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Creating Opportunities<br />

for people with a disability<br />

and their families<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria<br />

<strong>Annual</strong> General Meeting - Thursday 15th November 2012


Contents<br />

Presidents Message 01 - 02<br />

CEO’s Message 03<br />

Our Organisation 04 - 05<br />

Jean Simpson Award Winner 06<br />

Promoting <strong>Interchange</strong> 07 - 08<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> State-wide Forums 09<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Activities @ School 10<br />

Treasurers <strong>Report</strong> 11<br />

Financial <strong>Report</strong>s 12<br />

Auditors <strong>Report</strong> 13<br />

We would like to Thank 14<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria Board<br />

Merrilyn Newnham - President<br />

Peter Marshall - Vice President<br />

Debbie Knight - Treasurer<br />

Christian Anderson<br />

Ashleigh Wilkie<br />

Sandra Martin<br />

Geri Baker<br />

Ben Otter<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria Staff<br />

Jetha Devapura - CEO<br />

Ekram Awadallah - Volunteer & Finance Officer<br />

Shini Kelly - Marketing & Communications Coordinator<br />

Meet Liam Shay & Tim Thompson<br />

Liam Shay, a 17 year old volunteer with<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Wodonga, is always willing to help out<br />

and go the extra mile. Liam won the Wodonga Youth<br />

Ambassador Award in 2012 for his work at<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong>. This is the highest award at the<br />

Wodonga Red Carpet Youth Awards.<br />

On a recent camp Liam supported Tim, a 17 year<br />

old with Autism, who has been a participant with<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> for many years. While on camp Liam<br />

and Tim participated in horse riding, flying fox, high<br />

ropes, archery and a talent show where they<br />

performed a comedy skit.<br />

This picture shows Tim (left) and Liam (right) after<br />

completing a survivor mud challenge course at the<br />

camp.


President’s Message<br />

2011-2012 has been a year of change for <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria, as indeed it has been for many of our Member<br />

Agencies.The significance and the implications of the NDIS, with its potential to advance the rights and equality of<br />

people in the Disability sector cannot be ignored. It is heartening that the community is so forceful in its support, and also<br />

that the Australian Government so committed to its success.<br />

Changing Attitudes!<br />

Bluearth Foundation has remained our major partner to introduce the <strong>Interchange</strong> Activities program into Primary<br />

Schools in 2012. Bluearth submitted an excellent evaluation response, identifying a significant and positive shift in<br />

children’s awareness of the experience of disability once they had participated in the Activities.<br />

In 2013 our volunteer lead generation program for Host and Recreation volunteers will see this inspiring program<br />

presented to Secondary Schools and Universities. This should offer an excellent channel to potential volunteer<br />

candidates.<br />

The <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria advertising campaign early this year in local print publications, which supported our Members<br />

in their quest to attract more Volunteer awareness and response, was very well received.<br />

Communication Is Key!<br />

The <strong>Interchange</strong> Intranet is now available and we encourage all Members to log in ASAP! The Intranet can only be an<br />

effective interactive communication tool if used frequently.<br />

Supporting even stronger communication between our Members and <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria is the appointment of Geri<br />

Baker as <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria Board of Management Member Liaison Officer - already much valuable exchange of<br />

information has resulted from this appointment.<br />

A number of interstate disability service provider organisations have requested membership of <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria.<br />

While <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria membership is not within our constitution for interstate applicants, a formal <strong>Interchange</strong><br />

Licensee Agreement has been established. Centacare in Queensland has joined in this capacity as has <strong>Interchange</strong> in<br />

South Australia and Langford in Tasmania. While not eligible to benefit from the marketing and promotional campaigns<br />

available to Victorian Members, the support and assistance received from their <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria Agency colleagues<br />

provides much value.<br />

Three <strong>Interchange</strong> Forums have been well attended and the feedback from each shows the content and networking is<br />

greatly appreciated and valued by all the participants. Our sincere thanks to all those who did such a sterling job<br />

presenting at the Host Staff, Recreational Staff and Manager’s Forums, the participants, and without doubt the<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria team which works so hard to organise these events.<br />

Getting The Fundamentals Right!<br />

Throughout 2012 the <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria CEO, <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria team and Board of Management has had a strong<br />

focus once more on the areas of compliance, governance, and <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria accountability. There is a high<br />

degree of satisfaction with the progress that has been made and we greatly appreciate the support of our Members<br />

during this process.<br />

It has been with disappointment that we have seen the closure of Community Connections, but encouraging that Ozchild<br />

will carry on the good work of the <strong>Interchange</strong> programs in the South Western region of Warrnambool, Hamilton and<br />

