Strengthening Our Communities
Vicdeaf 128th Annual Report 2012
Introducing our new CEO Vicdeaf is delighted to announce the appointment of Ms Christine Mathieson to the role of Chief Executive Officer of the Victorian Deaf Society. Christine joins us from the Office for Disability in Victoria’s Department of Human Services. Christine brings a wealth of knowledge and senior leadership experience in the promotion of social policy development and implementation to the role, as well as a strong understanding and respect for the Deaf and hard of hearing community. This role is a natural progression for Christine and she is perfectly placed to lead Vicdeaf into the next phase of its development. Through her work with the Office for Disability, Christine is very familiar with Vicdeaf and the services it provides to the Victorian Deaf and hard of hearing community.
Christine would like to share her message with the community: This is a very exciting opportunity and I look forward to working with the Board, staff and broader Vicdeaf community. Promoting the rights, opportunities and aspirations of Deaf and hard of hearing Victorians will be a privilege and I hope that together we can build on the excellent foundations that are in place already.
Contents Strategic Direction 4 Case Studies 5 Organisational Chart 10 President’s Report 12 CEO’s Report 13 Our Stakeholders 14 Our Services 16 Our People 18 Our Resources 20 Our Communication 22 Donations 24 Treasurer’s Report 25 Contact Information 33
Auslan version available online Scan this image using a QR Code Reader app on your iPhone or Android phone. Scanning this code will enable you to jump to the Auslan version of this document.
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Strategic Direction Vision: Access and equity for Deaf and hard of hearing people Our Stakeholders Objectives
A Our direction will be influenced through consultation A We will make decisions in a responsive and transparent manner Outcomes We engage with stakeholders to identify and address needs
Our Services Objectives
A We will develop and deliver quality services that respond to current and future needs A We will actively increase our capacity to deliver services Outcomes We will provide relevant, responsive and evolving services
Our People Objectives
A We will develop and maintain skilled staff who contribute directly to the success of the organisation A We will develop and maintain a positive and professional culture of respect Outcomes We will develop and support our most valuable resource, our staff
Our Resources Objectives
A We will ensure ongoing diligence for our management systems A We will meet our legal obligations Outcomes We will be sustainable and effectively manage and increase our resources as needed
Our Communication Objectives
A We will enable language choice for our stakeholders A We will use emerging technology to enhance communication Outcomes We will communicate effectively, recognising and respecting cultural and language diversity
Statement of values Integrity
We act fairly, honestly and openly We respect peoples’ choices for communication and service delivery Excellence We strive for excellence in everything we do Accountability We accept responsibility for services that are effective, efficient and enabling Diversity We respect diverse perspectives Respect
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Case Studies Strengthening our Communities This past year has been one of change and renewal, driven by our management team and staff, who together implemented new initiatives and programs that address the objectives in the current strategic plan. The plan focuses on improving and enhancing services, partnerships and strengthening the people and communities who are a part of Vicdeaf. Programs like the Deaf Migrant Auslan Training program continues to provide a springÂboard of participation and learning in the Deaf community. Over the coming pages are some stories that our staff wanted to share with you, about how our work strengthens the communities we work in and for.
1 2 3 4
hearservice Sign Language Communications Victoria SensWide Employment Client Services
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hearservice
Audiology
Rehabilitation
hearservice recognised a gap in client service provision for people who find it difficult to come into one of our offices in East Melbourne, Oakleigh or Box Hill. Clients told us that they wanted to stay with hearservice but were unable to travel, because of age or physical disability. We also saw that there was an opportunity for new clients who wanted high quality hearing services and needed to be seen in their home or aged care facility.
Speech Pathologist Steve McKean has been a member of the Hearing Loss Management team at hearservice for almost three years. One of Steve’s responsibilities is to provide hearing screenings to clients at three hearservice clinics, and across metropolitan Melbourne at community health centres, at aged care facilities and to community groups. A hearing screening is an opportunity for a client to determine their hearing levels and to talk through any queries they might have about their hearing health and protecting their hearing.
We began our service in November 2011. After a successful trial period, we purchased the latest portable equipment for testing hearing and fitting hearing aids. Three audiologists are involved in home visits, and we have been to see clients at Melton in the outer west, Hallam in the outer east, and lots of places in between. Clients have been delighted to receive the same high quality Audiological services we provide in our offices, with the familiar voice of the receptionist they know on the phone. We have sold hearing aids and Assistive Listening Devices, as well as made new earmoulds or hearing aid adjustments. hearservice continues to look for new opportunities to provide better access for services to Deaf and hard of hearing Victorians.
“Having your hearing screened every two years is such an important part of looking after your overall health”, says Steve. “A lot of people think a hearing check is only necessary if you are concerned about your hearing, but having regular hearing checks throughout your life is just as important as getting regular eye checks.” Steve says one of the most rewarding parts of his role with hearservice is being able to help clients with hearing loss to maximise their communication skills. “As part of the Hearing Loss Management team at hearservice, I see clients at many stages of their hearing loss journey”, says Steve. “Communication is so important to a person’s quality of life and their social connection with family and friends. It’s really rewarding to play a role in supporting clients to move forward with their hearing loss.”
