MiLife-Victoria Annual Report 2021-2022

We thank the clients, families, staff and board members who have shared their stories with us, and also thank those who have made contributions

In the spirit of reconciliation MiLife-Victoria acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to the land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders, past, present, and emerging, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.

A Message from our CEO

This year MiLife-Victoria celebrates its 30th birthday; that’s 30 years of supporting people with disabilities and their families. This is an incredible milestone and one that deserves commemorating. The contribution the organisation has made to the community is huge. We know that MiLife-Victoria’s soul comes from those who have taken that three-decade journey with us. Those are the people and families whom we have had the honour of supporting since the beginning through to today. We’ve seen more growth and change than anyone thought possible, and without these people, MiLife-Victoria would not be here providing the essential services that the community deserves. It is because of them that we have had the privilege of increasing our reach and impact. It is because of them that we’re still here and it is because of them that we are capable of achieving more. MiLife-Victoria is extremely proud to be trusted with such important community work and I hope we will be trusted to do so for another 30 years.

Despite this year being a momentous occasion, the environment unfortunately did not let up.

This year has, once again, seen us pivot our services to work around the challenges of living within a global pandemic. The state of Victoria was in lockdown for approximately three months at the beginning of the last financial

year, and severe weather events caused extensive damage to one of our buildings. This led to a reduction in services we were able to provide our clients, and saw many staff working from home, with many clients not being able to access the services the way they should be able to. It is a true credit to our clients, families and staff who have continued to show their resilience throughout the most challenging times.

However, this year has seen Milife-Victoria take great strides toward our future. We have welcomed new board members and worked with the board, staff, and family members to develop a new strategic plan and direction for the organisation. We have engaged the board, leadership team and relevant staff in a co-design process to identify MiLife-Victoria’s functions and organise them in a way that focuses on our client experience. This process has led to a new organisational design which will be introduced in the new financial year.

The strategic plan and organisational design will see MiLife-Victoria head into the new financial year with much needed clarity around our organisational goals and a new vision for the organisation to see ‘people of all abilities living life to the fullest.’

Seven strategic objectives will guide the organisation over the coming years, each objective has a strong focus on culture, quality and sustainability. At the heart of

all this, are our people and families. While we have a great many things to achieve, we know that we must preserve what has made us successful: the connection that we have with our people and families. Thirty years is an important landmark and the magic we have seen over that period is what will take us into the next phase of our organisation’s history.

For those who follow the traditional anniversary celebrations, you’ll be aware that 30 years is signified by a pearl. As such, I proudly dedicate this annual report to our pearls: the people who started it all; the people we live and breathe for. It is for you that we do what we do and it is for you that I’m most excited about what will be achieved next. I give my heartfelt thanks to you and congratulate you for everything you’ve achieved.

Amanda Youngs CEO, MiLife-Victoria.

A Message from Our President

This year proved to be another extraordinary year as COVID-19 continued to influence the way we live and work. The pandemic presented challenges for all Victorians, in particular those who are most vulnerable, such as people with disability and the elderly.

MiLife-Victoria’s board, leadership team and staff should all be very proud of the way in which they have been able to continue to support clients under such challenging circumstances. In the last 30 years our organisation has never seen such challenging times, and yet the resilience of staff and clients has seen the organisation adapt and change. It now feels that we are on our way to living with COVID-19 and continuing business as usual despite the constant challenges of illness and wearing PPE to protect from infection.

This year saw us farewell a number of long-standing board members. I would like to take this opportunity to formally thank former President, Mark Packiyanthan, former President and most recently, Deputy-President Darlene Neu and Director Matthew Ziedin for their dedication and years of service to MiLife-Victoria. Their leadership has made MiLife-Victoria what it is today and will always be remembered.

With the departure of three board members we embarked on a recruitment process to attract new talent to our board. In May we welcomed Dr Sidney Chandrasiri, Dr Nataliya Shkuratova, Karen Major and Samuel Abdelsayed to the team. This team, together with existing board members, Genevieve Irving, Kelly Johnson and myself collaborated with clients and families as well as the organisation’s leadership to set a bold new strategic direction for the next three years. Thank you to everyone who was involved in the process.

The strategy will see MiLife-Victoria invest in our people, quality, and continuous improvement, while developing new and innovative services to meet the broad range of client needs for their whole lives. It is an exciting time for MiLife-Victoria as we enter a period of improvement and growth while continuing to deliver the wonderful programs and support our valued clients and families.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank my fellow board members for their efforts in the 2022 financial year. After the conclusion of the financial year, Genevieve Irving and Kelly Johnson announced their retirement from the board to focus on their families. Both have contributed so much to the MiLife-Victoria board and

community, and we thank them for all they have done for Milife-Victoria and our clients. Drs Chandrasiri and Shkuratova and Samuel Abdelsayed will not be continuing with the MiLife-Victoria board, but we have several outstanding new and returning faces joining us. Jennie Solis, who has been a member of the MilifeVictoria community since 1992, through her sister who is one of our wonderful clients has jumped at the opportunity to return to the board and we are incredibly lucky to have her, as she has a wealth of both professional and personal experience in the disability space. Jeremy Worthington is a passionate member of the local community and brings a caring and person-centric business approach. We have been approached by several other inspiring members of the local and broader community, and I look forward to updating you at our Annual General Meeting in November.

This year’s Annual General Meeting will see the return of in-person meetings, and we hope to make it a party. We would love to see as many clients, families,

and support people in attendance as we celebrate a challenging but successful year and take the opportunity to see each other in the flesh.

I would like to thank Chief Executive Officer, Amanda Youngs for her leadership and passion. Thank you to our extraordinary staff for their commitment, dedication and resilience, in what has been yet another challenging year. And finally, saving the best until last, thank you to our wonderful clients and families who are the reason we do what we do.

Alix Holston President, MiLife-Victoria Board

Our Vision and Purpose

During the year, following a period of significant change, MiLife-Victoria worked with its stakeholders to redefine its vision, mission and values, and develop a strategic plan which will take the organisation into the future.

