Annual Report 2017 – 18

Carers Victoria Annual Report 2017/18 2

Key Carer Statistics

736,600Victorians are carers

OR 12.5% of the State

1 i n 10 33% 12% carers is under 25, with of Australia’s primary of Australians 272,200 young carers carers have been caring in the workforce Australia-wide. for more than a decade are carers

Carers Victoria is recognised and funded as the leading body for carers and caring families in Victoria. We work collaboratively with Carers Australia and other State and Territory-based Carer Associations to represent, advocate and provide services on behalf of carers throughout Australia.

Carers Victoria Inc. This work is copyright. Apart Carers Victoria Inc (Carers Carers Victoria receives funding from any use permitted under Victoria) is incorporated under from the Victorian Department the Copyright Act 1968, all other the Association Incorporation of Health and Human Services rights reserved. Reform Act 2012 (VIC). and the Australian Department of Social Services. Carers Victoria Annual Report 2017/18 3

The 2017-18 financial year was announced an additional $1.2 million CEO & President’s dominated by a program of intensive in funding to support Carers Victoria, Report for review and strategic planning as Carers Tandem, Little Dreamers and the Support Victoria positions itself to address for Carers Program. The funds will 2017–18 major change to the State and Federal provide extra respite, school holiday Government funding arrangements programs and supports for young carers, caused by the National Disability and extra supports for carers of people Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and Aged with a mental illness. There will also be Care reforms. updated information and resources, This back office strategic work, including help finding existing financial restructuring and appointment of a support, concessions and discounts new CEO has enabled Carers Victoria available to carers. to be well prepared to tender to provide Carers Victoria’s funding will be services under the new Commonwealth dedicated to four projects focusing on: Integrated Carer Support Service: • Upgrading the Everything Carers Regional Delivery model. From July 2019, website and integrating it with the this new national model will direct carer Carers Victoria website to facilitate supports and services across Australia. easier, more streamlined access to There will be 16 regions, of which Victoria information about carer supports has two – one metropolitan and one and services regional. We are now confident we are ready to expand the organisation and • Promoting available carer benefits further grow and improve services to • Raising awareness of carer needs Victoria’s 736,600 unpaid carers. amongst health and medical professionals Victorian Carer Strategy • Leveraging the Mildura Carer Blueprint In July 2018 the Andrews Government pilot project across other regions. launched Victoria’s first whole-of- At the time of writing, Carers Victoria government Carer Strategy 2018-22. has had a major breakthrough. It was This highly anticipated Strategy follows announced that a re-elected Andrews 12% three years of advocacy for improved Labor Government would pledge carer supports and services. Importantly, $49.5 million to increase respite and it responds directly to Carers Victoria’s support services for carers. This would extensive research funded by the fund an extra 100,000 hours of respite State Government via State-wide carer care each year and expand the eligibility consultations throughout 2017. The to include carers of people with a mental Strategy was launched by the Minister illness; $4 million in grants for both for Housing, Disability and Ageing, grass roots and State-wide carer support Martin Foley and Parliamentary Secretary groups, including young carers and for Carers and Volunteers, Gabrielle LGBTI carers; and, half price travel on Williams at Parliament House, with public transport all year round and free Premier in attendance. Scott Walker travel during National Carers Week. The Strategy sets out a framework to CEO These election promises will be better recognise and support carers in Carers Victoria welcomed by carers across Victoria if the their own right. It has five priorities: Labor government is re-elected. In the • Carers are recognised, acknowledged meantime, it is the job of Carers Victoria and respected to continue to advocate to all political • Carers have better health and parties for similar commitments for the wellbeing greater good of carers.

• Carers are supported in school, study Strategic Planning and work environments Carers Victoria has developed its • Carers can access support and services Strategic Imperatives for 2018- that meet their needs 2019 to provide a framework for the • Carers have less financial stress. organisation’s direction over the next The Strategy outlines ways carers, 18 months. peak organisations, service providers The shorter duration for this strategic Sue Peden plan is in consideration of the significant President and communities will work with the changes to Government funding models Carers Victoria State Government to address the priorities. At the launch the Government underpinning the organisation’s delivery Carers Victoria Annual Report 2017/18 4

