SERVING ALL HUMANITY ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16 The Catholic Agency for International Aid and Development
ABOUT US CARITAS AUSTRALIA IS THE INTERNATIONAL AID AND DEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH IN AUSTRALIA AND PART OF CARITAS INTERNATIONALIS. WITH 165 MEMBER AGENCIES OPERATING IN OVER 200 COUNTRIES AND TERRITORIES, WE ARE PART OF ONE OF THE WORLD’S LARGEST HUMANITARIAN NETWORKS. Caritas Australia has 129 long-term programs and 120 partnerships in 29 countries across Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Pacific, and with Australia’s First Peoples. Every year our organisation also responds to humanitarian emergencies across all regions. In 2015-16, we supported 35 emergency programs in 24 countries. This year, thanks to all our supporters, we reached over 2 million people directly through our emergency and development programs.
EVERY PERSON Caritas Australia is committed to serving people who are vulnerable to extreme poverty and marginalisation. We work with people regardless of religious, political or cultural beliefs. Our development approach is to support whole communities to lead their own development, rather than sponsor individuals. A village well, a community school, a seed bank, a trained primary health worker — these can all help to improve life for everyone.
VISION A just and fair world, A world in balance, At peace and free of poverty; A world, which the Church in Australia helps build, Where all human beings can live in dignity and Communities are architects of their own development.
INSPIRATION The scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour”. Luke 4:17-19
MISSION Children, women and men most vulnerable to extreme poverty and injustice are rich in the eyes of Jesus, whose life and compassion inspires Caritas Australia. Through effective partnerships in humanitarian relief and development and by transforming hearts and minds in the Australian community, Caritas Australia helps to end poverty, promote justice and uphold dignity.
ANNUAL REPORT The 2015-16 Annual Report focuses on our development approach, Integral Human Development (IHD) which enables the holistic development of the human person and covers all aspects of life: social, economic, political, cultural, personal and spiritual. Through this approach, our organisation not only guarantees a moral framework around our work but one consistent with our own nature as a Catholic agency serving all humanity.
Print: SOS Print + Media Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers should be aware that this publication may contain images or names of people who have since passed away. Caritas Australia acknowledges the traditional owners of the land.
Established in 1950 Bronze Award 2011 Silver Award 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 Editor: Melinda McHugh Design: Three Blocks Left
Printed on: Sovereign Offset Digital is FSC certified containing fibre sourced from responsible forestry practices, and manufactured carbon neutral
All photos Caritas Australia unless otherwise stated. All currency references are shown in Australian dollars unless otherwise stated. ABN 90 970 605 069
Published November 2016 by Caritas Australia 24-32 O’Riordan Street Alexandria NSW 2015 ISSN 2201-3075 (Print) ISSN 2201-3083 (Online) © Copyright Caritas Australia 2016
CARITAS AUSTRALIA
CONTENTS Principles 2 Integral Human Development
3
Around the World
From the Chairman
4
Where we Work
From the CEO
5
Vietnam 10
Year at a Glance
6
Sri Lanka
8 16
Strategic Directions
12
Australia 20
Financial Snapshot
14
Syria 28
Caritas Community
22
Fiji
32
Malawi
38
Governance 34 Mission
40
Our Full Financial Report 2015-16 is available to read at www.caritas.org.au/annualreport ACCOUNTABILIT Y AND ACCREDITATION Caritas Australia is a member of the Australian Council for International Development (ACFID). We are committed to adhering to ACFID’s high standards of governance, transparency, accountability and financial management. We are also fully accredited by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), which manages the Australian Government’s overseas aid program. The rigorous accreditation process provides DFAT and the Australian public with confidence that the Australian Government is funding professional and well-managed organisations capable of delivering effective outcomes. Caritas Australia appreciates the range of partnerships with DFAT including; the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP), the Humanitarian Partnership Agreement (HPA), the PNG Church Partnership Program (CPP) and the five-year Australia Africa Community Engagement Scheme (AACES) which ran from June 2011 to June 2016. Although DFAT funding for AACES has ended, our support for development and initiatives in the communities involved will continue. We uphold the highest standards of practice, as demonstrated by our commitment to the: • ACFID Code of Conduct • Code of Conduct for the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and NGOs in Disaster Relief
• Sphere Humanitarian Charter and Minimum Standards • People in Aid Code of Good Practice • Fundraising Institute of Australia Principles and Standards of Fundraising Practice • Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission • Caritas Internationalis Management Standards • Catholic Alliance for International Development Cover: Caritas Australia supported programs, like the Community Conversations program, have helped communities in Papua New Guinea learn communication and problem-solving skills. Photo: Richard Wainwright This image: In Balthali, Kavre Nepal, Caritas Australia’s Cooperative Development and Enterprise Promotion program, focuses on helping communities build sustainable livelihoods. Photo: Stephen Kadlec
ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16 | 1
OUR PRINCIPLES OUR WORK IS SHAPED BY THE TRADITION OF CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING, WHICH PLACES HUMAN DIGNITY AND WELLBEING FOR ALL PEOPLES AT THE HEART. WE IMPLEMENT PRINCIPLES SUCH AS: D I G N I T Y O F T H E H U M A N P E RS O N Every human being is created in the image and likeness of God and therefore has inherent dignity. No human being should have their dignity or freedom compromised. The dignity of every person, independent of ethnicity, gender, sexuality, age or ability, is the foundation of Catholic Social Teaching. THE COMMON GOOD Every person should have sufficient access to the goods and resources of society so they can live a fulfilling life. The rights of the individual to personal possessions and community resources must be balanced with the needs of the disadvantaged and dispossessed. The common good is reached when we work together to improve the wellbeing of people in our society and the wider world. SUBSIDIARITY AND PA R T I C I PAT I O N All people have the right to participate in decisions that affect their lives. Subsidiarity requires that decisions are made by the people closest and most affected by the issues and concerns of the community.
SOLIDARITY Everyone belongs to one human family, regardless of their national, religious, ethnic, economic, political and ideological differences. Everyone has an obligation to promote the rights and development of all peoples across communities, nations, and the world, irrespective of national boundaries. We are called by the principle of solidarity to take the parable of the Good Samaritan to heart (Luke 10:29-37), and to express this understanding in how we live and interact with others.
PRE FE RE NTIAL OPTION FOR T H E P O O R Caring for the poor is everyone’s responsibility. Preferential care should be shown to poor and vulnerable people, whose needs and rights are given special attention in God’s eyes. Jesus taught that God asks each of us what we are doing to help the poor and needy: “Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me”. (Matthew 25:40). ECONOMIC JUSTICE Economic life is not meant solely for profit, but rather in service of the entire human community. Everyone capable should be involved in economic activity and should be able to draw from work, the means for providing for themselves and their family. CARE FOR OUR COMMON HOME We must all respect, care for and share the resources of the earth, which are vital for the common good of people. Care for animals and the environment is a common and universal duty, and ecological problems call for a change of mentality and the adoption of new lifestyles. P R O M O T I O N O F P E AC E All peace requires respect for and the development of human life, which in turn involves the safeguarding of the goods, dignity and freedom of people. Peace is the fruit of justice and is dependent upon right order among human beings. Read more about Catholic Social Teaching at www.caritas.org.au/cst
INTEGR AL HUMAN DE VE LOPME NT Integral Human Development is grounded in Catholic Social Teaching, which provides principles and a moral framework for our international programs. In this way, our development approach is transformative and works to ensure a holistic approach by addressing all aspects of poverty and injustice across Caritas Australia’s relief, rehabilitation and development work. Caritas Internationalis, The Code of Ethics and Operating Principles for Caritas Internationalis, revised March 2013
2 | CARITAS AUSTRALIA
CARITAS AUSTRALIA
A LIF E WIT H DIGNIT Y
JUST AN D PE ACE FUL RE L ATI ON SH IP S
SU STAINE D E NC E A N D E C ONOMIC WE LLBE ING INFLU INDE P E ND EN C E AND RE SILIE NC E
INTEGRAL HUMAN DEVELOPMENT OUTCOMES
OUR APPROACH TO DEVELOPMENT GROUNDED IN THE PRINCIPLES OF CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING, THE INTEGRAL HUMAN DEVELOPMENT (IHD) APPROACH PROMOTES THE DIGNITY OF THE HUMAN PERSON, EQUALITY AMONG ALL PEOPLES AND THE COMMON GOOD OF ALL PEOPLE IN THE COMMUNITY. Caritas Australia has identified four IHD outcomes. All are interconnected and contribute to the overarching goal: A life with dignity: where people are able to access basic services, are included in social, political and economic life. This empowers people with confidence to make changes in their own lives. Just and peaceful relationships: by addressing power, equity and conflict issues, people can feel safe within their family and community, and actively engage in community activities. Sustained economic wellbeing and resilience: where people have access to resources necessary for life for themselves and their family. Influence and independence: by improving the ability to access information and resources, people should be able to influence attitudes and decisions that affect their lives. This approach highlights that human development cannot be separated into individual components (such as health, education, shelter), nor can it focus solely on economic growth. Instead, our programs are designed to promote the development of the whole person, in every dimension of life.
S T R AT E G I C D I R E C T I O N S Caritas Australia’s Strategic Directions for 2013-18 recognises IHD as the overarching development approach. In line with our strategic vison and operational plan, the International Programs team – in consultation with staff and partners – developed a Program Effectiveness Framework. In essence, the framework, brings together the different elements of our work to accompany partners and enhance impact across our programs. The full 23-page document Integral Human Development Program Effectiveness Framework can be read at www.caritas.org.au/ihd Read more about our Integral Human Development approach at www.caritas.org.au/ihd Caritas programs across Nepal assist in building strong communities. Photo: Stephen Kadlec
Our programs are designed to promote the development of the whole person, in every dimension of life.
ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16 | 3
FROM THE CHAIRMAN I commented last year about how reassuring it is to note the continuing commitment by our Caritas Australia staff and National Council to Catholic Social Teaching principles and Gospel values in all facets of our work as Caritas. There continues to be a strong desire, even a passion, to respond to the needs of those who dwell on the margins, and to work to give fuller life to those living in poverty. This opinion is shared by our National Council, including the new members.
BISHOP GREG O’KELLY SJ AM Chairman
“When you did it to the least of my brethren, you did it to me” is a statement by Christ not having a great deal of impact on those of our leaders who claim to be inspired by Him.
I welcome them in particular, while thanking sincerely, people who have given their time and talents over many years for our agency. I think particularly of Richard Haddock, Louise Crowe, Robert Ward and Dr Leoni Degenhardt and wish to record here the public thanks of Caritas Australia for their commitment and service, done with such generosity. “The education of youth is the renewal of the world”, wrote a Jesuit schoolmaster of the early days. We are seeing something of that renewal with the number of post high school young people showing interest in our work. May this development continue, and strengthen and enliven us. Caritas Australia has continued our work as a serving agency for the people affected by disasters in Nepal, Fiji and elsewhere. And there are new developments in Bougainville, and among the Pacific Island States, where we have begun to work with local agencies. In addressing poverty, we help address social issues, such as domestic violence against women. I appreciate very much the efforts of the staff to adjust positively to the huge cuts we have received. The government funding cuts to our Australia NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP) has meant a net reduction of over 20% over the life of the current partnership (2013-17). The contingency plan implemented by our staff minimised the impact on our partner agencies overseas and those working with First Australian communities. Neither of the major political parties are committed to restoring our Australian aid program to its 2013 level for the foreseeable future. What a mark this is on the Australian soul, and what does it say about the magnanimity of our political leaders? “When you did it to the least of my brethren, you did it to me” is a statement by Christ and is not having a great deal of impact on those of our leaders who claim to be inspired by Him. I am very grateful that Sr Anne McGuire, our Head of Mission, has worked so well at implementing a more comprehensive education and training program for all staff and volunteers in the Gospel vision of Caritas Australia (please read her letter on p40). Pope Francis reflected recently on the Gospel phrase, “Jesus gazed on them …” The verb ‘gaze’ is used a number of times in the Gospels, describing how Jesus regarded His disciples at crucial times. The Pope said that Christ always did this with “love, mercy and mission”. The love was there as the inspiration, the mercy as the outlook, and mission as the direction for the future. May all our Caritas Australia staff continue when serving the poor and marginalised with this outlook of love, mercy and mission.