Our Vision

People of all abilities living life to the fullest.

Our Purpose

To partner with community so that people of all abilities have all their needs met and can live their best life, for their whole life.

• Diversity

• Respect

• Choice

• Inclusivity

• Collaboration

• Partnerships

Our Values Strategic Goals

• Provide comprehensive client and family support

• Support more clients and families earlier

• Increase ‘in community’ opportunities

• Create and promote a unique ‘employment value proposition’

• Strengthen organisational sustainability

• Develop and grow the MiLife-Victoria brand

Group-based programs

LANGWARRIN HUB

From July to September 2021, MiLifeVictoria experienced another 90 days of lockdown which affected Victorians in the first half of the financial year. The Langwarrin Hub remained open to clients who were deemed to be vulnerable. Staff continued to wear PPE, and clients, who were mainly one-on-one , were able to maintain some normality, albeit within the site with no community access. Programs were pivoted to ensure people were still getting up and about, as COVID-19 led to many mobility issues driven by sedentary behaviour and not enough outdoor activity.

Buses lay dormant as transport services were unable to operate. Staff and clients were matched depending on where they lived, and staff transported clients to site in the morning and drove them home at the end of the day.

Staff ran online activities throughout the day and were able to connect with clients who were at home or in Supported Living. This was a great opportunity for everyone to see their friends online and helped to maintain client engagement.

In January 2022, just as clients were set to return to the site, a large storm caused extensive damage to the main Langwarrin building. Unfortunately, this was not a quick fix and once again the programs had to pivot in an attempt to continue

with as little disruption to client’s routines as possible.

For the first few months of the year programs were held in the blue building at the Langwarrin Hub, as well as offsite at the local Community Centre. Marquees and portable toilets were also hired to accommodate staff and clients, and where possible, programs were held outdoors in local parks and gardens. The building works were completed in April with programs returning to the white building after the Easter break.

During this time Kate Clipsham moved across to a newly created role in clinical support and training, and Amanda Youngs took over the day-to-day management of the Langwarrin Hub as well as her role as the CEO. Donna Wilde was appointed to the role of Senior Manager Client Services in May. Donna comes to MiLife-Victoria with over 30 years of experience within the disability sector in Government and not-for-profit organisations across Victoria and the Northern Territory.

Term 2 saw the return of some normality within the group programs with clients and staff able to relocate back into the white building, coupled with the ability to return to community-based programs such as bowling, gym and basketball. This led to many positive outcomes for clients as they love being outdoors

and back in the community and have been able to flourish again which was wonderful to see.

Events have also been on the agenda for the Langwarrin Hub and they have celebrated Christmas in July, and raised over $400 for the Cancer Council’s Biggest Morning Tea. Other fun activities at Langwarrin included Pyjama Day to mark the winter solstice. Clients and staff have really enjoyed preparing for and participating in these events with many more scheduled over the next 12 months.

Clients have also been enjoying ‘Happy Hour’ every Wednesday with Kevin from Hey Dee Ho Music popping in for an hour of music, dancing and a whole lot of fun. Clients love the music and it’s been wonderful to see their eyes light up as they sing, dance and play along to the songs.

There is a new and vibrant direction for Langwarrin over the next financial year with more individualised programs for clients. The reinvigorated key worker role will allow for more individual communication with families. Clients can expect to see an injection of fun,

community and social consciousness as they get involved in more events which support the fundraising efforts of organisations and foundations.

CRANBOURNE HUB

Over the past 12 months the Cranbourne Hub has undergone many changes which have seen the quality of the programs and client support grow from strength to strength.

During the lengthy lockdown in the second half of 2021 the site was closed with clients from the site who were deemed vulnerable supported at the Langwarrin Hub while other clients were offered online activities. This time was challenging for many of the clients and there were reports of negative effects on clients’ mental health and wellbeing, as well as feelings of anxiety and isolation.

With programs returning to ‘somewhat normal’ delivery in January there was a lot of work to be done with the clients to reintegrate them into the social setting and into the local community. Clients were eased back in with small walks around the

block and to the shops, with community programs not starting back properly until the middle of the year.

Many changes happened at the Cranbourne Hub early in the new year, with a number of employees deciding to take up external career opportunities. This led to hiring a new cohort of staff as well as the introduction of some new roles, including a Coordinator for the Hub, which saw Suzanne Pate move across from her previous role as Support Coordinator.

Early in 2022, Glecelyn Warner moved across from Langwarrin into a newly created role at the Cranbourne Hub. Her role involves supporting and coaching staff and assisting clients to become more empowered by encouraging them to raise concerns and provide feedback. The re-establishment of client committees at Cranbourne has also assisted in the empowerment of clients.

While the new year saw clients return to the Cranbourne Hub, it has not come without its challenges. COVID-19 and other illnesses have continued to plague the workforce and has, in some cases, led to sending clients home for the day as there have not been the staff to support them.

Changes to the staffing structure saw the introduction of split shifts, this provided staff with a lot more time to dedicate to

planning and preparing the programs they are delivering throughout the day. This has led to a huge paradigm shift in the way MiLife-Victoria delivers programs, focusing on providing clients with choice and control over their daily activities, and better care for the clients. Further, there has also been an increased focus on staff training, including Mealtime Management training and Healthy Eating training which went hand in hand with vulnerability assessments.

Some of the fun things which clients have enjoyed during the year was the ‘Minute to Win It’ games they played, which included some fun activities with a link back to the TV show. Clients also loved the Alice in Wonderland High Tea which was organised by one of the groups with all Cranbourne clients invited to attend. A lot of planning was involved in the event, with clients spending weeks creating decorations such as teacups, placemats, table settings and more. On the day, the group baked scones and raspberry tarts as well as making sausage rolls and finger sandwiches.

More activities which help with client socialisation and physical and mental wellbeing are planned for the future as we head into the new financial year.

Individual Support

This year saw demand for individual support in the home increase with many clients requiring additional support during lockdowns, when other programs and community activities were unavailable.

