COMMUNITY REPORT K ARI 2013/2014

CONTENTS

KARI VISION AND MISSION STATEMENTS 4

CHAIRPERSON REPORT 5

CEO REPORT 6

BOARD OF MANAGEMENT PROFILES 8

OUR SERVICE STRUCTURE 10

OUR SERVICES 11

OUR VALUES AND STANDARDS 12

OUT OF HOME CARE PROGRAM (OOHCP) 14

COMMUNITY PROGRAMS 23

COMMUNITY EVENTS 27

COMMUNITY AND FAMILY SUPPORT PROGRAMS 28

PARTNERSHIPS AND COMMUNITY GRANTS 30

3 OUR VISION OUR MISSION

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

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

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

4 REPORT FROM THE CHAIRPERSON

In regards to the NSW State government decision to transfer OOHC responsibility over to the NGO sector, I am proud of the fact that this agency is one of only a few that is keeping pace with the transfer process. This highlights the high quality planning and expertise that currently exists within our service operations, and I congratulate all concerned. I would like to acknowledge all the hard work done by the KARI team over the past 12 months, and in particular all the good work done in supporting our children and young people in foster care. I am very satisfied in knowing that all of our programs and services are designed to ensure that Aboriginal culture and identity is the priority. I would like to acknowledge our marvelous foster and respite carers for their ongoing dedication and commitment in supporting our children and young people in care. We all know how challenging this role can be at times, but we also know how satisfying and rewarding it can be at the same time. I would like acknowledge my fellow Board of Directors for their valuable contribution made throughout the year. In particular I would like to acknowledge Anthony Ashby who resigned from the Board in September 2013. Anthony was a long term Board member who gave great support and commitment to the service, we thank him and we wish him well for the future. Moving forward, I am very confident with our plans for continued service growth in our continued efforts to support our children and young people, and our community in achieving a better quality of life, self-determination and economic independence.

GARY POTTS CHAIRPERSON

5 REPORT FROM THE CEO

I am pleased to see the roll out of our service growth planning come to fruition for this financial year. Much of our success can largely be attributed to the tireless work done by our out of home care team, which is superbly led by our Chief of Operations, Casey Ralph. I would like to make special mention of our marvelous foster carers who have all been so committed to their foster care role and their support of our children in care. I would also like to thank all of our respite carers for the role they play in supporting our carers and children in care. I would like to acknowledge the support provided to me during the year by the KARI Board of Management and in particular our Chairperson, Gary Potts. I would also like to acknowledge and thank all our consultants and partners for assisting us throughout the year. We are now preparing for another exciting year ahead, and have set our sights high in terms of additional service growth and securing more quality partnerships that will allow us to do more good work for our community. In closing, I would like to make it known how proud I am of all the KARI staff. These people are the reason we have such a good reputation and why people want to work closely with us. Their continued passion and commitment to their roles ensures that our clients and community are in good hands. Yours Sincerely,

PAUL RALPH CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

6 7 BOARD OF MANAGEMENT PROFILES

GARY POTTS PAUL RALPH ANNE MARTIN CHAIRPERSON CEO – DIRECTOR DIRECTOR Gary is a man from Paul is a founding member of Born at La Perouse in Sydney, Parkes, NSW, however he spent KARI and the current CEO. A Anne has held a range of senior most of his life in Campbelltown, proud Aboriginal man with family public and non-government sector NSW. He is a proud father of three connections on the north and roles across Indigenous affairs, great daughters and a devoted south coasts of NSW, Paul has including State Manager for ATSIC husband to a loving wife. Gary and spent 35 years living in Gandangra and Senior Advisor to the Chair. his wife are also foster carers. Gary Country, which is located in south- Anne has always placed an has been involved in Aboriginal west Sydney. Over the years, Paul emphasis on the health and affairs for the past 15 years, and has worked across a number of wellbeing of Aboriginal youth, has held a number of positions on important Aboriginal portfolios and has been instrumental in many boards and committees in relating to Aboriginal employment, establishing innovative education the Campbelltown/Liverpool areas. housing, education and policy programs that operate both Currently, Gary is employed with development. This experience has nationally and locally. Housing NSW in an Aboriginal enabled him to travel to many specialist position, and has been Aboriginal communities across Anne has also worked on programs with Housing for over 15 years. and see first-hand the in South Africa, Israel, New Zealand many social issues that affect and Canada. Currently, Anne is the Gary is well-known within his Aboriginal people. At the same Co-Chair of the National NAIDOC community and is currently time, he is privileged to see the Committee. coaching a local NRL football team. diversity and resilience of the He is honoured to be the current world’s oldest culture. Chairperson of KARI, and sees KARI as a leader in the area of Aboriginal Over the past 15 years, Paul has child protection and wellbeing, as worked exclusively in the Aboriginal well as providing specialist support community NGO sector. This has and training to its wonderful carers. been the most challenging, but at the same time most rewarding period of his professional career. Paul is now committed to devoting the remainder of his professional career to serving his community to the best of his ability.