Bishop Greg O’Kelly SJ AM Chairman
4 | CARITAS AUSTRALIA
CARITAS AUSTRALIA
FROM THE CEO One of the great privileges in serving as Chief Executive Officer is the opportunity to meet colleagues in our partner agencies overseas and within our First Australian programs. Over the last year, I have been fortunate to visit eight overseas partner agencies. I am always struck by the exceptional resilience, positivity and the gratitude for their relationship with Caritas Australia among their leaders. I noticed this particularly during my March 2016 visit to Caritas Nepal in Kathmandu with Caritas Australia’s Deputy Chairman, Bishop Peter Stasiuk, as we marked 12 months since the two destructive earthquakes of 2015.
PAUL O’CALLAGHAN Chief Executive Officer
Over the last year, I have been fortunate to visit eight overseas partner agencies. I am always struck by the exceptional resilience, positivity and the gratitude for their relationship with Caritas Australia among their leaders.
Over 2015-16, Caritas Australia delivered emergency aid to almost 352,000 people (more than 70,000 households) and has focused on providing good quality housing following the earthquakes in Nepal in 2015. Our agency was invited by Caritas Nepal to accompany them in the recovery phase, coordinating the support from the global Caritas family. Caritas Nepal has regularly expressed their appreciation for the way in which we have carried this out. Another highlight was a visit to Bougainville where I met with several partner agencies and Bishop Unabali. It was good to see that much progress has been made towards improving the living standards of rural people in Bougainville. I was also impressed by the impact and scale of an education program supported by Caritas Australia to curb domestic violence against women, which is an endemic problem in Papua New Guinea. Under the guidance of Sr Lorraine Garazu, a Sister of Nazareth, a team of women and men run programs across the island of Bougainville and the participation rate by men is very high. This is an example of exemplary leadership which is making a significant difference at community level. In June 2016, Australia’s Church agencies made a step forward in our 10 years of collaboration. For the first time, the Church Agencies Network (CAN) developed a roadmap which will enable all members to play an important role when responding to natural disasters and helping vulnerable people get back on their feet, especially in the Pacific. By working together, we can increase our impact and effectiveness of relief efforts with the humanitarian response to disasters and capacity building to prepare for such disasters. We were also pleased to receive a very positive commendation from the DFAT accreditation reviewers for the major accreditation review completed in the first half of 2016. This process occurs every five years and Caritas Australia was rated highly by the reviewers. This annual report is a snapshot of our achievements over the past year as we share with you our highlights and challenges. In solidarity with our sisters and brothers assisted by Caritas and our partner agencies, thank you to the Bishops, parish priests, teachers, students, as well as staff, volunteers and general supporters who make our work possible.
Paul O’Callaghan Chief Executive Officer
ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16 | 5
YEAR AT A GLANCE EVERY DAY THE INTERNATIONAL CARITAS FAMILY WALKS ALONGSIDE THE WORLD’S MOST MARGINALISED PEOPLES. THIS IS JUST A SMALL SNAPSHOT OF 2015-16 AS WE CONTINUE TO WORK TOWARDS POSITIVE LASTING CHANGE.
JULY
OCTOBER
INDIGENOUS TRADITIONS: In his encyclical letter, Laudato Si’ (praise be to you) – On the Care for our Common Home, which focuses on climate change, Pope Francis called for special care for Indigenous communities and their cultural traditions. Although published a month earlier, we made special mention again in July.
NEPAL, SIX MONTHS ON: This month, Caritas Australia, along with the wider Caritas network, gathered at the Faith Based Organisations meeting at the UN in Geneva. Father Pius Peruma, Director of our partner Caritas Nepal, gave a speech sharing his reflections from the ground and highlighting the significance of the Caritas approach.
AUGUST
“The people know well that we are co-pilgrims along their life journey. We were told in many places and instances by the people, ‘We know Caritas will not abandon us’,” he said. Following the earthquakes, Caritas Australia delivered emergency aid to almost 352,000 people (more than 70,000 households).
CYCLONE KOMEN, MYANMAR: We provided emergency relief to more than 7,000 people affected by the 30 July cyclone. After many decades of conflict, many people in Myanmar (formerly Burma) now live in camps after fleeing their homes due to ethnic fighting. The flooding exacerbated an already fragile situation, with four of the 14 states declared national disaster areas.
SEPTEMBER ASYLUM SEEKERS: On 7 September our agency, along with thousands of Australians, rallied to seek a more compassionate response by Australia’s political leaders to the plight of over four million Syrians who have fled their country due to civil war. “This week Pope Francis called on all of us to be better neighbours to those in desperate need,” said Bishop Greg O’Kelly, Caritas Australia Chairman.
In Nepal, almost 352,000 people (more than 70,000 households) affected by the earthquakes in 2015 were assisted by the Caritas network.
6 | CARITAS AUSTRALIA
NOVEMBER HEART4CLIMATE: On 23 November, on behalf of school students from around the country, students from Canberra’s Daramalan College presented thousands of heart-shaped letters to the Prime Minister’s office and appeared on Channel 10, SBS news and ABC radio. As part of Caritas Australia’s Our Common Home campaign, which was inspired by Pope Francis’ encyclical on human ecology, the letters urged Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, to have a Heart4Climate by thinking about future generations and committing to stronger emission reduction targets.
On 12 December, 196 countries finalised an agreement to avoid catastrophic global warming.
DECEMBER CLIMATE CHANGE AGREEMENT: Finalised in Paris on 12 December, our agency welcomed the agreement by 196 countries to avoid catastrophic global warming. This agreement represents a new global consensus on the urgent need for action to keep warming well below 2 degrees and ideally be kept to 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial levels.
JANUARY DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS: At Caritas Australia, we take a strengths-based approach to our long-term development programs. This approach is based on the principle that everyone has inherent God-given dignity and worth, and every community member has the right and capacity to participate in building their community’s future. This month, our agency participated in a strengthsbased program design workshop with our Cambodian partners, ensuring the communities we work with are driving their own development.
In his encyclical letter, Laudato Si’ (praise be to you) – On the Care for our Common Home, which focuses on climate change, Pope Francis called for special care for Indigenous communities and their cultural traditions.
CARITAS AUSTRALIA
FEBRUARY
APRIL
JUNE
PROJECT COMPASSION: In 2016, we celebrated 50 years since the first national appeal was held in Lent 1966. With the theme ‘Learning more, creating change’ our six inspiring stories showed how education, training and knowledge can empower communities to transform their futures. This year, our supporters raised over $11 million.
PROGRAM SUCCESS: The success of the Australia Africa Community Engagement Scheme (AACES) was verified in a final review of the program. Running from 2011 to 2016, the program was found to have significantly contributed to sustainability among communities resulting in, for example, food security and improved income generation opportunities.
ENCYCLICAL ANNIVERSARY: This month we commemorated the oneyear anniversary of Pope Francis’ 2015 encyclical Laudato Si’ which called the world to unite to protect “our common home”.
CYCLONE WINSTON: In February 2016, Caritas Australia and the wider Caritas Oceania network supported communities in Fiji to recover from the destruction of Cyclone Winston, one of the biggest storms ever to hit the Southern Hemisphere. The Caritas network distributed shelter kits and non-food items to more than 1,000 households.
MARCH
MAY AID CUTS: This month, for the third year in a row, millions of dollars were cut from Australia’s official aid program. This year’s cut of $224 million from the federal budget has reduced Australia to its least generous role among OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) countries in 40 years.
SYRIA, FIVE YEARS ON: On 15 March 2016, we marked the fifth year of the conflict in Syria. The United Nations has referred to this civil war as the largest humanitarian crisis since World War II. The global Caritas network assisted 1.8 million Syrians in 2015 alone.
Above: Evangeline is a Senior Artsworker at Djilpin Arts Ghunmarn Culture Centre in Beswick (Wugularr) in the Northern Territory. Read her story at www.caritas.org.au/evangeline. Photo: Danielle Lyonne
In 2015-16, $27.1million was donated by the Australian community (including $4.2 million to our Nepal Earthquake Appeal and over $11 million to Project Compassion).
Cardinal Oscar Rodriguez Maradiaga, former Caritas Internationalis President and now advisor to the Pope, echoed the Pontiff’s call to fight climate change. On 22 June, his Eminence addressed the 2016 Mary Ward Justice Lecture ‘Between Heaven and Earth: Conversations on Faith, Ecology and Justice’ lecture in Perth, WA which was jointly coordinated by John XXIII College, Loreto School Nedlands, Catholic Education WA and Caritas Australia. Read more about news in Australia and around the world at www.caritas.org.au/media
“Young Australians want to see real action on climate change.” – Paul O’Callaghan, Caritas Australia CEO, November 2015 ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16 | 7
WHERE WE WORK IN 2015-16 WE HAD 129 LONG-TERM PROGRAMS AND 120 PARTNERSHIPS IN 29 COUNTRIES. EVERY YEAR WE ALSO RESPOND TO HUMANITARIAN EMERGENCIES ACROSS ALL REGIONS. THIS YEAR WE SUPPORTED 35 EMERGENCY PROGRAMS IN 24 COUNTRIES. THROUGH YOUR GENEROUS SUPPORT, CARITAS AUSTRALIA REACHED OVER 2 MILLION PEOPLE DIRECTLY THROUGH OUR EMERGENCY AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS.
Ukraine
In 2015-16, Caritas Australia supported long-term development and Disaster Risk Reduction programs and partnerships in Australia, Bangladesh, Bolivia, Brazil, Cambodia, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Timor-Leste, El Salvador, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Kiribati, Laos, Malawi, Mozambique, Myanmar, Nepal, Peru, Philippines, Papua New Guinea (PNG), Samoa, Solomon Islands, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Uganda, Vietnam and Zimbabwe.
Lebanon Occupied Palestinian territories (Gaza)
Caritas Australia also supported complex emergencies in Afghanistan, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Haiti, Jordan, Lebanon, Occupied Palestinian Territories, Sudan, Ukraine and Vanuatu.
Jordan
Sudan
Haiti
Eritrea
El Salvador Ethiopia
South Sudan
Uganda
AFRICA
Peru
• In Malawi and Tanzania, 146,660 people gained access to safe, clean water through the 5-year AACES* program.
Brazil
• In Mozambique, 772 people from 5 different villages built small-scale irrigation schemes to increase agricultural production. The maize harvest increased from 750kg to 2 tonnes per hectare.
Bolivia
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Tanzania
Malawi
Zimbabwe
Mozambique
LATIN AMERICA • In Peru, 384 women who participated in the Caritas Australia and Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand Gender Program said they have improved equality in their family relationships. • In Brazil, registration in the Registry of Real Estate has secured ownership of the homes of 3,000 families residing in 10 different favelas in São Paulo.
Photographers: (left to right): Richard Wainwright (Bolivia); Caritas Syria; William Mponda, CADECOM (Malawi); Nicole Clements/Caritas Australia (Nepal); Richard Wainwright (Australia); Richard Wainwright (PNG). 8 | CARITAS AUSTRALIA
Kenya
HUMANITARIAN EMERGENCIES • In Nepal, almost 352,000 people (more than 70,000 households) affected by the earthquakes in 2015 were assisted by the Caritas network. • Since 2011, the Caritas Internationalis network has raised over $256 million for relief in Syria, including $5.58 million from Caritas Australia.
AROUND THE WORLD
Programs and Emergencies Expenditure 2015-16: $24,882,228 2014-15: $26,837,622 2013-14: $25,469,535 2012-13: $24,771,299 2011-12: $30,076,568 In 2015-16 we spent $17,857,740 on long-term development programs and $7,024,488 on humanitarian emergency assistance. A total of $24,882,228 was spent worldwide. * The Australia Africa Community Engagement Scheme (AACES) ran from June 2011 to June 2016 and was supported by the Australian Government.