Individual Support staff must be commended for their dedication throughout lockdown. They put themselves and their families at risk as they went to work to look after others, all the while wearing PPE and taking precautions to remain COVID-19 free. Strict protocols were in place with staff and clients having to take temperature checks and RAT tests to check their health before each shift.

The last 12 months saw a decline in the mental and physical health of many clients with isolation and lack of social interaction being the main contributing factor. However, Individual Support staff have helped rebuild and empower clients to overcome their anxiety post the lockdowns and re-enter the community.

Nav Kur started with MiLife-Victoria as the Individual Support Coordinator in February 2022. Nav has been a great asset to the team with her role dedicated to managing Individual Support clients and staff. Since commencing in the role, Nav has completed home visits with all Individual Support clients and has met with their families to discuss Individual Support Plans and goals.

There have been some challenges in recruiting staff into Individual Support roles, with the market proving to be quite competitive and NDIS clearances are taking some time to complete.

MiLife-Victoria had a stand at a number of small expos throughout the year with the Frankston Special Development School and Yarrabah in Aspendale. Information about Individual Support, Group Programs and Support Coordination were handed out to expo attendees to promote the services provided.

ACFE

Over the last 12 months MiLife-Victoria has delivered 12 pre-accredited Adult and Community Funded Education (ACFE) programs with many students participating in one or more courses throughout the week. The programs are designed to support people with disability to develop confidence and provide them with skills and knowledge to prepare them for the workforce, volunteering and other vocational activities.

Over the last financial year students participated in the following courses:

• Literacy

• Working in Administration

• Working in Car Detailing

• Working in Hospitality

• Working as a Volunteer

• Working in Retail

• Getting a Job

• Horticulture

• Introduction to Computers

• Working in Warehousing

• Digital Essentials

All courses were held online for the first half of the financial year as the lockdowns in Victoria meant that classes were unable to be held face to face and many businesses remained closed with staff working from home.

Online classes were challenging as the ACFE tutors had to find ideas to keep students engaged and interested. Students were already well versed in using Zoom as the previous year had provided plenty of opportunity for online learning. Online cooking classes presented more of a challenge, however it was good to see how adaptable and resilient the students were.

Once restrictions lifted students enjoyed returning to the classroom and work environment, as well as catching up in person with their friends and tutors. Many friendships started to form outside of class too with a group of students attending Morning Melodies in Rosebud together once a month.

Workplace visits to places such as the Melbourne Town Hall, Aged Care Expo at the Showgrounds, Arts Centre and businesses of interest provided students with the opportunity to learn about different workplaces and the types of jobs available within those workplaces. Students received a worksheet about each business which they have to work through and complete. This provides students an opportunity to learn more about the businesses they visit.

There have been some wonderful stories of achievement throughout the year with one student gaining full-time employment at Sandhurst Country Club where she works as a kitchen hand. She loves her

job and has enjoyed working with her colleagues in the kitchen and making new friends. She enjoyed attending ACFE on Tuesdays so much that she negotiated with her boss to have Tuesdays off each week so she can still attend.

Two clients who regularly volunteer at the Salvation Army Opportunity Shop in Frankston are looked upon as extremely valuable volunteers. One lady has grown in confidence and has developed excellent employability skills during her time doing this course.

The tutors, Sandra, Paula, Paul and Maria have done an excellent job throughout the year to keep students engaged and learning despite some very trying times.

On-site workplace training provides students with real life work experience that would not be able to occur without the support of local businesses. Thank you to the following businesses for their support throughout the year.

• Salvation Army, Frankston

• Bunnings, Hastings

• Mitsubishi, Frankston

• Langwarrin Community Centre

• The Meadows Farm, Balnarring

• Ebenezer Village, Langwarrin

Support Coordination

The Support Coordination team has had some significant changes in the last 12 months with the departure of Suzanne Pate which resulted in Heather van der Sluys returning from retirement for two days a week. Leslie Orchard started with the team in October last year and moved into the role of Team Leader in March while still managing a number of clients. During this time client numbers have more or less stayed the same with the team continuing to support approximately 120 clients.

The team saw an increase in demand for their services during the pandemic with many clients requiring additional support during the lockdowns. There was more demand for one-on-one support in the home when group programs were unable to run. This led to a shift in the way in which some clients are now being supported ongoing, with some choosing not to return to day programs, instead, preferring to have individual support in their home and local community. There have been some wonderful stories with many Support Coordination clients achieving great things throughout the year — like one client who was introduced to music therapy and is now able to use an instrument for the first time.

Below are a few short stories about the successes of just a few clients whose names have been excluded for privacy. There have been many more wonderful

stories of clients throughout the year, two in particular, which we will focus on later in the report.

A client with an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) was suffering from severe mental health issues. The Support Coordination team helped him get into Supported Independent Living (SIL) which he absolutely loves. He now goes to the gym regularly and enjoys seeing the benefits to his health. With the help and encouragement of his Support Coordinator his mental health has improved dramatically and he is really enjoying life now!

One client, who has never worked before, is currently training so that he can work full time at Flinders Hotel. This same client has been introduced to Rock Therapy recently and has responded well to it spending an hour a week ‘head banging’ to his favourite music.

Another client who always wanted to live independently has recently successfully moved out of home into supported accommodation for high functioning adults. He’s now learning how to drive with the support of an Occupational Therapist driving instructor.

One client recently started dog therapy. Previously she found it difficult to communicate, however, since having a dog with her she is much more relaxed and finding it easier to open up.

Another client suffered from increased seizure activity during the lockdowns and did not want to do anything post lockdowns, except stay at home. Prior to lockdowns he was attending MiLifeVictoria four days a week. In an attempt to work out strategies for this client to return to day service programs his Support Coordinator, Rhonda, had meetings with his parents, the staff at his supported accommodation, his behaviour specialist and staff from the Langwarrin Hub. The staff at the Langwarrin Hub were amazing,

and went out of their way to pop in and see this client each week. Another client would go with the staff to the client’s house and check in on him, until one day, after some coaxing, the client decided to hop on the bus and come in to the Langwarrin Hub. It was a huge achievement and thanks to his friend and the staff at Langwarrin and their persistence, this client has been attending day programs again ever since.

