We achieve more. Together. Annual Report 2011/12 Vision Achieving Social Inclusion. Mission Values Delivering on Integrity the right of in attitude and people with support delivery disability to Accountability achieve in the private and a meaningful government sectors and valued life. Individual Focus on delivering independence Innovative historically and for the future Commitment – a passion for making a difference Pursuit of Excellence
Contents Report from Chair and CEO 2 Our services/operations 15 Financial Summary 4 Community living and Residential 16 Strategic Plan Report 6 Resource team 20 Redevelopment 7 Community participation/ We achieve more. Together. Day programs 22 Year in review 8 Employment services 26 Our people 10 Commercial Enterprises 28 People we support 12 Vintage and Value 30 Our Volunteers 14 Fundraising and Marketing/ our Patron/our Ambassador 31-33 Communication and consultation 34 Funders, accreditations and professional associations, board of directors 35 People and organisations who support/Partner with us 36
1 The theme of the 2011/12 annual report Report is “We achieve more. Together.” The results we’ve achieved over the past year refl ect the skills, efforts, energy and commitment of our from Chair staff, management, executive, board members, partners, volunteers, families and stakeholders. and CEO We are a community organisation that is striving to work within our funding to deliver extraordinary outcomes for the people we support. Our fi nancial resources are often stretched and at times we have to make decisions that ensure our continued sustainability and provide a platform for future growth in services and geographic reach. We have made further steps over the past 12 months to position the organisation for an exciting and dynamic future with greater fi nancial security and better outcomes for the people we support.
Belmore Street redevelopment This year a signifi cant focus of the board and senior management has been to progress the redevelopment application with the NSW Department of Planning and Infrastructure (DoPI) for the Large Residential Centre (LRC) site at Belmore Street, Ryde. We have consulted with residents of the LRC, families, political and government stakeholders as well as the volunteers who operate businesses from the site. The approval of the application by DoPI is the culmination of three years of work and the positive outcome is a tribute to the efforts of many, particularly board members and our Chief Executive Offi cer. There is a section of this annual report on page 7 that details the opportunities that this outcome presents Achieve Australia in the years ahead.
Restructure of commercial enterprises This year’s fi nancial results have been impacted by the ongoing challenges at our Meadowbank packaging facility. The site’s location is not ideal for large customers who demand easy road transport access to their distribution facilities. This in part has contributed to patchy contract work. The site’s high fi xed costs have had to be met by regular contributions from reserves to continue the operations which have become increasingly unsustainable. We reluctantly made the decision to cease operations from the Meadowbank facility in June 2012. We assisted the Australian Government Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs to run an expression of interest process (EOI) to source an organisation to take on the 38 funded positions. The EOI was awarded to Bedford Group and we have provided them every assistance to ensure a smooth transfer of operations to their organisation. We are now able to focus on growing the other parts of our Commercial Enterprises from a position of fi nancial strength.
Financial Results This year’s loss is disappointing and refl ects the decision we have made regarding our Meadowbank facility. Government funding, however, has continued to grow representing new funded programs and growth in our Day Services. We remain deeply positive about our future and the ongoing security and sustainability of our organisation. We have a strong growth outlook and our fi nancial position will be transformed over the next two or three years.
2 Looking ahead As we enter 2013 Achieve Australia is poised to enter a period of immense opportunity. Our balance sheet and reserves are stronger than ever before and we have the chance to build our brand through expansion in our Community Living Services. The year ahead will also mark the passing of a chapter in our organisation’s history – Crowle Home Large Residential Centre. Achieve Australia will no longer support any person in this type of setting, refl ecting the long held goal of the NSW government, disability rights advocates, families and people with a disability themselves. It will be a proud day for our organisation when we can say that every person we support lives in a community setting and is supported to live just like anyone else. We understand the responsibility to invest wisely and capture positive capital growth and returns from our investments. We are also conscious of how we can pursue the best outcomes for people we support through our housing investments. A new housing strategy and property area will be formed to manage this new and important part of our business. We thank everyone who contributes to our organisation and look forward to sharing our journey during these exciting times.
Board of directors 2011/12 Ian Rutter: Chair of the Board and member of Asset, Investment & Finance Committee. Ian Richmond: Chair (Property) of Asset, Investment & Finance Committee. John Cameron: Chair (Finance) of Asset, Investment & Finance Committee. Dina Hayes: Chair of Audit Risk & Compliance Committee and member of Ethics & Clinical Governance Committee. Professor Patricia O’Brien: Director since September 2011. Chair of Ethics & Clinical Governance Committee. Peter Smith: Director since September2011. Member of Audit, Risk & Compliance Committee.
3 Financial summary
Achieve Australia Limited managing our labour costs and Our strategic plan continues to reported a consolidated loss for stronger marketing which should take shape and alongside it, our the year ending 30th June 2012 contribute to positive outcomes. own transition from a charity to of $984,242. The result, although a community business. Significant disappointing, was expected Government funding grew by funding will be required for us to due to the continual poor results three per cent year on year which deliver our long term objectives from one of our commercial was due to yearly indexing of and it is critical that we build businesses, contributing $860,137 funded programs and the full a solid capital base and continue of the total loss. This result in year effect of Day Services at to strengthen our financial viability. commercial enterprises has led our new Araluen premises. to the closure of the plant with To support our funding model, the supported employees being Staffing levels remain steady we are focused on leveraging taken on by another provider. with approximately 330 full-time a considerable asset, Belmore equivalent staff employed. Wages Street, and will direct the proceeds Without the disappointing costs have also remained steady to further secure our financial commercial enterprises result, with total spend being $17,120,574 viability. By having a secure future consolidated profit was only slightly or 75 per cent of turnover. we will accelerate our growth, behind budget. The forecast for provide diverse services for people 2012-13 is extremely positive with a with a disability and become a greater focus on sales and margins, leading provider of choice.