Afghanistan
Nepal Bangladesh India
Burma/ Myanmar Laos Philippines Cambodia
Vietnam
Sri Lanka
ASIA • With support from Caritas Australia, 139,233 people in Southeast Asia have increased ability and confidence to engage in community initiatives. For example, in Cambodia, through income generation activities, 1,509 people have increased their income by 50%, from an average $2.50 per day to $3.75 per day. • In India, 164 communities reported improved access to government services as a result of awareness raising initiatives.
Papua New Guinea
Indonesia
Kiribati Solomon Islands
Timor-Leste
Vanuatu
Fiji
Samoa
Australia
AUSTRALIA • 1,100 First Australian participants attended the Red Dust Healing program, with long-reaching effects on individuals and families recognised (from a current evaluation). • The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council (NATSICC) directly engaged with 8,910 nonIndigenous Australians to advocate, inform and educate on important issues affecting First Australians.
PACIFIC • In Papua New Guinea, over 50,000 people affected by the El Niño drought received food relief and gained access to safe water. • In Fiji, 2,000 households received shelter kits and 686 people attended trauma counselling after Cyclone Winston hit in February.
ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16 | 9
Integral Human Development: Goal One
A LIFE WITH DIGNITY Is promoted when people are empowered to make changes in their own lives, are able to access basic services and are included in social, political and economic life.
10 | CARITAS AUSTRALIA
ASIA: VIETNAM
Hope for the future Since 2009, Caritas Australia has funded the Empowering People with Disabilities program. Run by the Sustainable Rural Development Centre (SRD) in Vietnam, thousands of people living with disabilities have accessed their vital services. This program focuses on the physical and mental improvement of people living with disabilities in poor communities. The program offers opportunities for families to meet and support each other. Where once they were hidden from public view, more than 1,300 people living with disabilities (including children) now have greater participation in society, feel safer within their communities and are more aware of their rights.
Binh’s Story Binh*, 3, lives with his parents and older brother in Quang Tri province, Vietnam. Born with a medical condition that causes fluid to accumulate in the brain, hydrocephalus can also lead to mental disability and difficulty moving. His family is extremely poor and their ability to sustain their livelihood was severely affected by his condition. Prior to his birth, Binh’s parents had a small, but steady income. His mother, Hien*, worked locally, while father Dien* worked in Laos and sent money home. When Binh’s condition was diagnosed, Dien had no choice but to return home and Hien also had to leave her job to care for him full-time. Binh attends hospital on a regular basis to have the liquid build-up drained from his head. His parents must take extra precautions as doctors have warned that a fall or bump to his head could be life threatening. In addition, he requires care for his epileptic fits. As his family wants the best possible future for him, they signed up to the Empowering People with Disabilities program run by SRD. The program introduced them to others who have children living with disabilities and helped the family to purchase pigs. They now have a constant supply of piglets, which they can sell, eat and continue to breed. They now have better access to food and the family’s income is more stable, resulting in less stress. With new knowledge about their rights, Binh’s family can access extra funding from the government to support and care for him.
I N 20 15 - 1 6: • 231 people came together to share, network and support one another as part of the Vietnamese Day for People with Disabilities (organised by the SRD Centre’s parents’ committee). • 1,335 people and children living with disabilities have accessed this program.
He has undergone two operations, takes part in daily physical therapy exercises with Hien, and also receives regular visits from the program’s physical therapist. There have been definite improvements. Prior to the program, he could not stand, walk or talk. Now Binh can stand for short periods of time unassisted and is becoming more responsive to communication.
Read more about people living with disabilities at www.caritas.org.au/disability
He is an inspiration – not only to all who know him, but also to his brother who wants to become a doctor when he grows up so he can help people like Binh in the future. * Please note that names have been changed for this story. This program is supported by the Australian Government. Binh and his mother. Photo: Patrick Makenen/Caritas Australia
ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16 | 11
STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS CARITAS AUSTRALIA’S STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS FOR 2013-18 RECOGNISES INTEGRAL HUMAN DEVELOPMENT AS THE OVERARCHING DEVELOPMENT APPROACH FOR OUR INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS. Now in the third year of our plan, our agency continued to strengthen our Catholic identity, build stronger external relationships and improve our organisational agility and competence. Caritas Australia is recognised as a leading and effective Australian aid and development agency by the Australian community and the Federal Government.
OVERVIEW Between 2013 and 2018, Caritas Australia aims to: 1. Build relationships that empower people living in poverty to be the agents of their own change, tell their own stories and shape and influence Caritas. 2. Deliver programs that are effective, efficient and ultimately lead to the independence of the poor. 3. Create a more agile agency, capable of responding to the needs of the poor as they change and emerge.
GOAL 3 Strengthen Programs and Advocacy
Caritas Australia supports the poor and marginalised to be responsible for the decisions affecting them and to have greater influence over their own development. Our agency learns from the communities we engage with, seeking to generate more effective programs and build greater resilience. Caritas Australia works to transform the hearts and minds of Australians and influences the thinking of governments, decision-makers and the Catholic Church to place the poor and marginalised at the centre.
GOAL 4 Develop Organisational Agility
Caritas Australia promotes an inclusive and collaborative learning culture where staff, Diocesan Directors and volunteers are fulfilled, supported and nurtured in their roles and recognised for their contribution.
To achieve these ends, our organisation is pursuing the following five goals:
Our agency is competent, effective, agile and innovative through a commitment to organisational learning and development and robust information systems.
GOAL 1 Deepen Catholic Identity
GOAL 5 Fund Sustainable Growth
GOALS
Caritas Australia gives witness to God’s mission and the work of the Catholic Church in Australia by standing and learning from poor and marginalised people.
Guided by Catholic values, our agency accompanies the Church, our leadership and people to be in solidarity with the poor and marginalised.
GOAL 2 Build Stronger Relationships
Caritas Australia’s approach prioritises relationships with the poor and marginalised. Caritas Australia serves, learns from and is accountable to the poor and marginalised, the Catholic Church, local partner organisations and supporters. Our agency partners with governments, non-governmental organisations and other networks of influence to facilitate sustainable outcomes.
12 | CARITAS AUSTRALIA
Caritas Australia is financially viable and an accountable steward of resources. Our mission of serving the poor and marginalised is sustained through the renewal of existing funding relationships, securing new opportunities for income growth and prudent and responsible financial and risk management.
HIGHLIGHTS There were many highlights in 2015-16 as we work towards achieving our five goals. Over the year we:
GOAL 1 Deepen Catholic Identity • Built the capacity for mission effectiveness across the agency, with the National Council and 75% of staff attending formation programs. • Improved language and communications tools for staff, to enable them to better communicate stories of change through Catholic Social Teaching.
• Strengthened staff understanding of Caritas Australia’s mission and Catholic identity through a comprehensive induction process, formation sessions at all National Council meetings and regular mission-related reflections at the start of all management meetings.
GOAL 2 Build Stronger Relationships
• Extended Catholic school participation in Project Compassion. • Developed our partnerships with Catholic universities. • Enhanced our collaboration with Caritas Oceania, Caritas Aotearoa, New Zealand and Caritas sister agencies in the US, UK and Ireland.
GOAL 3 Strengthen Programs and Advocacy
• Implemented the Integral Human Development framework across programs and enhanced our advocacy collaboration with Caritas Internationalis and coalitions including Micah Australia, Pacific Calling Partnership and Campaign for Australian Aid. • Empowered more than two million people globally to make positive changes in their lives.
CARITAS AUSTRALIA
GOAL 4 Develop Organisational Agility and Competence
• Demonstrated capacity to implement strengths-based development training. • Conducted effective leadership and manager training. • Demonstrated agility in response to cuts in Federal Government funding. • Demonstrated the capacity to engage the Catholic business and professional community.
GOAL 5 Fund Sustainable Growth • Put a five-year plan in place that assisted in the contingency and forward planning process.
• Expanded new fundraising channels, enabling more supporters to become regular givers.
LOOKING AHEAD In 2016-17 we will:
• Further build the capacity for mission effectiveness across the agency, strengthening staff understanding of Caritas Australia’s mission and Catholic identity. • Fund sustainable growth by expanding our donor reach. • Strengthen programs and advocacy to amplify the voices of the most vulnerable and marginalised, enhancing dignity and wellbeing.
INTEGRAL HUMAN DEVELOPMENT (IHD) In the coming year, Caritas Australia will continue to build on a strong foundation using the holistic IHD approach in all our programs.
“For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.” Jeremiah 29:11
For example, there will be even more opportunities for those most vulnerable and marginalised to drive their own development through continued strengths-based development training. Our approach will continue to ensure the voices of those most marginalised are heard when we design and evaluate our programs. Read more about our Strategic Directions for 2013-2018 at www.caritas.org.au/strategy
There were many highlights in 2015-16 as we work towards achieving our five goals.
Now in the third year of our plan, our agency continued to strengthen our Catholic identity, build stronger external relationships and improve our organisational agility and competence. Above: In August 2015, Myanmar experienced some of the worst flooding for decades. The international Caritas network assisted with emergency relief. Photo: Caritas Internationalis ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16 | 13
50000000 40000000 30000000 20000000 10000000
income source gra
0
$50m
Expenditure
Income
Caritas programs in Nepal assist communities to live peaceful, happy lives, fruitful in the knowledge that they have, for example, food security and $40m clean water. Photo: Nicole Clements/Caritas Australia $30m
FINANCIAL SNAPSHOT $20m
CARITAS AUSTRALIA HAS ACHIEVED A STRONG OPERATIONAL RESULT IN 2015-16 THROUGH GOOD STEWARDSHIP, GOVERNANCE, RISK MANAGEMENT AND THE ONGOING GENEROSITY OF $10m OUR DONORS ENDING THE YEAR WITH AN OPERATIONAL SURPLUS OF $2.1 MILLION, AND CLOSE TO 90% SPENT ON FUNDING AND SUPPORTING INTERNATIONAL AND DOMESTIC PROGRAMS 0 (INCLUDING COMMUNITY EDUCATION). 2012 2013 2014 2015 50000000
PERFORMANCE
2016
INCOME VS EXPENDITURE ($’M)
40000000
For 2015-16, our total reportable income 50 is $42 million, with an expenditure of 30000000 $40 million. This in in line with our current 40 strategy to build a sustainable platform that enables long-term engagement with 20000000 30 program partners and communities. Funding to international and domestic 10000000 20 programs is close to $25 million. The overall results have been mainly driven 0 by the cost management strategy 10 we implemented to address ongoing reductions in government funding, and a 0 favourable gain from foreign exchange. Total income for the year is $42 million. Of this, 65% came from community support, 29% from recurrent and one-off government grants, and 6% from other income (bank interest, dividends and gain on foreign currency translation). The ongoing loyalty and generosity of our donor community has steadily grown at an annual compound growth rate of 4% over the last five years. The government funding cuts to our Australia NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP) has meant a net reduction of over 20% in grants over the life of the contract (2013-17).
2012 Income
2013
2015
2016
Expenditure
INCOME SOURCE ($’M)
2012 Community support
14 | CARITAS AUSTRALIA
2014
2013
2014
Government funding
2015 Emergency appeals
2016 Other income
CARITAS AUSTRALIA
ORGANISATION STRENGTH 100 ADMINISTRATION/FUNDRAISING RATIO (% OF TOTAL INCOME) AND SUPPORT 12% Caritas Australia is committed to maximising funding to our program partners to enable them to work with communities on long-term development programs.
80
We achieve this by maintaining our total administration and fundraising cost (as a percentage of total income) to within 10%. The increase in the fundraising ratio to 12% over the past two years relates to the investment in our donor acquisition program that commenced in 2013. While general administration costs increase in line with indexation, the administration ratio has been well maintained through cost management strategy to a 3% average over the years.