of services and supports. As already In the background much work has mentioned, there is still much uncertainty been done to identify four themes for surrounding the tender for the Regional our systemic advocacy work, so we Delivery Partners of the Integrated Carer are well equipped to brief the political Supports and Services. parties. Our themes closely mirror the Carers Victoria’s 18-month Strategic priorities of the State Government’s Plan – ‘18 imperatives in 18 months’ – Carer Strategy: has three main themes: • Recognition and value 1. Raise our profile • Health and wellbeing 2. Leverage our knowledge and • Education and employment resources, and • Financial security. 3. Ensure financial sustainability. Each of the 18 Strategic Imperatives 25 Year Celebration aligns to one of these themes and has Last October 2017 Carers Victoria a number of projects and programs celebrated a significant milestone – the which will be developed by teams across anniversary of 25 years supporting the organisation. To ensure we are Victoria’s carers. The Honourable Linda successful in delivering on each of the Dessau AC, Governor of Victoria, hosted ‘18 imperatives in 18 months’, the Board a cocktail party at Government House will commit funds to cover any additional which was attended by 120 guests, Young Carer Michael Casha (centre) resources required to deliver within this which included carers, long-servicing with his mother Vicky Casha (left) and timeframe. staff members, board members and Jacqueline Leorke, Executive Assistant people with a long association with the Financial Performance Carer & Community Services at Carers organisation. We were also fortunate to Victoria's 25 year celebration at Carers Victoria’s net operating result for have Carers Australia President Peter Government House. the 17/18 financial year was a surplus of Langkamp and Carers Australia CEO Ara $695,655. Cresswell attend the event. Total revenue for Carers Victoria increased for the year from $12.2 Merger million to $12.4 million. While overall Carers Tasmania and Carers Victoria Government grants saw a slight increase, spent much of the last 12 months other non-grant income was constant. exploring the possibility of a merger to In response to this uncertain strengthen opportunities for carers in environment Carers Victoria has our two regions. Just prior to a Special instigated some cost saving initiatives General Meeting in September 2017, the but more importantly, structured the board became aware of a potential risk organisation to cope with the possibility of reputational harm in relation to the of a reduced funding base. proposed merger. The Special General In the next 12 months Carers Victoria Meeting was adjourned to undertake will tender for new services as they further due diligence. become available, including the Regional While the risk has now been averted, Delivery Partner component of the ICSS, during the intervening period the Carers as well as developing new and different Tasmania board came to believe there ways of raising revenue. was a strong possibility 75 per cent of members present at a Special General Member Election Campaign Meeting would not vote ‘yes’ to the As we approach the Victorian State merger, so they reluctantly withdrew from election on 24 November 2018, we have the proposed merger. an opportunity to build awareness of This aside, both boards are committed our issues within each local electorate. to building on the positive relationship With this in mind we have developed an forged over the past 12 months and will Election Strategy to lobby for the needs continue to explore collaborative ways of of carers among all political parties and working to strengthen the voice of carers build awareness of our issues within each in advocating for and providing ongoing local electorate. In addition to Carers support services. Victoria meeting with politicians across all parties, we will be calling on our members to lobby their local candidates. Carers Victoria Annual Report 2017/18 5

Governance a board member since 2005. In these roles she has provided strategic advice In July 2018 the board announced on a number of board/committee issues the appointment of a new CEO, Scott over the past 12 years, most recently the Walker, who had joined Carers Victoria National Transformation project and the as General Manager, Business Support proposed merger of Carers Victoria with in April 2016 and served as Interim CEO Carers Tasmania. for 10 months. Scott has more than 20 Maree Grover has been a member years’ experience in community-based since 12 May 2014 and Chaired the organisations and the board has absolute former Carer Advisory Group from confidence in his ability to lead Carers October 2014 to December 2017. Maree Victoria’s future success representing, was a member of the Speakers Bank, advocating and providing services on now Carer Champion program, and has behalf of Victorian carers. participated in carer research, spoken Wesa Chau resigned from the on behalf of Carers Victoria at the Office Carers Victoria board in August 2018. of Public Advocate launch of Supported Wesa joined the board in 2012 and Decision-Making resources, provided real has provided invaluable guidance and life experience input to Carers Victoria leadership over the years. Carers Victoria policy submissions and participated in thanks Wesa for her contribution and media engagements. wishes her all the best. Just as we were signing off this Annual In closing Report we received some sad news about the recent and unfortunate passing Across Victoria, more than 736,600 carers of our past President and Board member, give their time, effort and love to look Wolfgang (Ben) Chodziesner. Ben joined after a family member or friend who the Carers Victoria Board in 1997 and needs them. Carers make a significant became President of Carers Victoria in contribution to the Victorian economy and 2004. Ben retired from the board and community, and to replace them would Presidency of Carers Victoria in 2010 cost an estimated $15 billion per year. and became an Honorary Life Member We acknowledge and thank our of Carers Victoria. Ben also joined volunteer board and the 91 members Carers Australia’s board in 2000 and was of staff who work tirelessly to support President of Carers Australia from 2005 carers so they can participate socially – 2007. Ben retired from the Board and and economically and have the best presidency of Carers Australia in 2007. health and wellbeing possible. Ben guided Carers Victoria from its small beginnings to the vibrant and growing organisation it is today. On behalf of the board and staff, we would like to thank and acknowledge Ben’s tireless passion, enthusiasm, commitment and drive for leading Carers Victoria over many years. Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time.

Honorary Life Members Honorary life membership recognises special contribution to Carers Victoria and this year the board has great pleasure in nominating board member Mary Anne Noone and carer Maree Grover. Mary Anne Noone has been a member since 15 November 2002 and

Annie Hayward, General Manager – Policy, Strategy & Public Affairs at Carers Victoria (left) with nominated Carers Victoria Honorary Life Member and former Chair of Carers Victoria Carer Advisory Group, Maree Grover (right). Carers Victoria Annual Report 2017/18 6