Ashleigh’s Story

Ashleigh is a fiercely independent young lady who has always wanted to work and do the things she sees other people doing. Recently Ashleigh has gained employment and is loving life, but it’s taken a lot of time and support from her mother, Carol, Support Coordinator, Rhonda and others to get to where she is today.

“Ashleigh was a beautiful baby,” tells her Mum, Carol. “I connected with her straight away.” Ashleigh was born with Apert Syndrome, a rare genetic condition affecting the formation of the skull, face, hands and feet. “After Ashleigh’s birth her father and I were basically sent home with no information or support. I just had to deal with my new baby, who required a lot of operations over the years, on my own. I had to become an advocate for my child and stay strong to support her.”

In her early years Ashleigh had a lot of support from Biala, and started her journey with Peninsula Special School at kindergarten age.

“Ash loved school, she was a social butterfly,” tells Carol. “For me it was a nice bubble, a lovely community of parents. There was lots of communication with the school and concerts at the end of each year.”

During her school years Ashleigh had a lot of support from Anglicare. “They were a godsend,” tells Carol. “They were a

great stepping stone and provided lots of resources for us. There were often respite weekends for parents which gave me a chance to connect with other parents and let my hair down.”

The transition from finishing high school to life was challenging for Ashleigh, who suffers from severe anxiety and is very aware of the fact that she is built differently to other people.

Almost by luck, Carol stumbled across the HappinessFirst Café in Rosebud where she met owner and founder Rose Farfalla. Located on Point Nepean Road, the café’s workplace culture removes labels and empowers staff to move past their disability to find meaningful employment.

“Since working at the café Ash is more motivated, she gets up and gets herself ready and is excited to go to work. It gives her a sense of normality, independence, meaning and she feels valued.” You can find Ash at the café each Monday from 12pm till 2pm.

After her shift, Ash, with her support worker, attends a social group with a few other girls. “Socialising was especially needed after all the lockdowns,” says Carol, “she still is finding it difficult to integrate into groups.”

Ashleigh recently attended an all abilities formal where she dressed in a beautiful blue ball gown and had her make-up and hair done. She attended dance

classes each Wednesday in the lead up to the event. “It was a beautiful night with a three-course meal at Amberlee Receptions in Cranbourne,” says Carol. “It was a wonderful opportunity for Ash to participate in something she wouldn’t normally get an opportunity to do. It was a massive confidence booster for her.”

“Our Support Coordinator, Rhonda, has been a huge support to us since Ashleigh received her first NDIS plan. She’s really helped take the pressure off, has saved me a lot of time, and has helped us keep Ashleigh’s behaviour support therapist which is a blessing.”

Carol hopes Ashleigh’s future is one of independence and opportunity. “It only takes one person to form an idea and create an opportunity. We need more people like Rose from the HappinessFirst Café to create opportunities for people with disabilities.”

30 YEARS OF MiLife-Victoria

1992

MiLife-Victoria started its life on 28 January 1992 as Frankston Community Access Program supporting 14 students from Frankston Special Development School.

Within six months of starting the Frankston Community Access Program, it became incorporated and renamed Peninsula Access Support and Training (PAST) and moved to rented premises in Mt Eliza.

1993 1994

The program operated in Roy Court, Mt Eliza with four support staff, one bus driver and one part-time finance person.

18 months after moving to Mt Eliza the Futures for Young Adults (FFYA) program was introduced and changed the face of the organisation providing an opportunity for growth.

Funding of $250,000 from Health and Community Services was secured to purchase the Langwarrin property. The Langwarrin Centre was officially opened in 1995 and the group moved into its new premises in September.

A successful Overnight Stays program was introduced at the new Langwarrin site.

Introduction of the Futures for Young Adults program and Carers Package funded by DHS assisted the growth of the client base.

PAST started running a number of educational courses from within various Community Centres in the Southern Metropolitan Region and participated in pre-vocational training programs in Pakenham.

The numbers of clients grew rapidly from 14 to 35 and as a result staff numbers and transport offerings increased.

PAST became registered with ACFE and began running Adult Education courses for people with disability.

PAST grew to 49 clients, and as a result opened a new service in Mornington.

The financial system was computerised to keep up with business growth.

Recreation camps were run in Echuca, Mansfield, Warrnambool and Lorne, while the overnight stay program remained popular.

Funding applications for an administration building, toilet block and car parking at Langwarrin were approved. A further application was submitted for an Annex at Cranbourne and the purchase of a 22-seater bus.

ACFE funding increased to provide more courses.

Individual Program Plan was introduced to ascertain client goals and provide opportunities to meet their goals.

The Cranbourne Annex opened in 2000 with 20 clients across both buildings.

Funding for Langwarrin was approved and plans commenced to build a purpose-built facility on the site.

This year saw the completion of the organisations’ first report for the Disability Services Self-Assessment.

A building permit for Langwarrin was approved and plans were underway for the new building at Langwarrin. The original building was transformed into an administration building with a reception area created downstairs.

A consultant was employed to lead the team to develop a Business Plan.

PAST received $500,000 in oneoff funding which went towards a new vehicle and the new building at Langwarrin.

On 22 January 2002 PAST celebrated its 10th birthday.

The Hastings property was purchased and staff and clients moved in once the renovations were completed in March.

The Langwarrin redevelopment began in January and was completed by July. The Mornington site was closed.

On November 15th the official opening of Langwarrin was held and celebrations were had with Mayor of Frankston, Cathy Wilson, officially opening the building.

This was a year of consolidation with policies and processes reviewed. There was a change to the staff structure, and the implementation of a program resource package to support staff to deliver programs. The organisation introduced portfolios for board members along with a review of the constitution.

Funding was received to run respite holidays. Holiday houses in Rye and Rosebud were used as a base.

PAST was successful in its application for respite funding which provided clients with six weekends away.