Portland. We have accepted reluctantly, the resignation of Family Care and Gippsland East. In the current climate of<br />

diminishing funding, we are mindful that a number of stand-alone <strong>Interchange</strong> agencies may merge with other<br />

organisations to keep their programs operational.<br />

This highlights the importance of a powerful and strategic promotional program to keep the <strong>Interchange</strong> brand shining<br />

brightly in the community. Long live <strong>Interchange</strong>!<br />

01


President’s Message cont..<br />

Behind The Scenes!<br />

Jetha Devapura, Shini Kelly and Ekram Awadallah have been kept busy with a heavy schedule. The <strong>Interchange</strong><br />

Activities Program, Member Forums, Member Planning Day are just some of the activities undertaken by this tight knit<br />

team. There is a great deal to be done by a small team and we thank Jetha, Shini and Ekram for their ongoing<br />

contribution to supporting and enhancing our Members endeavours to continue delivering the vitally important high<br />

quality respite and related services to families of people with disability.<br />

We thank too, Chris Alp, Director of Fordham Group, and Perpetual Trustees, of which Fordham is part. We are<br />

extremely grateful for the ongoing and valued support we have received; a magnificent monthly meeting space, and<br />

Chris’ own professional support and advice to the Board on occasions.<br />

Thanks to our Patron Simon McKeon. We also acknowledge and thank Bluearth Foundation and Big Picture Group for<br />

their ongoing support. Having made the decision earlier in the year to move our service agreement from HACC North<br />

West Region to HACC Central Office, our sincere thanks to HACC for its continued funding in 2012.<br />

The <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria Board of Management has grown in 2012. In March we farewelled Mike O’Shea, and then<br />

shortly afterwards our Secretary Kate Toner moved on, due to a career change. In their places we were delighted to<br />

welcome Ashleigh Wilkie, Pinarc Disability Support Services, Sandra Martin, OzChild, and more recently Ben Otter,<br />

Driver Group. Each of these new members brings a wealth of expertise to the Board. Peter Marshall and Merilyn<br />

Newnham exchanged positions early in the year, due to increasing work demands on Peter Marshall’s time.<br />

Finally I thank all the Board members for their extraordinary commitment of time and energy through this year of change<br />

and challenge. Much has been achieved. Thank you too, to our Members. On behalf of the <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria Board I<br />

offer our pledge to uphold that empowering <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria Mission; to support and enhance all of <strong>Interchange</strong><br />

Victoria’s members to deliver effective, high quality respite and related services to families of people with disability.<br />

Merilyn Newnham<br />

President I <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria<br />

02


CEO’s Message<br />

n behalf of <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria and our members, I would like to convey my thanks and congratulations to our<br />

oJean Simpson Award winner the Parsons family. Their dedication and commitment in volunteering to create<br />

opportunities for Clair and the Wignell family and staff at <strong>Interchange</strong> Northern is admirable.<br />

I am pleased to report that <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria has achieved much with our modest budget. Once again we have<br />

worked with our funders, partners and supporters, who play a vital role in enabling us to deliver the services to our<br />

members and the community. The following are some of the highlights of the last financial year.<br />

Volunteer & Family Enquiries: The <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria TV Commercial which is played as a community<br />

announcement (free TV), was also played as a paid advertisement in the months of April - June 2012. We were able to<br />

negotiate with the networks and purchased slots which would promote our member programs at appropriate times. We<br />

were also able to offer members an opportunity to place advertisements in their local papers and covered costs up to<br />

$700/member program. This was to ensure there is good local coverage and awareness and also an opportunity for our<br />

member programs to place an editorial as part of the media spend. The outcomes from the investment in advertising and<br />

promotions were extremely encouraging. I’m pleased to report a 60% increase in enquiries from the previous financial<br />

year.<br />

State-Wide Forums: As part of the services provided to our member agencies, <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria hosted three<br />

State-wide forums for the Host and Recreation staff as well as Managers. It was an opportunity for members to learn,<br />

share and network. We were pleased to see good attendances and very positive feedback.<br />