Sources of Funds Expenses
2% 5% 3% 5% 8%
17% 11%
75% 74%
n State Government Grants n Employment Benefit Expense n Commonwealth Government Grants n General Operating Expenses n Commercial Sales n Rent n Fees and Charges n Depreciation n Other
4 KEY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (‘000’s) Year Profit/(loss) Total Assets Property Property Cash Liabilities Borrowings Reserves Capital & Plant Equivalents Additions 2012 ($1.0) $16.5 $1.0 $15.0 $1.3 $6.0 $2.1 $10.4 2011 $0.5 $16.8 $4.5 $14.3 $2.3 $5.1 $1.6 $11.4 2010 $0.0 $14.1 $0.8 $10.4 $3.8 $2.9 $0.0 $10.1
Year Salaries Recurrent Other Costs Cost of Depreciation Total Property Sales (‘000’s) Costs 2012 $17.1 $2.3 $2.5 $0.3 $0.5 $22.7 2011 $16.3 $1.7 $1.8 $2.2 $0.6 $22.6 2010 $17.1 $1.4 $1.8 $0.9 $0.7 $21.9
Value of Property Plant Segment revenue 380,485 and Equipment 1,045,108
16,000.00
14,000.00
12,000.00 3,387,126
10,000.00
8,000.00
1,912,826 6,000.00
15,032,352 4,000.00
2,000.00
0 2010 2011 2012 n Corporate n Commercial Enterprises n Day Services n Accommodation Services n Employment Services
5 Strategic Plan report
The Board and Chief Executive A further series of Strategic Achieve Australia’s Officer will introduce a new Initiatives, objectives and strategic planning Strategic Plan for 2013-2016 in performance indicators will form early 2013. This follows a period of the basis of the plan and the cycle for the discussion and consultation forums Board will report progress against period 2010-2012 held in 2012 with families of people these initiatives at the Annual we support, stakeholders and General Meeting each year. in now complete. Achieve management and staff. A summarised statement of achievements against the 2010 – 2012 Strategic Plan is as below:
Strategic Initiative One: Achieve Australia will have finalised all Post- • All post-merger implementation plans completed, merger Implementation Plan initiatives and their delivered on time and within agreed budgets respective strategic objectives; having laid a solid • A comprehensive integrated Strategic Planning foundation for the future growth and development System developed and implemented of the organisation and its respective services. Strategic Initiative Two: Achieve Australia will continue on its quality • Business Excellence Manager role created and recruited journey having moved beyond a compliance • Comprehensive review of systems, policies and and quality mentality to a Business Excellence, procedures completed -quality systems initiatives Service Excellence approach that will enhance identified and ongoing its products and services and provide superior client, employee and customer service. • Information Communication Technology Plan developed and progressively being implemented Strategic Initiative Three: Achieve Australia will continuously grow • Day program developed partnerships with and develop its services on a person- Macquarie University, NSW TAFE and centred philosophy and model with the Macquarie College to enhance its learning aim of meeting or exceeding clients’ and based programs employees’ expectations and requirements. • Person-centred training introduced across all service delivery operations Strategic Initiative Four: Achieve Australia will be a revenue, resource • Concept Plan for redevelopment of Belmore Street and reserve secure organisation able to progressed fund its vision, mission and desired future • Engagement of a Property Project Manager to improve and ensure its long term sustainability management of property and asset portfolio • Commercial Enterprises restructured to enhance viability and future growth Strategic Initiative Five: Achieve Australia will consistently work • Day program relocated to Araluen at Epping toward establishing and operating high quality • Achieve Australia Housing Plan developed businesses and services throughout metropolitan and regional communities within Australia.
6 Redevelopment Securing the future
Achieve Australia is poised to make We aim to increase the the largest single investment by a non-government organisation proportion of people in housing for people with a we support living in disability in NSW history properties owned by The redevelopment of the Belmore Achieve, rather than Street site will enable Achieve Australia to benefit people with leased through the a disability through a massive market or Housing NSW, increase in the quality, security and suitability of housing. from 9 per cent today, to over 85 percent over The NSW government has actively supported Achieve the next 10 years. Australia throughout this three- year development process and The Crowle Home residential we will invest over $30 million in centre on the site had 18 residents housing for people with disability as at the end of the 2011-12 in New South Wales at no cost to financial year. Almost 60 people tax payers or the government. with disability have moved from the centre over the past 20 years,
mainly to shared houses in the Supporting people with community. Transition plans for a disability to move the remaining residents are in place from large residential and will be finalised and actioned centres (LRC) to a life following further consultations with the person and their families. in the community is our core business. Almost We are now working intensively with each person and their family everyone we support in to provide a housing option that our community living ensures the remaining people we support at Belmore Street will services once lived in have the same standard of living an LRC; at Peat Island, as the rest of the community. Mount Own, Marsden Achieve Australia currently rents Centre, Stockton and or leases 31 properties and owns
three properties in the Sydney Crowle Home. Through Metropolitan area, providing this redevelopment we support in homes for almost
150 people with disability. will advance our mission and secure the future Through this record investment in non-government owned housing of our organisation. Achieve Australia will become an owner and operator, rather Housing investments will be made than a tenant, providing secure initially in the Sydney Metropolitan housing with certainty and quality area and the Achieve property team for the people it supports. will look at further opportunities over the next 2-3 years. The onsite redevelopment, which features the construction of over As part of the planned on-site 400 apartments, was pending final development we will receive at approval from the NSW Department least 15, custom designed, fully of Planning & Infrastructure as accessible 1-2 bedroom apartments at 30 June 2012. Once approval for people with disability. is granted the development will move to Development Application (DA) stage. It is expected the entire redevelopment will take three years to complete.
7 We achieve more - together year in review
Annual Crowle Fete – 5 November 2011 The 56th Annual Crowle Fete had over 40 volunteers helping on the day plus volunteer staff. We raised over $13,000 from the event which was well attended by the local community.
10th Annual Golf Day – 6 October 2011 We held our 10th Annual Golf Day at Killara Golf Course joined by enthusiastic golfers, including Federal Member for Bennelong, John Alexander MP. After playing golf, Movie Fundraiser everyone enjoyed a delicious Night @ Event two course lunch and bid on Cinemas – fantastic donated live and silent auction items, including 14 December 2011 Achieving with artworks donated by Day We hosted a fundraising the Stars – Program artists Cameron evening at Event Cinemas, 8 July 2011 Sadigh and Andy Taylor. Macquarie Centre. Thirty-five people attended the function, Our Achieving with the Stars The winning teams walked which included canapés upon Gala Evening was a wonderful away with some great arrival, raffle prizes and the night of celebration and great prizes, as well as bragging private screening of the new entertainment held at the rights for another year. release film, ‘New Year’s Eve’. exquisite Curzon Hall. Hosted Congratulations to Team It was a very enjoyable event, by Duncan Armstrong, our Ingham for winning the raising nearly $600 from auctioneer for the night, Perpetual Sponsor’s Cup for ticket sales and raffle tickets. we raised much needed the second year in a row. The funds for our programs. event raised over $40,000.
8 Fabric Cave 50% Off Sale - 16 and 20 April, 2012 These two very busy days saw many customers walk through the doors of the Fabric Cave and Needlecraft Emporium. The sale raised close to $6000 which was an amazing result and a tribute to our wonderful volunteers.