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Sign Language Communications Victoria
An interpreter was booked with another staff interpreter to interpret a training session for a large organisation in the outer suburbs of Melbourne. Upon arriving they discovered that it was the first time the organisation had requested an interpreter, as on an everyday basis and one to one, the Deaf employee could communicate quite well with his work colleagues. Neither the employer nor the employee were aware before this that there is funding from JobAccess under the Employment Assistance Fund (EAF) to provide interpreters for Deaf people to participate fully in the workplace. The training got underway and the Deaf employee seemed very interested and involved, keenly answering questions and making comments when asked. At the end of the training the Deaf employee said “I really understood everything! I have never been in training or a meeting before when I understood everything! It is definitely worth having an interpreter!” He also commented that he hadn’t been attending staff meetings as it was too difficult for him to follow. He also always had to do one-on-one training rather than in a group. He and his fellow worker resolved to book interpreters for future meetings and training. The Deaf employee was delighted that he had full and equal access to information in the workplace. The interpreters left that assignment feeling great that we had made a difference for that Deaf person and knowing he would be able to participate fully at work.
Top: Matthew Grounds, Principal Audiologist, prepares for a home visit. Bottom: Steve McKean delivering a hearing screening in St Albans. Photograph used with permission from Leader Community Newspapers ( Photographer: Glenn Daniels )
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SensWide Employment
Client Services
New arrivals to Australia— Independent Living Skills ( ILS ) Team Lauren is a profoundly Deaf woman who came to SensWide for assistance to find full time employment in administration. She does not use the phone and requires the support of an Auslan interpreter for effective communication with the broader community. Being unemployed for over 12 months, Lauren had developed a degree of anxiety and expressed feelings of isolation and rejection. This was compounding her apprehension about attending job interviews. SensWide assisted Lauren with numerous job applications and because English is her second language, Lauren would sign her response to key selection criteria, and a bilingual SensWide consultant would translate her answers into English. With the support of SensWide’s Employment Consultants, Lauren was placed into an administration position. During the period leading up to the interview SensWide met with Lauren twice a week conducting interview practice sessions and coaching. On commencement of her employment, SensWide provided extensive interpreting services for induction, training and meetings, but also between colleagues to allow relationships to be formed. Adaptive equipment was purchased through the Employment Assistance Fund, Deafness Awareness Training provided to the entire organisation and her immediate team was provided with additional resources such as Auslan DVDs and an Auslan Dictionary. Lauren has now been working for six years, is actively involved in professional development and is a valued member of her team. Lauren no longer feels anxious when it comes to professional situations and her self esteem and confidence has improved dramatically. She feels like she is making worthwhile contributions to her team at work and she is able to support herself financially and contribute to the household income.
There is a keen interest in the Vicdeaf community as the ILS team continues to support new students joining the Auslan for Migrants classes. Starting in 2011 with four students, the program now has 12 participants from diverse places across the world including European, Middle Eastern and African nations. Many people come from war torn countries and have had little access to formal education. Some students come to the Auslan group with little or no language at all. The ILS team supports students with travel training to learn how to independently attend the weekly classes at Vicdeaf. Our in-house trainer Wendy teaches both Auslan and introductory English, tailoring the class to suit their individual needs. Students enjoy the social side of the class which helps to develop their communication skills. The first question a new student is asked is usually “Which country are you from?”. Now, they are able to answer with confidence using their newly acquired Auslan. The ILS team is very proud to provide this program. The opportunity to learn Auslan and English supports students in gaining access to real opportunities to live a better life in Australia. Case Management Clients Our clients are varied; different backgrounds, different communication needs, different issues and different needs. Our work is challenging yet rewarding — we are privileged to be part of the client’s life, whatever they need support in. We see our clients go through their ups and downs and ensure that they continue to receive support; be it just from us or from other service providers. Seeing clients achieve their goals is all we aim for as that is our work. To see clients grow from strength to strength is rewarding, as this is what we want to see — to make a difference. Mary is intelligent, resilient and resourceful yet Mary’s mental health issues had impacted on her emotional and social development to the extent that she was unable to engage with people easily or do things that we take for granted.
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With perseverance and time, trust was established between her Case Manager and herself to the extent that Mary was able to feel confident to return greetings to people and ask questions, although this remains a challenge for her. Nearly two years ago, Mary made an unexpected and major decision to move out of home NOW as the home environment wasn’t conducive to her mental health. With that decision came the challenge of having her routine and control of her life severely disrupted. Being placed in emergency accommodation with strangers was initially not easy for her. Mary will move again but she now states her preference to have shared accommodation (though she is understandably very anxious about the impending move) rather than living alone, which was her original goal. There are many areas in Mary’s life where support is needed yet, to Mary‘s credit, she keeps trying when she gets herself “ready” to give it a go. While her achievements may be minor to many of us, they are a major achievement for her. Developing Self Advocacy skills— deafaccess Gippsland
Top & Bottom: Auslan for Deaf Migrants Graduation 2011
A young man attended a Self Advocacy meeting a short time ago. He had attended the meetings before but never participated or had any input. He knew some basic signs but didn’t use Auslan. The deafaccess worker was asked by this young man’s Support Worker to sit with him, not as an interpreter, just as someone he could communicate with. What an amazing transformation when someone makes the effort to communicate with you! This young man really had valuable contributions to make to the group, and for the first time he had a say.
