributable to members of Soldier On Limited 132,245 (109,846)
Other comprehensive income for the year, net of tax - -
Total comprehensive income for the year attributable to members of Soldier On Limited 132,245 (109,846)
40 STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS AT 30 JUNE 2018
ASSETS 2018 2017 $ $ CURRENT ASSETS Cash and cash equivalents 956,133 1,324,283 Other current assets 184,351 137,462 Inventories - 95,689
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 1,140,484 1,557,434
NON-CURRENT ASSETS
Fixed assets 19,078 36,826 Other non-current assets - 20,942
TOTAL NON-CURRENT ASSETS 19,078 57,768
TOTAL ASSETS 1,159,562 1,615,202
CURRENT LIABILITIES Payables 392,752 979,215
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 392,752 979,215
NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES Provisions - 1,422
TOTAL NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES - 1,422
TOTAL LIABILITIES 392,752 980,637
NET ASSETS 766,810 634,565
EQUITY Contributed Equity 620,144 620,144 Retained surpluses 146,666 14,421
TOTAL EQUITY 766,810 634,565
41 PRINCIPAL partners
Ernest Heine family foundation
major partners
champions
special thanks to
Medibank Garrison Health Movember Foundation Gerald Slaven Ian Potter Foundation The Good Guys The Howarth Foundation
42 ET W ORK
PERTH NEWCASTLE • Jason Brown Centre • Virtual Office OUR N
ADELAIDE ALBURY • RSL Sub-branch
MELBOURNE BRISBANE • Gregory Sher Centre • Virtual Office
SYDNEY CANBERRA • Michael Fussell Centre • Robert Poate Centre • Concord • HQ • Innovation Hub 43 43 Our Co-Patrons and Ambassadors
His Excellency General The Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Ret’d), Governor of New South Wales and Mrs Linda Hurley
His Excellency General The Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Ret’d) is the 38th Governor of New South Wales. He commenced his five year tenure in October 2014. Prior to his appointment as Governor, His Excellency served for 42 years in the Australian Army, concluding his service as the Chief of the Defence Force. His Excellency was awarded a Companion of the Order of Australia in 2010 for eminent service to the Australian Defence Force and a Distinguished Service Cross for his leadership during Operation SOLACE in Somalia in 1993. His Excellency is married to Linda and has three adult children: Caitlin, Marcus and Amelia. He has a wide range of interests in the arts and in sport.
44 Dave Farrell MG Phil Hayes-St Clair
Dave Farrell enlisted in the Australian Army as Phil Hayes-St Clair is a self-described ‘serial a rifleman in March 1999. After completing his entrepreneur’. After starting his first venture aged initial training, he was posted to the Second 10, he joined the Australian Army as a soldier Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment. Dave then went on to lead user-centred design product deployed to East Timor in September 1999 with teams at Suncorp and AMP before becoming the 2 RAR and upon return continued his role as a Co-Founder CEO at AirShr, a world-first audio rifleman until 2001. recognition and interaction technology for radio. He is now the Senior Vice President of Business Dave then spent the next six months training Development at inkl. at HMAS Cerberus for his next role as an Army Dennis Ramsay Physical Training Instructor (PTI) before being To keep himself busy, Phil blogs each week posted to Darwin as a brigade PTI in December about startup growth, provides tips through his 2001. Founder To Founder Podcast, is a mentor at H2 Ventures, and is an Ambassador for both Soldier During his time as a PTI Dave trained for the On and Inspiring Rare Birds. SASR selection course which he successfully completed in September 2003. Dave spent the remainder of his career in the SASR until he discharged in December 2016. During his time as a SASR operator, Dave deployed on six tours of Afghanistan, one tour to East Timor and spent time in Iraq. Dave was awarded the Medal for Gallantry for his acts of bravery during a large enemy encounter during his first tour of Afghanistan in September 2005. Dave is currently self-employed and runs his own leadership, coaching and training company, the Dave Farrell Group. Dave passes on his leadership knowledge and communication skills that were gained from over 17 years as a fighting soldier.