40
The total expenditure on overseas, domestic and community education programs averages close to 90% over the last five years (2012-16). Relative to the ongoing government grants cuts, funding to overseas programs increased in the same period.
10%
program v educat
60 8%
6%
20
reserv
4%
0
2%
reserves
0% 2012 Administration
2013
2014
2015
Fundraising
2016
TOTAL EXPENDITURE - PROGRAMS AND EDUCATION 100%
RESERVES BREAKDOWN Caritas Australia maintains a sound financial health. This ensures there is sufficient capacity to meet ongoing obligations to program partners, suppliers and staff. Due to the nature of our operations, cash reserves available for use is always higher at the end of June then during the year; this is in line with our fundraising activities.
80%
60%
40%
RISK MANAGEMENT Caritas Australia has a strong focus on good governance, and risk management forms part of regular reporting to the Audit and Risk Management Committee and National Council (the Board). The committee oversees and endorses all risk monitoring, financial reporting, budgeting, quarterly forecasts and investment decisions for the organisation. During the year there were no significant risks identified or risks assessed as detrimental to the ongoing operation of the organisation, other than the reductions in the Australian Aid program. Our Full Financial Report 2015-16 is available to read at www.caritas.org.au/annualreport
We maintain our total administration and fundraising cost (as a percentage of total income) to within 10%.
20%
0%
2012 Education
2013 Programs
2014
2015
2016
Average Spend
RESERVES BREAKDOWN
42% Acc.Available Funds Available for future us 42% Acc. Funds for future use 14% Committed 14% Committed Reserves Reserves 18% Specific Purpose Reserves 18% Specific Purpose Reserves 25% Caritas Foundation 25% Caritas Foundation 1% Financial Assets Revaluation
1% Financial Assets Revaluation
ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16 | 15
Integral Human Development: Goal Two
JUST AND PEACEFUL RELATIONSHIPS By addressing power, equity and conflict issues, people can feel safe within their families and communities, and actively engage in community activities.
16 | CARITAS AUSTRALIA
ASIA: SRI LANKA
Spring of Life and Hope Now in its sixth year, the ‘Promoting Healing and Reconciliation for Sustainable Peace’ program helps us promote life with dignity, and foster just and peaceful relationships in Sri Lanka. The aim of this program is to promote healing and reconciliation following the civil war (1983 to 2009) that caused religious, ethnic and geographical polarisation among different ethnic and religious communities. This war also allowed the emergence of extremist groups, creating mistrust, suspicion and hatred leading to violence. Caritas Sri Lanka advocates for reconciliation, unity and good governance, in line with recommendations from Sri Lanka’s Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission.
Daisy’s Story Leaving behind the loss, grief and dark memories of Sri Lanka’s war wasn’t easy for mother of three, Daisy Paulin, 43. In 2007, her husband drowned while their family tried to escape to India. “We had been displaced many times,” said Daisy. “I did not have any wealth to educate my children, not even able to provide one meal a day. I started to do some small income generating activities to have a little income to support my family, but emotionally and physically I was not well.” Daisy explained how things changed for her. “Caritas Mannar-Valvuthayam identified me and included me in their healing and reconciliation program. I had a chance to participate and profit. This was the turning point in my life to see my real self-worth. I now appreciate my womanhood. I am able to forgive and forget the past events and accept my husband’s death.” Inter-ethnic exposure visits bring people from the predominantly Sinhala south of Sri Lanka to visit Tamil villages in the country’s north and east, and vice-versa. During these events, the visitors are accommodated in the houses of their hosts. They share their meals, participate in intercultural programs and spend valuable time together. For Daisy these visits were life-changing and in response she now helps others to find peace. “Now I am able to relate with others, especially with our Sinhala brothers and sisters. I can promote tolerance and understanding. I can provide a safe and impartial forum for the mediation and resolution of grievances.” Tamils and Sinhala are encouraged to learn each other’s language and hold healing inter-religious commemoration services where families of the formerly opposing parties are given an opportunity to mourn the loss of their own loved ones, and to recognise and help heal the pain in the grieving of others.
I N 2 01 5- 16 : • 1,600 people participated in this program. Of this, 60% were women (including womenheaded and widowed families) and 40% were men. • 600 youth formed 25 committees where they learned about conflict-resolution, conflict sensitivity and do-no-harm principles. They are now ‘ambassadors of peace’.
Read more about peacebuilding and reconciliation at www.caritas.org.au/peacebuilding
Workshops are organised on non-violent communication, respect for human dignity, and cultural and religious values. At a national level, healing and reconciliation days are celebrated together, promoting inter-religious and inter-cultural harmony. Until 2014-15, Caritas Australia had been the sole funder of the program, with support from the Australian Government. Annual funding levels have been around $85,000. In 2015-16, the program expanded significantly as the Catholic Agency Misereor came on board as a co-sponsor. Welcoming ceremony during an inter-ethnic exposure visit, Maniyanthottam village, Jaffna Diocese, 2016. Please note, Daisy is not in this photo. Photo: Caritas Hudec-Jaffna
ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16 | 17
Rim and her son, 6, with Kosal Houn from Caritas Cambodia during a project evaluation in Prolay 18 village. Photo: Chanthea Nou/Caritas Australia
EVALUATIONS: LEARNING AND IMPROVEMENT AS CONTINUOUS LEARNING AND IMPROVEMENT LEADS TO POSITIVE CHANGE AND BETTER LIFE CIRCUMSTANCES FOR THE COMMUNITIES WE WORK WITH, CARITAS AUSTRALIA VALUES EVALUATIONS HIGHLY. Reflecting on a development program’s approaches, effectiveness, and the sustained impact and change, provides a valuable opportunity to learn about what works and to recreate it again in the future. The voices of the community members are important to Caritas, particularly those most vulnerable to extreme poverty and marginalisation. We make sure they are represented throughout the whole process. Evaluations also provide an opportunity to review a program’s progress through an Integral Human Development* (IHD) lens, which acknowledges the holistic development of people, covering all aspects of life – social, economic, political, cultural, personal and spiritual. In 2015-16, 13 program evaluations in 10 countries took place within the key sectors: integrated rural development; peacebuilding; food security; health 18 | CARITAS AUSTRALIA
and wellbeing; HIV and AIDS; income generation; disability; water and sanitation; and advocacy.
KEY FINDINGS AND LESSONS FROM EVALUATIONS • Strengthening the technical capacity of partner agency staff in program design, including the building of monitoring into programs, must begin from the design stage. Field staff should be trained in all areas of the program management cycle, particularly in the development of Monitoring and Evaluation frameworks, engaging with the community and monitoring progress. The evaluation of the PNG Church Partnership Program found that the institutional capacity of partners had increased in the areas of planning, budgeting, coordinating and monitoring.
• Successful outcomes are dependent on meaningful community involvement that includes people most vulnerable to extreme poverty and marginalisation. This is essential throughout key decision making moments of the program, and the means for this to happen, in a dignified way, must be included into programming. The evaluation of the Sustainable Food and Livelihood Security Project in Bangladesh found that women’s direct participation in project activities strengthened peacebuilding within the household. • There have been considerably high increases in food production and food security in Caritas-supported agricultural projects. For example, in the AACES** program 94% of people felt their food security had improved. Diversification of agricultural production such as the introduction of livestock and high value vegetables as
AROUND THE WORLD
• Work closely with partners to better target the most vulnerable and marginalised to ensure inclusion in Caritas Australia supported programs. • Strengthen our collaboration in the humanitarian realm with other Australian church agencies. • Accompany partners to further embed child protection systems and mainstream Disaster Risk Reduction across programs. • Identify trends leading to effectiveness, conduct a meta-analysis of program evaluations.
VILLAGE EMPOWERMENT In 2011, in the Rukhkiri district of Cambodia, the Caritas network reached out to six of the poorest villages. Consultations with these communities highlighted their desire for food security, a reduced dependence on debt, and sustainable livelihood activities to earn regular incomes. The Rukhkiri Community Development Program began with an aim to support and empower the poorest and most marginalised. The main objectives were to:
well training in new agricultural practice has increased food production. • Increased access to potable water has benefited communities in many ways including daily bathing, clothes washing and home construction (which in the past could only happen during the wet season). In Sudan, the time spent collecting water has cut down from four hours to five minutes. Potable water also means a decrease in waterborne disease and sickness.
LOOKING AHEAD In 2016-17 we will: • Recruit an Effectiveness and Grants Coordinator to assist in more effectively tracking the impact of our programs. • Look closely at how we work alongside our partners and evaluate how this adds value to successful development outcomes. • Engage with participants in more detail to see how they are influencing the programs, taking on responsibilities, controlling key decisions and driving the development process. • Develop a system for baselining project objectives and tracking change against the IHD Framework.
• Create a Village Development Association for each community. These are informal groups to plan and organise development activities such as, improving food security, selling produce and providing credit. • Provide agricultural opportunities and training to 244 farmers to ensure they have an annual supply of nutritious food, even in drought.
The 2015-16 evaluation found that: A Savings and Loans scheme introduced by the project has reduced debt dependency and financial exploitation while increasing independence through access to low interest loans and the ability to encourage long-term savings.
The program built social cohesion and solidarity among neighbours who were previously isolated. Community solidarity has increased, resulting in more harmonious cooperation, which has led to a reduction in domestic violence. “Previously, people were thinking that family violence or conflict in the family is a personal issue, but today they know this is a community issue.” Caritas Cambodia Staff, National Office. * Please read p3 for more about Integral Human Development (IHD). ** For more about the Australia Africa Community Engagement Scheme (AACES), turn to p38.
Reflecting on a development program’s approaches, effectiveness, and the sustained impact and change, provides a valuable opportunity to learn about what works and to recreate it again in the future.
“Previously, people were thinking that family violence or conflict in the family is a personal issue, but today they know this is a community issue.” – Caritas Cambodia Staff, National Office
Skills training on organic farming and climate change adaptation have improved agricultural practices, resulting in increased harvest and income for community members. The establishment of a Community Rice Bank (which includes saving seeds) has increased food security, social cohesion, provides a safety net and encourages solidarity among neighbours who were previously isolated.
The voices of the community members are important to Caritas, particularly those most vulnerable to extreme poverty and marginalisation.
“There has been a lot of change. Before, there was no rice bank and people were hungry. But now, they have food… we have a seed bank, capital and rice for borrowing.” Village Chief, Prolay 18 village. ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16 | 19
Integral Human Development: Goal Three
SUSTAINED ECONOMIC WELLBEING ANDÂ RESILIENCE Where people have ongoing access to resources necessary for life, for themselves and their family.
20 | CARITAS AUSTRALIA
AUSTRALIA
Building a Remote Economy For six years, Caritas Australia has partnered with the Aboriginal Carbon Fund, a not-for-profit organisation established to support the development of the Aboriginal Carbon industry. The work of Aboriginal Rangers around Australia involves protecting our natural biodiversity, country and infrastructure from wildfires, managing feral animal populations, protecting endangered species and looking after sacred sites. Through the establishment of an Australian carbon economy, the rangers are now able to work within a business model that provides a financial return. Aboriginal Carbon Fund works closely with Aboriginal rangers to establish carbon projects by supporting them to work through the detailed regulation and meet the requirements needed to generate Australian Certified Carbon Units (carbon credits). For over five years the fund has partnered with the Kowanyama Aboriginal Land and Natural Resource Management Office (KALNRMO), a division of Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council (KASC), through their Carbon Farming Abatement Project at Oriners and Sefton Stations in Cape York Peninsula, Far North Queensland. The KASC are now successfully generating and selling carbon credits using carbon abatement generated revenue to upgrade the Ranger Base at Oriners Station.
I N 20 15 - 1 6:
Their Stories
• There are 25 Aboriginal carbon projects currently registered with the Australian Government.
Aboriginal Carbon Fund “We provide a lot of the administration, particularly in terms of getting the carbon project registered and passing the government audit test. We also provide marketing expertise, because once the carbon credits are produced from savannah burning we then need corporate investors to invest in the community and the rangers.” Rowan Foley, General Manager, Aboriginal Carbon Fund.