Marketing & Communications: There was considerable amount of consultation with member programs to<br />

choose the best initiatives to promote their program. Members choose 5 initiatives from 11 and <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria<br />

focused to deliver them. A Poster, Brochure and a Print Advertisement was developed which enabled member programs<br />

to add their own content and contact details. A new website was also developed which provided each member a page to<br />

promote their program. It also enabled all enquiries to automatically go directly to the member program selected by the<br />

potential volunteer or client.<br />

Ability to meet and communicate regularly has been a challenge for member organsiations who are situated across the<br />

state. To promote greater connectedness amongst the membership, <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria developed and launched a<br />

new Intranet in July 2012. We encourage all members to take advantage of the Intranet to keep in touch and share to<br />

ensure greater efficiency and effectiveness.<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Activities Program: <strong>Interchange</strong> Activities is an initiative to educate, engage and empower.<br />

Educate students and the school community about disability, engage them in volunteering with <strong>Interchange</strong> and<br />

empower communities to be more inclusive. The pre and post assessment results show encouraging signs of change in<br />

attitudes towards disability and the focus in the next year would be to look at ways to engage the school community and<br />

tertiary institutes to volunteer with <strong>Interchange</strong>. With limited resources for member programs to get involved,<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria will look into a resource to coordinate this important and promising initiative.<br />

Thank You: In light of our service agreement moving from HACC North West Region to HACC Central Office, I would<br />

like to thank HACC North West for the funding and support in the past, and I look forward to working with HACC Central<br />

Office going forward. I like to thank Allbeau Pty Ltd and Dame Beryl Beaurepaire, as well as the Birchall Family<br />

Foundation Trust for their kind donations. We thank our members, our patron, ambassador, partners, donors and<br />

supporters for providing us with the support and resources to continue our work. The <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria Board<br />

members have dedicate their time and effort on a voluntary basis and I take this opportunity to thank the President<br />

Merilyn Newnham and all Board members for their support, effort and commitment. I look forward to working with the<br />

Board and the members on the Strategic Plan which would point our direction for the next three to five years. I’m<br />

confident this direction will ensure the sustainability and growth of <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria into the future.<br />

I like to especially thank Bluearth Foundation for working with us on the <strong>Interchange</strong> Activities program and look forward<br />

to working with them in 2013. Many thanks also to St Marks, Fawkner and St Martin de Porres, Laverton for their<br />

enthusiasm and support with the Activities in their schools. A big thank you also goes to Big Picture Group for their long<br />

standing partnership and commitment to support <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria.<br />

I like to thank my staff for their dedication and for being part of the vision to serve our community and members to the best<br />

of our ability. We look forward to another year where we can learn from the past and take advantage of the future.<br />

Jetha Devapura<br />

Chief Executive Officer I <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria<br />

03


Our Organisation<br />

Our vision<br />

To be part of a community that shares the responsibility for the wellbeing of all, celebrates and promotes<br />

difference and strives for inclusiveness. We want a community where all are treated with dignity and respect<br />

and have the opportunity to access and participate in activities of their own choice.<br />

Our Mission<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> supports and enhances all its members to deliver effective, high quality respite and related<br />

services to families of people with a disability.<br />

Our Purpose<br />

To assist <strong>Interchange</strong> members when requested to maximise the potential of <strong>Interchange</strong> programs, through:<br />

- The provision of information and resource material to members.<br />

- Coordination of promotional/publicity material.<br />

- The promotion of the core values and principles of <strong>Interchange</strong> and its reference to supporting families and<br />

persons with a disability.<br />

- The provision and coordination of training and development opportunities.<br />

- Facilitating the exchange of information between members.<br />

- Undertaking fund-raising initiatives and activities.<br />

Our Values<br />

Integrity<br />

We are open, honest and accountable in all our practices<br />

Social Justice<br />

We contribute to and work with the broader community to bring about positive changes for individuals and<br />

society. We recognize that a fair community means that all people have the right to opportunity and justice and<br />

can participate fully in their communities.<br />

Quality<br />

We create the environment for the Board, Staff, Volunteers and Partners to excel in the provision of services<br />

with standards and systems that support and build on strengths of <strong>Interchange</strong><br />

Positive work environment<br />

We value and promote a positive and safe work environment that supports diversity and values individual<br />

abilities and contribution.<br />

Sustainability<br />

We will aim to maximize our enterprise opportunities and undertake responsible financial management.<br />

04


Our Organisation<br />

About <strong>Interchange</strong><br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria is a not-for-profit, community based organisation that provides various<br />

services to its member agencies.<br />

The agencies in turn provide support through a wide range of programs to families who have a<br />

child or young person with a disability. The children and young people have a range of physical,<br />

intellectual or sensory disabilities.<br />

These programs provide parents with the opportunity to have a break from their role as carers<br />

and give children the chance to have fun and make new friends away from home.<br />