Ryde & Epping Volunteer Recognition Evenings - 17 and 18 May, 2012 On 17 May our volunteers from Vintage & Value, Don and Jo McKerrell, Lois Ng, Jan Loma and Golf Day Advisory Committee, Philip and Beth England, attended the Ryde Recognition Novartis Volunteer Awards. Philip Community England accepted a Volunteer Partnership Day Award Nomination on behalf of the Golf Day Advisory - 27 April, 2012 Committee. The night was As part of their 16th Novartis run by Ryde City Council to Community Partnership honour and celebrate the Volunteer Day, 11 volunteers from amazing work of volunteers Afternoon Tea Novartis Pharmaceuticals, throughout the City of Ryde. North Ryde, were involved - 21 May, 2012 in a garden makeover in On 18 May our valued Volunteers and staff of the homes of people with volunteers Don McKerrell Achieve Australia attended an disability in North Ryde, OAM and Jo McKerrell Afternoon Tea held in honour Macquarie Park and Hornsby. OAM attended another of the volunteers, to celebrate the work they had done. The volunteers worked hard awards ceremony at Volunteers from the various to build raised vegetable Epping. Volunteers were programs came together gardens for the residents in again congratulated and - Vintage & Value, Buddy these homes. In addition to thanked on their important Program and Transition to providing volunteers, Novartis volunteer contributions Work. It was a great way to recognise the contributions generously donated almost receiving certificates from each volunteer had made $1500 worth of materials and Bennelong MP and Achieve to Achieve Australia and equipment to the project. Patron John Alexander. thank them for all their hard work and energy.
9 more Key Achievements • Recruitment Strategy has people increased our retention rate for Social Educators above 90 per cent who • Introduction of new employee handbook • Employees able to increase their qualifications with a 50 per cent love increase in enrolments year on year • Reduction of workers compensation their premiums by 35 per cent jobs.
10 Our people Human resources
Achieve Australia is all about Professional Qualifications The new WHS legislation people supporting people. We offer our employees an has highlighted the need opportunity to complete a for greater education about To work in the disability sector Certificate IV in Disability employees’ responsibilities in the is a challenging place to be, but Studies and currently have 25 workplace. Frontline managers the rewards can be profound employees completing this have been provided training and there is a deep sense of qualification. This course is being on WHS including hazard satisfaction that can be gained delivered through an external identification and risk control. from supporting others. registered training provider. A key safety initiative has been Our employees come from a the injury management and return diverse set of backgrounds and Employee Relations There has been a significant to work of injured employees nationalities but there is one change in the industrial relations through the early intervention thing that we all share in common landscape for the disability sector. and case management by our – our values driven culture. The changes have required us to dedicated OHS Coordinator. This Across our range of services the move from a state-based award has resulted in a 100 per cent strength of our people and their to a Modern Award under the return rate for employees to pre- commitment to truly empower Fair Work Act. These changes will injury duties. Through improved people with disability to be in include moving to an eight level practices we have also achieved charge of their own lives, make classification from the current six a downward trend in the number their own decisions and choices levels. Changes to wage, penalty of lost time injuries and days lost and is something each person and overtime rates will be phased as a result of workplace injuries. brings to their work each day. in over the next two years. The consultation with our Learning and Development employees has continued to take Workforce Profile Achieve continues to develop place through formal and informal Achieve Australia employed and deliver training programs to channels to increase awareness of 449 people compared with increase the capabilities of our a workplace health and safety. Our 456 in 2010/11. Our workforce people and improve the quality of Safety Committees have played an is predominantly female (63%) support we provide. This past year integral part in the development with the majority employed we conducted 95 training courses of our policies and procedures in part-time positions. with over 550 people participating relating to the health, safety and in training. This is an increase well-being of all people. We have of 15 per cent over last year. Attraction and Retention conducted over 500 Toolbox Our attraction and retention talks and completed over 250 Our focus this past year has of employees continues to be Safe Work methods/statements. been to deliver the majority of a key focus each year. Through training to our direct support our recruitment strategy we We have continued to implement employees. Over the coming have achieved a retention rate strategies to reduce the overall year we will be focused on rolling above 90 per cent for our cost of workers’ compensation out person-centred approaches people in direct support roles. premiums with a reduction of 35 training across the organisation. per cent from the previous year. Our rate of staff turnover is half the industry average. Over the next year we will continue to implement a number Workplace Health and Safety of further safety initiatives to Achieve displays a strong improve our performance by commitment to workplace focusing on leadership, individual health and safety (WHS). empowerment, WHS management The introduction of the new standards and best practice. legislation that came into effect on 1 January 2012 has provided an opportunity to review our current practices and system to ensure we meet new requirements.
11 Achieve Australia supports around 500 people with a disability across Scott Bushell a range of services and programs. The people we support have a range of support needs Scott Bushell started at our manage the drug trial visits that we aim to meet through Marrickville facility in March 2012. interfering with his work routine. targeted services funded His story illustrates how After visiting Achieve through both Federal and State supported employment can Commercial’s workplaces Government departments. meet a range of people’s with the support of his father, Achieve Australia supports circumstances and needs. Scott decided to join Achieve’s commercial team, working at people with intellectual and During University, Scott noticed Marrickville two days a week. physical disabilities and he was starting to struggle supports people with needs with his exams and was failing Scott said “I have really warmed relating to ageing, mental health courses and in turn, his self to the people I work with. and multiple diagnoses. esteem dropped dramatically. I enjoy talking to my colleagues The diversity of people we Scott visited his doctor and every time I go to work and support is refl ected in the skills was initially diagnosed with understanding their disabilities and expertise of the people who depression. However, after his and can see their points of view. work for us. People’s needs range sight started deteriorating, Scott I enjoy assisting colleagues from personal care, community was referred to a neurologist, at lunch time, with spelling participation, open employment, where eventually, Scott was improvement and am happy skill development, livingskills, health diagnosed with multiple to explain what words mean, issues andsupported employment. sclerosis and started treatment. when they don’t understand. I must say that my self esteem, Scott remained unsuccessful Every person is treated as an whilst working in a group for a number of years in individual and we support them to environment, has improved gaining employment, due to have a meaningful and valued life. and gives me a reason to his limited ability to work and get out of bed every day!” most employers could not
12 more people we support
Harold Staer
Harold Staer is a very “Harold’s specialist recently quiet and unassuming told him he didn’t need to man who has undergone see him hardly anymore as a transformation. he’d progressed so well. Since moving from Peat ‘’His so-called challenging Island only a few years ago, behaviour has become a his family and staff members thing of the past and a label who know him have seen that has been removed and Harold quietly become a thrown in the history bin. completely different person. ‘’The only challenging thing Having lived almost 25 now is making sure his years on an island in an dinner’s ready on time – he institution, Harold now loves his home-cooked food!” lives in a comfortable brick Harold rates Lynne’s and tile suburban home cooking, especially her owned by Achieve and roast chicken dinners as works fi ve days a week in a particular favourite, and supported employment. enjoys showing off the fi sh He shares the house with pond and fountain in the two other people and front yard. He also enjoys regularly spends his spare going for drives with Lynne time tending to the garden, listening to Rod Stewart a source of great pride. and Elton John playing Previously unsmiling, loudly on the car stereo. reluctant to make eye Says Harold, “I love going contact and almost non- to work each day and I’m verbal, Harold has now a very happy about my new twinkle in his eye and his bedroom suite I just bought.” health has also improved. Lynne Short, social educator at Harold’s home says there have been some telling changes.