Carbon at Kowanyama: Oriners and Sefton Stations “We are blending the working knowledge of 40,000 years by Traditional Owners on country, with modern western tools and techniques like helicopters, iPads, laptops, wi fi, GPS and land satellite mapping. We are led and guided by Senior Traditional Owner, ‘Brolga’ [Philip Yam] and the rangers … they’re the ones who understand any areas of cultural sensitivity.” Daryl Killin, Project Manager, Oriners and Sefton Carbon Abatement Project.
• Over 10 years, Aboriginal carbon projects have been contracted through the Government’s Emissions Reduction Fund (ERF) to deliver 3.25 million carbon credits. So far 191,095* credits have been delivered (Clean Energy Regulator 2016). * This figure does not include any secondary deals to deliver ERF abatement.
Read more about Aboriginal Carbon Fund at www.caritas.org.au/acf
Employment on Country “Part of the program is to bring Aboriginal people back to their country. It’s very difficult to generate capital when you’re 600km from nowhere. This is the great ideal … and it’s happening in Kowanyama everywhere. I could give twenty people a job tomorrow if I had the funds.” Chris Hannocks, Land and Sea Manager, KALNRMO. “I would like to become a ranger because I like to be out on country working and looking after my country and taking care of the environment and culture. It’s very important for us to protect it and look after the country and all the environment and wildlife and everything, so we can get bush tucker and everything like that, back on country.” Stafford Yam, Young Volunteer Ranger and Traditional Owner for Oriners and Sefton Stations. Stafford Yam, Young Volunteer Ranger, KASC and Traditional Owner for Oriners and Sefton Stations. Photo: Richard Wainwright
“If people want to do something about climate change, if they want to do something about Indigenous poverty and they want to ensure that Australia is well managed, the easiest way is to buy carbon credits from traditional owners.” – Rowan Foley, General Manager, Aboriginal Carbon Fund ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16 | 21
Do you have a Heart4Climate? Read about Caritas Australia’s Our Common Home campaign at www.caritas.org.au/climate. Photo: Nicole Clements/Caritas Australia
ADVOCACY: CHALLENGING STRUCTURES IN RECOGNITION THAT POVERTY AND INJUSTICE ARE COMPLEX AND OFTEN SYSTEMIC ISSUES, CARITAS AUSTRALIA’S ADVOCACY TEAM SEEKS TO CHALLENGE STRUCTURES THAT CREATE AND PERPETUATE POVERTY, TAKING ACTION TO PROMOTE HUMAN DIGNITY AND THE REALISATION OF RIGHTS FOR MARGINALISED COMMUNITIES AROUND THE WORLD. Advocacy requires questioning and challenging an unjust status quo and the systems which perpetuate it. We: • Uphold human dignity by calling for Australia to enhance our contributions to global development efforts. • Foster stewardship by supporting strong action on climate change and combating its impacts on our partner communities. • Support policies and initiatives which promote subsidiarity and ensures the advancement of First Australians’ leadership and decision-making.
HIGHLIGHTS • Thousands of Caritas Australia supporters expressed their opposition to the budget cuts to Australian aid. The Stop the Clock initiative and Micah’s Draw the Line campaign asked Julie Bishop and Scott Morrison respectively to reverse the government’s plans to make a fourth consecutive cut to Australian aid in three years. Both campaigns were collaborations between a number of international development agencies.
22 | CARITAS AUSTRALIA
• In August 2015, Caritas Australia took Laudato Si’ to political leaders and hosted a climate justice talk in Parliament House. We also created Hearts4Climate (see pages 6 and 7 for more). • Our supporters rallied behind the call of our First Australian partner, the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council (NATSICC), to stop the forced closure of Aboriginal communities, and endorsed our call for the Prime Minister to ensure partnership of First Australians in decisions which affect them. • Over 900,000 global signatures were gathered in support of the Global Catholic Climate Petition. • In Australia alone, over 100,000 people rallied for the Peoples Climate Marches in November 2015. • We worked in coalition with Micah Australia, the Campaign for Australian Aid, the Church Agencies Network, NATSICC, Pacific Calling Partnership, Friends of the Earth Brisbane, and international Caritas agencies, particularly Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand and Caritas Tonga.
In 2016-17 we will: • Continue to focus on restoring Australian aid, strengthening our climate action and upholding First Australian rights. • Release an environmental report in partnership with Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand and Caritas Tonga just prior to the United Nations Climate Change (COP22) conference in Marrakech. • Continue supporting our First Australian partners’ campaigns and encourage greater awareness of Aboriginal history and culture. Find out about our campaigns at www.caritas.org.au/act
“Love, overflowing with small gestures of mutual care, is also civil and political, and it makes itself felt in every action that seeks to build a better world.” – Pope Francis
CARITAS COMMUNITY
COMMUNICATIONS: STORIES OF CHANGE CARITAS AUSTRALIA’S COMMUNICATIONS TEAM UNDERSTANDS THAT POWERFUL INSPIRING STORIES OF CHANGE ARE AT THE HEART OF SUCCESSFUL INFLUENCING. Encompassing media and multimedia, digital and publications, our team communicates Caritas’ life-changing work to the worldwide community. Whether you’re learning about our agency through this Annual Report, CaritasNews, our website (including blogs and videos), the mainstream or Catholic media, YouTube, Facebook, our enewsletter or Twitter – you are engaging in work produced by the Communications team.
STORIES FROM THE HEART A priority for our communications team is to gather and use firsthand accounts of change by those we serve who are experiencing extreme poverty. The quarterly supporter publication, CaritasNews, is mailed to approximately 60,000 supporters and is available online at www.caritas.org.au/publications. In 2015-16, about 93% of featured stories came from direct interviews with program participants and Caritas supporters. Digital innovations also continue to connect supporters more intimately with our programs. Google Hangouts (broadcast video conference calls) were once again offered to schools during Project Compassion. This technology enabled them to discuss our Malawi and Papua New Guinea programs directly with staff and partners from the respective countries.
MEDIA Media helps bring stories of our programs, our advocacy and the stories of transformational change to life. These stories also bring the reality of the poverty many are experiencing globally into the homes of our supporters via TV, radio, the Internet, newspapers and magazines, allowing them to witness the impact of where their dollars go. All media releases are available to read at www.caritas.org.au/learn/newsroom
HIGHLIGHTS • Caritas Australia CEO, Paul O’Callaghan, appeared regularly on Sky TV, ABC TV and radio, and in the Catholic media as a key commentator for climate change and the Australian Government aid cuts. • Ursula Rakova, Executive Director of PNG partner, Tulele Peisa Sailing the Waves on our Own, commented on the impact of climate change and rising sea levels in the Carteret Islands for ABC TV News 24 and ABC Radio. • Caritas collaborated on a music video Oh Canada with award-winning Australian musician, Missy Higgins. Missy wrote it after seeing the images last year of families escaping the conflict in Syria. The video clip shows drawings by Syrian children in a Caritas-supported trauma healing program. Watch and listen at http://bit.ly/caritas-missy-higgins • Psyche Mae, a 25-year-old social worker from the Philippines, grew up in a village near a dumpsite in Bagong Silangan. Thanks to the support of our partner the Faithful Companions of Jesus (FCJ), the lives of Psyche Mae and her family were transformed. In May 2016, her inspirational story was highlighted in a video at our Women for the World events. Thanks to ABC TV and radio, and The Catholic Leader for supporting it. Watch at http://bit.ly/caritas-wftw
In 2016-17 we will: • Continue to build our digital future by implementing a clearer, more cohesive supporter journey through our digital channels.
Ursula Rakova, a citizen of the Carteret Islands in Papua New Guinea is helping to lead a large scale migration program to neighbouring Bougainville. Photo: Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand
TH I S YEA R • Missy Higgins’ music video Oh Canada received widespread media coverage and has been viewed by over 1.2 million people on Facebook and YouTube. • Project Compassion-specific posts on our Facebook page during the six weeks of Lent resulted in approximately 5.2 million impressions.
facebook.com/CaritasAU twitter.com/CaritasAust youtube.com/CaritasAustralia www.caritas.org.au
• Develop a new national media strategy that builds our profile and brand. • Further build upon our strong reputation. • Develop a content, story-gathering strategy that showcases the reach and impact of Caritas’ work globally. • Continue to use innovation in our storytelling to provide more appealing ways for supporters to learn about and support our work. In her music video, Oh Canada, Missy Higgins featured drawings by Syrian children from a Caritas-supported trauma healing program. Photo: Cybele Malinowski
ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16 | 23
EDUCATION: SOCIAL JUSTICE AND SOLIDARITY THE EDUCATION TEAM DEVELOPS FREE ONLINE RESOURCES AND WORKS WITH SCHOOLS, UNIVERSITIES, PARISHES AND COMMUNITY GROUPS. TOGETHER, OUR TEAM AND SUPPORTERS ARE RAISING AWARENESS OF THE REALITY AND CAUSES OF POVERTY, HUNGER, OPPRESSION AND INJUSTICE. Caritas Australia aims to provide a forum for Australians – empowered by what they have learnt – to take action. Our resources are shaped by our beliefs, values and the stories of the communities we work with.
LEARNING IN A DIGITAL WORLD Demand for educational resources linked to the Religious Education and Australian Curriculum continues to be strong. In 2015-16, there were almost 600,000 downloads and views of our online education resources. The most popular topics were: • Project Compassion • Catholic Social Teaching • Poverty • Just Visiting (student immersion travel to communities that are being supported by Caritas programs)
• Our partnership with the University of Notre Dame in Fremantle, Perth, continues to be strong. We now collaborate on three social justice and humanitarian units which are well attended by students. • Caritas Australia collaborated with other Christian faith organisations to plan and deliver the inaugural Transforming Learning Service Conference in Brisbane in April. • Educators from across the country attended immersions to Caritassupported communities in Fiji, Cambodia and Timor-Leste. One teacher said, “The organic farming techniques I saw at Rukhiri [Cambodia] demonstrated excellent stewardship of soil and water resources, and resulted in improved nutrition for the community.”