The organisation extended its support base to include people with neurological disorders, specifically people with Motor Neuron Disease (MND).

Clients were involved in a Club Wild workshop to produce a music DVD called ‘Dream of the Century’ which was shown at many events including the State launch of ‘Metro Access.’

The first ‘Peninsula Access 2005’ calendar was developed and distributed to 1500 people.

By 2006 PAST was supporting over 100 people, the organisation had nine vehicles, properties at Langwarrin, Hastings, Frankston and Cranbourne as well as rented offices in Cranbourne and Frankston.

Alliances were formed with the Frankston Business Chamber and WomenConnect Frankston which created networking opportunities and a chance to grow the brand locally.

PAST was recognised and won the ‘Service Business –Not for Profit’ section at the Frankston and Mornington Peninsula Business Awards.

The organisation worked with Frankston City Council on the design of an accessible public toilet to be located within Frankston’s Central Business District. During this time, it also developed its third ‘Peninsula Access’ calendar.

The property in Lyall Street, Cranbourne was purchased replacing the Codrington Street property. Funding was gained to run further respite holidays.

Activities continued to run over seven days in the week with people given the option to participate in group activities or individual support on weekends.

2008 saw a move away from the ‘block funding’ model for disability providers, and a move to individualised funding attributed to clients. As a result, the organisation received a 26% increase to respite funding and was able to provide 30 holidays a year, an increase of seven from the previous year.

Keys Street Accessible Toilet opened in Frankston in September 2008, the first of its kind for Frankston and Australia.

Modifications were made to the Lyall Street property and clients successfully transitioned to the new building.

In 2009 the Global Financial Crisis impacted many organisations, in addition, the State Government budget didn’t adequately provide enough resources for the disability sector.

PAST joined NDS Victoria ‘Fair Go For All’ campaign. The purpose of the campaign was to position disability as a vital community issue for government and secure support from parliamentarians and other community members for people with disability.

This year saw conversations starting about the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) which aimed to replace Australia’s crisis-driven welfare-based approach to disability services, providing funding for essential care, support, therapy, aids, equipment, home modifications and access to the community, education and training.

In 2011 PAST achieved its Quality Framework for Disability Services Certification.

The delivery of the Strategic Plan for 2008-2011 was completed and work began on developing a new Strategic Plan for the next 3-5 years.

Culburra House in Frankston was purchased and fitted out to be used by the organisation and rented out to others for respite holidays.

PAST continued to build support and lobby the government for the introduction of a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), which in August of 2011, was approved for development by State and Territory Leaders, the Prime Minister and the Council of the Australian Governments (COAG).

The ‘Who’s Life is it Anyway’ DVD was developed featuring one of PAST’s clients who was able to tell her story about her experiences.

A production called ‘’A Show?!’’ was performed by PAST Clients. The production was funded by the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council Community Grants program and was in partnership with the Pelican Theatre Company.

PAST purchased Suite 1 in the Frankston Business Centre to house Head Office which was previously spread across two rented suites within the Centre.

In 2012 PAST celebrated its 20th anniversary. Much of the year was spent preparing for the development of the next Strategic Plan for 2012-2015.

The NDIS Bill was passed through parliament on 21 March 2013 and the NDIS was launched on 1 July 2013 with individuals looking forward to a lifetime of support under the scheme.

The organisation rebranded from PAST to MiLife-Victoria, aligning the organisation with its vision, mission and values. Preparations began for the introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) set for 2016-2019.

Work continued to be done in order to prepare the organisation for the introduction of the NDIS. This included investing in technology systems to track outcomes against client’s individual goals and budgets.

The NDIS started to roll out in Victoria, with the southern metropolitan region set to completely transition into the scheme in 2018.

In preparation, MiLife-Victoria officially became a registered NDIS provider.

MiLife-Victoria staff started working with clients, families and others to prepare for the NDIS roll out in 2018.

At the end of July 2017, MiLife-Victoria’s first four clients transitioned to the NDIS.

The organisation began operating within both an NDIS environment and the DHHS environment as it continued to transition all clients to the NDIS.

MiLife-Victoria clients had fully transitioned to the NDIS by July 2019, making MiLife-Victoria the first block-funded organisation in the area to become 100% transitioned to the scheme.

Head Office was moved to Hastings in June 2019, and the Frankston office became a learning centre. Hastings clients were transferred to Culburra House in Frankston.

COVID-19 hit Australia’s shores in January and with it came one of the most challenging years in the history of MiLife-Victoria.

MiLife-Victoria adapted to delivering services differently, with online programs becoming a hit with clients who were able to access them.

Culburra House in Frankston was sold.

Programs of Support was introduced in November/December which saw a complete change to the timetable and offerings.

In November, MiLife-Victoria purchased Designs for Hair, a hairdressing salon in Seaford. Around the same time it was asked to manage Coffee Potts Café on behalf of Langwarrin Community Aged Care.

In May 2021, Terri Carrol retired as CEO of MiLifeVictoria after 29 years and Amanda Youngs was appointed as the CEO.

2021 was the first year of providing group-based programs under a new NDIS funding model called ‘Programs of Support’ which was a big change for both staff and clients.

Online programs continued as only those who were most vulnerable were able to attend onsite programs.

MiLife-Victoria celebrates its 30th birthday.

The global pandemic has continued to create challenges in the delivery of service offerings.

Under its new leadership a new Organisational Design was developed. In addition, a Strategic Plan has been developed with a new direction for the organisation. The plan will be implemented over the coming years and will see MiLife-Victoria into the future.

The Ambrose Family

Craig Ambrose was among the first students to move across from the Frankston Special Development School (SDS) to be part of the Frankston Community Access Program, the pilot program which was the beginning of MiLife-Victoria.

“Craig was 18 at the time,” says his Mum, Gaye. “In those days there was nowhere else for Craig and the other students to go once they finished at the SDS.”

Gaye remembers the portable building on the school site where Craig and the other 13 original students would attend in the early days at what was then known as PAST.