13 goods ranging from needlecraft area, such as art, design, music and fabric to books, plants and pre- and cooking. This past year loved clothing. The proceeds from participants of the Day Program Our these goods go to support some of received bellydancing classes the underfunded and non-funded from a very talented volunteer. programs for people with disability. Volunteers Transition to Work Program The volunteers are also heavily The Transition to Work Program involved in the running of assists school-leavers to transition Achieve Australia’s volunteers the Annual Crowle Fete each into the workforce by providing are a diverse and valued group November where an enormous them with supported work of people who support the range of goods are put up for sale. experience. We received the help Volunteer Program in a variety of a work experience student of ways. This past year 95 Buddy Program and a volunteer in carrying out volunteers generously gave their Several volunteers have been administrative tasks and expanding time to Achieve Australia. involved in our Buddy Program the database of schools. this year. The program offers Volunteer Program people the opportunity to meet Corporate Volunteer Program up with someone from our Corporate companies are invited to Vintage and Value Enterprises Residential and Community Living Vintage and Value Enterprises work with us on home and garden Services on a regular basis and improvement projects to enhance are social enterprises and do everyday things together. This fundraising initiatives run by a the quality of life of the people we could include walking, bowling, support. Novartis Pharmaceuticals dedicated group of volunteers going for a coffee or shopping. at our Belmore Street site. supported us this year with their work on three homes. These volunteers give their time Day Programs every Monday and Friday, as well Our Day Programs are always as the first Sunday of the month, looking for volunteers who to sell a huge selection of donated have an expertise in a creative
more people who help.
14 Our services + operations
Community living and Residential Resource team Community participation/Day programs Employment services Commercial Enterprises
15 Community living and residential
Achieve Australia’s Community Living Services operate in three regions - Northern, Southern and Western.
We support around 150 people to live in a number of different housing options. Some people live with others and some on their own. Many of the people we support have friends and family members who take an active role in the person’s life and a key part of our work is to expand the range of opportunities for each person to develop and maintain a network of people in their lives. Breaking the cycle of having the primary person being paid to be in the person’s life is a key objective. Across the three regions there is a relatively even distribution of accommodation and numbers of people we support. Each region is within the Sydney metropolitan area and is led by a Regional Manager with Community Living Managers and teams of social educators. This includes people living in townhouses, villas and houses We support people in Achieve- owned property, NSW Housing and rental properties including providing Drop-In Support in people’s own homes. Our team of Social Educators are directly involved with the day- to-day support of people with a range of different circumstances. Their focus is to help people lead a regular life in their community.
16 NORTHERN REGION SOUTHERN REGION WESTERN REGION We support almost 50 In the Southern Region We support over 30 people in the Northern we support over 40 people in the Western Region within a wide people with disability Region in 12 group homes. variety of living options. across a number of All of the people we accommodation types support were previously including nine group living in large residential homes, rented and centres, reflecting the leased properties. shift from institutional to community living
Highlights and key initiatives Highlights and key initiatives Highlights and key initiatives During 2011-2012 we successfully In the past 12 months we During 2011-2012 another person supported the transition of four have continued to make from Achieve’s large residential people from Achieve’s large improvements to our services. centre transitioned to community residential centre to community living within the region. These living within the region. These Several homes have been modified transitions are the result of many transitions are the result of many and improved to meet the needs months’ of careful work to ensure months’ of careful work to ensure of people. We continue to work a person-directed process with a person-directed process with through our property management support from friends, family support from friends, family services with landlords, real members, and staff from both members, and staff from both estate agents and housing Crowle Home and regional staff. Crowle Home and regional staff. providers such as Housing NSW to improve and adapt our housing During the year we also held Successfully supporting people to for the people we support. successful family meetings to live independently is a team effort. share how we were progressing We employ over 40 social educators We have also hosted well and discuss issues and ideas. whose role is to support people attended family meetings to access the community and build provide an opportunity to discuss Collaborations and partnerships skills, independence and personal our plans as well as respond We’ve been working closely with networks. We also rely on the to issues and suggestions. the NSW Housing, an agency of expertise of our resources team to the Department of Family and During the year we held several work intensively with families and Community Services, to progress volunteering days from corporate individuals. This team approach improvements and modifications partners whose employees took extends to family members and a to properties that we lease. This part in working bees at some of number of community organisations. forms a core part of our work our properties doing painting as we have limited funds to and gardening projects. During the year we also held spend on making improvements successful family meetings to to accommodation we don’t own. share how we were progressing In 2011-12 we successfully transitioned three people from A a registered housing provider and discuss issues and ideas. we work closely with our partners There was strong attendance at the large residential centre to Southern Region Community Living at Housing NSW and with a the meetings and the positive number of real estate agents and feedback we received reflects Service. All the transitions have resulted in improved outcomes landlords to get the best outcomes the high level of satisfaction from for the people we support. families and people we support. for the people we support thanks to a careful consultation and planning process involving family members and staff from the LRC and the Southern Region. As Achieve Australia rents a number of properties for people with disability our team of social educators support people to be aware of their rights as a tenant and where necessary advocate on their behalf.