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Organisational Chart Organisational Chart
Rebecca Adam Vice-President
Garry Fowler Treasurer
Therese Pierce Director
Richard Kennedy Director
Meryle Trentini Client Services
Marc Curtis Sign Language Communications Victoria
Gary Hunt Finance & Administration/ Company Secretary
Kate Fraser Human Resources & Quality
Case Management
Information Technology
Human Resources
Independent Living Skills
Accounts and Payroll
Quality
Shared Supported Accommodation
Administration
OH&S
deafaccess Victoria
Interpreting & Notetaking Services
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Mac Adam OAM President
Graeme Kelly Chief Executive Officer
Sam Patterson Director
John Ferraro Director
Brent Phillips Communication & Community Relations
Gina Bertsch hearservice
Andrew Lyall SensWide Employment
Community Programs
Audiology / Devices
Employment Support Services
Marketing & Development
Rehabilitation
Disability Management Services
National Relay Service Outreach
Dean Matthews Director
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President’s Report Robert (Mac) Adam OAM President / Chairman
Like many organisations and communities this year we have faced some major challenges and I think we finish this year stronger for the way we have responded to them. We are well placed to anticipate and adapt to new challenges and opportunities such as the proposed National Disability Insurance Scheme and the broader reform agenda set for the Not For Profit sector. Successful adaption will be crucial for our continuing relevance and ability to better deliver on our Vision of access and equity for Deaf and hard of hearing people. We have set our direction and we deliver our services aimed at that Vision according to the 2010–15 Strategic Plan. The approach we are taking in this Annual Report will continue to honour commitments we made in the Strategic Plan. In particular our five stated values come to mind. These are: Integrity
We act fairly, honestly and openly
Respect
We respect peoples’ choices for communication and service delivery
Excellence
We strive for excellence in everything we do
Accountability We accept responsibility for services that are effective, efficient and enabling Diversity
We respect diverse perspectives
This Report provides extensive examples of the progress we are making as we continue to report in the same format as our 2010–2015 Strategic Plan. Vicdeaf thankfully remains a “people” organisation where our achievements for people are only possible because of our people. Strong governance and leadership are a cornerstone in our achievements. We welcomed John Ferraro and Dean Matthews to the Board and Richard Kennedy was reappointed as a Director. The professional yet voluntary contribution all Directors have made this year has been a key factor in Vicdeaf’s success this year. At the end of this year we farewelled Graeme Kelly who has been the Vicdeaf CEO since April 2007. Graeme’s vision for Vicdeaf was exceptional. Under his capable leadership we established the 2010–2015 Strategic Plan, a document that drives everything we currently do at Vicdeaf. Graeme left the organisation in an enviable position, taking our thanks and appreciation with him.
We also farewelled Gavin Balharrie, thanking him for his trailblazing and innovative role as Manager of Information Services and we welcomed Brent Phillips as Manager of Communication and Community Relations. At the Leadership Planning Retreat in March we committed to increasing the pool of Deaf and hard of hearing talent available to fill leadership positions at Vicdeaf. We are now aiming to appoint suitably qualified and experienced Deaf and hard of hearing people to at least half of all our senior managers and directors’ positions. We will be establishing a fund to ensure the development of that talent to strengthen the opportunity to achieve that commitment. Changes to Government policy and funding have presented both opportunities and challenges. We welcome commitments to empowering people and communities in practical ways. Proposed reductions in State Government funding and impacts of changes in TAFE education present significant challenges and we will advocate with others to ensure the ongoing viability of key services and opportunities for Deaf and hard of hearing Victorians. In this tougher environment Vicdeaf has continued to grow its services despite overall reductions in Government funding. We can do so because of our strong financial base and diversity of financial resources. But no progress would be made without the Vicdeaf team from the Board, through senior managers, staff and volunteers, and donors who continue to deliver excellent results for our community. The second year of the current Strategic Plan shows even stronger evidence of achieving our stated priorities. So that it is not just an annual event you can keep track of our progress on the Vicdeaf website during the year where I am sure you will continue to see great progress in improving “access and equity for Deaf and hard of hearing people”. Robert (Mac) Adam OAM President / Chairman
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CEO’s Report Graeme Kelly Chief Executive Officer
Our vision of access and equity for Deaf and hard of hearing people continues to inspire Vicdeaf and shapes what we do. Increasingly we are moving beyond a business-as-usual approach and responding to the needs of our communities— a sign that Vicdeaf is truly evolving as an organisation. That’s why the theme for the Annual Report this year is “strengthening communities.”
• Developing new programs, including the SensWide Advice Line and WorkingOUT program, to ensure we reach out to regional and GLBTI communities
Our communities are many. Each of them is formed by individuals grouping together because of common needs, beliefs, values, languages, history and a sense of identity. Some are obvious, such as the Deaf community, the hard of hearing groups, and the culturally and linguistically diverse communities. Others are not so; the minority communities with which we work, sporting, cultural and special interest groups, the seniors group, our social clubs, the Deaf Professionals Network and the service providers and organisations we work alongside with, to name but a few.
• Creating a Strategic Leadership Group to assist Vicdeaf with our planning activities and to provide greater opportunities to staff members
Vicdeaf is interconnected to these communities through Our People and their individual contributions to Our Services, along with the Vicdeaf Board and the Strategic Plan that drives the organisation. Our reason for existence and our success is a result of these connections. Of course, these connections should evolve as the needs of the communities change, compelling us to respond in new ways.
• Committing to future investment for Deaf leadership from accumulated financial surpluses.
Some of the examples of how we supported our communities this year include:
This Annual Report is my last as CEO at Vicdeaf as I take up a new role as CEO of E.W. Tipping Foundation from July 2012. Our combined achievements in the five years I have been with Vicdeaf were only possible because of a talented and committed Board and Senior Management Team who have provided great leadership to our professional and dedicated staff who do the hard yards so well day after day.