Gaye joined PAST’s Committee of Management as a Public Officer in the early years. One of the main decisions at the time was finding another place to run the programs. “The lease on the rented property in Roy Court, Mt Eliza was soon to finish and we were looking everywhere to find a suitable property.”

“Jim Price found the land in Langwarrin. I think it was originally a surgeon’s house. It was down a dirt road at the time and there were tall pine trees out the front. It was a beautiful property.”

Gaye remained on the Committee of Management for a number of years and was part of the growth of the organisation which started with 14 people and grew rapidly throughout the 1990’s.

“They used to have overnight stays at Langwarrin. I remember a time when Craig stayed the night and they watched a movie, I think it was called ‘The Three Amigos.’ He loved it so much, he laughed his head off throughout the entire movie.”

Craig loved the sleep overs and camps and went on many of them over the years, including travelling to Tasmania, Queensland and on a cruise to Eden.

The clients used to love going to shows at the Blu Restaurant in Patterson Lakes. “The restaurant owner Enzo would put on a free lunch and entertainer, Mark Andrew, would perform tributes to Elvis, Dean Martin, Buddy Holly and Tom Jones. You’ve never seen so much excitement. There were 20 or 30 clients all up and dancing to the music.”

Craig has really enjoyed his time with MiLife-Victoria. He’s always loved getting picked up on the bus and likes to sit and observe what’s going on around him. “We don’t know what we would have done without MiLife, it’s been a great place for Craig and many others to attend.”

The Price Family

Wendy Price was one of the students who came over from Frankston Special Development School (SDS) to join the original group of 14 PAST clients. “Wendy had reached the age where she could no longer attend the school,” said her sister Jennie. “At the time there were no other options for people like Wendy who had ‘aged out’ of the SDS.”

Wendy’s parents, Jim and Carrol Price, were among the first members of the original Committee of Management for PAST. “Mum volunteered to be on the first Committee of Management (now known as the Board). There was a concern that as it was a pilot program it would cease, and then back to waiting lists for a spot at day services due to the way it was funded then.”

Fortunately, the program continued as additional funding became available through the Futures for Young Adults Program which provided an opportunity for growth.

In the mid 1990’s, as the program was outgrowing its rented premises in Mt Eliza, the Committee of Management was looking for a permanent home. During this time Carol drove past the Langwarrin property and saw it was up for sale. “In those days there were no mobile phones so Mum had to go home to call and make enquiries. It was going to Auction, however, the owners, who were in the Salvation Army, stopped the auction and sold it to PAST,” said Jennie.

Jim and Carol remember the parents, committee, staff and community members who were involved at the time, put in a huge amount of work to make the organisation a success. “They were all extremely dedicated to making it work,” said Jennie. With the effort of many of the original people, the organisation grew and succeeded. This was a wonderful achievement and helped so many like Wendy who need daily support and social connection.

“Both Mum and Dad were on the committee at different times,” recalled Jennie. “Dad remembers being President at one stage and Mum was Treasurer, although not at the same time I believe.” Jim and Carol ceased their involvement around 1997 while they focused on securing a permanent residential facility for Wendy. “During this time, I applied for work with PAST, and I worked with the organisation for a number of years, I have also been a member of the board in more recent times.”

“Wendy has had lots of opportunities to try different things over the years,” said Jennie. “One which stands out in my memory is when she returned from one of the respite holidays in Queensland, the staff said that she had a fabulous time away and you could tell by the huge smile on her face.”

Specialised Transport

MiLife-Victoria has continued to provide transport services to approximately 30 clients throughout the year, enabling them to travel to and from MiLife-Victoria sites with the support of bus drivers.

Transport has been provided to clients since MiLife-Victoria began 30 years ago, and continues to be a vital offering that is popular with clients and families. It is a point of difference for MiLife-Victoria as many other providers within the disability space no longer provide transport due to the cost for maintenance and upkeep of vehicles, as well as the costly accreditation process.

The AYLO app has improved the organisation’s ability to track the exact kilometres travelled and enables drivers to track which clients are on the bus run. The system helps the finance team to work out client transport charges and assists with other administrative tasks. Unfortunately, the AYLO app will no longer be supported from December 2022 and as such different systems are being considered as a replacement.

MiLife-Victoria provides transport to clients from Pakenham to Aspendale and as far south as Rosebud, with six bus drivers responsible for the runs and ensuring the safety of their passengers.

From July 2021 to June 2022 the buses travelled a total of 160,435 kilometres.

From July to September 2021 buses were unable to operate due to the lockdown and social distancing rules. During this time, staff transported clients into the Langwarrin Hub in their own personal vehicles.

Buses are also used during the day to transport clients from the site to community activities such as bowling, basketball and other outings. Previously the older vehicles that are owned by MiLife-Victoria were used for program activities, however, staff and clients are now able to use the new leased vehicles which are much more comfortable.

There have been many times when staff members have stepped in to the bus driver role when drivers have been sick or on leave. This is a huge help and the support of these staff members is appreciated and certainly does not go unnoticed.

Social Enterprises

Since late 2020 MiLife-Victoria has owned, and/or managed two social enterprises. The intent of these business was to provide greater opportunities for individuals to engage in work-based programs in a real work environment.

DESIGNS FOR HAIR SALON

Purchased by MiLife-Victoria in November 2020, Designs for Hair is a local hairdressing salon in Seaford.

In December 2021 a website for Designs for Hair was launched providing an online space for customers to find out about services, prices and to book an appointment.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on the salon, and has created challenges finding qualified and experienced hair dressers to work in the business. The hairdressing industry, along with many other industries, has experienced a staff shortage. This has impacted on the salon’s ability to attract new staff.

Throughout 2021 and 2022, salon staff were also operating within the Langwarrin Community Aged Care facility in Potts Road one day a week. The Aged Care facility wished to open the salon more than one day a week, however, due to the unavailability of hairdressing staff, MiLife-Victoria was unable to cater to the request.