17 Residential From institutions to the community – experts in the journey
The NSW government’s policy to close all large residential centres (LRC) has resulted in hundreds of people with disability being supported to live more community- oriented lives over the past 20 years. Looking forward We have continued to advance In fact over 80 per cent of We have a number of plans our redevelopment plans for the people we support were currently underway to Crowle Home over the past formerly a resident of an LRC. further improve our services. 12 months in line with the NSW This includes looking at the Government’s policy to close all We regard our expertise and feasibility of expanding our government and non-government experience in supporting service area to include the Blue large residential centres. people through this transition Mountains and Central Coast. as second to none. There have been a number of We look forward to providing residents who have successfully greater security for the people we transitioned to community living “Helping people make support as we realise the benefi ts during the year, a result of careful the journey from of the redevelopment at Belmore planning and excellent teamwork. Street. The funds from that project institutional living to a will help us purchase properties and These transitions represent the enable us to ensure our properties culmination of many months of life in the community are at contemporary standards in discussions and planning with is our core business. accessibility, safety and adaptability. the person, their family, our resources team and our residential Achieve has been We are also looking at enhancing and community living staff. the skills and specialisation we supporting people offer for people with disability For a person to move from a for nearly 30 years who are ageing. This demographic large residential centre to the is heavily represented across our community after up to 40 to make this step services with the majority of people years being in one environment coming from institutional settings. and location, it takes care, and we love nothing sensitivity, patience and in more than to bring This will require ongoing staff some cases courage. training, upgrading of properties a team of people and sharpening our focus on The improved outcomes that improving the accessibility of the person experiences are together to help make some of our existing properties. sometimes instant and sometime it happen. There are take months or years to realise. There will be incremental changes so many incredible to our housing stock until we Eleven residents transitioned have realised the redevelopment from Crowle Home during stories about the of the large residential 2011-12 with 18 people still transformations in centre at Belmore Street. resident as at 30 June 2012. people who now live While we are seeing small changes We have coped with many to our ‘’bricks and mortar’’ we challenges over the past 12 months more independently are increasingly focused on with the infrastructure at the and with respect the processes that will support Belmore Street site as many of the people with individualised and buildings are now no longer used. and dignity.’’ portable funding packages to There have been a number of safety access our services. This is a and security issues addressed Caroline Peyroux, Regional key policy initiative driven by through restricting access to various the NSW Department of Ageing buildings and areas on the site, as Manager Western. Disability and Home Care and is well as regular workplace health an important element of reforms and safety assessments completed. associated with the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
18 Happy holidays
Thornleigh housemates Carlie holidays with her mother for Strain and Theresa Walton recently several years. She also used to had a wonderful holiday in The do volunteer work on the boat Whitsundays onboard the large when it was docked in Sydney. two-masted schooner Solway She had such fond memories of Lass. Built in 1902 the yacht her previous holidays that she and operates out of Airlie Beach Therese both agreed that it would offering three-night charters be a good choice for their trip. with onboard accommodation. Pirio said it was great to be Carlie and Theresa pooled their a part of assisting the two support hours and personal women to have a holiday. savings so their social educator “I really enjoyed the trip and Pirio Lombart could go with thought to myself while cruising them for the few days. through the turquoise waters that Carly has a longstanding this is a pretty good place to work!” connection to the yacht as she used to go on the vessel for
19 Resource Team
20 The shift in the way people with Key initiatives This has been an disability are supported, from A key initiative this year has been exciting year for the a medical approach to a social the roll out of person centred approach, is refl ected in the approaches in Community Living Resource Team. This way Achieve is structured and and Residential Services. This multi-disciplinary resourced. We have deliberately is an important development titled our direct support people refl ecting a key strategic team is focused on ‘’social educators’’ and set up a focus for our organisation. specialist resource team to provide providing expert professional expertise as required. Another very exciting and support across our successful initiative over the past The Resource team includes two 12 months has been working with services including Behaviour Support Specialists some of the residents of Crowle who are psychologists, a Home together with their families supporting people Registered Nurse, a person and Achieve colleagues to make with disability, our centred coordinator and a Family the transition to community living. Liaison Offi cer. The team delivers These journeys are all unique and teams of Social holistic and comprehensive each one requires the commitment support and develops the skills and skill of everyone involved. Educators and and knowledge of our staff In some cases the transition their managers. and the people we support. represents the fi rst move the person has ever made and the process of The Resource team has been deinstitutionalization is exciting and providing professional expertise, challenging for everyone involved. training, mentoring and support and promoting person centred The future practices throughout Achieve The team is looking forward to Australia’s services over the past 12 supporting all the remaining months. A key focus of our service transitions from Belmore Street is promoting general health and well and playing their part in helping being in the people we support. people on this journey. Our psychologists are specialists in The next year will also see a positive behaviour support and our continued focus on integrating registered nurses provide expert a person centred approach into care for peoples’ health needs. our practices and working with people to develop individual plans for their futures.
21 Day Programs
Helping out and loving it too
Three days a week different groups “They learn how to handle from our Day Program service the dogs and take them head out to Ingleside to help at a for a walk as well.” dog rescue shelter, Doggie Rescue. The partnership has been There’s over 100 dogs on site in place for six months and that all need care, attention, everyone leaves with their socialising and walking. clothes covered in fur and a smile on their face. Lucy Macrow works at the shelter and sees each week the “It’s a great partnership as joy that the animals give to the we need volunteers to come people supported by Achieve and help us and so thanks to come and lend a hand. to the groups from Achieve the dogs get contact with “We work on matching dogs to people which is so important people. So we get to know the to our work to fi nd them people from Achieve and then new homes,” said Lucy. match them to a particular dog.
22 This past year has been one Our Day Programs of transformation for our Day represents a Programs where we are just beginning to realise the full blend of structure potential of the new environment and choice and all that it offers. and becomes a Our dreams were realised in 2011- 12 with the opening of Araluen as vibrant place that a new hub for our Day Programs representing a defi ning event in the enables people past 12 months for our organisation. to grow, initiate Opened by Minister for Disability activities, express Services, Andrew Constance on 29 November 2011, we have themselves and successfully completed an extensive naturally make fi t-out and transitioned our friends with business from Belmore Street. others who share We trust you, we respect you, this is for you. a similar interest. Moving from our Belmore Street location has provided a signifi cant change in this area of our business, promoting an environment of creativity, collaboration and energy. For many people participating in our day programs the transition from Belmore Street to Araluen has also been a powerful personal experience. As each new person has transitioned to Araluen their friends have spontaneously created a line of honour to applaud them into the new premises, symbolising their ‘’graduation” to the new environment. These kinds of experiences symbolise the journey for many former participants at Crowle Home and the severing of their ties from the large residential centre. Araluen refl ects our commitment to pursue outstanding outcomes for people with disability by providing the supports they need to realise their passions, interests and skills.
23 Collaboration and innovation Our collaboration with Epping- The defining success factor for our based Karonga Special School has day programs are the collaborations also presented opportunities for we have, and continue to develop. school leavers to sample our day programs and potentially provide For the first time in years we have a smooth transition from school. been able to offer work experience and volunteering opportunities. We are also benefiting from the This has generated another whole collaboration with teachers from the stream of potential collaborations school who are now taking classes and partnerships that help us in numeracy and literacy as part deliver new experiences for people. of our Day Programs schedules. The four streams of our As a vibrant hub of activity programs are: Araluen reflects another step in our journey toward becoming a • Vocational (work and leading disability organisation. volunteering) A range of opportunities • Skill development Our team of 30 dedicated staff support over 80 people • Health and wellbeing pursue their interests, passions • Pursuit of hobbies. and hobbies including: At Araluen we provide a creative Song writing, singing, music space and a sense of structure that therapy, visual art, volunteering, allows people to initiate activities cooking, bush walking, tennis, and pursue their own interests each basketball, indoor cricket, bowling, day. There is a timetable but within soccer, sailing, athletics, massage it there is the scope for people to therapy, Tai Chi, photography, break into a completely new space swimming, computer skills, and activity should they choose. reading, creative writing. We have a strong collaboration with Macquarie University with students coming to spend time at Araluen fulfilling their studies of participation and community engagement. Through our partnership with Macquarie College we now offer assisted tennis as part of our activities. During the year we also partnered with the University of Western Sydney to create “The good life as I see it” photography exhibition.