45 Disorder. A large component of his rehabilitation plan has involved sailing during organised activities with Soldier On and the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club. He was a member of the Invictus Games Australia Team that competed in the 2017 Sydney to Hobart and even managed to fit in a man overboard session off Wollongong about four hours into the race. He was a member of the Soldier On Team undertaking the gruelling 2018 Pollie Pedal from Melbourne to Canberra. Adrian embraces the healing power of sport as a recovery tool that challenges him mentally and physically to assist his rehabilitation toward Adrian Whitby his ‘new normal’. He encourages others to be physically active and to look after their mental Adrian ‘Smiley’ Whitby joined the Royal Australian and physical wellbeing. Navy in January 1989 as an apprentice Aircraft Adrian is an active and regular member of Soldier Maintenance Engineer. After completing initial On’s H.E.L.P. (Health, Employment, Learning trade training at HMAS Nirimba, he was posted and Participation) program, engaging in their to the Naval Air Station at HMAS Albatross Employment Support Services, participating in to consolidate the practical elements of his social connection activities such as coffee catch- apprenticeship. A variety of postings to aviation ups, indoor skydiving, concerts (Hans Zimmer, Squadrons and workshops followed, along with Green Day, Placebo), snorkelling at Maroubra promotions, where he gained deeper levels (supported by Long Bay Correctional Facility Staff), of experience and knowledge. Sea service has art workshops, and cable-ski wakeboarding. He included three major deployments to the Middle enjoys surfing, cycling, kayaking, and travelling. East Area of Operations, including Operations Adrian is a Cancer Council NSW Support Group Slipper, Falconer, Bastille, and Catalyst, in HMAS Leader, and resides in Sydney with his fiancé Bea. Ships ANZAC, ADELAIDE (II) and Parramatta (III). In 2013 Adrian was promoted to the rank of Warrant Officer and posted to the Navy’s Sea Training Group as the Fleet Aviation Engineering Assistant, responsible for auditing and training of embarked aviation units and personnel on RAN ships. In November 2015 he was selected to join HMAS Adelaide (III) as a member of the Commissioning Crew, serving as the Flight Deck Officer. Through his experiences and knowledge, he is now a mentor to other ADF personnel and provides leadership training, quality management support and business operation advice. In July 2016 Adrian was diagnosed with aggressive Prostate Cancer and underwent radical, major surgery. In November 2016 Adrian began a physical and mental rehabilitation program, and in June 2017 he developed Major Depressive
46 Jess Love Gary Wilson
Jessica Love is the middle child and only Signalman Gary Wilson is a soldier in the daughter of Sandi and Shaun Love, with one Australian Army. He has been a member of the older and younger brother. She is an author of Australian Defence Force (ADF) for 18 years. two children’s books, ‘Soon’ and most recently Commencing his career with the Third Battalion, ‘Sometimes’ and is a Soldier On Family and Service Royal Australian Regiment, he deployed to East Ambassador. Jess has moved seven times, six of Timor in 2000 and 2002. In 2005, Gary transferred those moves occurring in nine years. Her father Corps becoming an Electronic Warfare Operator deployed twice, once for seven months in Iraq, with the Royal Australian Corps of Signals. His and the other for 13 months and it was these time as an Electronic Warfare Operator saw deployments that served as the inspiration for him provide strategic support to the Australian the two books. Jess is an accomplished student, Government and the ADF before posting into having completed five university level subjects the 2nd Commando Regiment. In 2010 Gary by age 16, as well as a Certificate Three in Fine deployed to Afghanistan with the Special Arts. She is an active member of the Scouting Operations Task Group. Just 10 days before movement, as a Venturer and Joey leader, and is the end of his deployment Gary sustained life a recipient of the Australian Scouting Medallion. threatening injuries. At first, Gary wasn’t expected She is currently working toward her Queen’s to survive, extensive brain injuries saw him fall Scout Award. In 2014 Jess penned ‘Soon’ as part into a coma. He has re-learnt everything from of a school assignment. This reflected on her walking to talking and most importantly regained feelings while her father was deployed to the Sinai his independence. Gary has since become a Peninsula and tells of the way children deal with Service Ambassador for Soldier On and will soon separation. Her efforts were recognised through discharge from the ADF. Gary has represented Defence Health who published the book in 2015. Australia twice at the United States Marine Corps Jess was awarded the Chief of Defence Force trials and at the 2016 & 2017 INVICTUS Games, Commendation in 2015 for her efforts supporting winning a Bronze Medal in seated discus in Defence families. Jess has recently completed Toronto. Gary’s journey of recovery is a story of ‘Sometimes’ a reflection of children dealing with resilience, determination, love, and support. His separation, again sponsored by Defence Health. recovery has been nothing short of remarkable, Jess aims to start a Nurse/Paramedic double continually defying the odds stacked against him. degree in 2018 to continue her service to others.
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