Carer and Strong demand continues Carer Sanctuaries for specialist carer support Carers Victoria’s specialist Carer Community Counselling team has been delivering Carers Victoria believes in building Carer Sanctuaries every year since 2013. Services capacity and improving carer wellbeing. The Carer Sanctuary is an intensive By adopting a positive, strength two-day residential which provides a safe based empowering model of service place for carers to express and explore delivery we aim to ensure carers receive the varied and unique experiences and support which reflects their choice and impacts of the caring role. The program is appropriate to their circumstances. aims to: Carer services are delivered on a short • Enhance carers’ self-awareness and to medium term basis, with referral sense of connectedness through pathways to local services providing sharing personal experiences with opportunity for ongoing supports within peers in similar situations communities. During the 2017/2018 financial year • Improve carers’ confidence and Carers Victoria received more than capacity to promote and protect their 20,000 calls from carers across the own mental health and wellbeing. State. Our local partnerships and our In 2017-18 a Counselling Sanctuary was Carers ID referral program continue to delivered in collaboration with Alfred support us in reaching out to more than Health Carer Services. Common themes 3,000 new carers this year. Demand for included identity, life’s purpose, self-care specialist services remains strong with and wellbeing, and relationship conflict. over 1,000 carers seeking support in the Western Metropolitan region and nearly "Personally, my mental health 5,000 counselling sessions delivered across Victoria. has not been good. Too much grief, loss, sadness, frustration Focusing on carer mental to manage for one person. health and wellbeing I honestly believe the strategies Inaugural Carer Counselling Conference that we have shared have Carers Victoria was proud to host the first been beneficial, listening to National Carer Counselling Conference in each person’s account of their Melbourne in October 2017. The theme was ‘Diverse Work in a Specialised Field experience. I can return home – Counselling Carers in Practice’ and to my caring role, parent, featured keynote speaker, Susan Beaton, spouse, family member with a psychologist with 30 years’ experience renewed energy, greater focus, "Great to be so specifically in suicide prevention. Counsellors, support practitioners, researchers and new strategies and a belief that focussed - means I actually policy-makers came together to explore I’ve made a new association learnt and thought a lot carer issues, common themes and with Carers Victoria and (more than other broader diversity. Australian Home Care Services conferences)." Delegates shared practice, ideas and case studies through plenary sessions that will continue." and interactive workshops; received sector-specific updates on systems One hundred per cent satisfaction was "Congratulations on such change affecting carers, such as Aged reported from participants, with carers an excellent conference! Care, Mental Health reforms and the reporting the following outcomes: I found the day professionally NDIS and increased their knowledge • I have given myself permission for one enriching and enlightening. about counselling carers. hour’s rest daily The Conference was a resounding • I’m delegating tasks The focal points of best success, with strong counsellor support practice, relevant research, to make this a regular, biannual event. • I have put support people in place and celebrating our shared Carers Victoria thanks the Department • I have extra skills in my kit bag like wisdom enabled us to of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Mindfulness and Carers Australia for sponsoring • embrace ways to make the Conference. Since the Sanctuary the change for me a difference to clients." was having a coffee by myself for the first time ever in 29 years. Carers Victoria Annual Report 2017/18 7

"Thank you guys. It was My Daily Dose: Self Care for Carers Partnering with local communities My Daily Dose, Self Care for Carers Carers Victoria has developed educational and it gave is a new online community hosted in me so (much) insight to collaborative partnerships with local Facebook. Established in February, the councils in Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, what is out there to be more online community has grown to over 300 Melton, Werribee and Moonee Valley. relaxed and how to look after members and offers practical ideas and These partnerships provide the advice on how carers can find ways to opportunity to raise awareness of carers myself better … I’ve really take care of themselves while maintaining enjoyed these." in these municipalities and develop their busy lives. Using a combination engaging activities to support carers of live videos, discussion, links and and provide respite in their caring role. resources, My Daily Dose: Self Care for Five-week carer activity program Carers provides a supportive community and a gentle reminder that carers need Highlights from the year include the co- to look after themselves too. design of a five-week activity program for carers with Brimbank City Council which Mind the Step – an early comprised gardening, yoga and cooking intervention group program classes. This program enabled carers to Carers Victoria is working in partnership learn new skills, develop connections, with the West Victorian Primary Health reduce social isolation and improve their Network and a wide range of regional overall wellbeing. and local services to develop, trial and evaluate an early intervention Walking groups promote physical program for carers at risk of poor mental health, new learning and social health resulting from stress, anxiety or connections depression. Mind the Step is a three- Development of walking groups in session group program which will run in partnership with local councils in the October and November in the regional Werribee and Moonee Valley regions towns of Geelong, Ballarat, Horsham has supported the promotion of and Warrnambool. monthly physical activity, along with the opportunity for carers to link in with Strengthening Carer guest speakers and gain knowledge on Peer Support Groups their chosen topic. Fourteen walking Carer Support Group group sessions have occurred with Facilitator Network 89 carers attending. These walking groups are established and have Peer support forms a backbone of the regular attendees which demonstrates supports available to carers across the value these groups have in reducing Victoria. While many groups are run by social isolation. services, the vast majority are dependent on volunteer peer facilitators. Countless Aspiring Artists Calendar carers work tirelessly to keep their The Aspiring Artists Calendar 2018 groups in operation, providing a space showcased the artwork of carers where carers and families can connect from a local art group. The Calendar with others on a similar journey. promotes monthly social, educational Carers Victoria’s connections with and counselling workshops organised hundreds of Carer Support Groups by Carers Victoria. across the State reveal many facilitators Carers want to ‘live local’ operate their groups in isolation, without Caring responsibilities frequently leave Carers participating in a walking the benefit of a network of peers to little time for carers to connect with group session. collaborate and share ideas experiences their own communities. The Living Local and successes. To address this gap, program was developed in response Carers Victoria launched the Carer to feedback from older carers residing Support Group Facilitator Network in the Wyndham region. Living Local initiative early in 2018. The State-wide provides carers over 65 years of age with Network aims to connect group leaders an opportunity to take a break from their with each other and with a central hub caring role, while being introduced to of information and resources. local facilities they may not know about. Group leaders representing more This group has enjoyed 10-pin bowling, than 150 Carer Support Groups across laughter therapy, cooking and art classes, Victoria came together through a series gardening and the informal peer support of informal lunches, ‘Peer Possibilities that comes with shared activities and Carer Conferences’ and the ‘Carer Peer experiences. Support Collective’ online community. Carers Victoria Annual Report 2017/18 8