Salon manager, Molly, went on maternity leave in early 2022, and finding a replacement for Molly to manage the salon was unfortunately unsuccessful. This led to reduced opening hours with the availability of one staff member for a total of 15 hours per week to manage bookings.

The courses that were previously running within the salon have had to be placed on hold due to lack of staffing availability to run these programs. The salon currently operates 15 hours a week providing clients with a range of hairdressing services including men’s cuts, children’s cuts, women’s cuts, colours, and styling.

Due to the challenges associated with continuing to operate the salon, and the inability to facilitate valuable experiences for MiLife-Victoria clients, the board and management have decided that, in line with it’s client centric approach, continuing to run the salon is not viable in the near-term. As such, the business is taking steps to exit this business, and ensure focus on the delivery of core services for clients.

COFFEE POTTS CAFÉ

Coffee Potts Café is located within Langwarrin Community Aged Care facility and has been managed by MiLife-Victoria since November 2020.

The café is located at the entrance to the facility as you walk through into the main foyer. Seating approximately 20 people, it is a wonderful place for residents, visitors and staff to enjoy their lunch or a cuppa and a bite to eat.

Being located within an Aged Care facility has certainly led to some challenges for the café, particularly during lockdown periods in 2021 when the facility was not able to welcome guests, and the only patronage was that of residents and staff. Restrictions in the aged care sector have been extremely tough throughout the pandemic, however, it is paramount for the health and safety of the vulnerable residents. There still continues to be lockdowns within certain wings of the facility if a COVID-19 outbreak occurs. At one point in time, if a café staff member contracted COVID-19 the entire team was forced to isolate, and the café was closed for deep cleaning. Once lockdown lifted and visitors were welcomed into the facility the café opened on weekends enabling residents to bring their visitors downstairs for a cuppa and a chat seven days a week.

The café celebrated its first birthday in November 2021 and hosted a small celebration with birthday cake for its customers. Other smaller celebrations have been held throughout the year such as Halloween and Melbourne Cup Day with more planned in an attempt to attract more people and bring excitement and buzz to the space.

Lisa Hazelman has continued to manage the café throughout the year and her homemade scones remain the most popular menu item. The café team consists of Lisa, two part-time staff, Kristy and Akiko, and Jason who volunteers two days a week.

Jason has Down Syndrome and really enjoys being part of the team. On Tuesdays you will often find him in the kitchen baking with Lisa. He also loves to stamp the disposable coffee cups with the café’s logo. Working in the café has been a great opportunity for Jason to learn work and social skills. Residents and staff love to see him around and ask where he is if he’s not there.

Visitors to the café are welcome, however, at the time of writing this all people entering Aged Care facilities must undertake a negative RAT test prior to entry and masks must be worn. Whilst restrictions are still in place for the safety of residents, it is definitely worth the visit, even if it’s just for the delicious scones.

Our People

The pandemic has significantly impacted many workplaces, causing staffing issues across multiple industries. The disability industry has seen many challenges with it becoming increasingly difficult to attract and retain suitably qualified staff.

Throughout the year MiLife-Victoria saw 26 staff from all areas of the business resign. Reasons for staff leaving included unwillingness to comply with the vaccine mandate placed on disability employees, as well as staff moving to other industries or competing organisations, or deciding to move to self-employment.

With many months of lockdown, support staff who were not rostered to support vulnerable clients were provided with various online training programs to upskill staff and maintain engagement and connection with the organisation.

Training included:

• Zero Tolerance – Human rights and you

• Zero Tolerance – Considering additional risk

• Zero Tolerance – Learning and Improvement

• Journal Training

• Health Reports

• Behaviour Support and Training

• PEG (Tube) Training

• Zero Tolerance – Preventing abuse

• Zero Tolerance – Responding to Abuse

• COVID 19 Infection control training

• Management of Complaints and Feedback

• Journal writing - observed behaviours training

• Incident Reporting

• Ethical Response

Throughout lockdown staff were sent a care package from CEO Amanda Youngs and the Management team as a thank you for their hard work and dedication. This was well received from all staff who appreciated the sentiment and the delicious goodies within the package.

A Step Challenge was held with staff during lockdown seeing staff from across the organisation spilt into teams from different areas of the business, set with the task of working together (albeit apart) to take as many steps as they could each day. Steps were tracked via an app and teams became quite competitive. The initiative certainly created a buzz and was a welcome distraction during a challenging time.

Over the course of the year MiLife-Victoria welcomed 24 new employees. There was a shift in the recruitment process which saw a more considered approach with coordinators

taking a more active role and Human Resources taking a more supportive role. Having managers and coordinators look at recruitment through a different lens has led to hiring more appropriately trained staff who are a good fit for the organisation and the clients they are supporting.

Changes to the induction process have also been made with coordinators and managers providing an induction plan to new staff so they are aware of what they will be doing on each day whilst completing their shadow shifts.

The next 12 months will see the development of an Employee Value Proposition (EVP) along with a remuneration review which will be conducted by an external organisation. Both are exciting developments for MiLife-Victoria and will set the organisation apart from other like employers and will bring increased success in employee attraction and retention.

MiLife-Victoria Board

Alix is an experienced Investor Relations and Corporate Communications professional, with a background in Finance (Equity Capital Markets and Mergers & Acquisitions). Alix has a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) / Bachelor of Science from The University of Melbourne with majors in Finance and Psychology. She is also a Graduate of the Company Directors Course (Order of Merit) by the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Alix has a brother with a disability who is registered with the NDIS and has high care needs and has been a client of Milife-Victoria for 17 years. A keen philanthropist, Alix is passionate about her role with MiLife-Victoria.

Joined Milife-Victoria Board February 2020.

Genevieve is a qualified CPA and a partner in a local accounting practice. She has a Bachelor of Business majoring in Accounting and a Diploma of Financial Planning. Prior experience includes banking and finance. Genevieve resigned from the board in July 2022, we thank her for her many years of service.

Milife-Victoria Board member July 2018 – July 2022.