• Launching the inaugural Gaslight Festival to bring Deaf and hard of hearing people together and celebrate their identity and achievements — it was the first festival of its kind within Australia • Increasing the extent of services we provide to clients across regional Victoria • Ensuring we maintain greater transparency through communicating to our stakeholders our progress against the Strategic Plan (via the Vicdeaf website) • Working closely with migrant groups and asylum seekers to ensure their inclusion within both the Deaf and wider community • Providing Career Grants to assist individuals in the community achieve their broader work ambitions • Encouraging a more collaborative approach to relevant research at the tertiary level through the hearcentre to benefit people with a hearing loss • Developing greater expertise in the area of mental health, to provide more holistic support to our clients
• Representing Vicdeaf at the World Congress of the World Federation of the Deaf in South Africa, and presenting a paper on human rights for the Deaf and employment
• Engaging students from Worcester Polytechnic Institute to evaluate optimal communication technologies for Deaf and hard of hearing people • Working with members of the Australian Federation of Deaf Societies to further the interests of Deaf and hard of hearing people across Australia
It is only through working together with all our communities that we can be successful. Vicdeaf’s services and activities inform, unite and empower the people we support. And this is something of which we can all be proud.
I also want to also acknowledge the many Deaf and hard of hearing people in the community and in other organisations who have been very helpful to me. You have given me a fair go, much advice, a chance to also sometimes have a good laugh together, and a better sense of a shared view of access and equity for Deaf and hard of hearing people. Thank you to all of you for making my five years at Vicdeaf the best and most satisfying job I have had (so far). Good-bye and please accept my best wishes for your and Vicdeaf’s future. Graeme Kelly Chief Executive Officer
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Our Stakeholders We engage with stakeholders to identify and address needs
• Sign Language Communications Victoria gathered feedback from clients in an annual survey receiving excellent and constructive responses
Sign Language Communications Victoria serviced
• Sign Language Communications Victoria actively participated in the Auslan Interpreting Industry Forum Victoria; hoping to initiate substantial change within the interpreting industry
16,487
Auslan
1,000 interpreter bookings,
over
more than last year
• SensWide continued to build relationships with employers and assisted our clients to access $50,000 worth of workplace modifications • SensWide staff have attended Job Expos, networking groups and local chambers of commerce around Melbourne, increasing awareness of our service and giving us greater insight into what our stakeholders really need • hearservice started using EARtrak as an independent organisation to gather client feedback during the last year. We attained 4 stars (out of 5) in our first year and we received positive comments and feedback from clients • Client Services worked in partnership with other organisations and the Department of Human Services (DHS) to advance special interest projects and professional development • Client Services ensured the quality of our service through maintaining a client focus and planning collaboratively with clients • Communication and Community Relations worked closely with key stakeholders in the Auslan training and interpreting sectors to lobby the Victorian State Government to investigate opportunities to provide flexible methods of Auslan training in Victoria following the closure of Kangan Institute’s full-time Diploma of Auslan course
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Clockwise from top: Save Auslan Rally outside Parliament House Samoans at the Australian Deaf Games who attended a Leadership Workshop Community members supporting the NDIS Rally at Federation Square The Light in Winter Festival at Federation Square
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Our Services We will provide relevant, responsive and evolving services
hearservice Rehabilitation
24, 53 team surpassed DHS targets and saw
clients in
2011/2012
• SensWide developed a range of new initiatives including: • EASE (English at SensWide Employment) • Work In Progress (school leavers mentoring program) • WorkingOUT (employment support for members of the GLBTI communities) • the SensWide Advice Line (employment advice to individuals and providers throughout Victoria) • the SensWide Career Grant (four grants of $2,500 to assist SensWide clients with additional support at work) • SensWide advertised through different mediums (branding on our pool car, Vision Australia Radio sponsorship) to reach new clients and expand our services • Sign Language Communications Victoria continued to promote and work with the Employment Assistance Fund (EAF). We will be launching a promotional campaign so that more deaf people are aware of how the EAF program can assist them • Sign Language Communications Victoria continued to recruit interpreters particularly new graduates and paraprofessionals into the casual pool • Client Services metro and regional case management, counselling and independent living training services to over 400 Deaf and hard of hearing adult Victorians • Client Services provided a supported residential service for 10 Deaf residents with additional disabilities • deafaccess Hume and Gippsland are progressing state wide initiatives in health and education and regional awareness to promote inclusive communities via the DHS funded Community Building program • Client Services are continuing our partnership with MIND to further inform how we can develop mental health services • Client Services have begun a partnership with La Trobe University to undertake research regarding the Mental Health support of Deaf people • Client Services staff in our Independent Living Skills team continue the Auslan communication and socialisation program for Deaf migrants and refugees