"Thank you very much for Building on this success, we look forward ‘felt uplifting’, ‘useful to share with other to establishing a similar program in people’s experiences’ and ‘thought organising an event like this Brimbank in the coming months. provoking’ are regularly seen on – I love that someone thinks Talking Taboo feedback forms. Our Education Service Team also of us carers and I love having Following the success of Carers Victoria’s provides training and education to a break like this and I love inaugural Women’s Forum in 2017, Carers leading service providers to increase Victoria held a Talking Taboo Forum for meeting other carers." awareness of carer issues and build women, hosted by Sally Cockburn (aka sector capacity to respond to carers’ Dr Feelgood). needs. During 2017-18 we continued our The Forum was well attended by partnering with the National Disability 64 carers who had the opportunity to Insurance Agency (NDIA) to inform hear guest speakers from the following and support carers prepare for and organisations – No to Violence, Thrive transition to the NDIS. We continued our Rehab, Relationships Australia Victoria education in-services for Department of and Family Planning Victoria. Difficult Health and Human Services group home and confronting topics were presented staff, building awareness of the family and discussed in a thoughtful and perspective, strategies for effective and considerate way. sensitive communication and strategies Carer education needed to manage their own wellbeing, more than ever professional boundaries and work stress. These workshops are an important Carers Victoria's Education Services means of building staff expertise and Team has developed and delivered commitment to the welfare of residents/ approximately 30 different education clients by developing a partnership workshops to carers over the last 12 approach with families. months. The aim of the workshops is to increase carers’ resilience, capacity and knowledge to support them personally "This workshop got the and in their caring role. message to the whole group With over 470 workshops attended by and was fantastic. I now have 11,871 participants, the workshops have an understanding of what successfully ensured carers are supported and informed about the ever-changing is required when dealing nature of the caring landscape. with families." The range of workshops included programs to educate carers on accessing and working with systems such as the "I feel more confident about National Disability Insurance Scheme putting into practice what (NDIS) and My Aged Care. With the roll out of the NDIS and the I learnt today at work. It is changes to the aged care system, our vital to help me perform practical and informative programs have well at work." been well attended. The knowledge and skills gained have ensured carers Our comprehensive training and and their families are well prepared attendance at community events and best placed to maximise the and exhibitions ensures the voice of opportunities offered by our services. carers is being heard, recognised and Along with other individual workshops, valued, both in the community service such as ‘Relax and Unwind’, ‘Music and environment and in the community. Self Care’ and ‘Surviving Carer Stress’, the carers’ feedback shows the design and execution of these workshops has provided interesting and engaging Carers Victoria staff hosting an content while socially connecting information stall at the VCOSS participants. Conference. L-R: Service Manager – Aged and Feedback shows our workshops Older Families Programs Anita Craike, consistently achieve our aim to improve Service Manager – Operational the wellbeing of carers. Carer comments Support & Service Development Sheri such as ‘feel empowered’, ‘very helpful Tedesco, Carer & Community Services and I will put it to use’, ‘very informative’, Advisor Vivienne Ritsikos. Carers Victoria Annual Report 2017/18 9

Everything Carers has been superb at Thank you, it’s like a promoting many of the things happening breath of fresh air. BTW in Wyndham. This is a great avenue for (by the way), we received promotion for any of your events/activities. the Plans for both our – Wyndham Disability Support Network lads yesterday

Everything Carers NDIS Carers Online Facebook Group Case Study Everything Carers is a website which Carers who are supporting someone to brings together local caring news, transition to the NDIS now have access Carers Victoria has been supporting information about peer support groups, to the NDIS Carers Online community. Mary* over a five-month period. Mary local service providers and information Hosted in a Facebook group this first presented in great distress over her and advice about the topics carers need community has brought together over experiences with trying to understand to know about. 1700 carers and families of people and access the NDIS for her 8-year- Everything Carers makes it easy for with disability. The Group offers both a old son. She indicated a reluctance to carers to find out about the services, structured online learning program that proceed with the NDIS. Low literacy supports and events available in their has been conducted twice in the year, levels, no computer or internet access local area. With news contributed by and ongoing discussion, peer support and limited transport options impacted over 200 organisations across Victoria, and advice from those that have walked on Mary’s capacity to access and this year Everything Carers has cemented the road before. understand information and complete its role as the online place to go to find the written documentation required by Supporting the transfer carer specific supports. It is also proving the NDIA. to be an exceptional tool to enable our of disability respite The NDIS Advisor provided intensive support to Mary, including how to access partner organisations reach the carers in DHHS Support for Respite the NDIS, lodge a complaint and connect their community: Families Program with a specialist advocacy service. Carers Victoria is working with the DHHS Supporting carers to navigate Through the assistance of Carers to assist and support carers through the the NDIS Victoria’s NDIS Advice service Mary was transition of Short Term Accommodation able to gain early access to the NDIS for NDIS Carer Advisory Service Assistance from DHHS to the new her son. This resulted in Mary having the As the NDIS Rollout has progressed, providers. opportunity to engage community access Carers Victoria identified an emerging Through the second half of 2018, support for her son so he could begin need among families transitioning to families impacted by the transfer will to develop social connections outside of the NDIS. While workshops provide be able to attend tailored workshops the family home while Mary had more valuable information to assist hundreds exploring how respite services will time to attend her own needs. Mary was of families prepare for the NDIS, we work under the NDIS. They will also also supported to access carer specific found many families needed more in- have access to individual advice supports such as counselling and respite depth support, particularly those who through the NDIS Advisory service to assist her rebuild her capacity. have English as a second language and an online resource hub hosted *Mary is a fictitious name to protect the or have low literacy skills. In response on Everything Carers. carer’s privacy to this need and with the support of the Victorian Government’s Transition Support Package, Carers Victoria has developed the NDIS Carer Advisory service. The specialised service, staffed by two people with lived experience of supporting a family member transition to the NDIS, provides individual support to carers who are having trouble navigating transition to the NDIS. Since launching in December of 2017, the service has supported 176 carers. Carers Victoria Annual Report 2017/18 10