Victoria's first <strong>Interchange</strong> agency started in 1980 by parents of children with disabilities and<br />

supporters. There are now six stand alone <strong>Interchange</strong> agencies and seven auspice <strong>Interchange</strong><br />

programs throughout Victoria and three <strong>Interchange</strong> Licensee programs interstate.<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria was created in response to the <strong>Interchange</strong> agencies requiring a central body<br />

to provide vital services. <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria provides the following services:<br />

Marketing and Promotions<br />

Training & Development<br />

Support and Resourcing<br />

Leadership<br />

The main goal of <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria is to<br />

support its members in the delivery of respite<br />

care services by promoting their program<br />

and the need for volunteers .<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria is accountable to a Board of<br />

Management and receives recurring funding from the<br />

Ministry of Health - Home and Community Care program.<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria also relies on government and<br />

philanthropic grants, partners, sponsors, donors and<br />

supporters to deliver services to it’s member programs.<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria<br />

Members & Licensees<br />

Marketing & Events<br />

Coordinator<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria<br />

Board<br />

CEO<br />

Volunteer & Finance<br />

Officer<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Families & Volunteers<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria<br />

Members & Licensees<br />

Partners, Sponsors<br />

and Supporters<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong><br />

Victoria<br />

Volunteers<br />

When required<br />

05


Jean Simpson Award Winners 2012<br />

This award was established in 2004 to celebrate the life and achievements of the late Jean Simpson who was a long<br />

time campaigner for the provision of flexible respite for families caring for a child with a disability. Jean Simpson's<br />

influence and vision has left an on-going legacy at <strong>Interchange</strong>. This legacy is maintained by the wonderful<br />

contribution of staff and volunteers to the <strong>Interchange</strong> program. Each year we call upon member agencies to<br />

nominate a staff and volunteer in their respective categories to be in the running for this award. A panel of five<br />

judges carefully deliberates over the candidates and chooses the one that best demonstrates a strong<br />

commitment to <strong>Interchange</strong> and a continual effort to strive towards excellence. We are pleased to announce the<br />

following winner for 2012:<br />

Volunteer of the year - The Parsons Family<br />

This match has been a very special one, not only in the length of<br />

match, but also the closeness and commitment of the two families.<br />

The hosts have provided exceptional commitment and support that<br />

has brought great joy, companionship, trust, and experiences for<br />

Claire and respite for Judy and Brian by providing Friday to Sunday<br />

respite on a monthly basis.<br />

The depth of this match was demonstrated in 1995 when the<br />

Parsons family relocated interstate. After moving to Canberra, ICN<br />

records show an average of 200 hours of respite continued to be<br />

provided yearly for the next 5 years. This was not just respite for<br />

the Wignell family but a great experience for Claire, including<br />

travelling from Melbourne to Canberra to visit for the weekend with<br />

mum and dad seeing her off in Melbourne and Debra and Mark<br />

collecting her at Canberra airport.<br />

The Parsons family – Debra, Mark, Laura (22) Georgia (19)<br />

and Hugh (16), have been members of the <strong>Interchange</strong><br />

Northern (ICN) program for 21 years and matched with the<br />

Wignell family - Judy, Brian, Marcus and Claire.<br />

Claire is 39 years old and has a profound intellectual<br />

disability. Debra and Mark and their children have assisted<br />

Claire in becoming the independent person she is today.<br />

They have provided her with a high degree of care and<br />

support along with a consistent approach to management<br />

during their hosting times. Claire will always require support<br />

to allow her to maintain her personal independence, as she<br />

is nonverbal and has a lack of safety awareness. The<br />

Parsons family continue to show their commitment to Claire<br />

and her family.<br />

Two years ago, when Claire’s brother Marcus was to be married in New York, Debra Parsons took leave without pay to<br />

travel with the family to provide support to Judy and Brian as they, and Claire, participated in their son’s wedding.<br />

Debra’s professional background is that of occupational therapy. In the early 90’s Debra participated in, then led, the first<br />

ICN youth group activity - she was involved in the planning and organisation of the group. Debra fulfilled every aspect of<br />

her voluntary role to the highest of standards. The 20 year anniversary of this dedicated and long distance match was<br />

recognised in September 2011 at the <strong>Interchange</strong> Northern <strong>Annual</strong> Dinner Dance. We would like to congratulate the<br />