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• Client Services continues to determine priorities emerging from the Aged Care research recommendations delivered in 2011 • The hearservice Rehabilitation team surpassed the DHS Funding and Service agreement set target of 2,345 clients this year • hearservice Audiologists have started to visit clients at home and in nursing homes this year in response to client needs and feedback from staff. This has been a successful initiative that is now ongoing • Don’t Lose the Music presented to 15,000 students in 70 secondary schools across Victoria. Young people in crowds varying from 20 to 600 and from Horsham to Rutherglen were provided with information about prevention of preventable hearing loss • The Deaf Professionals Network continues to provide networking opportunities for Deaf and hard of hearing professionals. A successful sold-out Business Breakfast was hosted at the Melbourne Aquarium in October • Our annual Christmas Rally was held in Williamstown and attracted a huge crowd of over 500, making it one of our largest ever. The Victorian team for the Australian Deaf Games was announced and uniforms presented to the athletes • Communication and Community Relations provided community Auslan classes which continue to grow with enrolments increasing steadily • The Communication and Community Relations department opened the Information Centre on the ground floor of the East Melbourne building in February and it was launched by the Governor of Victoria, the Honourable Alex Chernov AC QC, in May. Over 500 people visited the Centre between February and June • Communication and Community Relations delivered Hear Here! information sessions and services across the state this year with Gippsland, Mornington and Mildura being major centres of activity • Vicdeaf provided 113,869 information service requests over the 12 months using a variety of communication methods — email, phone, video, TTY, SMS and provided Deaf Awareness Training to over 2,500 people
Top: Business Breakfast October 2011 at Melbourne Aquarium Bottom: Victorian Team Announcement at the 2011 Christmas Rally
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Our People We will develop and support our most valuable resource, our staff Staff rated their
personal job satisfaction
.43out5 with an average
of a
possible
From top to bottom: Vicdeaf staff members, Sally Normington and Alex Downie hearservice staff members Raymond Taylor, Pina Franco, Robin Hanna and Seray Lim Staff attending the “Thank You Aker” lunch for Jason and Megan Akermanis
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• Human Resources and Quality recently commenced negotiating a new Employment Enterprise Bargaining Agreement after a staff consultation. A number of staff requests have been able to be met, which will provide staff with additional benefits and flexibility. The negotiations will continue with staff in 2012/13
• The Information Services and Community Relations & Development Departments merged into a new Communication and Community Relations Department in early 2012. Brent Phillips subsequently joined Vicdeaf as the Department’s new Manager in April
• Staff Satisfaction levels continue to remain strong at 82%, a similar result to last year. The staff satisfaction survey is undertaken on an annual basis and measures overall staff satisfaction in a number of areas including job satisfaction, communication, decision making, professional development, culture and leadership
• hearservice turned 40 this year. To celebrate, we hosted a very successful Audiology Society of Australia professional development workshop in October 2011. We had 85 Audiologists attend the workshop and four external guest speakers; this has led to additional research opportunities with the Australian National University
• Staff turnover continues to be low which demonstrates the commitment of staff to the organisation. As well as retaining key staff, the past year has seen the successful recruitment of 38 new staff which is a strong indication of our ability to attract staff to work for Vicdeaf • Human Resources and Quality have been able to offer eligible staff the opportunity to undertake further study with the assistance of government funding. This has enabled staff to study towards a qualification up to Diploma level at no cost and with additional Vicdeaf support for study leave. This enables staff to develop relevant skills and contribute directly to our continuing success • A number of health and wellbeing initiatives continue to be offered, including the introduction of lunchtime yoga classes, the availability of a staff wellbeing room, the provision of flu shots and health checks on site and the continuation of our Employee Assistance Program • The SensWide team engaged regular guest speakers and undertook training on a range of topics including public speaking, reverse marketing, HIV awareness, suicide prevention, mental health, substance abuse, Aboriginal Cultural Awareness and business writing skills • Sign Language Communications Victoria continued to sponsor ASLIA Vic Professional Development
• The commitment and skills of our Client Services staff and the general stability of staffing across the different client service areas significantly contributed to positive outcomes for clients • The late John M. Lovett AM was awarded the Gaslight Award, and presented to Mrs Jill Lovett by the Honourable Alex Chernov AC QC, Governor of Victoria, at a reception at Government House • Finance and Administration continued to support staff with responsive administrative support and technological infrastructure • Staff strive to incorporate the values of Vicdeaf—respect, integrity, diversity, accountability and excellence into practice, so that they are reflected in attitudes and ways of working together