8 BOARD OF MANAGEMENT PROFILES

ISABELLE PHILLIPS GEORGE VILLAFLOR ANTHONY ASHBY DIRECTOR DIRECTOR PARTING TREASURER The Founder and Managing Born in Queensland, George is Anthony served with distinction Director of Mackerel Sky – a descendant of the Wagiman on the Board from 1 December Leadership Matters, Isabelle has people (NT). He spent his early 2009 to 23 September 2013. an undergraduate degree in Adult childhood in Darwin at the former Education, majoring in Human police paddocks, which is now Resource Development. She focused known as Stuart Park. Whilst not her post graduate studies on stolen, he spent some time at a linguistics, and is now completing a stolen children’s home - Retta PhD, bringing together the fields of Dixon in Darwin before moving to positive psychology and leadership. Queensland, where he played A Isabelle is an experienced and grade . accredited coach, and trains coaches George became involved with Land around Australia, New Zealand, Rights in the 80s with the Alice Singapore and China. Springs-based National Federation Isabelle started her career in of Land Councils before working for education, working with children the North Queensland Land Council. at Redfern Primary School, and He was the CEO of the first Cape then with migrants and refugees in York Aboriginal legal service in the Fairfield and Cabramatta. Prior to late 80s, and was admitted as a starting Mackerel Sky – Leadership barrister to the Supreme Court of Matters, Isabelle worked for Vedior; Queensland and the High Court. He the world’s third largest human has worked in Indigenous child care capital company, running HR and protection in both the Australian Talent Management consulting Capital Territory and Queensland, businesses on the eastern seaboard and is currently the P&C President at of Australia. Today, her consulting his local primary school in Canberra. business primarily designs and runs Currently not formally practising law, leadership development programs George works in other Aboriginal for government, corporates and the areas, and is still involved with land NFP sector. rights and working with Indigenous Isabelle is the adoring parent of two children in care and protection. gorgeous children who adopted her as their mum when they were three.

9 SERVICES STRUCTURE

KARI BOARD OF MANAGEMENT

KARI TEAM

KARI PROGRAMS

PROGRAM SYSTEMS & NETWORKING FUNDING MANAGEMENT INFRASTRUCTURE

10 OUR SERVICES

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

11 OUR VALUES AND STANDARDS

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

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

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

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

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

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

12 WE WILL ENDEAVOUR TO ADVOCATE ON BEHALF OF THE CHILDREN IN OUR CARE, OUR FOSTER CARERS AND THE ABORIGINAL COMMUNITY WITH RESPECT AND PROFESSIONALISM.

13 OUT OF HOME CARE PROGRAM (OOHCP)

In October 2013, the OOHC Program commenced operations in the Metro IT WAS A VERY EVENTFUL West region of Sydney, which encompasses a geographical area extending YEAR FOR THE OUT OF from Parramatta to Lithgow. The office is based at Penrith and currently case HOME CARE PROGRAM; manages a total of 36 children and young people. NOT ONLY IN REGARDS TO In regards to staff, a team of four caseworkers are supported by a program THE NUMBER OF CHILDREN manager, with administrative supports put in place to replicate the existing ENTERING THE OOHC south-west Sydney model of service delivery. To date all children and carers PROGRAM, BUT IN REGARDS have been transitioned over from Family and Community Services (FaCS) with TO THE AREAS THAT THE overwhelmingly positive results. OOHC PROGRAM SERVICES. In May 2014, we successfully identified the location of our Sydney-based office, which is set to commence operations on 1 July 2014. The office will be based in Rosebery, which is a central access point to all the areas that this region services. New staff have been employed and carers assessed in anticipation of the impending start date. The growth across south-west Sydney continued this financial year, with 48 children and young people contracted to be a part of the existing OOHC Program. All in all, there are over 200 children and young people being provided with quality case management support across south-west Sydney. KARI intends to continue to work closely now and in the future with Family and Community Services to ensure as many Aboriginal children and young people as possible that are in care are transitioned into the OOHC Program. This is to ensure holistic support by both the case management and cultural wrap around services offered by KARI. Aside from the transition, the Out of Home Care Program delivered a range of programs across a range of portfolios in the 2013/2014 financial year.