Community Mildura Carer Blueprint Pilot National Carers Week The highlight of the second year of the Activity Grants Engagement Mildura Carer Blueprint pilot project The National Carers Week Activity Grants was the December opening of Carers were awarded to 142 Carer Support Victoria’s first regional office by the Groups across Victoria. The Grants Parliamentary Secretary for Carers help over 3000 carers participate in and Volunteers, Gabrielle Williams. celebrations or activities during National With an 18-month Work Plan Carers Week, ranging from outings for underway to respond to gaps in carer carers to relax and have a day off to services and supports in the areas of activities which raise awareness of carers information provision, transport, housing and caring in local communities. and community initiatives, other program highlights included: Young Carer Scholarships • Engagement of a Mildura Carer The 2018 Young Carer Scholarship Blueprint Project Coordinator Program awarded 184 scholarships • An average of 28 carers per day visiting totalling $51,750 to young people with the ‘Carers Hub’ – open two days caring responsibilities. Young carers are a week – for meetings and seeking empowered to utilise their scholarships information about local carer supports in a variety of ways to positively impact and services their lives. Community-based activities to provide respite, peer networking • The appointment of two volunteers and support opportunities are crucial to • An on-site meeting with the Nationals sustain the mental health and wellbeing Member for Lowan, Shadow Minister of young carers. for Country Health and Shadow Carers Victoria hosted the Young Minister for Mental Health, Emma Carer Scholarship Award Ceremony Kealy MP and the Nationals Member in July. Ninety young carers and their for Mildura, Peter Crisp families attended the Ceremony at The Mantra Bell City in Preston. Carers • Six meetings of the Steering Group Victoria Board President Sue Peden and • A professional development workshop Good Shepherd Microfinance Innovation for the Steering Group, and Young carer Sofia with Project Lead Jo Baldwin awarded her award certificate. • A bi-monthly newsletter to local carers the certificates and Carers Victoria in the Mildura region. Ambassador and former young carer, Michael Casha, made a speech. Carers Victoria thanks Bendigo Health Carers Victoria thanks The Barr for sponsoring the pilot project and Family Foundation, Sue Fincham, the volunteer members of the Steering Carers Victoria members and major gift Group – carers Sandra Summerton, John donors for supporting the Young Carer Purcell, Jan Cecchi and Don Laity; service Scholarshipv Program. providers Leanne Rahmel, Amanda Kilaris, Suzette Toepfer, Shane Johnston Mingle Program 2017/18 and Sharon Lavery; Jeni Snadden and Belinda Fitzgerald from Mildura Rural The 2017/ 2018 Mingle Program saw City Council; and Bertilla Campbell from 650 carers come together at events in Dementia Australia Vic. We also thank Werribee, Geelong, Bendigo, Phillip our dedicated volunteers, Lee Farmilo Island, Burwood, Sunbury and Sale. and Wendy Vanek. The theme was ‘Ride the waves of life and discover some magic at Mingle’. Membership Carers were entertained by Carers Victoria staff who explored the concept Carers Victoria’s current membership is of ‘riding the waves’ and managing stress 7,489, an increase of 4.9 per cent from using Mindfulness. Carers were also the 2016/17 financial year. The continued treated to some magic with acclaimed growth of 895 new members is attributed female magician and mentalist, to marketing and promotional activities. Cath Jamison. Over a light lunch carers met and mingled with other local carers and chatted to Carers Victoria staff and local service providers. The Mingle Program is designed to help carers learn about Carers Victoria Annual Report 2017/18 11