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Our Resources We will be sustainable and effectively manage and increase our resources as needed
SensWide
10
increased its services by
%
Kathleen Herron and Penelope Pengilley celebrating 40 years of hearservice
creating opportunities clients more
for our
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• Human Resources and Quality wrote a successful EAF application that enabled the installation of visual emergency strobe lights throughout the East Melbourne building. This system ties in with our existing emergency alarm system and strengthens our OH&S practices • The Quality Management Review (QMR) system continues to focus on quality outcomes for each department to enable best practice, whilst also meeting our obligations under DHS and ISO Accreditation Standards. A new Feedback system, incorporating compliments, comments and complaints, has been recently introduced as a way of measuring and improving the quality of Vicdeaf’s services • The Risk Management System is continuously reviewed to ensure ongoing identification and management of risks which may affect the quality of services provided by Vicdeaf, or the achievement of the Vicdeaf 2010– 2015 Strategic Plan. This leads to greater continuity of quality services to our clients and identifies opportunities for improvement • SensWide moved closer towards a “paperless office” by utilising a web-based system for our case notes • 80% of Disability Employment Services—Employment Support Service business was released to open tender. SensWide staff worked hard to secure business beyond 2012 • SensWide continued to generate strong surpluses to fund our new initiatives and other organisational activities • Sign Language Communications Victoria has installed a manual system that will allow the business to operate, after the failure of our IT systems in August 2011 • Jason Akermanis appeared on Channel Nine’s The Celebrity Apprentice in early 2012, raising over $160,000 for Vicdeaf as a result. These funds will be invested into providing access and services for parents and families of Deaf children wanting to learn Auslan
• Client Services continued to work towards ISO 9001 reaccreditation incorporating new “One DHS” standards as well as meet DHS Quarterly Data Collection and Restrictive Intervention reporting requirements • hearservice completed all our process mapping Quality documentation to join the rest of Vicdeaf in the audit later in 2012 as part of the changes with One DHS • Finance and Administration supported the internal infrastructure at Vicdeaf including the provision of financial services from paying bills through to monthly and annual reporting and meeting the organisation’s statutory reporting requirements. We provide payroll services including superannuation and salary packaging • Other services covered by Finance and Administration include information technology, office coordination at East Melbourne, reception, telecommunications, property management, investment management, company secretarial responsibilities, motor vehicles, insurance and banking requirements
Jason Akermanis appeared on Channel Nine’s The Celebrity Apprentice in early 2012, raising over $160,000 for Vicdeaf as a result
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Our Communication We will communicate effectively, recognising and respecting cultural and language diversity
Vicdeaf YouTube channel counted
4 , 516 18,627 The
views compared with
in the previous year
23 vicdeaf annual report 2012
• The hearservice team continued to learn Auslan and provide interpreters in all languages when clients ask and when they are available. The team are also creative in their learning abilities with team members circulating five practical Auslan signs a week from SignBank to keep people remembering their Auslan signs • The diversity and strengths of the Client Services team supports clients’ various communication needs, including interpreters as required, both signing and spoken language • Client Services continued to participate in the refinement of Video Relay Interpreting ( VRI ) and alternatives to increase regional service access • Client Services retain a commitment to good service provision for clients who are not part of the technology revolution • Visual Resources has been busy producing internal and external videos in Auslan, with major clients including Job Access, the Disability Services Commissioner and the Raising Children Network
Top and bottom: 2011 Deaf Professionals Network Reference Group
• Vicdeaf continues to produce bi-monthly newsletters to over 1,750 subscribers via “Commmunicate”, including online Auslan summary versions, and Under The Gaslight eNews to over 800 subscribers
Interpreting the Cadel Evans Celebration August 2011
• Vicdeaf has well and truly entered the digital age with hundreds of likes on Facebook, 1,350 followers on Twitter and over 18,000 views on our YouTube channel
• SensWide made 609 bookings for Auslan interpreters through the Employment Assistance Fund and made 38 bookings for interpreters of other community languages
• Sign Language Communications Victoria continued to encourage Deaf people to communicate in their first language with the booking office and management. On many occasions Deaf people are found talking to the booking team in regards to their bookings and how we can service their needs
• Finance and Administration introduced iPhone technology to Vicdeaf staff to enhance and expand opportunities for communication
• Sign Language Communications Victoria operated two VRI services; one through the Department of Human Services and one on Skype. Having access to two services broadens the VRI program and allows Deaf people to access interpreting at a lower cost
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Donations We gratefully acknowledge every donation to Vicdeaf regardless of size and specifically mention the following gifts Bequests
Donations
• The Estate of Patricia Mary