14 OUT OF HOME CARE PROGRAM (OOHCP)

CASE MANAGEMENT WHOLE OF PROGRAM INITIATIVES The management team have Each year the OOHC team strives continued to work hard over the to deliver a number of program past 12 months to ensure the quality initiatives for carers, their families of case management provision and the many children and young remains at an all-time high. Current people in KARI care. These initiatives practices were reviewed across all are aimed at bringing together core case management areas, and all key stakeholders of the OOHC new systems were implemented to Program to celebrate culture, streamline processes and support community and the many successes casework staff. that were achieved throughout the course of the year. The following is In early 2014, the Office of the an overview of the programs and Children’s Guardian conducted initiatives offered in the 2013/2014 a mini-file audit to provide advice financial year. on whether the files were compliant in regards to accreditation Christmas Carols standards. Feedback was positive, with files meeting the requirements The 2013 Christmas Carols event of the audit. was the biggest and best event to date. It was also the first year that we had carers and kids from two regions attend the event. Due to the rise in attendance numbers, the event was once again held at the Liverpool Whitlam Centre. There was an overwhelming response from those invited, with almost every KARI carer and child in care attending, meaning more than 250 people were in attendance. Great effort went into turning the Liverpool Whitlam Centre into a mystical winter wonderland full of presents, decorations and fun activities. Activities included the ever-popular jumping castle, mini golf, arts and craft, face painters and a petting zoo. However, the real magic players supporting our Christmas event commenced with the singing of various Christmas tunes, and the arrival of Santa and his elf to distribute his many presents.

15 OUT OF HOME CARE PROGRAM (OOHCP)

CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE INITIATIVES

Cultural Camp The Cultural Camp was the Activities included learning to highlight of the year, giving children cook traditional foods using native and young people in care the ingredients, Aboriginal dance, opportunity to be engaged in workshops on identity and cultural their cultural heritage. This year’s beliefs/practices, bush walking annual camp was held at Camp through National Parks whereby Lutunda Toukley for children in sites of significance were visited KARI’s Out of Home Care Program and explained, lessons on flora and and aged 8-17 years. fauna and traditional medicines, lessons on hunting (how to track A new initiative to ensure our animals), traditional art workshops children have the opportunity to and traditional Indigenous games learn about and experience their sessions. heritage from an early age was developed and piloted by the Combining theoretical applications Cultural Unit. The initiative was a and a hands-on approach allows camp for children aged 4-7 years, children to utilise all their senses and was held at Vision Valley. when learning about culture, and through these experiences children Staff from the Cultural Unit worked gain a stronger sense of identity endlessly to develop culturally and belonging. engaging and age appropriate cultural programs that would enable Special thanks go to Jonathon those in attendance the opportunity Wright from the Cronulla Sharks to not only gain a greater NRL team for spending a day at understanding of their heritage, but the camps sharing his cultural also experience culture first-hand knowledge and expertise, and the through a variety of activities. NSW Fisheries (in particular George Mannah) who partnered with the OOHC Program to deliver a cultural fishing package inclusive of lessons about traditional baits and methods of fishing. With the growth of KARI, the Cultural Unit is planning to facilitate a number of Cultural Camps in the coming year so that greater numbers of children have the opportunity to experience culture first-hand.

16 OUT OF HOME CARE PROGRAM (OOHCP)

Indig Art We Learn to Swim Program Vacation Care Indig Art is an Artist in Residence In partnership with the Michael The OOHC Vacation Care Program program that gives children and Wenden Aquatic Centre, KARI continues to be a popular program. young people associated with the offered its children in care the The aim of the program is to not OOHC Program the opportunity opportunity to take part in a Learn only give carers a period of time to participate in an art program to Swim Program. The program out during the school holidays that will enhance and build upon consisted of an intensive five-day at no cost, but more importantly their cultural knowledge, whilst swimming schedule, where qualified keep children involved in the enabling them to connect with their swim instructors assessed, trained program connected. The children community. and supported those in attendance make strong connections and have to either learn or enhance their expressed a keenness to come A local Aboriginal artist, who is swimming skills. To date, over 40 together in large group situations on engaged to facilitate the program, children and young people have as many occasions as possible. has the responsibility of teaching participated in the program, with all the children about traditional Activities undertaken during carers reporting that their respective painting techniques, symbols vacation care over the past year children had increased knowledge and their meanings, and how to include but are not limited to movie and awareness of pool safety. KARI tell story through art. One of the days, Life Story workshops, arts and intends to continue this program for Cultural Liaison Officers from the crafts and laser tag. many years to come as we see pool KARI Cultural Unit was engaged to safety, and children having the skills facilitate the ever-popular Indig Art to swim, as being vitally important. Program in September 2013. Upon completion, all pieces were entered in the Mil-Pra Art Exhibition, an exhibition that showcases local Indigenous talents.