In 2016-17 we will: • Continue to consolidate and update our existing resources for student and teacher use. • Further inspire resource parish and community groups to take action for social justice. • Further explore the use of digital teaching and learning tools. • Continue be inspired by those most marginalised. Explore our justice resources for: Schools at www.caritas.org.au/schools Parishes and community groups at www.caritas.org.au/parishes
• Climate/Environment
HIGHLIGHTS • Just Leadership Days encourage students to become leaders for justice in their schools and communities. Each year, over 4,000 students take part in these workshops which are particularly popular during Project Compassion, Reconciliation Week, World Environment Day and Refugee Week. • In December 2015, 3,000 young people participated in the Australian Catholic Youth Festival in Adelaide. Caritas Australia highlighted three key campaigns at the festival – Our Common Home (climate justice); One Human Family, Food for All (aimed at ending hunger by 2025) and Campaign for Australian Aid (maintaining Australia’s commitment to aid). • Our educators were invited to speak at a number of professional development conferences specifically for primary and secondary school teachers. We presented lectures and workshops at the National Catholic Education Conference in Perth and the Australian Geography Teachers Conference in New Zealand, among others. Educators from across the country attended immersions to Caritas-supported communities in Fiji, Cambodia and Timor Leste. Pictured is Assoc. Prof. Dylan Korczynskyj from the University of Notre Dame. 24 | CARITAS AUSTRALIA
“I learnt that it is more important to help the people in need than it is to have more for myself.” – Sasha, a Just Leadership Day participant
CARITAS COMMUNITY
Caritas Australia is working to end poverty, promote justice and uphold dignity in many countries, including Cambodia. Photo: Nicole Clements/Caritas Australia
BEQUESTS: A LASTING GIFT
“In the poor and outcast we see Christ’s face; by loving and helping the poor, we love and serve Christ.” – Pope Francis
IN 2015-16 WE RECEIVED MORE THAN $4 MILLION FROM 53 BEQUESTS. WE ARE MOST GRATEFUL TO THOSE WHO HAVE MADE THIS CONTRIBUTION. Gladys Ball
John Edward Dineen
Marcus Jones Hyndes
Riginald Peter Rawady
Charlotte Balsay
Father James Patrick Doyle
June Passlow
Bernice Connolly
Barry Joseph Ellis
Patrick James Kelly
Johannes Laurentius August Gerardus Rayymakers
Joseph James Boseley
Cathleen Mary Ellis
Andrew John Bruce Kelso
Olive Winifred Bourke
Joseph Kendall Farrell
John Patrick Kennedy
Patrick John Brophy
John Gregory Farrelly
Patricia Susan Kirby
Eva Mavis Carlos
Mary Ermenegilda Fay
Rita Agnes Ledger
James Vincent Castle
Winifred Florence Fitzgerald
Kathleen Florence Lennon
Community Foundation of South Australia - John Constant Maria Heuts Fund
Edmund Gerald Gallagher
Rita Catherine McIvor
Robert John Giltinan
Reginald Loyola Molony
Joseph Ian Glasser
Robert John Morgan
Lucille Glover
Seok Eng Ng
Bede Lance Peadon
Harry Joseph Otten
Margaret Mary Hutchings
Peter Murray
Brian James Croghan Maria Fernanda De Carvalho Joseph Elisha Francis De Freitas John Lawrence De Yong
Marjorie Claire Reilly Father Barry James Dawson Robinson Joseph Harold Somers Betty Tomlinson Eleanor Mary Trethewie Margaret Walker Father Raymond George Wells Elizabeth Marigold White Earl Knowles Wilkinson Mary Margaret Wylie
MAJOR SUPPORTERS Beswick Family Fund
Fussell Family Foundation
J and M Nolan Family Trust
Vincent and Virginia Scanlan
Cathryn Byrne and Robert Campagnaro
Martin and Loreto Hosking
The Noel and Carmel O’Brien Family Foundation
Simpson Family Foundation
Dr Marie J Delaney Delron Foundation
Mr Tom Lyons and Mrs Carolyn Lyons OAM
Reuben Pelerman Benevolent Foundation
K F Stewart Family Trust
Vincent and Michelle Fernon
D and C McIntosh
The Keady Investment Trust
Elizabeth Proust AO
Skellern Family Foundation P and C Tobin
CORPORATES Dunmarra Pty Ltd
MegaBeam
Connellan
Church Resources
ShareGift
CCI Personal Insurance
ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16 | 25
EVENTS: A COMMUNITY OF LOVE AND COMPASSION THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING CARITAS AUSTRALIA IN 2015-16. YOUR LOVE AND COMPASSION HELPS US TO DELIVER LONG-TERM DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS AROUND THE WORLD.
CYCLE FOR SOLIDARITY
WALK TO A BETTER WORLD
In February 2016, we launched Cycle for Solidarity – a nine-day cycle across Cambodia, covering nearly 400km. The 14 participants from all over Australia visited two local partners in Siem Reap and now have a new understanding of how Caritas Australia helps to empower people around the world.
Australian poverty ambassador Matt Napier walked his way to a better world by kicking a soccer ball 2,297 kilometres across Southern Africa.
Thank you to all of our participants – together you raised over $74,000. “I embrace the concept of providing support to empower people to take charge of their own lives and have the potential to build sustainable futures for themselves, families and communities,” said participant, Phil Lawler.
WOMEN FOR THE WORLD In May, for the third year in a row, hundreds of women came together in solidarity for Caritas Australia’s Women for the World events, raising over $140,000 for people living in poverty. “We have the power to change the world by helping each other, but we need to change ourselves first,” said Psyche Mae, 25, who told her story of transformational change at all Sydney, Melbourne and Perth events. See page 23 for more.
Kicking off on 4 June 2016, Matt completed his epic journey in August 2016. To share how hard it is to survive on so little, he lived below the poverty line (US$1.50 per day) for the 60-day journey. Matt is supporting sustainable development projects run by Caritas Australia, The Fred Hollows Foundation, CARE Australia and Oxfam Australia. He encourages all Australians to donate as little as 1% of their income towards sustainable poverty alleviation. “I’m hoping to help all Australians better understand the role they can play in ending world poverty in the next generation.” Find out more at www.walktoabetterworld.com or watch Matt’s video interview at http://bit.ly/caritas-wtbw-video
PROJECT COMPASSION 2016 In 2016, we celebrate 50 years since the first Project Compassion appeal was held in Lent of 1966. That year we raised $116,000 and today, thanks to the generosity and compassion of the Australian community, including Bishops, clergy, parishes and schools, it has become one of Australia’s largest humanitarian fundraising and awarenessraising campaigns. In 2016, over $11 million was raised to help our global community, with about 3,000 schools and parishes taking part. Find out more about 50 years of Project Compassion at www.caritas.org.au/ projectcompassion/50_years
In May, for the third year in a row, hundreds of women came together in solidarity for Caritas Australia’s Women for the World events, raising over $140,000 for people living in poverty.
Participants at the finish line in Phnom Penh after their epic riding challenge.
Thank you for raising vital funds towards our life changing work.
26 | CARITAS AUSTRALIA
$12m
CARITAS COMMUNITY
$10m
$8m
$6m
$4m
$2m
Supporters in the Sandhurst Diocese, Victoria serve up pancakes for Project Compassion. 0
AUSTRALIAN COMMUNITY: FUNDRAISING AND APPEALS 2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
New South Wales
South Australia
Queensland
ACT
Western Australia
Victoria
Northern Territory
Maronite/Ukraine/Other
Tasmania
THANKS TO YOU, $27.1 MILLION WAS RAISED THIS YEAR. THESE FUNDS HELP CARITAS AUSTRALIA ASSIST PEOPLE VULNERABLE TO EXTREME POVERTY AND INJUSTICE. THEY ARE USED IN THE MOST EFFICIENT, EFFECTIVE AND TRANSPARENT WAY POSSIBLE.
WHERE OUR INCOME COMES FROM 2015-16 The total figure raised during 2015-16 was $27.1 million which represents a 10% decrease from 2014-15 ($30.2m). This year there were fewer emergency appeals than the previous year, which saw our supporters give generously to the earthquake in Nepal and the typhoon in Vanuatu. * The Lenten (Autumn) Direct Marketing appeal income of $1.5m is attributed to Project Compassion.
REGULAR GIVING INCOME Caritas Neighbours are a group of people who have committed to ending poverty and fighting injustice by giving a regular gift. This program continues to grow. This year we received donations totalling $3.8 million, which represents an 8% increase on 2014-15. Our average regular gift remained consistent at $45 per person per month. These funds offer predictable, sustainable and reliable income, ensuring the security of our long-term programs assisting people vulnerable to poverty and injustice. www.caritas.org.au/neighbours
DIRECT MARKETING As a way to keep supporters updated with our work, 2015-16 saw the continued development of digital communications. This is a low cost and efficient way to communicate with supporters. This year our direct marketing appeals raised $3.5 million thanks to the generous donations and support from the Australian community.
PROJECT COMPASSION INCOME 2012-16 $12m
$10m
$8m
$6m
$4m
$2m
0
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
New South Wales
South Australia
Tasmania
Queensland
ACT
Western Australia
Victoria
Northern Territory
Maronite/Ukraine/Other
WHERE OUR INCOME COMES FROM 2015-16 Bequests $4.1m Direct Marketing* $3.5m Emergency Appeals $2.3m
Bequests $4.1m
Events $0.3m
Direct Marketing* $3.5m
Emergency Appeals $2.3m
Project Compassion $11.1m
Events $0.3m
Project Compassion $11.1m
Philanthropy $0.6m
Philanthropy $0.6m
General Donations $1.5m
General Donations $1.5m
Regular Giving $3.8m
Regular Giving $3.8m
ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16 | 27
Bequests $4,068,135
Direct Mail* $3,321,558 Emergency Appeals $2,250,689
Integral Human Development: Goal Four
INFLUENCE AND INDEPENDENCE By improving the ability to access information and resources, people should be able to influence attitudes and decisions that affect their lives.
28 | CARITAS AUSTRALIA
MIDDLE EAST: SYRIA
She grew up in Aleppo In March 2016, we marked five years since the start of the civil war in Syria, now described as the largest humanitarian crisis in the world today. In the past 12 months alone, the Caritas network has assisted 1.8 million Syrians with emergency relief such as food and shelter, and long-term support like healthcare and education. An estimated 13.5 million people in Syria are now in dire need of humanitarian assistance. In response to the ongoing crisis, the Caritas network is also providing emergency relief across Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq, Turkey, Egypt and the Palestinian Territories.
Hannah’s Story Hannah*, 25, grew up in Aleppo, Syria, and has been living in a Caritas Lebanon shelter for the past month. When she was 12 her mother passed away, leaving parental duties to her abusive father and a strict stepmother. The death of her father finally gave Hannah a chance to escape, and she married. Little did she know that she was entering into an even more violent relationship and her husband would soon beat her. After the war broke out, Hannah and her family – which by then included two young children – went to a Turkish refugee camp. However, because of the conditions, her young daughter grew very ill and they returned to war torn Aleppo. “I would rather die in Syria, than put my daughter through the camp,” she said. Very soon they realised it was too dangerous and fled to Lebanon where her husband made them move to on an open-air rooftop. With some nylon, he built a house. They lived there for twelve months but harsh weather conditions and lack of clothing made the children very ill. The violence from her husband soon increased, so she fled with her children, fortunately ending up at a United Nations (UN) agency. The UN agency opened her eyes to the help offered to women in her situation, and Hannah was housed in a Caritas Lebanon shelter fondly known as Oak Shelter. This is the only place she has ever felt safe. Oak Shelter has allowed Hannah to learn new skills, regain confidence and offer her children a safe environment to grow. She told us that this has been the first time in eight years (the duration of her violent marriage) that she has slept without worry. Hannah is very grateful towards the staff, other women and children at the shelter. She feels that they actually care about her and her children, not as victims, but as a family.
I N 20 15 - 1 6: • In Syria, 1.8 million people were assisted by the international Caritas network. • An estimated 13.5 million people in Syria are in dire need of humanitarian assistance.
Read more about our work in Syria and give to our appeal at www.caritas.org.au/syria
“If it wasn’t for Caritas Lebanon, I would be on the streets or caught in the war.” * Please note that names have been changed for this story. Caritas Lebanon’s shelter is supported by the Australian Government’s Humanitarian Partnership Agreement program. Oak Shelter is a safe haven for many women and children. Photo: Caritas Lebanon
ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16 | 29
OUR PEOPLE: CHANGE AND GROWTH OUR STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS ARE AT THE CENTRE OF WHAT CARITAS AUSTRALIA IS ABLE TO ACHIEVE. THANK YOU FOR YOUR DEDICATION, COMMITMENT AND PASSION AS WE CONTINUE TO STRENGTHEN AS AN AGENCY TO PROMOTE JUSTICE, UPHOLD DIGNITY AND TO ADDRESS THE CAUSES OF POVERTY. In order to achieve Goal Four of Caritas Australia’s Strategic Directions 2013-18, ‘Develop Organisational Agility and Competence’, this year our Human Resources (HR) team focused on achieving effective change within the agency to enhance our capacity to meet all Strategic Plan goals.
ENGAGEMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY To flourish as an organisation, we need to ensure a workplace culture of learning and continuous improvement. With this objective foremost, HR engaged in an extended consultation with staff about enhancing the Community Engagement team.
THE IMPORTANCE OF VOLUNTEERS
TALENT CONTRIBUTION AND DEVELOPMENT
As our agency’s volunteering portfolio continues to grow, we realise that people volunteer for a variety of reasons. Our volunteers believe in Caritas Australia’s mission.