24 Five Wishes
Vicki, Alex, Natalie, and Alex love in advertising sales and now music. The joy the group get spends all his time at disability from performing is obvious from and aged care facilities where their passionate singing and he performs and collaborates. enthusiasm for playing together. The group write songs The group formed with the together, ‘’Friends’’ and help of Greg Towney, the fi fth ‘’Going to be big in 2012’’, wish, who has worked with the their latest collaborations. group for almost three years, “It’s wonderful to watch a few formerly at the Belmore Street of the other people at Araluen day programs site, now at spontaneously show their Araluen, using a grand piano appreciation of the music, for composing and performing. there’s defi nitely a few original “I used guitar down at Belmore dance fl oor moves,” says Greg. Street but having a grand piano is wonderful,” he says. As a music lover Greg moved into music therapy full-time after a recommendation from a friend. He left behind a period
25 Achieve Disability Employment Service (DES)
Working together to get a great outcome for Daniel
Daniel’s experience with Achieve gardening, cleaning work vehicles, refl ects the focus we place on keeping the golf green clear of long term outcomes and the sticks, refi lling washers on the golf strength of a team effort. Daniel course and other maintenance approached our employment duties such as painting small areas. services almost four years ago Through ongoing feedback we with the goal of fi nding a job in an have also been able to provide open employment setting rather tailored training for Daniel than in a supported employment. to develop an appropriate We discussed with Daniel what work schedule to ensure he kind of work he was looking for has a sustainable position and approached the Manager that works for everyone. at Oatlands Golf Course. It’s now been four years since Together with Daniel and the Daniel started at Oatlands Golf manager we developed a work Course and the long term outcome plan and he started his role at that’s been achieved as a result Oatlands Golf Course in 2008 as a of a true team working together. Maintenance Offi cer. He assists with
26 Employers language skills course. The course Achieve Australia Achieve DES Consultants helps people to develop their Disability prepare both the workplace and language skills to a level that will job seekers for employment and enable them to communicate well Employment offer ongoing support to ensure in an interview and in the workplace. Services (DES) success in the long term. We look forward to the ongoing benefi ts of the partnership as assists job seekers We work with almost 50 employers almost two thirds of job seekers with disability to providing ongoing support for 50 that we support are from a non- people with disability. Establishing English speaking background. gain and maintain and maintaining positive relationships with employers, Macquarie University employment in the being responsive to their needs Achieve Employment has open labour market. and providing the support to had many collaborations with jobseekers in the workplace is Macquarie University over the Over the past 12 months we crucial to long term sustainable past 12 months and will continue have increased placements in employment outcomes. to nurture this partnership. Most the generalist service category recently Achieve Employment by 50 per cent and in the We achieve above average scores has placed a jobseeker into work specialist service category by in national benchmarks for our experience within Macquarie over 30 per cent year on year. ongoing support outcomes. University’s retail department. Our focus is also on creating Aside from the work experience lasting outcomes that Community partners opportunities, Achieve has work for employees and Achieve Australia has a full-time developed a partnership with employers. The best outcomes Business Development Offi cer the linguistics department within who is responsible for creating are the ones that last. Macquarie University. Students that links with local high schools, are studying to be interpreters are In the ongoing support category, training providers, Centrelink, given the opportunity to complete workers who have achieved 52 mental health services and some of their compulsory hours weeks or more of employment, the business community. at Achieve Employment. This we are 25 per cent above the is an outstanding initiative as it We have developed strong national average year on year. gives students an opportunity relationships and collaboration with to complete a component of a number of local organisations to Long lasting outcomes their study which is necessary help us provide ongoing support are achieved through the for them to successfully obtain for a range of job seekers. The relationships we develop with the qualifi cation. Additionally following partnerships have been employers who provide over a this initiative also helps Achieve developed over the past year: quarter of our ongoing repeat Employment in providing assistance business. These outcomes also to jobseekers that don’t have come from the time we spend Macquarie Community English as a fi rst language and with each person to identify their College (MCC) require the assistance of an skills, aptitude and aspirations. Achieve Employment has a well interpreter to communicate with established partnership with their employment consultant. MCC which began in August 2011 with the creation of three Future growth jobs for Achieve Employments Achieve DES completed a jobseekers. MCC in collaboration with Achieve DES has provided Department of Education, courses that are tailored specifi cally Employment and Workplace for people with a disability. Seven Relations tender in June 2012 job seekers have also started to compete for extra business some further study at MCC. throughout Central Western and Northern Sydney. A successful MTC work solutions outcome would see a signifi cant Achieve Employment has created a expansion of our operations. recent collaboration with MTC work solutions which provides culturally and linguistically diverse jobseekers with a government-funded English 27 Commercial Enterprises
Achieve Australia’s commercial enterprises includes fi ve distinct entities providing opportunities for over 100 supported employees. • Achieve Flight Services • Achieve Packaging • Achieve Labour Hire • Achieve Cleaning • Transition to Work program
28 Achieve Flight Services The supported employees work Everyone gains a sense Our Flight Services business primarily at the Marrickville site experienced continued growth when they’re not off site and this of satisfaction, a sense throughout the year with the provides them variety and the of identity and self addition of four new airlines for opportunity to learn new skills esteem from working cutlery packing. We also moved working in different locations. Gate Gourmet packing work - being employed is from offsite to the factory which We look forward to building a valued social role. further improves efficiencies. and expanding the program in the next 12 months and We expanded the range and thank our current partners. Through authentic and scope of food packaging genuine supported offered to our customer base Achieve Cleaning employment and successfully passed our The cleaning team took over the HACCP certification audits for servicing and cleaning of Belmore opportunities at food handling and packaging. Street, Araluen, Meadowbank Achieve Commercial and Marrickville factories Services, people with We will be investigating alternative during the past 12 months. sites over the next 12 months to a disability provide address our expansion needs. With the introduction of two new competitive services sites in Belmore Street and Araluen, Achieve Packaging the cleaning team this last year have in the commercial We made the very difficult decision had to grow and expand to meet marketplace. to close our packaging facility increased cleaning demands. Three at Meadowbank and release men work in the team, starting in the 38 funded places to the the afternoon and working through There is a close Department of Families, Housing, to the early evening cleaning at partnership between Community Services (FaHCSIA) Meadowbank, Belmore Street, our open employment and Indigenous Affairs to seek Araluen and Eastwood. The team another organisation to take on and their leading hand work and supported the supported employees. five nights a week to provide a employment businesses thorough and professional service. and we work with a This decision was made fairly It’s been a new experience for the compelling by the accumulating team and they’ve learnt a lot of range of people to find losses as patchy sales and new skills and the office staff and the right opportunity inconsistent work weren’t able to the team enjoy the interaction for each person. cover the permanent high fixed as they go about their work. overheads, particularly the rent. Achieve has supported 12 young An Expression of Interest process Transition to Work people during 2011-12 to acquire was undertaken by FaHCSIA and Transition to Work (TTW) is a two the skills and experience to be South Australia-based Bedford year program that helps young ‘work ready’ to move to open or Group were announced as the people with a disability gain supported employment at the successful organisation to take on employment after leaving school. completion of their program. the funded places and operations. Funded by the NSW Department of Ageing Disability and Home Care, the program is primarily for As an Australian Disability Achieve Labour Hire young people with a disability Enterprise, Achieve Australia is Over 30 supported employees with moderate to high needs well placed to offer TTW access work at six organisations on their who have completed year 12. to opportunities for employment premises, working alongside their or further support through our staff. We have had the support of Disability Employment Service to some of these organisations for up secure work in open employment. to 20 years and greatly value the partnership we’ve had, providing willing and skilled workers.