Parsons for their commitment and dedication.<br />

A special mention to all of the nominees who clearly embodied the spirit, strength and<br />

commitment of the late Jean Simpson. Many thanks for your ongoing contribution to<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong>. <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria would also like to thank those who were involved in the<br />

judging panel for lending their time, expertise and good guidance.<br />

06


Promoting <strong>Interchange</strong><br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria consulted with its members to find out how best we can promote their<br />

program. During the consultation process several initiatives were discussed and five key<br />

initiatives were chosen.<br />

Brochures & Posters<br />

An exciting campaign was launched to engage volunteers for<br />

our programs as well as maintain a consistent brand for<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong>. The material developed included a new<br />

brochure and poster which focus on empowering the<br />

Volunteer. The statement “You Can Volunteer” was used as<br />

the key message to engage the reader and encourage them<br />

to volunteer with <strong>Interchange</strong>. The content and layout is<br />

simple, attractive and brief to capture the attention of the<br />

potential volunteer and encourage them to contact the<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> to gain more information. All promotional<br />

material was designed to enable each of our members to<br />

include local information and contact details for greater<br />

effectiveness in localised marketing campaigns.<br />

Website<br />

The website was revamped with a new look and more straight forward and accessible format. Each<br />

member program was given a page to promote their local program with links directly to their website.<br />

Enquiries were also automated where all enquiries whether volunteer or family was directed to the<br />

respective program with copies to <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria. This was made possible by the enquirer<br />

choosing the <strong>Interchange</strong> program of choice or closest to their locality. In the 2011 - 2012 financial<br />

year there were 17,326 pages views compared to 9,023 in the 2010 - 2011 financial year. The<br />

comments from the member programs were very positive and we are thankful to our partner Big<br />

Picture Group for upgrading the website pro-bono.<br />

INTERCHANGE LOGO GUIDE Developed by<br />

Interchang e Victoria<br />

for its member organisations Apri l 2012 Logo Guide<br />

A logo guideline document was developed to establish<br />

consistency in the <strong>Interchange</strong> brand and identity. The<br />

guidelines have enabled consistency in branding<br />

across the membership and licensees. This document<br />

outlines how the <strong>Interchange</strong> brand can be used and<br />

will reflect in <strong>Interchange</strong> communication material<br />

throughout the network.<br />

07


Promoting <strong>Interchange</strong><br />

Media Advertising<br />

A statewide media campaign was launched in the months of April to June 2012 to promote<br />

volunteering with <strong>Interchange</strong>. Paid TV commercials were aired on WIN TV, Channel 31 and GO!<br />

amounting approximately one thousand 30 second spots. The above TV channels were chosen to<br />

cover both rural and metro member programs. Newspaper advertisements were also developed for<br />

each member program, which appeared in local newspapers that covered the regions of each<br />

member program. We are grateful to the one off grant given by the Department of Human Services in<br />

the previous financial year, which enabled us to cover the cost of this media advertising to promote<br />

and support our member programs.<br />

The following graph shows the impact of the media advertising in months of April - May.<br />

Intranet<br />

A key requirement of all <strong>Interchange</strong> members was the need to be able to communicate and share<br />

information through a dedicated intranet. After consulting with all Managers of <strong>Interchange</strong> Programs<br />

and gathering feedback on requirements, an easy to use and functional intranet was launched in July<br />

2012. The intranet is an accessible forum for having statewide discussions, sharing ideas, problem<br />

solving, sharing concerns, garnering support and to simply network online. Member agencies are<br />

currently using the intranet to raise questions, share notices and source information.<br />

We would like to thank Collier Charitable Trust for a grant of $30,000 given previously, which enabled<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria to develop and implement the intranet. Our partner Big Picture Group doing part<br />

of this project pro-bono enabled us to spend more resources in gathering information from our<br />

members on the functionality of the intranet and also to register and provide training for members on<br />

the use of the intranet. Benefit of the intranet for the members are:<br />

Share<br />

information and resources within the membership.<br />

Reduce<br />

duplication and access to resources.<br />

Keeping<br />

members connected.<br />

Communicate<br />

with members from all regions with ease.<br />

Share<br />

updates, accomplishments, new appointments, events and activities<br />

Building<br />

the membership identity and synergies.<br />

08


<strong>Interchange</strong> State-Wide Forums<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria hosted three State-wide Forums which included the Host Forum, Recreation Forum and<br />

the Manager Forum. The Forums were an opportunity for CEO’s, managers, staff and volunteers to meet and<br />

discuss some of the key issues they face, share best practice and develop actions to address them in the work<br />

place. The Forums are for the members by the members. The members suggest various topics and areas of<br />

interest and <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria organises the Forums. Members are encouraged to facilitate the topics and<br />

when relevant, outside experts are invited to share their knowledge and current practice.<br />