17 OUT OF HOME CARE PROGRAM (OOHCP)

CARER INITIATIVES

Carer Awards Foster Carer Support Group Carer Training The highlight of the OOHC Calendar The OOHC team facilitates the KARI carers have embraced the in 2013 was undoubtedly the annual Foster Carer Support Group meeting opportunities afforded to them by Carer Awards event. The Carer every two months. All carers are attending further training in order Awards evening was held in August invited and encouraged to attend, to up-skill and expand their 2013 at the Roma Classic Function with lunch and child minding knowledge base. Centre in Liverpool. The purpose of provided. Carers are given the The OOHC Program has a blanket the evening is to acknowledge the opportunity to brainstorm ideas and rule that all carers must attend hard work and commitment of our strategies with a Manager. At each at least two training workshops valued carers. meeting, KARI organises a service annually, and in the year past provider to address the carers, On the night, a number of awards we have seen an increase in the who offer advice on how they can were distributed, including numbers of carers attending training best be of service or assistance at acknowledging carers for their with positive results. meeting their needs. efforts in regards to training, In order to support carers achieve recruitment of carers and years of their minimum training standards, service. The major awards, however, Mother’s and Father’s Day KARI has joined forces with Carers were given to carers via means of Connect, who offer carers a range nomination from children, staff or Once again, we showed the carers of training workshops at nil cost. It KARI Board of Management. All our appreciation by purchasing them is the intention of Management to award recipients received a glass gifts on both Mother’s and Father’s develop further training packages plaque, flowers, framed certificate Day. The gifts were well-received, and offer a KARI training calendar in and gift as a sign of gratitude and with many carers commenting on the coming financial year. congratulations. The comedic talents how supported and appreciated of Indigenous singer Casey Donovan they felt in the role they play. entertained all carers, making it a memorable night.

KARI Carer Awards Some of our exceptional foster carers

18 OUT OF HOME CARE PROGRAM (OOHCP)

FOSTER CARER RECRUITMENT

OVERALL, IT WAS A Over the past 12 months, the Carer Whilst recruitment has had a SUCCESSFUL YEAR FOR Recruitment Team has experienced focus on attracting, training and CARER RECRUITMENT, great success, with high numbers assessing quality Aboriginal carers, WITH A HIGH NUMBER of quality Aboriginal carers able they have also been involved in the OF ENQUIRIES RESULTING to provide a safe and nurturing transition of carers from Family and IN THE GROWTH OF OUR environment for our children and Community Services (FaCS) to KARI. CARER POOL. young people entering care. More than 15 carers from FaCS were identified by the recruitment team In 2014, our Carer Recruitment as being ideal to transition into the strategy focused on increasing KARI OOHC Program. awareness of the need for Aboriginal foster carers within the The response from these carers Sydney Metropolitan area. thus far demonstrates keenness in regards to wanting the transition Various marketing strategies were and to be supported by KARI. Those used to gain interest, including who have transitioned have all networking with other services remarked on the quality of support and agencies, advertising across a and service provided to them number of mediums and attending by KARI, whilst the list for those a variety of community stalls. Three wanting to transition continues to new brochures were developed to grow. Overall, it was a successful increase awareness and target the year for Carer Recruitment, with a need for high needs carers, respite high number of enquiries resulting carers and carers who may have in the growth of our carer pool. the capacity to provide care for sibling groups.

19 OUT OF HOME CARE PROGRAM (OOHCP)

KARI CLINIC

THE NEXT 12 MONTHS The 2013/2014 financial year was Our Playgroup, which runs for FOR THE CLINIC WILL a busy recruitment period for children in the OOHC Program aged SEE SOME EXCITING the clinic. In July 2013, our team birth to five years, has seen a busy DEVELOPMENTS. expanded to include a second 12 months with good attendance speech pathologist, and was and fun had by all. Excitingly, the followed in January 2014 by two speech pathologists running the psychologists and an occupational Playgroup have been joined by therapist. Recruitment also the occupational therapist and commenced in May for a Child psychologist in this program to and Family Health Nurse to start in enhance the support available to July 2014. the children and carers who attend. KARI’s Multidisciplinary Assessment Individual assessments and therapy Clinic continued in partnership services have continued to be with the South Western Sydney provided by the speech pathologists Local Health District’s (SWSLHD’s) for children experiencing difficulty Liverpool Hospital, who continued with their communication to provide paediatric health, and skills. Additionally, individual allied health support in health and assessment and therapy services development assessments of our for occupational therapy and children in OOHC. Planning for the psychology commenced in January replication of this clinic’s model is 2014 to meet the developmental, underway for our Penrith office, emotional and wellbeing needs of with clinics due to start running in our children in the OOHC Program. the second half of 2014. May 2014 saw the introduction of The Transition to School and the Reparative Parenting Program Playgroup programs successfully run by our psychologists, which continued this year. We saw a record is aimed at providing therapeutic number of children take part in our carer training and education around Transition to School Program, which the needs of children affected by ran from August until November trauma. The eight foster carers 2013. Sixteen children came weekly currently participating in this for 10 weeks to work with the program are already reporting an speech pathologists on increasing increased understanding around the their language and literacy skills in effects of trauma on children, and preparation for the commencement how the strategies discussed are of Kindergarten in 2014. All children positively impacting the behaviour made outstanding gains throughout and overall wellbeing of the children the duration of the program, and they care for. their achievements were celebrated at a graduation ceremony held on 11 November, which was attended by carers and staff.

