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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