THE MANAGERS FORUM<br />

THE HOST FORUM<br />

THE RECREATIONAL PROGRAM FORUM<br />

The Recreational Forum for the Recreational program coordinators<br />

and staff was held on 27th July 2011 at <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria’s office in<br />

Braybrook. There were a total of 22 attendees from 12 member<br />

programs including <strong>Interchange</strong> South Australia who participated in<br />

the forum. The topics were chosen based on suggestions by the<br />

Recreational staff and each topic was facilitate by a representative<br />

from a member program.<br />

The topics covered were on Sharing ideas of activities, camps venues that have been tried and tested,<br />

How is Active Service Model implemented in the respective programs, Insurance and risk management<br />

issues for clients, volunteers and staff and Managing and retaining casual staff and volunteers. It was a<br />

great opportunity for the attendees to network and share ideas. As a result of the forum a document was<br />

created including a list of camp sites and ways to appreciate volunteers. The document was circulated to all<br />

recreational program coordinators.<br />

The Managers Forum was held on 2nd November 2011 at the Hume Global Learning<br />

Centre. There were 20 attendees from 9 member programs including Langford in Tasmania<br />

who participated in the forum. The forum topic was “Transitions to a NDIS”. Simon McKeon,<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria patron and Australian of the year 2011 was the guest speaker at the<br />

AGM prior to the forum and also stayed back for some of the forum. We also had John Della<br />

Bosca, National Campaign Director and James O’Brien, Victorian/Tasmanian State<br />

Coordinator for the NDIS join in the discussion. The NDIS Transistion Plan topic was run<br />

by Belinda Wallin from the NDS and we also had Diana Borgmeyer from VMIA discussing<br />

Risk and Opportunity. Tim Flowers from Saward Dawson ran a session after lunch on<br />

Demystify the Marketisation Transistion Process and Prepare for Change.<br />

The overall aim of the Forum was to focus on challenges and opportunities for <strong>Interchange</strong><br />

programs in the current climate of individualised funding. Attendees appreciated the<br />

opportunity to network, also found the contents of the forum valuable and informative.<br />

Managers and Host Program coordinators and staff participated in an engaging one day Forum held on the<br />

3rd of May 2012 at the Melbourne Art Centre. There were a total of 17 participants from 10 member<br />

organisations who gathered together to network, share ideas and participate in the discussions. The topics<br />

covered were Sharing and improving the Client Profile Form, Guidelines and Legalities on Managing<br />

Host Volunteers and Recruiting and Retaining Volunteers.<br />

The attendees enjoyed the venue and look forward to more networking and sharing at future<br />

forums. The forum encouraged discussion and information sharing while inspiring attendees<br />

with new and innovative ideas.<br />

09


<strong>Interchange</strong> Activities @ School<br />

“ Our formal education cannot be confined to<br />

facts and figures - it must extend to values.<br />

And, impor tantly, that we value the<br />

contribution that each of us can make, if<br />

allowed to live out our full potential.<br />

Simon McKeon<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria Patron<br />

Australian Of The Year 2011<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Activities is an initiative by <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria aimed at promoting disability awareness and volunteering. It<br />

adopts an experiential learning approach to create greater awareness, understanding and acceptance of disability in<br />

schools; and at the same time promote volunteering opportunities with <strong>Interchange</strong>. It’s also about celebrating diversity<br />

and creating more inclusive and accessible communities for people with a disability.<br />

Through this initiative <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria supports its member organisations by encouraging volunteering in the<br />

community. <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria partners with Bluearth Foundation across their school network where over 150 schools<br />

have participated in the Activities nationally in 2012. We have also distributed over 1000 Activity booklets through the<br />

Disability Coordinators from the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development and the Catholic Education<br />

Office, Melbourne. We have also conducted a pilot study at St Marks Primary School Fawkner and St Martin dePorres<br />

Primary School Laverton to gather more information and feedback from students and staff. The Pre and Post Assessment<br />

results so far have shown a significant increase in disability awareness after participating in the Activities.<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Activities Campaign 2013:<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria was successful in obtaining a grant for $45,000 to run the<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Activities in 2013. The grant which will be formally acknowledged<br />

in the 2012 - 2013 financial year, was funded by Winifred & John Webster<br />

Charitable Trust and Samuel Nissen Charitable Foundation Family Charitable<br />

Trust, managed by Perpetual.<br />

The <strong>Interchange</strong> Activities 2013 camaign and booklet will be launched on 3rd<br />

December at Federation Square Melbourne on International Day for People<br />

with a Disability. A number of students and staff from St Marks, Fawkner and<br />