20 OUT OF HOME CARE PROGRAM (OOHCP)

The program, which is set to The speech pathologist also had conclude in September 2014, is due the opportunity to present our to recommence with a new cohort service at the National Speech of carers shortly after. Pathology Australia Conference held in Melbourne in May 2014. The The beginning of 2014 has also conference proved to be a valuable seen the commencement of a opportunity to interact with other Dietetics Clinic at KARI. Thanks to a speech pathologists about the work partnership with SWSLHD’s Dietetics done at KARI. department, a dietician will service the diet and nutritional needs of As a result of the introduction of our children currently in OOHC on new staff, the next 12 months will a monthly basis. The intention is see some exciting developments, to open the service to our Brighter such as the Child and Family Health Futures clients in the near future. Nurse. Our service expansions into Penrith and Rosebery will see an The clinic has also recently seen increase in the quantity and types some exciting opportunities to of clinical services offered to all our share expertise and present our children in the OOHC Program. service to the wider community. In March 2014, our speech pathologist was invited to speak with our paediatrician, Dr Natalie Ong from Liverpool Hospital at a statewide OOHC forum on our Multidisciplinary Assessment Clinic’s structure, and to reflect on our experiences in assessing the health and development of children who have experienced trauma. The forum was well-attended, with many experts and professionals across the human services sectors gathering to share information, and discuss key issues associated with the health, development and wellbeing needs of children in the OOHC Program.

21 OUT OF HOME CARE PROGRAM (OOHCP)

CULTURAL UNIT

The Cultural Unit continued to The Cultural Liaison Officers were grow in size and capacity across given the charter of working the 2013/2014 financial year. closely with carers, children and The team doubled in size with birth families to develop a Cultural the addition of a third Cultural Care Plan that would ensure all Liaison Officer. involved would be responsible for nurturing and maintaining cultural The Cultural Unit aims to play a big connections. role in preventing another stolen generation by reconnecting our Each plan is varied and gives great children in the OOHC Program to insight into the gaps of cultural their families, land and culture. knowledge and understanding across each stakeholder, i.e. carers, The Family Research Officers children and birth parents. In the were given the task of ensuring coming year, the Cultural Unit hopes that all children and young to invest time and energy into people in the OOHC Program collecting and tracking data for the had a detailed family genogram purpose of developing programs researched and developed, going and training packages to support all back four generations to great, involved with the OOHC Program. great grandparents. They also had The next 12 months will also see the the arduous task of confirming implementation of a number of fee Aboriginality of those within for service products and activities the program with sometimes relating to culture marketed across unexpected results. the wider NGO sector.

2013/2014 OOHC Statistics In September 2013, the Cultural Service Type Unit was invited to attend and participate in the NSW/ACT Number of children and young people in care at 30 June 2014 262 Annual Family Historical Society Number of growth placements accepted throughout the year 36 Conference in Canberra. As always, Number of transitioned placements accepted throughout the year 62 the conference proved to be a very Number of children and young people restored to birth family 6 successful two days for gathering resources and networking. New foster carers authorised throughout the year 21 Transitioned foster carers authorised throughout the year 22 Indigenous foster carers numbers 101 Non-Indigenous foster carers numbers 31 Foster Carer Support Group meetings hosted 12 KARI Clinic meetings inclusive of KAMAC sessions 10

22 COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

COMMUNITY PROGRAMS REPORT Racing to the Top In partnership with the Our Community Programs Team had Connections Manager, Peter Cooley, another productive year under the the Racing to the Top Program was NSW Government guidelines. Our once again delivered successfully programs were accessed by just over at Mt Annan High School. This 2,300 members of the community program is a mentoring and self- through the facilitation of programs development initiative designed designed to build strength, skills to support and build self-esteem and the capacity of the Aboriginal within at-risk Aboriginal high school community of south-west Sydney. students. Peter Cooley teaching the students Highlights for this year include the of Mt Annan High School This hands-on program involved Annual KARI and NSW Police Force 10 students constructing a 2-stroke Debutante Ball, which reached new model racing car and learning heights of exposure thanks to a how to maintain the car after the feature story on Channel 7 news, program is completed. The program and the rapid growth of the KARI has consistently shown the evidence Family Support Program. of building resilience in Aboriginal youth, improving educational outcomes and building their confidence and skills. This program was extremely popular with all participants and the school community, with all 10 students successfully completing the program.

Activity Type Number of Clients Clients accessing broader Community Programs 730 Clients at KARI Community Events 2,405 Clients accessing KARI Scholarship Program 87 Clients accessing Family Support Program 184 Clients accessing Vacation Care 324

The table above highlights the events or programs implemented and attended across the year.