services and supports, meet new carers, Odonate Gala Ball Thank you to our volunteers learn about health and wellbeing The Odonate Gala Ball was held on • Community Engagement volunteer and strategies and feel recognised and Saturday 26 May 2018 in Ivanhoe. Carers Victoria Life Member – Veronica valued as carers. The Ball was initiated by the Odonate Hassing We were delighted to have VIP Foundation with the goal of raising guests, Gabrielle Williams MP, State • Carers Victoria, Mildura Carers Hub funds to support and assist young carers. Parliamentary and Secretary for Carers volunteers – Lee Farmilo and Wendy Collingwood Football legend Tony Shaw and Volunteers Julia Banks, Federal Vanek performed as MC and Auctioneer. This Member for Chisholm at the Burwood included an on-stage discussion with • No Interest Load Scheme volunteers Mingle event; Rob Mitchell, Federal Victorian Young Carer Action Team ––Nhi Lam Member for McEwen at the Sunbury member Shaan D’Rosario to help the Mingle; and MP, State ––Prithi Bharati audience understand the role of young Member for Bendigo West and Chris carers. The Odonate Gala Ball was a ––Lynn Trinh Kelly, Manager Community Wellbeing resounding success much enjoyed by all. • from City of Greater Bendigo at the IT volunteer Carers Victoria would like to thank Bendigo Mingle. ––Sai Pavan the major sponsors of the Odonate Gala Carers Victoria would like to Ball, Ability Financial Planning, Magic acknowledge and thank the Bass Coast Hand Car Wash and Secon Freight Shire Council, Wyndham City Council, Logistics, as well as all those businesses City of Greater Geelong, Hume City and individuals who donated and Council, Wellington Shire Council, attended this fantastic event. We would Whitehorse City Council and generous especially like to thank the Odonate donations from our members and Foundation Board for their tireless work, supporters for their support of the volunteering many hours to aid young Mingle 2017/2018 Program. carers – Chairman Brian McKenzie, Carer Holiday Program Tiziana McKenzie, Mardi Solomon, Paul Barbuto, Rosemary Assetta, Craig Ryan Carers Victoria's Holiday Grant Program and Kristopher Meuwissen. was developed in response to the generosity of two anonymous donors who specifically requested the funds be directed towards giving some deserving carer families a holiday. Carers Victoria members and current carers were asked to explain in 300 words or less their caring role and how they would benefit from a holiday. We received an overwhelming 310 applications from carers who generously shared their stories. The Carer Holiday Program Selection Panel nominated 15 successful applications worth $2,000 grants.

Carers Victoria CEO Scott Walker (centre) with Julia Banks, Federal Member for Chisholm (left) and Gabrielle Williams MP, State Parliamentary Secretary for Carers and Volunteers (right) at the Burwood Mingle event. Carers Victoria Annual Report 2017/18 12

"Being a carer, sometimes you walk behind the person you’re caring for, sometimes beside them, and sometimes in front of them."

Participant at Victorian carer consultation 2017 Carers Victoria Annual Report 2017/18 13 Carers Victoria Annual Report 2017/18 14

Policy and 1. Invest in a whole-of-government of pre-election platforms, including Victorian Carer Strategy COTA Victoria, Mental Health Victoria Research 2. Maintain unique Victorian carer support (formerly VicServ) and VCOSS. services and address unmet need, and Conference presentations 3. Ensure carers of all ages have equitable The Policy & Research team presented access to education and workforce at a number of conferences during the The Policy & Research team had a year participation. 2017/18 reporting period: of both constancy and change, preparing 16 State Government submissions and Research • Monash University seminar on participating in consultations on key The policy team responds to many ‘Overcoming the challenges of issues for carers. As a member of the requests for carer participation in managing chronic diseases in National Network of Carers Associations' research. Shaping the future direction persons with dementia’ Policy Working Group, the team was a of research concerning carers and care • The 7th International Carers Conference key contributor to a number of national relationships remains a priority. in Adelaide 4-6 October 2017 on: submissions. Carers Victoria’s first Research –– July 2017 commenced with team Literature review: Carers of older Agenda – ‘Valuing Unpaid Care’ was people and consumer directed care members on the road in regional Victoria, launched in July 2017. The Research conducting the final carer consultations Agenda 2017-2020 outlines three broad ––Experiences of carers of LGBTIQ to prepare a comprehensive report for research themes: people living with mental illness the State Government. At the time the 1. The social contribution of care ––The challenge of Australia’s NDIS findings were to inform the development for carers – obligations under the 2. of a Victorian Carer Statement; however, Quality of life for carers United Nations Convention on the last October the State Government 3. Supporting carer capabilities. Rights of Persons with Disabilities announced the findings would inform Carers Victoria welcomes approaches (UNCRPD) and comparisons with a whole-of-government Victorian Carer the UK and Norway. Strategy. The Strategy, launched by by prospective research partners with the Minister for Housing, Disability and project proposals addressing these ––A Caring Mildura – a partnership Ageing, Martin Foley and Parliamentary three themes. Carers Victoria is currently approach to creating a town Secretary for Carers and Volunteers, working with Deakin University to that cares Gabrielle Williams in July, sets out a validate three carer Quality of Life ––Panel presentation on the NDIS framework to better recognise and measures in the Australian context. and carers with senior staff of the support carers over the next four years. National Disability Insurance Agency Projects Greater access to carer support groups, ––Pre and post conference symposia financial services and transport, and better Carers Victoria received funding under on Conceptions of care: feminist identification and help for young carers the Family Violence Initiative to develop approaches and gendering care are the key pillars of Victoria’s first whole- resources and strategies for elder abuse with Professor Sue Yeandle (RMIT of-government strategy recognising the prevention within care relationships. Once University) and Social Justice & important role of carers. signed off by the Department of Health Caring in Later Life with Dr. Alisoun At the launch Minister Foley and Human Services (DHHS), we hope to Milne (Swinburne University). announced the Labor Government will launch these resources later in 2018. invest an initial $1.2 million for extra • The Australian Association of respite, school holiday programs and Systemic Advocacy Gerontology conference in Perth in November 2017. support for young carers, as well as Consumer-directed care and supported more support for carers of people with decision-making continued to be Early in 2018 the team prepared several a mental illness. major themes of our policy work. The abstracts and has received confirmation of Carers Victoria welcomes the five team continues to actively participate presentations at the following conferences: priorities outlined in the Strategy: in the National Network of Carers • Australian Institute of Family Studies 1. Carers have better health and wellbeing Association Policy working group and Conference in Melbourne, July 2018 hosted a two-day face to face meeting 2. Carers are supported in school study • National Ageing Research Institute at Carers Victoria in July. Carers Victoria and work environments Annual Seminar, October 2018 presented on emerging issues in NDIS 3. Carers can access support and services Specialist Disability Accommodation and • Australian Association of Gerontology that meet their needs on carers of older people and consumer- Conference, November 2018. 4. Carers have less financial stress, and directed-care. With outcomes of the legislated review In preparation for the Victorian 5. Carers are recognised, acknowledged of aged care reforms, ongoing issues Election on 24 November 2018, the team and respected. with NDIS implementation and planned prepared an online survey to inform call for tenders for the Integrated Carer Pleasingly, elements of these priorities our election platform. Over 700 carers Support Service model, our team work are closely reflected in the priorities responded. The team also supported plan for 2018/19 promises to be just as which Carers Victoria advocated for partner organisations in the development full as this year. in the 2018 pre-budget submission: Carers Victoria Annual Report 2017/18 15