St Marin de Porres, Laverton will present on their experiences and benefits of<br />

the program. We look forward to working with Bluearth, Department of<br />

Education and Early Childhood Development, Catholic Education Office,<br />

Melbourne, Independent Schools Victoria, schools, tertiary institutions and<br />

members to increase the number of schools taking part in the Activities. We<br />

also hope to work more closely with the principals, teachers and the parents to<br />

encourage volunteering with <strong>Interchange</strong>. To view a video of the Activities and<br />

feedback from students and staff visit www.interchange.org.au/activities-video.<br />

L to R: Will Ward-Ambler - Bluearth Coach, Josh Voger - year 6<br />

student, Chris Walsh - Principal, Harry Johnson - Teacher and<br />

Student Wellbeing Coordinator, Margaret Nicolas - year 6<br />

student and Jetha Devapura - CEO <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria<br />

As part of the Assessment, five questions were asked before and after the Activities. From a sample of approximately 500<br />

primary school students, the following are results from three of the questions that show a significant shift in attitudes.<br />

100%<br />

80%<br />

60%<br />

40%<br />

20%<br />

0%<br />

I can talk/communicate with a person<br />

with a disability<br />

Agree<br />

100%<br />

Agree 50% Not Sure Disagree<br />

50%<br />

Disagree<br />

100%<br />

Pre Evaluation<br />

Post Evaluation<br />

100%<br />

80%<br />

60%<br />

40%<br />

20%<br />

0%<br />

A person with a disability can work,<br />

study and play sport<br />

Agree<br />

100%<br />

Agree 50%Not Sure Disagree Disagree<br />

50% 100%<br />

Pre Evaluation<br />

Post Evaluation<br />

120%<br />

100%<br />

80%<br />

60%<br />

40%<br />

20%<br />

0%<br />

Agree Agree 50% Not Sure Disagree Disagree<br />

100%<br />

50% 100%<br />

At St Martin de Porres, Laverton<br />

I can support a person with a disability<br />

to do things<br />

Pre Evaluation<br />

Post Evaluation<br />

10


Treasurer’s <strong>Report</strong><br />

<strong>Report</strong> 1: Detailed Income Statement<br />

The 2011/12 financial year once again proved to be one of growth, along with a very strong financial<br />

position. <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria has increased its surplus since the previous year. Financially<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria has had a profitable year.<br />

In summary<br />

Total Income $ 289,643.97<br />

Total Expenses $ 256,538.52<br />

Net Income $ 33,105.45<br />

For further information please refer to <strong>Report</strong> 1: Detailed Income Statement<br />

The 2011/2012 financial position for <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria has continued to grow strong. Total income<br />

was increased this year due to a “one of grant” from Department Human Services being realised.<br />

<strong>Report</strong> 2: Detailed Balance Sheet<br />

Our strong financial position sees <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria with a healthy Asset/Liability position<br />

The financial value of the organisation at the 30/6/2012<br />

Total Assets $ 225,451.83<br />

Less Current Liabilities $ 27,686.07<br />

Financial Value at 30/6/2012 $ 197,765.76<br />

For further information please refer to <strong>Report</strong> 2: Detailed Balance Sheet<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria consolidated its investments from various banking institutes to be solely with<br />

Westpac Banking during the year.<br />

Debbie Knight<br />

Treasurer<br />

11


<strong>Report</strong> 1: Detailed Income Statement<br />

as at 30 June 2012<br />

For financials including Cash Flow Statement and Notes please<br />

visit the <strong>Interchange</strong> website: www.interchange.org.au<br />

Financial <strong>Report</strong>s<br />

<strong>Report</strong> 2: Detailed Balance Sheet<br />

as at 30 June 2012<br />

12


Auditor’s <strong>Report</strong><br />

25 September 2012<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria Respite Care Association Inc.<br />

Suite 6 Ashley House<br />

75 Ashley St, Braybrook, VIC 3019<br />

Independent Auditor’s <strong>Report</strong> to the members of<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria Respite Care Association Inc.<br />

Michael Kiernan<br />

& Associates<br />

Accountant FCPA<br />

PO Box 60<br />

Newport Vic 3015<br />

Tel: 9314 6011<br />

Fax: 9314 4774<br />

370 Blackshaws Road<br />

Altona North<br />

ABN 82 957 136 008<br />

On the basis of information provided by the directors <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria Respite Care Association Inc., I have audited<br />

the special purpose Income Statement and Balance Sheet for the period ended 30 June 2012.<br />