Karen has over 30 years of experience within the Disability Sector having worked in disability accommodation, training and support and many other leadership roles within the sector. She is currently a Director on the Whittlesea YMCA Board having been on the board since 2013 and works in a senior position at Life Without Barriers. Karen comes to MiLife-Victoria with a wealth of knowledge and experience.

Joined Milife-Victoria Board April 2022.

Alix Holston President

Genevieve Irving Secretary

Karen Major General Member

Kelly is the Manager of the Bentons Square Community Centre where she coordinates programs and activities for the community, supporting the local neighbourhood, encouraging participation in social, affordable and inclusive programs for all ages, disadvantaged and minority groups in the community.

Kelly is currently studying her Advanced Diploma of Community Sector Management. Previously, Kelly worked as a registered BAS Agent in the financial sector.

Kelly has a daughter with a disability who is registered with the NDIS and has high support needs.

Milife-Victoria Board member October 2019 –June 2022.

Sidney has over 10 years’ experience in the medical profession working in various roles across within the New South Wales and Victorian Health Sector. She was Board Director at Heathcote Health Service from 2020-2021 and currently works as Group Director, Academic and Medical Services Deputy Chief Medical Officer at Epworth HealthCare.

Milife-Victoria Board member April 2022 –August 2022.

Samuel joins the MiLife-Victoria board with a lived experience in disability having a sibling with Down Syndrome and Autism. He holds a Masters of Business Administration from the Melbourne Business School and is currently Director of Professional Services APAC at Microsoft GitHub. Samuel is also a Captain in the Royal Australian Army Reserve and has provided Indigenous liaison.

Milife-Victoria Board member April 2022 –August 2022.

Nataliya comes to the MiLife-Victoria Board with extensive leadership experience within Allied Health Teams. Her work has included policy management, service improvement, policy development, clinical practice, research and consultancy in the areas of Sub-Acute Care, Disability, Aged Care, Primary Care and Mental Health.

Milife-Victoria Board member April 2022 –August 2022.

Kelly Johnson General Member

Dr Sidney Chandrasiri General Member

Dr Nataliya Shkuratova General Member

Samuel Abdelsayed General Member

Financial Report

MiLife Victoria was significantly impacted by Victorian Government orders issued during the 2021-22 financial year. These measures sought to curb the spread of Coronavirus; and while necessary, meant more lockdowns and less service delivery as the virus not only affected our clients, but our staffing group. Vaccine mandates created challenges in attracting and recruiting additional workforce and this has further impacted our capacity to grow our service offerings in 2021-22.

The year-end operational deficit of $1,014,901 (2021 surplus $201k) resulted in a decrease of 15% in income due to the loss of government assistance (Jobkeeper), reduced State and Commonwealth Funding and the continuous issues with workforce shortages. Expenses, although tightly monitored, increased by 7% which was mainly due to wage indexation and superannuation increases.

The impact of COVID-19 is ongoing and will continue to effect financial results into the future as we recover economically as a community.

The focus for 2022-2023 is on financial sustainability. We intend to grow and develop our offerings to better align services to client needs. In addition, we will continue to monitor and mitigate any further COVID-19 impact on the organisation’s services and its clients as we adjust to a ‘COVID-normal’ environment.

Marisol Gormaz CPA Chief Financial Officer, MiLife-Victoria.

Summary of Balance Sheet – as at 30 June 2022

Summary of Balance Sheet – as at 30 June 2022

Donations and Thank You

WOULD YOU LIKE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES OF PEOPLE LIVING WITH DISABILITY? YOU CAN.

We would like to express our sincere thanks to the following friends, families, staff and businesses for their donations throughout the year.

Elizabeth Maxfield

Gen Irving

Leading Teams

Eeny Meeny Café, Frankston

Frankston RSL

Strike Bowling Bar, Frankston

Hoyts Cinema Frankston

Holey Moley Golf Club

Peninsula Regional Aquatic Centre (PARC)

Myuna Farm

Direct Chemist Outlet, Langwarrin

We would also like to thank the following businesses for their support throughout the year.

Salvation Army, Frankston

Bunnings, Hastings

Mitsubishi, Frankston

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Langwarrin Community Centre

The Meadows Farm, Balnarring

Ebenezer Village, Langwarrin

MiLife-Victoria welcomes donations of goods, services or financial, at any stage throughout the year, however large or small, every little bit helps to enhance the lives of people in our community who are living with disability.

Donations and gifts will help MiLife-Victoria to:

• Provide opportunities for people with disabilities to reach their potential, learn life skills, access the community and be supported in their endeavours.

• Advocate at all levels of government to ensure that people with disabilities are well cared for and well provided for now and into the future.

DONATE SPONSOR BEQUEST

Make a Donation

You can find a ‘Donate’ button on the MiLifeVictoria website at milifevictoria.org.au. Show your support by clicking the link and making a financial donation. Alternatively, you can send a cheque or donate over the phone. Donations of goods or services are also welcome. All donations over $2 are tax deductible.

Become a Sponsor

A mutually beneficial partnership can create a great opportunity for both MiLife-Victoria and other organisations. You can provide sponsorship or develop a fundraiser to support MiLife-Victoria.. How would you like your business to get involved?

Leave a Bequest

Leaving a gift to MiLifeVictoria in your Will is a practical and lasting way to show the value you place on the services we provide to people in our community who are living with disability. If you intend to leave a bequest gift to MiLife-Victoria or have included us in your Will already, please let us know. We would like to personally thank you and discuss ideas about how you would like to see your gift used.

In Memory Of

A life well lived is a precious gift, of hope and strength and grace, from someone who has made our world a brighter, better place It’s filled with moments, sweet and sad smiles and sometimes tears, with friendships formed and good times shares, and laughter through the years. A life well lived is a legacy, of joy and pride and pleasure, a living, lasting memory our grateful heart’s will treasure.

- Author unknown

Gary Burgess – Support Coordination, November 2021

Joanne Arnold – Support Coordination, December 2021

Allan Horsburgh – Member, January 2022

Rett Sady – Langwarrin, March 2022

Dianne Harper – Support Coordination, March 2022