23 COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

Education Forum Vocal Identification (Formally Education Camp) Program (VIP) This year, KARI and the Wests Tigers The VIP Program aims to identify Rugby League Club partnered to young, talented singers from the develop the 2014 Education Student local south-west Sydney area and Forum. The whole day event invited provide them with performance current KARI Scholarship students workshops. The 22 participants and local Aboriginal students in who took part in five workshops Students had access to information years 10 to 12, as well as parents. over July and August 2013 had the from providers, such as UTS (The The purpose of the forum was to opportunity to perform and be University of Technology Sydney) provide participants with post- mentored by the VIP consultants. Higher School Certificate, tertiary Special guest mentor Casey education and employment options. Donovan attended one of the This year’s forum was held in workshops to share her experiences May at the Wests Leagues Club, in the music industry and offer Campbelltown. advice to the aspiring singers. The VIP Program closed with

a spectacular showcase on 23 KARI Music and Singing Program August at Casula Powerhouse. In 2014, the SWS Sydney region has In partnership with the NSW been bursting with creative energy Department of Education and This year’s event was host to over 55 as we continued the Music and Communities and the Casula students, 9 teachers and 2 parents Singing program. The popularity Powerhouse, the VIP Program of the program is evident, with continues to get bigger and better more students returning from every year, with more students previous year, many of whom are auditioning in 2013 than ever before. improving at an accelerated rate. Our consultants, Blake Ralph and Sarah Bertram, both stated that KARI Production Program the program was hugely popular This music program, now in its with the parents. All students fifth year, sees selected students participating in the program receive from music and singing studios in free vocal and/or guitar lessons by Liverpool and Bankstown undertake consultants well-known in the music music industry performance industry. Music Consultant Blake Ralph workshops prior to the recording of and student Jake Lucan perform The program continues to reach a personal demo CD. In partnership an acoustic duet new heights, with even more new with Blake Ralph Recording Studio participants accessing the program. and Songbirds Music Studio, We are also seeing a continuing students develop their talent, self- trend, with participants in this esteem, self-confidence, skills and program applying to the Vocal cultural connections. Identification Program (VIP).

24 COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

Indigenous Art Program Homework Centre Program The purpose of this program During the 2013/2014 period, KARI is to teach up to 10 Aboriginal successfully established homework community members about centres in two Department of Aboriginal art (traditional and Education and Communities schools contemporary) and provide them in the Liverpool area, Ashcroft with the skill-set to teach other Primary School and Heckenberg members of the community by Primary School. The homework increasing their confidence in the centres are an opportunity for Our homework centre programs creative arts. During the 2013/2014 Aboriginal students to receive nurture young learners period, KARI ran two Indig Art assistance in completing their Programs, which were facilitated homework on a weekly basis by well-renowned Aboriginal artist and practice their English and Danielle Mate. Mathematics skills with qualified tutors and teaching staff. The first program was run in October 2013 and catered for Overall, numbers average a 95% 10 adults, whilst the second was attendance rate across both re-named the In-School Indig centres. The intention of this Art Program. Campbelltown program is to improve the literacy Performing Arts High School was and numeracy results of Aboriginal host to this program during the students in these schools, and Students from Campbelltown May/June period of 2014, which encourage the completion of class- Performing Arts High School receive was accessed by 17 students who based homework. artistic tuition from acclaimed local designed a Reconciliation Mural for artist Danielle Mate their school library. Koori Cup and Girls Koori Tag Competition 2013 Living Skills Cooking Program KARI again partnered with NSW During the 2013/2014 period, Rugby League to sponsor the 2013 KARI ran two cooking programs Annual KARI Koori Cup. The event with Mission Australia and the Lil’ was held in August 2013 during Possums Playgroup, Bonnyrigg. the NRL’s ‘Close the Gap Round’. The purpose of these programs The event was well-attended, with was to build the skills of parents 14 schools coming together in the in providing low budget, healthy spirit of Reconciliation. Participation Parents and children alike enjoyed food for their children at home, increased from the 2012 event, our cooking programs, preparing and further develop the bond particularly within the Girls Koori nutritious meals together between parents and their children Tag competition. by working together in the kitchen. Brisbane Waters High, Umina Across the two programs, 22 Campus was the overall winner of parents and their children learnt to the Girls Koori Tag competition, cook nutritious meals that were low whilst Ashcroft High School was cost, whilst learning fun facts about the winner of the Boys competition healthy eating. following their grand final match at Allianz Stadium on 30 August 2013. 25 26 COMMUNITY EVENTS