List of submissions

Title of Submission In Response to

Carers Victoria Consultation Regulatory Impact Statement Australian Building Codes Board Consultation RIS that (RIS): Adult Change Facilities Response sheet considers the impact of the inclusion of adult change facilities in new Class 6 shopping centres and new Class 9b assembly buildings

Carers Victoria submission on Unintended consequences Victorian Department of Premier and Cabinet NDIS of the NDIS for Victorian carers Implementation Taskforce

Carers Australia submission to the Productivity Productivity Commission Inquiry on National Disability Commission Inquiry on National Disability Insurance Insurance Scheme Costs Scheme Costs

Carers Victoria submission on Integrated Carer Support Department of Social Services Discussion Paper on Service: Regional Delivery Partners: A draft regional Integrated Carer Support Service: Regional Delivery Partners: delivery model A draft regional delivery model

Carers Australia Submission to the Aged Care Financing Submission to the Aged Care Financing Authority Respite Authority on Respite Care Care Consultation

Carers Australia submission on Specialist Dementia Submission to the Department of Health Consultation Paper: Care Units Specialist Dementia Care Units

Carers Victoria’s Pre-Budget submission 2018-19 Victorian Government Budget

Carers Australia submission on Redesign of Dementia Department of Health Consultation Paper: Redesign of Consumer Supports Dementia Consumer Supports

Carers Australia submission on Future Reform – Department of Health Discussion Paper: Future Reform an integrated care at home program to support – an integrated care at home program to support older Australians older Australians

Carers Australia submission to the Joint Standing Parliament of Australia Joint Standing Committee on the NDIS Committee inquiry into NDIS Transitional Arrangements

Carers Victoria and Carers Queensland joint submission Senate Standing Committees on Community Affairs on the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Quality and Safeguards Commission and Other Measures) Bill 2017

Carers Victoria submission on Rights in Specialist Disability DHHS Rights in Specialist Disability Accommodation Accommodation Consultation Paper

Carers Victoria’s submission on Development of Victorian Health Complaints Commissioner Discussion Paper on Health Complaint Handling Standards Development of Victorian Complaint Handling Standards

Carers Victoria Issues paper on Recognising Carers as DHHS revision of guidelines on data collection via the Carer Service Users in Mental Health Data Experience Survey and the Your Experience of Service survey

Carers Victoria submission on Young Carers and Career Victorian Parliamentary Economic, Education, Jobs and Advice Activities in Victorian Schools Skills Committee inquiry into Career Advice Activities in Victorian Schools

Carers Victoria submission on NDIS Supported Disability NDIS Supported Disability Accommodation (SDA) Pricing Accommodation (SDA) Pricing and Payments Framework and Payments Framework Review Carers Victoria Annual Report 2017/18 16

Financial Report Carers Victoria continues to monitor Total revenue for Carers Victoria changes to the funding landscape as both increased for the year from $12.2 the Federal and State Governments review million to $12.4 million. While overall distributions to the community sector. Government grants saw a slight increase, Changes which have and are expected other non-grant income was constant. to have a direct and material impact on In response to this uncertain future revenue streams include the NDIS environment Carers Victoria has and Integrated Carer Support Service instigated some cost saving initiatives (ICSS). While the NDIS transition is taking but more importantly structured the longer than first expected, the ICSS organisation to better cope with the tender process for the new Regional possibility of a reduced funding base. Delivery Partner model – an important In the next 12 months Carers Victoria carer services component of the ICSS – will tender for new services as they has been announced as a 1 September become available, including the Regional 2019 start up. Delivery Partner component of the Carers Victoria’s net operating result ICSS, and also look to develop new for the 17/18 financial year was a surplus and different ways of raising revenue. of $695,655. The Carers Victoria financial report is available upon request. Please email [email protected]

Income

Donations 44,577 0% 2% 3% Sponsorships 207,245 5% 3% Grants for Special Projects 420,302