• Dr Randal Leung • Mr & Mrs Adler • Bunnings Warehouse Hawthorn • Mr Grant Armstrong • Mr Sam Patterson • Ozito Industries Pty Ltd • Dr Richard Kennedy • Mr Zyga Elton • Everyday Hero • Mrs J M Carvell • Lions Club of Bendigo • Mr John A Shalit • Mrs A Leslie • Mr R J Osborne • Ritchies Stores Pty Ltd (C.B.C.P.) • Eumemmerring College • Taylors Lakes Secondary College • Stawell Secondary College • Mercy Diocesan College • Maroondah City Council • Mr Garry Fowler • Mr D Rodwell • Mrs Gwenda Thomas • Mr J M Plunkett • Mr Ronald McKinnon • Mr & Mrs G & K Gibbs • Australian Nursing Federation
O’Sullivan • The Estate of K R Taylor • The Estate of Ms Alma Cowell In-Kind Services & Donations
• Kliger Partners • Fosters Group • Phil Nichols—Data Technology • IBM Computers • Donor Tec Software Trusts and Foundations
• The Estate of Frederick B Shepherd • Perpetual Trustees • The R E Ross Trust • The Estate of Leslie Francis Gill • The Flora & Frank Leith Charitable Trust
• Victorian Law Foundation • William Angliss Charitable Fund • Pierce Armstrong Trust • Marrich Charitable Foundation • Grace Horton Charitable Trust • Frank & Sybil Richardson Charitable Trust
• Trust Company Ltd • ANZ Executors & Trustee Company Ltd
• ANZ Trustees Limited • Estate of Mary A Edwards • N J Horton Charitable Fund • Doquile Perrett Meade • Walter & Eliza Hall Trust • Grace & Herbert Foulkes Charitable Trust
• Estate of J R G & E McKenzie • The Ruth Fagg Foundation • The Mary Eliza Randall Estate • John R Grigor & Eva McKenzie Bequest • Equity Trustees • George Fethers & Co • RACV
Gifts Received in Memory Of
• The late Irene May Rogers • The late Betty Emma Griffiths • The late Percy Drummy • The late Brenda Goudge
(Victoria)
• Miss B L Glascodine
• Mr J W Lynton • Mr Ronald Rowe • Ms Lai Kuen Chang • Dr Therese Pierce • Mr & Mrs Len & Marilyn Bradford • Mrs Shirley Barta • Mr L Gordon Darling • Mr & Mrs George and Jean Gaze • Allbeau Pty Ltd • Ms Dora Chan • Mr J D Balmford • Smile Services Pty Ltd • St Brigid’s College • Rutherglen High School • Sr Ellen Wilson • Mr Geoffrey Davey • Mr Colin Sach • Haileybury College Berwick • Mr Craig Rattray • Ms Anne Rogers • Ferguson Plarre Hawthorn • Magistrates Court of Victoria— Melbourne
• Mrs Ailsa Hansen • Ms Catherine J Thompson • Mr David McMillan Browne • Horsham College • Caulfield Grammar School • Mrs Dorothy Willshire
• Mr Greg Costa • Mrs Gertrude Bornstein • Mrs S Cecil • Mrs Maria Lamberti • Mr Victor Whelan • Dr Margaret Bowman • Mr J Young • Mrs Caroline Keys • Mrs Margaret Jean Hazeldine • Mrs H & Prof J Spicer • Mrs Marie Costello • Mr Kenneth W Purvis • Ms Rebecca Adam • Mrs Augusta Van Diggele • Keysborough Secondary College • Mr E Zerbe • Mrs Mary Beard • Mr Andrew Wheeler • Mrs A V Holland • Mr R G Coward • Mr Bob Hatch • Mr George A. Harris • Mrs Rita Bird • Mr William Cameron • Mr C P Lane • Miss Nancy Bidstrup • Mr B A Brisbane • Mr & Mrs Ron & Vicki Shields • Mr Raymond Noble
Donations through Jason Akermanis to Celebrity Apprentice Australia 2012
• Bankwest • Mr Jack Cowin
• Sell & Parker Pty Ltd • Greater Western
• Prestige Auto Traders • Sydney Swans/QBE • All Homes • Heartland Holden • The Star/Echo
• Flight Centre Quickbeds/
(Hungry Jacks Australia)
Entertainment Group
• Taylors Wines Pty Ltd • Woolworths • Mr Robert Lyall-Crossman
Sydney Giants
Vibe Management
• Amaysim Australia • Marshall Batteries • SJB AG-Nutri Pty Ltd • Adriatic Furniture • Mr Garry Legge • Mr David Legge
• Ms Joan Legge • Mr/Ms Jason & Anita Fogg • Ms Sheena Russell • Mr Dale Morris • Mr Nigel Dezdjek • Ms Renine Anderson • Ms Tahnee Orr • Oceanic Food • Go-See Touring P/L • Fremantle Media Australia
(representing all anonymous donors)
25 vicdeaf annual report 2012
Treasurer’s Report for the year ended 30 June 2012
The year to June 2012 has been a satisfactory year for the Society as it enters the middle of the 2010–2015 Strategic Plan. The Society finished the year with a deficit of $100,965, after budgeting a deficit of $68,300. The deficit budget for 2011/2012 had been approved by the Board as we continue to invest in building our services to the community. Our deficit was offset by some very pleasing results, highlighted by: • Strong performance in employment services
with SensWide increasing its services by 10% after a 27% growth the previous year resulting in creating opportunities for our clients. • Our interpreting services and Auslan classes
have also had growth. • We received some excellent outcomes in
attracting grants that will assist in broadening our services in future years along with good results in bequest income for which we are most grateful. • A solid performance of the investment
portfolio in a challenging market exceeding our market related benchmarks. Our investment advisors, Evans and Partners, confirm a total return of 2.95% following on from a return of 9.45% the previous year.
• Property revenues from our premises at 340
Albert Street remained strong with the property having full tenancy this year and solid medium term leases in place with our larger tenants. • Our audiology business, hearservice, continues
to establish itself in the market, but had a quieter year in 2011/2012 with the withdrawal of government funding for hearing aids in the workplace. These outcomes assisted the Society to continue its current community support whilst maintaining staffing levels, activities and sponsorships. I would like to acknowledge members of the Finance and Audit Committee over the year for their support. These include the Chairman of the Board, Mac Adam and fellow directors John Ferraro and Rebecca Adam. I would also like to thank Gary Hunt and Graeme Kelly for the high standard of the governance, accounting records and the reports we receive, which makes our task so much easier.
Garry Fowler Treasurer
26  vicdeaf annual report 2012
Operating Results by Department Results by Department comparing 2010/2011 to 2011/2012
$3000 K
$2500K
$2000K
$1500K
$1000K
$500K
$0 K
Client Services
Community Activities
Employment Services
Audiology
Income 2011/ 2012
Interpreting
Auslan Classes
Expenses 2011/2012
Fundraising/ Marketing
Property Investment
Income 2010/ 2011
Investments Governance/ Administration