As an outcome of consultation and workshops with managers and staff during 2015, a redesign of the performance appraisal process was initiated. This led to the Talent Contribution and Development Journal, which facilitates ongoing conversations that focus on development and contribution priorities for all staff.
For some, volunteering provides an opportunity to develop new skills or build on existing experience and knowledge within the sector, particularly among university students. For this reason, we will continue to deepen our university connections and provide internship experiences.
For example, in July 2015 we commenced an internship program with the Australian Catholic University. Now termed the Engagement and Two students studying a Bachelor of Sustainability team, adjustments have International Development recently been implemented to the structure, which completed three-month internships with has improved learning, evaluation and Overseas our advocacy team. collaboration across the agency. Unlike employees larger Australian aid NGOs, we did not To support the delivery of our goals, respond to cuts in in federal funding while also ensuring that volunteers enjoy 120 by implementing a substantial staff a worthwhile and beneficial experience, redundancy program. On the contrary, 100 we aim to grow our diverse volunteering Caritas Australia identified efficiency portfolio. In June 2016, 32 people 80 and cost-savings across the gains volunteered their time and skills to agency, reducing the impact on staff Caritas Australia; an increase of 8% from 60 and programs overseas. June 2015.
40 specialised roles were challenging Some to recruit during this change process. 20 However, HR has provided additional opportunities for staff to step up into 0 higher-level roles.
The growth of staff capabilities was a priority with the equivalent of more than 1% of payroll invested in developing professional and technical skills.
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT A key focus this year has been developing a suite of Leadership Development modules. New training modules delivered in 2015-16 included Insights into Teams and Coaching for Peak performance. Our priorities for 2016-17 include reflection days for the management group, which will explore personal leadership strengths and ongoing skill development priorities. This will be supplemented with practical units focusing on legislative responsibilities and recruitment skills. Workshops on resilience, handling conflict and understanding differences were provided to staff in the National Office in 2015, with a view to deliver them nationally.
OVERSEAS-BASED EMPLOYEES 120
• Our overseas staff are based in Timor-Leste, Cambodia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Kenya, Indonesia, Myanmar and Nepal.
100 80
• In 2015-16, 41% of our overseas staff are female, 59% male.
60 40 20 0
2011-12
30 | CARITAS AUSTRALIA
2012-13
2013-14
2014-15
2015-16
CARITAS COMMUNITY
Australian-based employees
120 100 80 60 40 20 “I like volunteering as it gives a strong sense of satisfaction,” said longstanding volunteer, Bernie Hollamby (far right), pictured with Sandhya Kumaran and David Morris from Supporter Services. Photo: Nicole Clements/Caritas Australia
0
LOOKING AHEAD In 2016-17 we will: • Launch a second staff engagement survey to measure any shift in engagement levels of staff in the agency both nationally and internationally. • As part of our recruitment strategy, actively reach out to people who are Indigenous, marginalised or those living with a disability. • Deliver more staff learning and development opportunities. • Expand training and development opportunities currently delivered in the National Office (Sydney) to interstate locations.
AUSTRALIAN-BASED EMPLOYEES 120 100 80 60 40 20 0
2011-12
2012-13
2013-14
2014-15
2015-16
• Continue to build on our partnership with the Australian Catholic University. • Diversify and expand our volunteering portfolio. • Strengthen our support for international staff by seeking common standards for remuneration, entitlements and benefits (as much as possible). • Focus on developing a better understanding of existing human resources systems and practices in our international offices while paying appropriate attention to legal frameworks and cultural contexts.
To flourish as an organisation, we need to ensure a workplace culture of learning and continuous improvement.
• Our staff and volunteers are based all over Australia. See www.caritas.org.au/contact-us for details. • In 2015-16, 64% of our Australian-based staff members are female, 36% male.
ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16 | 31
Integral Human Development
REFLECTION AND LEARNING During the life of the programs our staff and partners often come together to reflect, learn and discuss stories that effectively illustrate positive and lasting change.
32 | CARITAS AUSTRALIA
PACIFIC: FIJI
A Blessed Rosary On Saturday 20 February 2016, Tropical Cyclone Winston struck Fiji. Thought to be the biggest storm to ever hit the Southern Hemisphere, the category five storm caused widespread devastation to communities. A nationwide state of emergency was immediately declared by the Fijian Government; 44 people were killed and up to 350,000 (40% of the total population) affected. Caritas Australia and the wider Caritas Oceania network worked alongside the Catholic Archdiocese of Suva Disaster Relief Team, supporting communities in their recovery, including the use of supplies that were pre-positioned in Vanuatu following 2015’s Cyclone Pam. Our main focus was on shelter, immediate food and water, sanitation, psychosocial care and restoring food crops. To assist in ensuring food security and income sources for those affected by the cyclone, the Tutu Rural Training Centre replanted crops such as coconuts and taro, while the People’s Community Network (PCN) supported families sheltering in evacuation centres. We will continue to support the Archdiocese to assist communities as they recover well into the future.
Anna’s Story One of the worst affected villages was Naivoco in Tailevu, a province on Fiji’s largest island. A small community with a population of only 70 people, 16 out of the 22 houses were destroyed, the remaining six were damaged and the only building left standing was the church. During the storm, the community sought refuge in the church and some hid in a nearby cave. When they emerged in the morning, they had lost everything – their belongings were either destroyed or had been blown away by the 325km/hour winds. The community was devastated. Many knew the cyclone was coming but they never imagined the impact it would have. Immediately after, the Archdiocese of Suva Disaster Relief Team visited communities to evaluate the damage and distribute buckets, jerry cans, kitchen sets and blankets, as well as shelter kits while the communities looked to rebuild their homes. During one assessment, Petero from the Archdiocesan Disaster Response Committee met Anna Tawake, 73, from Naivoco.
I N 2 01 5- 16 : • Up to 350,000 people were affected by Cyclone Winston. The Caritas network assisted 14,703 people following the disaster. • Caritas Australia partners provided 2,000 shelter kits and tarps in the aftermath of Cyclone Winston.
When he asked her what she’d lost, she replied, “everything”. Anna’s house was destroyed and all household items had blown away, including her most important one, “my rosary,” she said.
Read more about our work in Fiji at www.caritas.org.au/fiji Five months later, Petero met up with Anna and asked her if she’d found her rosary. She said she hadn’t. Only recently he’d been gifted one from Father Sulio who’d visited Rome and had it blessed by the Pope. In seeing Anna again, Petero, without a second thought, gave her the rosary. Petero said that it often wasn’t the relief items that people appreciated, it was the sense of solidarity they showed to others. It was the willingness of the team to sit and listen to people as they grappled with devastation and loss. During the response phase, the Disaster Relief Team provided psychosocial support to over 600 affected community members. The community assisted Anna to make temporary repairs to her home, but she had still not found her rosary. She was overjoyed to be gifted Petero’s. Photo: Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand
ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16 | 33
OUR GOVERNANCE: NATIONAL COUNCIL CARITAS AUSTRALIA IS AN AGENCY OF THE AUSTRALIAN CATHOLIC BISHOPS CONFERENCE (ACBC) AND ALL ASPECTS OF OUR OPERATIONS ARE CONDUCTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE ACBC POLICY AND MANDATE. The President of the ACBC is the Archbishop of Melbourne, Most Rev Denis J Hart, and the Vice President is Archbishop of Brisbane, Mark Coleridge BA DSS. The ACBC’s Bishops Commission for Justice, Ecology and Development (BJCED) oversees and reports on the activities of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference in the areas of justice, ecology, international aid and development and peace, including Caritas Australia’s activities. The BCJED appoints from among their membership, the Chair of the National Council of Caritas Australia. The Chair of the BCJED and Caritas Australia is Bishop Greg O’Kelly SJ AM. The Caritas Australia Deputy Chair is Bishop Peter Stasiuk CSsR DD AM, the Eparch of Saints Peter and Paul of Melbourne for Ukrainian Catholics in Australia and New Zealand.
CARITAS AUSTRALIA’S NATIONAL COUNCIL The National Council is responsible for ensuring the good governance and effective implementation of Caritas Australia’s mandate. The Council provides strategic direction, and timely and independent advice to the BCJED policies, finance and administration of the agency. The National Council comprises nine lay members and advice to the Chair and Deputy Chair and is responsible for the overall governance of the organisation. They met four times during the 2015-16 period, as scheduled.
COMMITTEES WITHIN NATIONAL COUNCIL The National Council has three standing committees: the Audit and Risk Management Committee, the Remuneration Committee and the Nominations Committee. The National Council makes recommendations to the BCJED where appropriate.
AUDIT AND RISK MANAGEMENT (ARM) COMMITTEE Members: Mr Richard Haddock, Mr Michael Burnett The ARM Committee focuses on the financial probity and enterprise risk management of our organisation’s operations and reports regularly to the National Council on financial compliance, statutory reporting and risk management. The National Council ensures that the fiduciary responsibility of Caritas Australia is fulfilled and that our policies and practices are ethical and meet all legal requirements. The ARM Committee met six times in the financial year. Achievements of this committee: • Review and oversight of the organisation’s monthly and year-end financial reporting. • Approval of the annual budget and quarterly forecasts. • Provided a framework for resourcing Strategic Directions 2013-18.
NOMINATIONS COMMITTEE Members: Mr John Bouffler, Emeritus Prof. John Warhurst, and participation from Paul O’Callaghan, Caritas Australia CEO Over the year, the Nominations Committee provided regular advice to the National Council to assist in governance succession planning. The main responsibilities of the Committee are: • To identify suitable Council nominees with input from the Council Chair and Caritas Australia management. • To liaise with the Council Chair in shortlisting nominees and provide advice to the Council Chair about the optimal point for communication with shortlisted nominees. • To ensure that the selection criteria and guidelines for these appointments remain current. • To provide guidance in meeting the orientation needs of new Council members. • To inform Council about proposed selections.
• Review and monitor the organisational risk register on a quarterly basis • Ensures compliance with the Australian Charities and Not-forprofits Commission.
REMUNERATION COMMITTEE Member: Mr John Bouffler, Richard Haddock The Remuneration Committee’s purpose is twofold: • To set policy for the remuneration (pay and benefits) of the CEO and members of the Leadership Team. • To provide advice to the CEO, when requested, about the remuneration of other staff in order to attract, recognise and develop the capabilities of Caritas Australia’s staff and volunteers.
The National Council includes a Chair, Deputy Chair and nine lay members. It is responsible for the overall governance of the agency.
“There continues to be a strong desire, even a passion, to respond to the needs of those who dwell on the margins, and to work to give fuller life to those living in poverty. This opinion is shared by our National Council, including the new members.” – Bishop Greg O’Kelly SJ AM, Caritas Australia Chairman
34 | CARITAS AUSTRALIA
CARITAS AUSTRALIA
ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE
AUSTRALIAN CATHOLIC BISHOPS CONFERENCE
BISHOPS COMMISSION FOR JUSTICE, ECOLOGY AND DEVELOPMENT
NATIONAL COUNCIL
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
CORPORATE SERVICES
INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS
Photo: Richard Wainwright (Australia)
HUMAN RESOURCES
HEAD OF MISSION
ENGAGEMENT & SUSTAINABILITY
ADVOCACY & COMMUNICATIONS
ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16 | 35
NATIONAL COUNCIL THE ROLE OF THE NATIONAL COUNCIL IS AN ADVISORY COUNCIL TO THE BISHOPS’ COMMISSION FOR JUSTICE, ECOLOGY AND DEVELOPMENT (BJCED). THE COUNCIL PROVIDES KEY GOVERNANCE FUNCTIONS FOR CARITAS AUSTRALIA, INCLUDING OVERSIGHT ON THE STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS AS WELL AS FINANCIAL AND RISK MANAGEMENT. In 2015-16, the National Council thanked Richard Haddock, Dr Leoni Degenhardt, Robert Ward and Louise Crowe for their terms, and welcomed Sean Parnell, Kate Fogarty and Patrice Scales.