Other Income 681,245 17% State Brokerage Income 353,788

Federal Brokerage Income 2,078,025

State Government Grants 3,455,244 28%

Federal Government Grants 5,162,107 42% Total 12,402,533

Expenses

Vehicle and Travel Expenses 143,976 1% 1% 3% Consultants Fees 185,238 3%

Rent and Rates 338,973 11% State Brokerage Expense 322,001

Other Expenditure 1,287,751

Federal Brokerage Expense 2,194,177

Salaries, Wages and Oncosts 7,234,762 19%

Total 11,706,878 62% Carers Victoria Annual Report 2017/18 17

Committees, Carers Victoria is committed to being a strong voice on behalf of carers within the community. We are active Groups and members of the following groups and committees. Acknowledgements

HealthWest Partnerships National Network CEO Meetings Management meeting (teleconference)

West Metro Alliance National Network President & CEO Meetings Aged Care Quality Agency Liaison Group (Vic) NDIS Expert Advisory Group

Commonwealth Home Support RMIT Partnership Program Carer Programs Victorian Victorian Council Of Social Service state-wide Network (VCOSS) / RMIT Future Social Service North West Metropolitan Region Institute Board Primary Care Partnership Identifying State Trustees Australia Foundation and Responding to Family Ageing, Disability and Mental Health Violence Project Collaborative Panel Committee of Management Supporting Cross-Sector Learning and of the Chronic Illness Alliance Development Steering Committee Commonwealth / Victorian VCOSS Peak & State-wide Governments CHSP Community Networks Forum Care Advisory Committee NDIS Expert Advisory Group DHHS Victoria’s End of Life and Palliative Care Framework VCOSS Ageing, Disability and Mental Implementation Advisory Group Health Collaborative Panel

Ethic Communities Council of DHHS Mental Health Carer Victoria (ECCV) aged care and Partnership Dialogue policy sub committee ECCV Health Policy Family Safety Victoria Diverse Subcommittee meetings Communities and Intersectionality Working Group Tandem (Mental Health Carers) Network meetings National Ageing Research Institute START online research project Tandem NDIS and Mental Health advisory group Working Group

National Aged Care Alliance (NACA) Ten Year Plan Lived Experience advisory group – Care at Home Leadership Reference Group – Lived Reform Advisory Group Experience, Engagement and Integration

NACA advisory group – My Aged Safewards Community of Practice Care Gateway (commencing 2018) – Office of the Chief Mental Health Nurse, DHHS Carer and National Supported Decision- Consumer Guidelines Working Group Making Network Working with Families and Carer Practice Victorian Government Elder Guidelines Working Group – Mental Abuse Prevention and Response Health Branch – Health and Wellbeing Advisory Group Division, Department of Health & Human Services Victoria Police Seniors Portfolio Reference Group Victorian Transcultural Mental Health Working Group DHHS Mental Health & Carers Victoria North Western Melbourne Primary Human Services and Health Partnership Health Network LGBTI Suicide Implementation Committee Prevention Trial Working Group Carers Victoria Annual Report 2017/18 18

NWMPHN Voice of the Consumer Wyndham Network Meeting Advisory Group Western Health Education Best State Trustees Foundation Collaborative Practice, Clinical learning environment Panel Promoting the Exercise of framework Working Group Consumer Control & Choice Project Aged Care Teachers Network Chronic Illness Alliance Peer Support Northern Dementia Alliance Workers Network Meeting Subject Matter Expert Group for Service Department of Health and Skills Organisation – Skills IQ Human Service’s Participation Advisory Committee National Policy Working Group

Department of Social Services Subject National Commonwealth Ombudsman Matter Expert Working Group re Disability Complaints Handling Forum Integrated Plan for Carer Support Services (SME) National Road Trauma Institute Invite only Forums Hume Whittlesea Primary Care Partnership Executive Management Office of the Public Advocate Policy Group Meeting and Research Advisory Group

National Carer Counsellor Register TAC / WorkSafe Disability Service Working Group Reform Working Group

National Programs Network Victoria Police Disability Portfolio Meeting (Carers Australia) Reference Group

State Trustees Stakeholder NDIS Implementation Taskforce (ITF) Reference Group NDIS ITF Housing Working Group Victorian Carers Services Network NDIS ITF Complex Needs Working Group National Quality Working Group Gay and Lesbian Foundation of No Interest Loan Scheme Australia (GALFA)/ VALID: LGBTIQ Provider Network disability self-advocacy project advisory committee meeting HealthWest Community Engagement Network NDS Research Advisory Group

Living Positive Victoria, Senior Voices ‘Thanks a bundle’: Making Project Reference Group telecommunications services more accessible for people with decision- Matrix Guild – LGBTIQ Youth Service making impairments Advisory Board Providers Network Hobson’s Bay Inter Agency Network National LGBTI Carer Services Network Hobsons Bay Communities That Care National LGBTI Health Alliance – Steering Group (youth specific) LGBTI Ageing & Aged Care Advisory Committee Melton Service Provider Network

Rainbow Network – LGBTIQ Youth Western Dementia Action Alliance Service Providers Network Health Literacy Alliance (HealthWest) Val’s Café – Aged Care Service Space4Us Young Carers Working Group Providers Network Young Carers Network (Carers Australia) Maribyrnong Network Meeting

Board Contact details ABN 12 533 636 427 ARBN 143 579 257

Sue Peden – President Level 1, 37 Albert Street Helen Johnson – Vice President (PO Box 2204) Footscray VIC 3011 Mark Van Zuylekom – Treasurer Guy Carvallo Carer Advisory Line: 188 242 626 Charles Hardman Email: [email protected] Callum Ingram Social Media: @CarersVictoria Mary Anne Noone carersvictoria.org.au