Community Unity Day 2014 2014 KARI Aboriginal Resources Incorporated and NSW Police This free family event, which was Force Debutante Ball aimed at celebrating culture and unity, was open to all members of The KARI and NSW Police Force the south-west Sydney community, annual Debutante Ball is a included information stalls, rides, partnership program designed to arts and crafts, live entertainment, forge greater relationships between a BBQ lunch and a free raffle. This the Aboriginal community in south- year’s event took place on 16 April west Sydney, the NSW Police Force, Families and young people across 2014 and catered for well over 700 and Liverpool and Green Valley Local the community enjoy the delights of attendees, with more families and Area Commands. On 28 June 2014, our Unity Day event young people in attendance than the third Annual KARI and NSW ever before. One of the highlights Police Force Debutante Ball was held of the event included our many in front of community members, interactive information stalls, with special guests and the families of over 25 community-based services the Debutantes. This year, we had in attendance. 15 young ladies make their debut, each of whom were partnered with a Police Officer from the respective 2013 KARI Gala Dinner Dance area commands. One of KARI’s biggest events on the A fantastic night was had by all in calendar was held on 19 October attendance, including the Sydney 2013 at Campbelltown Catholic Channel 7 news team who covered Club’s premier venue, ‘The Cube’. the event and broadcast it to a Darren Compton with his son during The Gala dinner continues to grow national audience on 5 July 2014. bigger and better every year, and a performance at the 2013 Gala this year we had well over 500 Dinner Event people in attendance to enjoy a night of entertainment and culture. The night saw dignitaries, community representatives, special guests, and members of the Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities come together to celebrate unity. The 2014 KARI Aboriginal Resources Inc. Debutantes partnered by Police Officers of the NSW Police Force, Green Valley and Liverpool Local Area Commands

27 COMMUNITY & FAMILY SUPPORT PROGRAMS

KARI SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM FAMILY SUPPORT PROGRAM In 2013/2014, 87 participants were Following the successful accepted into the 2013/2014 KARI implementation of the Family Scholarship Program. This program Support Program during 2012/2013, is an education-based initiative that the team provided advice and is offered to Aboriginal senior high support services to 104 families school students across south-west and children. Parenting programs Sydney. These scholarships provide facilitated included the Triple P Participants demonstrate their monetary and mentoring assistance Program, Hey Dad, 1,2,3 Magic: fishing skills at one of our many to students during the vital years at Emotion Coaching Training, and Mothers and Children’s Camps high school. Circle of Security. Building upon the expansion of Mothers and Children’s Camps the program, the team continued to conduct regular visits with a 2013/2014 saw the Community select cohort of 35 students to Programs team successfully co- share, discuss and plan career and ordinate and deliver the KARI education opportunities in a one- Mothers and Children’s Camp in on-one mentoring capacity. March 2014. Our camp provides parents with the opportunity to Overall, the success of this program network and practice content relies heavily on the support of KARI delivered from programs, such as and the student’s commitment to ‘Circle of Security’ and ‘Triple P’. their education. 2013 graduate results indicate that 90% of We provide a safe and supportive students in the program completed learning environment, where their HSC, and of those: discussion can be held openly and ideas can be exchanged from parent • 25% of students are studying to parent. Over the course of our full-time camps, mothers in attendance form • 15% of students are relationships and peer networks undertaking full-time training that result in ongoing contact and peer support long after they’ve • 5% of students are employed returned home. full-time • 25% of students are completing a form of training through their employer • 5% of students are undertaking study through their employer • 25% of students are seeking employment or looking into further study.

28 COMMUNITY & FAMILY SUPPORT PROGRAMS

Fathers and Sons’ Camp Vacation Care During the 2013/2014 period, In the continuation of our move KARI ran two Fathers and Sons’ towards excursion-based activities, Camps. The groups returned to the Vacation Care program for Myuna Bay Sport and Recreation 2013/2014 delivered quality activities Centre in November 2013 and May to school-aged children across 2014 respectively. This program south-west Sydney. Our program supports the development of strong continues to focus on exposing relationships between fathers and children and youth to social, their sons through the application cultural and historical opportunities. of practical parenting programs, Activities for this period included: such as ‘Hey Dad’ and ‘Circle of Security’. The Fathers and Sons’ • Aboriginal sand art class Camps also provide social and • Science experiences cultural development opportunities for parents and their children • Puppet shows at Carriage through recreational and culturally Works, Redfern appropriate activities. • Mini golf • Sports and Recreation Days • Bowling Vacation Care participants enjoy a variety of activities across the school • Indoor climbing holidays • Visits to the cinema • Cooking classes

Vacation Care is one of our most consistently attended programs and provides children with an opportunity to be exposed to a variety of opportunities. Our summer Surfing Program for 2013/2014 was as popular as ever, with more applicants and new Participants of the Fathers and Sons’ attendees compared to previous Camp proudly show off the Catch programs. The program provides up of the Day to 15 young Aboriginal attendees with the opportunity to not only learn how to surf, but also learn how to read the water and learn life-saving safety skills. The Surfing Program is always well-received, and from all reports this year’s program was no exception.