The specific purpose for which the special purpose financial report has been prepared is set out in the notes to the<br />

accounts. The extent to which Accounting Standards have or have not been adopted in the audit of the special purpose<br />

financial report is set out in the notes to the accounts.<br />

Scope<br />

The directors are solely responsible for the information contained in the special purpose financial report and have<br />

determined that the accounting policies used are consistent with the financial reporting requirements <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria<br />

Respite Care Association Inc.’s constitution and are appropriate to meet the needs of the directors and members of the<br />

organisation.<br />

I have conducted an independent audit of the financial reports in order to express an opinion on it to the members of the<br />

organisation. My audit has been conducted in accordance with professional reporting requirements (APS9) to provide<br />

reasonable assurance whether the financial reports are free of material misstatement. My procedures included<br />

examination, on a test basis, of evidence supporting the amounts and other disclosures in the financial reports, and the<br />

evaluation of accounting policies and significant accounting estimates. These procedures have been undertaken to form<br />

an opinion whether, in all material respects, the financial reports are presented fairly in accordance with professional<br />

reporting requirements and statutory requirements so as to present a view which is consistent with my understanding of<br />

the organisation's financial position, the results of its operations and its cash flows.<br />

The audit opinion expressed in this report has been formed on the above basis.<br />

Audit Opinion<br />

In my opinion, the financial statements <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria Respite Care Association Inc. do give a true and fair view of<br />

the organisation's financial position as at 30 June 2012 and of its performance for the year ended on that date.<br />

To the extent permitted by law, I do not accept liability for any loss or damage which any person, other than the<br />

organisation, may suffer arising from any negligence on my part. No person other than the directors and members<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria Respite Care Association Inc. should rely on the special purpose financial report. It is not prepared<br />

on the basis of providing investment or bank finance information. The special purpose financial report was prepared<br />

exclusively for the benefit of the directors and members of <strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria Respite Care Association Inc.<br />

and the purpose identified above. We do not accept responsibility to any other person for the contents of the special<br />

purpose financial report.<br />

MICHAEL KIERNAN<br />

13


We would like to thank<br />

Corporate Partner<br />

Funding Agency<br />

www.interchange.org.au<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Activities<br />

Program Partner<br />

14


“<br />

Focus on the Ability, not the Disability<br />

Bryce Alman<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Ambassador<br />

Australian Wheelchair Rugby Player<br />

www.interchange.org.au


<strong>Interchange</strong> Victoria<br />

Suite 6, 75 Ashley St<br />

Braybrook, VIC 3043<br />

Phone: (03) 9396 1118 / 1300 300 436<br />

Fax: (03) 9396 1613<br />

Email: enquiries@interchange.org.au<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Northern<br />

Reservoir<br />

(03) 9462 1011<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> North West<br />

(Merri Community Health)<br />

Pascoe Vale<br />

(03) 8319 7400<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> South West<br />

(OZ Child)<br />

Mornington (03) 5975 7644<br />

Portland/Warrnambool<br />

1300 361 680<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Wimmera<br />

(Wimmera Uniting Care)<br />

Horsham<br />

(03) 5382 6789<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Agencies Victoria:<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Inner East<br />

Canterbury<br />

(03) 9836 9811<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Outer East<br />

Ferntree Gully<br />

(03) 9758 5522<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Central Highlands<br />

(PINARC Support Services)<br />

Ballarat/Ararat<br />

(03) 5329 1350<br />

(03) 5352 2910<br />

Moira <strong>Interchange</strong><br />

(Moira)<br />

Hampton East<br />

(03) 8552 2222<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Barwon<br />

(Gateway Support Services)<br />

Geelong West/Colac<br />

(03) 5232 2001<br />

(03) 5221 2984<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Licensees Interstate<br />

South Australia Queensland<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> SA<br />

Norwood, SA<br />

(08) 8132 5300<br />

Centacare Townsville<br />

Townsville, QLD<br />

(07) 4772 9000<br />

www.interchange.org.au<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Western<br />

Braybrook<br />

(03) 9396 1111<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Loddon Mallee<br />

Bendigo/Swan Hill<br />

(03) 5033 1775<br />

(03) 5441 1599<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Upper Murray<br />

(Upper Murray Family Care)<br />

Wodonga/Wangaratta<br />

(03) 5723 4000<br />

(02) 6022 8200<br />

<strong>Interchange</strong> Central Gippsland<br />

Newborough/Leongatha<br />

(03) 5662 0925<br />

(03) 5127 7979<br />

Tasmania<br />

Langford<br />

Moonah, TAS<br />

(03) 6228 9099

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