CHAIRMAN Bishop Greg O’Kelly SJ AM Member since 2012
Bishop O’Kelly is the Auxiliary Bishop in Adelaide and Bishop of the Diocese of Port Pirie. He received an Order of Australia for his work in education, and is Chair of the BCJED.
DEPUT Y CHAIRMAN Bishop Peter Stasiuk CSsR DD AM Member since May 2015
Bishop Stasiuk is the Eparch of the Ukrainian Catholic Church in Australia, New Zealand and Oceania. He received an Order of Australia for his service to religion and to the community.
TAS: Michael Burnett Member since 2012
NSW: Louise Campbell-Price Member since 2009
QLD: Clyde Cosentino Member since 2014
WA: John Bouffler Member since May 2015
ACT:
NT: Sean Parnell OAM Member since October 2015
Member of Audit and Risk Committee Michael is a Chartered Accountant and co-owner of Accru Hobart. His specialist skills include tax planning, business structures, financial management and auditing not-for-profit associations.
Member of the Nominations Committee John is the Executive Director of Community Employers WA. He was CEO of St Vincent de Paul WA and prior to that spent over 20 years in banking and finance.
36 | CARITAS AUSTRALIA
Louise works in Catholic school education. A member of tribal group Gumbainggar, Louise is the coordinator of the Aboriginal Catholic Ministry in Newcastle, and Chair of the NSW Aboriginal and Islander Catholic Council.
Emeritus Prof. John Warhurst AO
Member since May 2015
Member of the Nominations Committee John is a commentator on public policy and election issues. He serves on the board of Marist Youth Care, and has served on the Catholic Social Services Australia board.
Member of Audit and Risk Committee Clyde is a solicitor with extensive experience in refugee and immigration law. He worked in Cambodia as a refugee lawyer and administrator, and holds a Master of Laws and Bachelor of Theology.
Sean has over 30 years’ experience in the police force and has a Masters in Theology. He is Chairman of the NT Diocesan Youth Council and a member of the NT Catholic Education Council.
CARITAS AUSTRALIA
LEADERSHIP TEAM OUR LEADERSHIP TEAM PROVIDES DIRECTION TO THE AGENCY’S CORE WORK, ASSISTS WITH IMPLEMENTING OUR STRATEGIC PLAN AND INFORMS THE NATIONAL COUNCIL IN THEIR DECISION MAKING FUNCTIONS. VIC: Kate Fogarty Member since May 2016
Kate is the Principal of Assumption College in Kilmore, Victoria, a member of the Marist Association Council and a lecturer at La Trobe University Bendigo for the Graduate Certificate in Religious Education.
VIC: Patrice Scales Member since May 2016
Patrice has held senior management positions for 30 years. She is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and is Chair of the Council of Catholic Social Services, Victoria.
In August 2015, we welcomed Head of Human Resources, John Alexander. In March 2016, after seven years with Caritas Australia, we said goodbye to Head of Community Engagement, Helen Forde and welcomed Head of Engagement and Sustainability, David Armstrong.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Paul O’Callaghan
National Council Member since 2013 Paul began as CEO in December 2013. His background includes leadership roles with Catholic Social Services Australia, the Australian Council for International Development, and National Disability Services.
CHIEF FINANCE AND OPERATIONS OFFICER Rocky Naickar
Rocky has over 15 years’ senior leadership experience leading corporate service functions in the corporate, public and not-for-profit sectors.
HEAD OF INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS Jamieson B. Davies
HEAD OF MISSION Sr. Anne McGuire
HEAD OF HUMAN RESOURCES John Alexander
HEAD OF ENGAGEMENT AND SUSTAINABILIT Y David Armstrong
Jamieson has over 20 years’ experience in the international development sector. Before joining Caritas Australia in 2009, Jamieson worked for Catholic Relief Services (Caritas USA) in Africa, Asia and the USA.
John has significant experience across the public, private and not-for-profit sectors. He is a Fellow of the Australian Human Resources Institute, and a Graduate Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Anne is a member of the Institute of Sisters of Mercy of Australia and Papua New Guinea. For over 25 years, Anne worked in Catholic Education and ministry with First Australians.
David has substantial social justice, aid and development, fundraising and community engagement experience. Previous roles include Head of Fundraising at Australian Red Cross.
View detailed profiles of our National Council members and Leadership Team at www.caritas.org.au/org-structure
ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16 | 37
Integral Human Development
PARTNERSHIPS Caritas Australia partners with local organisations, communities and the Australian Government, with some of our programs supported by Australian Aid.
38 | CARITAS AUSTRALIA
AFRICA: MALAWI
The Sky’s the Limit The Australia Africa Community Engagement Scheme (AACES), which ran from June 2011 to June 2016, was a successful initiative. Many communities in Malawi and Tanzania now enjoy access to clean and safe water, have become more food secure, and have better sanitation and hygiene services. Malawi and Tanzania are two of the world’s poorest countries. More than three quarters of the population in both countries live in rural areas and are dependent on subsistence farming. Caritas Australia has worked in partnership with the national Caritas offices in Tanzania and Malawi for many years. Although the Australian Government support for the five-year ACCES program has come to an end, our strong relationship and support will continue for years to come. Almost 150,000 people have gained access to safe and clean water, 89,000 have improved sanitation, and more than 83,000 benefit from new or improved farming services. In addition, over 43,000 people have increased knowledge of their rights and 2,887 people living with disabilities are now able to access services (figures from December 2015).
Agatha’s Story Agatha, 46, is a mother of two from Namkumba village, Dowa District, Malawi. Agatha and many others in her district said that the AACES project brought about a radical and transformative change of mindset in the community. By using a strengths-based approach to development, local ownership and pride is promoted as programs are built on people’s existing skills, resources and experiences. This model is now being used in Caritas Australia programs around the world. “The introduction of the strengths-based approach in our village was a turning point for us. After the community came up with their vision, my husband and I went home and we came up with our own vision. On top of the list was a decent house, which we now have,” said Agatha. Through the program she has gained skills and knowledge in conservation agriculture techniques, increasing the maize harvest on her one-hectare plot from 600 kilograms to 4.2 tonnes. Her family now has a plentiful supply of nutritious food and earns some income from the sale of surplus production. Agatha and other members of her community (123 families) also identified the latent potential in a local wetland. Together, they now manage small-scale irrigation projects, which assist in increasing their vegetable harvests year-round.
I N 20 15 : • 146,660 people gained access to safe, clean water. • 89,018 people now have improved sanitation. * Figures from December 2015
Read more about AACES at www.caritas.org.au/aaces
For small-holder farmers who rely on rain for their agriculture, this is an important development to mitigate the effects of climate change which has affected rainfall distribution in Malawi. For Agatha, the sky really is the limit when it comes to turning things around for the better. “My life has changed forever. I wasn’t given any money, but the knowledge and skills to turn around my life on my own.” “Two years ago I decided to buy a sewing machine to do tailoring as I noticed no one was doing it. Using a small loan from the AACES established village savings and loan proceeds, I bought the machine. Now I make an average of US$3 each day from tailoring.” Photo: William Mponda, CADECOM
ANNUAL REPORT 2015-16 | 39
MISSION: JUBILEE YEAR OF MERCY Over the last 12 months we have seen some remarkable gifts from Pope Francis. In calling for a Jubilee Year of Mercy, he invited us to revitalise our understanding of the concept of mercy. In May 2015 the Encyclical Laudato Si’ – On the Care for our Common Home was released. Over the past 12 months we have embedded his words into Caritas Australia’s mission, and earlier this year, following the Synod on marriage and family life, Pope Francis released the Apostolic Exhortation Amoris Laetitia (The Joy of Love).
ANNE MCGUIRE Head of Mission
All this movement emerges from the Pope’s deeply reflected and often articulated understanding of the Church as an agent of the mercy of God. The work of Caritas Australia is deeply grounded in the Works of Mercy, those distinctively Catholic virtues which underpin Catholic Social Teaching.
Caritas Australia works to create a world that supports the growth of each person towards “fullness of life” (John 10:10) and reflects the innate, God-given dignity and worth of all creation.
We who work for Caritas are urged to keep foremost in our minds the ‘why’ of our work. While the vision and mission of Caritas is clearly articulated, it helps to remember that Caritas Australia is part of the broader mission of Jesus, who is the embodiment of God’s mercy. Among our biggest challenges is building the capacity for mission effectiveness across the agency in Australia and overseas. Caritas Australia works to create a world that supports the growth of each person towards “fullness of life” (John 10:10) and reflects the innate, God-given dignity and worth of all creation. To support and encourage us in this great enterprise, earlier this year our staff participated in a series of mission animation activities. The words of Polly Berends were crucial to these activities, “Everything that happens to you is your teacher … the secret is to sit at the feet of your own life – and be taught by it”. Staff in the National Office participated in a one-day Our Mission with Christ workshop with Fr Richard Leonard SJ. These exercises helped us to foster a culture of trust and understanding, as well as a sense that we are indeed working together to bring all things together in God. To this end, our next planned venture is working on a common understanding of leadership in an agency, based on the values of the Gospels. We look forward to moving on together. Thank you for supporting Caritas Australia and for reading our Annual Report.
Anne McGuire, Head of Mission
40 | CARITAS AUSTRALIA
THE CARITAS FAMILY
“Dear Brothers and Sisters, never resort to war! Never war! Above all, I think of all the children who are robbed of their hope for a better life and a decent future.”
Photo: Caritas Syria
THE CARITAS FAMILY
– Pope Francis
OUR WORK IS ONLY POSSIBLE BECAUSE OF OUR GENEROUS SUPPORTERS. YOU CAN HELP IN MANY WAYS.
MAKE A DONATION
VOLUNTEER
LEAVE A GIFT IN YOUR WILL
By supporting Caritas Australia, you are creating positive change. Donations of $2 or more are tax deductible. Call 1800 024 413 or donate securely at www.caritas.org.au/donate
We appreciate and love having volunteers on board. Call 1800 024 413, email jobs@caritas.org.au or find your local diocesan representative at www.caritas.org.au/contact-us
ORGANISE OR ATTEND AN EVENT
WORKPLACE GIVING
A gift in your will is a lasting and generous investment. If you are able, we encourage you to consider leaving a legacy that will live on through our vital work. Call 1800 024 413, email growingspirit@caritas.org.au or visit www.caritas.org.au/bequests
For a Caritas Australia event near you check out www.caritas.org.au/events. Can’t find one? Start your own! Head to www.caritas.org.au/your-fundraising-event for some great ideas on getting started.
COMPL AINTS Complaints alleging breaches of the ACFID Code of Conduct can be made to the ACFID Code of Conduct Committee via www.acfid.asn.au/codeof-conduct/complaints CHARIT Y STATUS Caritas Australia is endorsed by the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission as a Deductible Gift Recipient. Donations of $2 or more are tax deductible.
This is one of the most cost effective and simple ways of making a donation. Your ongoing donation, which is deducted automatically from your salary each pay period, allows us to plan vital projects for the future. Head to www.caritas.org.au/ workplace-giving for more.
FEEDBACK We welcome feedback about our organisation. To provide feedback, or lodge a compliment or complaint, call 1800 024 413, write to Caritas Australia, GPO Box 9630 in your capital city or send an email to questions@caritas.org.au FUNDING Caritas Australia generates income from various streams including the Australian Government, public donations, government grants and investments.
We gratefully acknowledge the support of the Australian Government through DFAT.
KEEP UP-TO-DATE Receive monthly updates by signing up to the Caritas eNewsletter at www.caritas.org.au/subscribe or read our quarterly supporter publication CaritasNews at www.caritas.org.au/caritasnews
SOLICITORS Makinson d’Apice Lawyers BANKERS Commonwealth Bank AUDITORS Moore Stephens Sydney
The Catholic Agency for International Aid and Development Caritas Australia 24-32 O’Riordan Street Alexandria NSW 2015 1800 024 413 questions@caritas.org.au 1800 024 413 facebook.com/CaritasAU twitter.com/CaritasAust youtube.com/CaritasAustralia www.caritas.org.au