29 Vintage and values
Vintage & Value Enterprises
Vintage & Value Enterprises enthusiasm, expertise dedicated supporter of are social enterprises and and love for what they the organisation. While fundraising initiatives run do is a huge drawcard for her son has transitioned by a dedicated group of customers as well as donors. from Crowle Home to a volunteers at our Belmore house in the community Jan Lomas has volunteered Street premises. she still continues to give for several years and her time and energy. This unique business has loves being part of this established its reputation sociable enterprise that has Don and Jo McKerrell have over many years and attracts become an icon to many. been volunteers at Crowle customers from throughout “We are the public face Home for over 45 years with the state and interstate. of Achieve Australia to so Don being the driving force many people so I know that behind a very successful Regular coach parties what we do and the way plant nursery. Originally visit the needlecraft and we do it is hugely positive run from their own back fabric stores where an for the organisation.” garden the nursery was extraordinary range of moved to the site 20 years items have been donated The extended team also sells ago and has been a labour by people from all over a selection of donated goods of love for them both. Their the Sydney area. including books, plants daughter has also moved and pre-loved clothing. The team give their time from Crowle Home to a every Monday and Friday, Jane Power has run the community-based house. as well as the fi rst Sunday book store for many years of the month, and their and has been a truly
30 Fundraising and marketing
Over the 2011- A key focus over the past year has created a portfolio of their favourite been consistently applying our photos for an exhibition at Araluen 2012 year we have branding across various materials to celebrate the International undertaken a busy and updating a number of pieces of Day of People with Disability. collateral about our services. We have We created calendars containing schedule of events, also recently completed a Branding beautiful images taken by our Day activities and Guide to ensure our brand is correctly Program participants and offered treated each and every time it is used. them for sale raising almost $1500.. marketing initiatives. Our fundraising efforts in 2011-2012 raised a total of $216,000. This is a Chamber of Commerce result of the efforts, time, energy After 5 Event @ Araluen and dedication of many people On 10 October 2011, Achieve and organisations who have shared Australia together with Hills School in the many things we do. This is Industry Partnership (HILLSSIP) where we achieve more, together, hosted the region’s biggest and is a tribute to the contributions networking night of the year. and enthusiasm of so many. The event was held at Araluen and Through donations to Achieve was attended by over 130 business Australia we have also raised $42,000 people across Ryde Business Forum, which will go towards developing local Chambers in Ryde, Epping, a respite service based at our Eastwood, Hornsby, Chatswood and Day Programs centre, Araluen. Sydney Hills Business Chamber as well as the Rotary Club of Epping. In the past year we also scheduled a number of events designed to Thank you to everyone from Ryde engage our supporters and partners Business Forum, Hills School Industry and provide opportunities for Partnership and staff from the Achieve people to get involved with our Australia for your coordination organisation and what we do. and support for the evening. DisabiliTea – Building MARKETING support for an NDIS Achieve Australia hosted four DisabiliTeas to promote awareness of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) within our local community. Achieve Australia Patron, John Alexander, Federal Member for Bennelong, attended the DisabiliTea at a home in Eastwood. The other DisabiliTeas at Residential, Achieve Employment and the Eastwood ‘The Good Life As I head offi ce all went well with See It’ calendars many more people signing up to This project involved Day Program show their support for an NDIS. participants buddying up with university students to take photographs of what they consider to be ‘The Good Life’. They worked together to raise funds for digital cameras and visited various locations to capture their images. At the conclusion of the project, participants
31 Fundraising and marketing continued
Make it Real - NDIS Campaign FUNDRAISING EVENTS Everyone who supports the NDIS INTRODUCTION OF was invited to create a one minute NEW FUNDRAISING video telling the nation why they are CAMPAIGNS counting on the Scheme to go ahead. The aim is to assemble hundreds, if not thousands, of video stories that give people with disability, their carers and families a voice in the national political debate. Achieve Australia has already uploaded over 20 videos and Crowle Needlecraft Sale counting. Help us to make it real! Achieve Month – April 2012 In April our volunteers organised Achieve Australia’s Achieve a large needlecraft sale that Health and Wellness after 50 Month in April 2012 gives people attracted many visitors with great As part of the Hornsby Shire Council’s the opportunity to reach their bargains and hospitality. We raised ‘Healthy Living Festival’ during personal goals with the support almost $6000 from the sale. NSW Seniors Week in April, Achieve of family and friends. People Australia hosted two sessions at simply come up with a challenge City2Surf Araluen about health and wellness they’d like to succeed in, create a Achieve Australia formed a for people over 50 years of age. The fundraising page and ask everyone team to participate in The two and a half hour session provided to sponsor them. A number of Sun Herald 2011 City2Surf. a relaxing Tai Chi class, followed enthusiastic fundraisers helped by tips on how to cook nutritious raise $2,000 in the month of April. Everyone in the team succeeded food. It was an enjoyable event for in completing the famous 14km everyone that attended and increased Araluen Respite Appeal event, raising $750 for Achieve the wider community’s awareness Achieve Australia purchased the Australia in the process. about our Day Programs facility. beautiful heritage-listed building, November 5th - Araluen, in April 2011 with the aim Annual Crowle Fete of developing it into a new Day Program facility and weekend This significant community event, Respite. While our Day Programs held each year for over 50 years, have successfully transitioned into was a great success with over 40 the complex, the next step is to volunteers helping on the day plus establish the Respite service. staff. The Fete is a fixture in the calendar of the community and over Achieve is keen for donations $13,000 was raised on the day. to the Araluen Respite Appeal that will make a big difference Movie Fundraiser Night to the people we support as well @ Event Cinemas as their families and friends. On 14 December 2011, we hosted a fundraising evening at Event Weddings, Birthdays Cinemas, Macquarie Centre. and Anniversaries In lieu of gifts for milestone events, Thirty-five people attended the you might like to ask friends and function, which included canapés family to make a donation towards upon arrival, raffle prizes and the programs and services we the private screening of new provide for people with disability. release film, ‘New Year’s Eve’. Through this opportunity to It was a very enjoyable event, raising contribute towards a good cause nearly $600 from ticket sales and the people we support benefit raffle tickets for Achieve Australia. from donors’ generosity.