29 PARTNERSHIPS & COMMUNITY GRANTS

KARI SPONSORSHIPS AND GRANTS In 2013/2014, KARI supported a We also continued our long tradition range of community-led initiatives, of providing support and assistance KARI encourages individuals and such as: to individuals and organisations organisations to bring forward conducting NAIDOC events and fresh, exciting programs and • BCRG Guring Gang Culture projects. Recipients of NAIDOC initiatives to better themselves Connect Playgroup Week funding included: or their community. This ensures that our programs are community- • Physical • Chester Hill High School led and reflective of community Disability Rugby League Flag Day needs. In order to determine Association Rep game (2014) • John Warby Public School the needs of the community, • NSW Police Liverpool, Green NAIDOC the Community Programs Team Valley and Macquarie Fields undertakes a process of engaging Local Area Commands Good • Westfield’s Sports High with the applicant and assessing the Kids Camp and Debutante School Mural Project proposed program initiative. Ball events This ensures that all KARI • Under-16 Rugby League tour Community Programs are carefully to Europe targeted outcome-based initiatives. • Mil-Pra Awards (2013) • NSW Koori Knockout – several communities • Indigenous Art Awards • Aboriginal community groups • Several High Schools • NAIDOC – several communities • La Perouse Men’s Group • 2Women Dreaming La Perouse • South Coast Men’s Group

30 PARTNERSHIPS & COMMUNITY GRANTS

NRL INITIATIVES

Cronulla Sharks – Wests Tigers – ‘Close the Gap’ Round ‘Close the Gap’ Round In 2013, KARI established a unique In 2013/2014, KARI and the alliance with the Cronulla Sharks by Wests Tigers continued to make becoming their major partner for a difference in the Aboriginal two NRL matches. The partnership community in south-western featured the KARI logo on the front Sydney. of the Sharks playing strip for ‘Close This year’s partnership featured the the Gap’ round matches against the Jonathan Wright and final of the Koori Cup competition St George-Illawarra Dragons and the display the KARI design jersey as during half-time of the Wests Tigers . worn in the inaugural NRL Nines v match. Other Tournament held in In 2014, KARI extended its benefits of this key partnership partnership with the Sharks for included opportunities for KARI to the Inaugural Nines Tournament fundraise and communicate with held in Auckland. As a result of fans at the Tigers v Roosters match. the positive feedback from the The KARI and Wests Tigers community in regards to this partnership continues to grow, partnership, other programs and and is a demonstration of the initiatives have been developed to importance of KARI’s strategy benefit the community. of supporting NRL clubs and the ‘Close the Gap’ initiative.

South Sydney Rabbitohs – Pictured above – a proud

‘Close the Gap’ Round Andrew Fifita ‘South’s Cares’ In 2013/2014, KARI strengthened In 2013, KARI and the Rabbitohs’ its partnership with the South community arm, ‘South’s Cares’, Sydney Rabbitohs by supporting the committed to joint-funding of Rabbitohs’ ‘Close the Gap’ Round a newly-developed Community match at Bluetongue Stadium in Co-ordinator role based at the Gosford. This opportunity enabled South’s Cares office in Redfern. KARI to further showcase its brand The Co-ordinator is responsible for to a mainstream audience and the facilitating programs benefiting wider NRL community via brand Aboriginal community members in activations and social media. the South Sydney catchment for at least the next two years.

31 PARTNERSHIPS & COMMUNITY GRANTS

2014 Inaugural KARI Charity Corporate Partnerships Golf Day Since its establishment in 2013, The 2014 KARI Charity Golf Day, the KARI Partnerships team has which was held at Cabramatta continued to grow. It has worked Golf Club, was supported by many towards maintaining the existing within the Aboriginal community, partnerships, whilst striving numerous local businesses and towards establishing new ones. NRL players Braith Anasta and Cory The partnerships maintained during Paterson. In its inaugural year, the 2013/2014 include: event generated over $10,000 to support KARI’s children in out-of- • PRO IT Pictured from left to right: home care. • Lander Mitsubishi Ron Jones, Glen Ella, Brendon Lewis and Gary Ella • ANZ Bank KARI Sponsored Race Day • La Perouse Local Land Council The 2013 KARI Race Day was held • St George Bank on 14 December 2013 at Randwick Race Course. KARI was given the • Peter Warren Toyota opportunity to fundraise on the • GEM Productions day by hosting a raffle, which was • Salmat carried out by KARI volunteers and drawn after the race. The KARI • Australian Turf Club volunteers were able to engage • with the race day attendees and (Rugby League) KARI hospitality team at the races successfully promote KARI to a wider audience. • Cronulla Sharks (Rugby League)

KARI Winter and Christmas • West Tigers Appeals (Rugby League) In 2013/2014, KARI recognised the • Commonwealth Bank importance of raising money to • Corporate Club Australia further assist the growing number of disadvantaged Aboriginal • Karitane children. KARI recognises winter and Christmas as being the most difficult time of the year, resulting in the launch of these appeals. Thanks to the assistance of KARI staff members, volunteers and the co-operation from existing partners, KARI was able to raise money through both appeals.

32 33 47 KARI ABORIGINAL RESOURCES INCORPORATED PO Box 207 Liverpool NSW 1871 T: 02 8782 0300 F: 02 8782 0353 www.kari.org.au

Artworks © 2014 Danielle Mate. All rights reserved.