Expenses 2010/ 2011
Other
27  vicdeaf annual report 2012
Abridged Financial Statements This information has been extracted from the Financial Statements of the Victorian Deaf Society for the year ended June 2012. A copy of the full audited Financial Statements and Audit Report for 2012 can be provided upon request.
Abridged Financial Performance for the year ended 30 June 2012 Revenue: Government Grants Accommodation fees Income from sale of goods and services Property and Investment Income Donations, bequests and fundraising Other Income Profits/(Loss) from sale of assets and investments Discount on acquisition of business Total income from continuing activities Expenses: Community Support
2012 2011 $ $ 4,979,552
4,799,592
46,295
46,588
2,990,305
3,778,635
1,178,629
1,221,190
773,138
326,360
5,848
7,099
(9,127)
72,495
-
-
9,964,640
10,251,959
(1,909,167)
(1,832,878)
Information
(486,729)
(514,567)
Interpreting
(1,583,907)
(1,439,496)
(143,981)
(139,074)
(1,577,571)
(1,483,037)
(1,949,548)
(2,379,575)
(205,609)
(246,075)
(1,188,686)
(1,102,347)
Special Projects
(106,260)
(278,395)
Provision for Special Projects
(209,678)
-
Property
(665,661)
(705,652)
Auslan Training Employment Services Audiology & Rehabilitation Fundraising & Marketing Central Administration
Investments Total expenses from continuing activities Profit/(Loss) from continuing operations Profit (Loss) for the year
(38,808) (39,914) (10,065,605) (10,161,010) (100,965) 90,949 (100,965)
90,949
Other Comprehensive Income Movement from restatement to fair value of investments Total comprehensive income/(loss) for the year
(192,472)
163,581
(293,437)
254,530
28 vicdeaf annual report 2012
Abridged Financial Position as at 30 June 2012 Current Assets
2012 2011 $ $
Cash and cash equivalents
609,760
314,074
Receivables
437,624
617,324
Inventories
48,019
44,431
7,027,639
6,892,786
Other financial assets held in trust
8,862
20,101
Other
33,164
84,654
Available for sale financial assets
Total Current Assets
8,165,068 7,973,370
Non-Current Assets Property, plant and equipment
8,683,458
9,149,533
Total Non-Current Assets
8,683,458
9,149,533
16,848,526
17,122,903
Total Assets
Current Liabilities Payables
661,498
750,688
8,862
20,101
Provisions
1,159,469
1,010,254
Total Current Liabilities
1,829,829
1,781,043
Payables — trust
Non-Current Liabilities Other long-term provisions
666,943
696,669
Total Non-Current Liabilities
666,943
696,669
Total Liabilities
2,496,772
2,477,712
Net Assets
14,351,754
14,645,191
Equity Fair Value Reserves
159,171
351,643
200,000
-
Retained Earnings
13,992,583
14,293,548
Total Equity
14,351,754
14,645,191
Development Reserve
29  vicdeaf annual report 2012
Abridged Statement of Changes in Equity for the year ended 30 June 2012 Retained
Balance as at 30 June 2010
Reserves Earnings Total Equity $ $ $ 188,062
14,202,599
14,390,661
-
90,949
90,949
Changes in fair value of an available-for-sale financial asset, net of tax
163,581
-
163,581
Total comprehensive income for the year
163,581
90,949
254,530
Balance as at 30 June 2011
351,643
14,293,548
14,645,191
Profit for the year
Loss for the year
-
(100,965)
(100,965)
(192,472)
-
(192,472)
Total comprehensive income for the year
(192,472)
(100,965)
(293,437)
Transfer to Reserve
200,000
(200,000)
-
Balance as at 30 June 2012
359,171
13,992,583
14,351,754
Changes in fair value of an available-for-sale financial asset, net of tax
30 vicdeaf annual report 2012
Contact Information
Regional Case Management Offices
Sign Language Communications Victoria slc@vicdeaf.com.au www.slcommunications.com.au
info@hearservice.com.au www.hearservice.com.au
info@senswide.com.au www.senswide.com.au deafaccess Victoria
Victorian Deaf Society ABN 56 004 058 084 info@vicdeaf.com.au www.vicdeaf.com.au
Level 4, 340 Albert Street East Melbourne VIC 3002 TTY 03 9473 1199 PH 03 9473 1111 FAX 03 9473 1122
Barwon South West (Geelong) Illawarra Centre Park Unit 5, 265 Pakington Street Newtown VIC 3220 TTY 03 5222 4403 PH 03 5221 2602 FAX 03 5221 2602 geelong@vicdeaf.com.au
Grampians (Ballarat) Dawson House 15 Dawson Street South Ballarat VIC 3350 TTY 03 5364 2947 PH 03 5364 2947 FAX 03 5364 2911 grampians@vicdeaf.com.au
Hume (Shepparton) Primary Care Connect 393–399 Wyndham Street (PO Box 1167) Shepparton VIC 3630 PH 03 5823 3260 FAX 03 5823 3299 shepparton@vicdeaf.com.au
Gippsland (Sale) 52–54 MacArthur Street (PO Box 9314) Sale VIC 3853 TTY 03 5144 6064 PH 03 5144 6064 FAX 03 5144 7304 gippsland@vicdeaf.com.au
Level 4, 340 Albert Street East Melbourne VIC 3002 TTY 03 9473 1199 PH 03 9473 1117 FAX 9473 1144
Toll free for country callers TTY PH
1300 780 235 1300 780 225
Loddon Mallee (Bendigo) 389 Hargreaves Street Bendigo VIC 3550 TTY 03 5441 7455 PH 03 5441 7677 FAX 03 5441 7455 loddonmallee@vicdeaf.com.au
Toll free for country callers TTY 1300 780 235 PH 1300 780 225
East Melbourne Vicdeaf Building Level 2, 340 Albert Street East Melbourne VIC 3002 TTY 03 9473 1199 PH 03 9473 1133 FAX 03 9473 1155
Box Hill Suite 15, Upper Level 17 Market Street Box Hill VIC 3128 TTY 03 9890 2511 PH 03 9890 2500 FAX 03 9897 3400
Oakleigh Level 3, 20 Atherton Road Oakleigh VIC 3166 TTY 03 9567 0422 PH 03 9567 0400 FAX 03 9567 0411
Melbourne Level 7, 34 Queen Street Melbourne VIC 3000 TTY 03 9614 3062 PH 03 8620 7155 FAX 03 9614 3070
Frankston Suite 12, 108–112 Young Street Frankston VIC 3199 Preston 654 Plenty Road Preston VIC 3072
Sunshine 7 City Place Sunshine VIC 3020
Hume Includes Benalla, Bright, Seymour, Shepparton & Wodonga Suite 3, Tara Court, Ford Street (PO Box 122) Wangaratta VIC 3677 TTY 1300 302 325 03 5722 9451 PH 1300 302 335 03 5722 9175 FAX 03 5722 9175 hume@deafaccessvic.com.au
Gippsland Includes Bairnsdale, Mallacoota, Phillip Island, Traralgon & Warragul 52–54 MacArthur Street (PO Box 9314) Sale VIC 3853 TTY 03 5143 1537 PH 03 5143 1537 FAX 03 5143 1814 gippsland@deafaccessvic.com.au
Victorian Deaf Society Level 4, 340 Albert Street East Melbourne VIC 3002 TTY 03 9473 1199 PH 03 9473 1111 FAX 03 9473 1122 Toll free for country callers TTY 1300 PH 1300
780 235 780 225
info@vicdeaf.com.au www.vicdeaf.com.au