32 Our Ambassador Duncan Armstrong
When I was first As an ambassador, approached by Achieve I have been able to Australia, then known as leverage my name and Hornsby Challenge, it was image, representing a growing organisation Achieve Australia not with a big vision. only at promotional and fundraising events, but I was particularly impressed also at business luncheons, by the CEO, Anne Bryce, corporate lunches, and and the staff. They were a with government – the group of highly motivated people who can help and compassionate Our Patron us make a difference. people, who wanted John Alexander to make a difference in For me personally, having the lives of people with a son with intellectual For the past 60 years representing the needs of intellectual disability. disability, it has been very satisfying to help move Achieve Australia their clients to state and As a former elite athlete, the organisation forward. has been one of our federal representatives. I understood their community’s great The bipartisan support commitment and drive, Every time I hear about success stories. I am of a National Disability and was attracted to that how the organisation has delighted to serve as Insurance Scheme is a level of motivation. impacted the life of a Patron and to support client or their family – like result of the hard work of It was clear that the Achieve’s noble mission the gentleman in his 50s organisations like Achieve organisation was dedicated of delivering on the right who began to speak again who regularly remind to achieving big things for of people with a disability after being moved from an us that it is how we people with intellectual to achieve a meaningful institution to a house in the care and provide for the disability, and I was and valued life. community – I am inspired. most vulnerable in our captured by the vision. With care, employment society that will be the Living in a consumerist I formally began my and administration ultimate marker of our society, it is easy to lose association with Achieve services across the success as a community. perspective; my involvement Bennelong region, Australia in 2007, when John Alexander OAM MP with Achieve Australia Achieve have been very Hornsby Challenge Federal Member reminds me of what is active in providing high became known as for Bennelong most important in life. quality services as well as Achieve Foundation. Duncan Armstrong OAM
33 Communication and consultation
Achieve Australia operates Similarly Achieve’s operational in an environment where we footprint covers 12 state and Spring have multiple relationships and federal electorates so we devote Edition 2012 connections with people and time and effort ensuring members news organisations that collaborate with of parliament are aware of our us, have an interest in what we do business and how it contributes and have a stake in our success. to the local communities in their electorates. These electorate- Because we support people who based relationships extend to local often experience disadvantage, councils who also have a stake we have deep relationships with and interest in our operations family members, politicians, as they relate to ratepayers. governmental officers and organisations in the disability sector. Through corporate events, relationship building and Through our public channels, our networking we reach out to the website, e-news, Annual Report and corporate community to become John Alexander, MP Achieve News we make information involved in what we do and advance at the 11th available about our services, their corporate social responsibility Achieve Annual stories of people we support, agendas. It is in this way we can Golf Day news, changes and challenges. provide an opportunity to benefit organisations who are looking to Each of our Community Living extend their bottom line to include Services regions has group family contributing to communities meetings every six months as well through time and people. as our Day programs service. These are opportunities for families who Numerous events throughout the otherwise don’t see the work we do, year strengthen these relationships to meet and greet staff and discuss and provide opportunities for how everything is working out and new organisations to begin for Achieve to understand the broad a relationship with us. issues and feedback for groups. Communication with the people we support and their families is a constant, often on a daily basis during times of change. As we are funded by two Federal Government departments and one State Government department we spend a considerable amount of time ensuring our relationships at an operational and Ministerial level are strong. This provides us access to key policy staff and enables us to share strategic developments that support policy and provide opportunities for us to provide evidence in support of our funding agreements.
34 Funders and accreditations
FUNDERS ACCREDITATIONS & PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS
Australian Government – Australasian Housing Institute Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Australian Disability Relations (DEEWR) Enterprises (ADE)
Fundraising Institute of Australia Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HAACP) National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) – Every Australian Counts Australian Government – Department of Families, National Disability Housing, Community Services Services (NDS) &Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA) NSW Registered Community Housing Provider Philanthropy Australia SAI Global Workability International
NSW Government - Family & Community Services – Ageing Disability & Home Care
35 Our Corporate People Donors & Supporters who support us
HOW YOU CAN HELP Purchase our Goods 2CH Lighthouse Boutique- or Services Mosman Make a Donation Able Liquid Waste All proceeds from sales To make a tax deductible Macquarie Community are channelled back into Access Pay donation to Achieve College Achieve Australia to help Australia, simply visit Allmarque Group www.achieveaustralia. us continuously improve Macquarie University our provision of services Aran Anderson org.au and click on the Manna From Heaven ‘Donate Now’ button. to people with disability. Photography Novartis Australia You can donate by credit • Vintage and Value Australian Opal Cutters Enterprises – Open Oatlands Golf Club card, or cheque as well Austbrokers Sydney Pty Ltd Mondays, Fridays and as BPay. A tax deductible Officeworks - West Ryde receipt will be issued 1st Sunday of the month. Blackheath Golf Club Entry via Porter Street, Ozmates Travel within minutes and your Briars Ski Lodge- Thredbo Ryde. Call 02 8878 3353 donation will start making Powerhouse Museum a difference to the lives during opening hours. Bunning’s Warehouse - Thornleigh Prolegis Lawyers of people we support. • Commercial Enterprises – If your organisation Become a Volunteer Cartoscope Pty Ltd Pymble Golf Club requires high quality Achieve Australia has a Cheese Making Workshop Rotary Club of Epping Inc. packaging and assembly variety of opportunities for solutions, contact us Count Charitable Rydalmere Central volunteers to get involved on 1800 106 661. Foundation Bowling Club Ltd throughout the year. Cumulus Wines South Sydney Rabbitohs • Fundraising events Become a – Join a fundraising Corporate Partner Don Fox Planning Pty Ltd Strathfield Golf Club committee or help Achieve Australia seeks out on the day. the support of the Dunn Motors Sunshine Holidays business, commercial and • Corporate volunteers Eastwood Patchwork Taste Living community sectors willing Quilters Inc – Offer your time on to build a relationship The Legends Club an annual, monthly with us and become a Gap Studios or weekly basis to Top Ryde Shopping Centre partner in supporting Hamper King volunteer with a group mutual objectives. Waterview Lillies of colleagues from You will also be making an Helen Kaminski White House Institute your organisation. investment in supporting Store-The Rocks of Design and providing services for • School or university Hornsby RSL Pipe Band students – Spend people with disability. Achieve Australia also time with our Day Hunters Hill Quilters thanks all the individuals Make a Bequest Program participants who made donations Bequests have been Indue Ltd on a weekly basis or over the past 12 months. integral in the development become involved with Ingham Enterprise of our services. an exciting project. International Wines Making a bequest to • Be a buddy – Form a Achieve Australia Ltd Intimo Lingerie close companionship through your Will is an with someone we Kerry Ingredients extremely and personally support by taking significant gift. It will Killara Golf Club them shopping or leave a lasting legacy for having a weekly casual the people we support chat over coffee. for future generations. If you would like to get Anyone considering involved, give us a call or including Achieve Australia drop us an email. We’d in their Will should love to hear from you. contact us for a strictly
36 37 Contact us Level 4, 2 Rowe Street Eastwood NSW 2122 PO Box 1029, Eastwood NSW 2122 P 02 9034 1600 F 02 9874 8870 [email protected] building extraordinary lives www.achieveaustralia.org.au