1

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

ABN 70 069 363 776 | Assoc No A0009849V

Office 5a 36 Macedon Street (PO Box 420) Sunbury VIC 3429

03 9744 7378 | wwwcasunburynetau | casunbury1bigpondcom

Annual Report

2017

2

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

gratefully acknowledges the funding

provided by the Commonwealth of

Australia Department of Social Services

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

gratefully acknowledges the financial support

provided by

Funding amp Support

3

Funding Acknowledgement 2

What is Citizen Advocacy 4-5

Our Advocates 6

In the Office 7

Committee of Management 8-9

Chairpersonrsquos Report 10-11

Coordinatorrsquos Report 12-16

Key Office Activities Subcommittee 17

Key Office Activities 18-21

Treasurers Report 22-23

Financial Statements 24-30

Whatrsquos Inside

4

What is Citizen Advocacy

The Program

Citizen Advocacy is an innovative community based movement which aims to recognise

promote and defend the rights and interests of people with an intellectual disability

It does so by finding and supporting caring responsible citizens who are prepared to act

voluntarily to make a positive difference in the life of a person who may be lonely face difficult

challenges or be in a risky situation

Each citizen Advocacy relationship is unique The citizen advocate may for example offer his or her

proteacutegeacute friendship the experience of family new experiences and opportunities and in some

instances spokesman ship and protection from abuse

The Citizen Advocacy office carefully matches proteacutegeacutes and citizen advocates ensuring that there is a

good fit between the needs and interests of the proteacutegeacute and the abilities resources and

commitment of the citizen advocate

Types of Advocacy

Citizen Advocacy can be divided into three main forms

1 Expressive Advocacy

Everyone needs to feel warmth and understanding that comes from friendship This is what expressive

advocacy describes - the ldquofriendshiprdquo aspect of advocacy - the caring sharing emotional support

spending time together having fun and just being there

2 Instrumental Advocacy

Everyone needs assistance at different times just to learn how to get along in everyday life The way we

learn most things is through experience and by having someone there to show us different ways to do

things Instrumental advocacy describes the practical aspect of advocacy

3 Spokesmanship

In some situations people with intellectual disabilities are not treated with respect and dignity their basic

human rights are denied and they are expected to put up with life-conditions and services that you and I

would not accept Advocates may need to speak out on behalf of a person to ensure their rights are met

or assist that person to speak out for themselves An advocate will need to represent their friendrsquos

interests as if they were their own

5

Our Mission

To recognise promote and defend the rights and interests of people from culturally diverse

backgrounds and situations within our community who have an intellectual disability We do so by

recruiting and supporting caring responsible citizens (advocates) on a long term one to one basis

who are prepared to act voluntarily to make a positive difference in the life of a person who may

be lonely face difficult challenges or be in a risky situation (proteacutegeacutes) We carefully match

proteacutegeacutes and citizen advocates ensuring that there is a good fit between the needs and interests of

the proteacutegeacutes and the abilities resources and commitment of the citizen advocate

Principles

The operation of a Citizen Advocacy program is based on the following principles

Advocate Independence

bull Advocates must be free to develop a primary loyalty to the person with whom they are matched and be able to act as independently as possible

bull Citizen Advocates are supported as unpaid independent citizens acting as an advocate for an Individual person

Program Independence

bull Our program is independent and free from conflict of interest in how it is administered and funded The office is administratively and physically separated from agencies which operate direct service programs involving (potential) Proteacutegeacutes

Clarity of Staff Functions

bull Our Citizen Advocacy staff understand the nature and possibilities of Citizen Advocacy and communicate this understanding by

bull Supporting not supplanting ProteacutegeacuteAdvocate relationships

bull Directing their energies toward building and maintaining the office as a whole

Balanced Orientation to Needs of People requiring Advocates

bull People with an intellectual disability have a wide variety of needs for representation and relationships which can be met by Citizen Advocates Our program works to developed plans for recruiting and supporting a range of relationships

Positive Interpretations of People with a Disability

bull The Citizen Advocacy program model provides a positive interpretation of people with disabilities The program always seeks the most highly positive value conferring and yet valid possible associations which support developmental growth potential citizenship role and individual personhood of people at risk of social devaluation

Non-Discriminatory Advocacy

bull Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc promotes to Citizen Advocates sensitivity towards the social and cultural values beliefs and practices of the Proteacutegeacutes

6

We would like to acknowledge the advocates of CA Sunbury for their wonderful achievements in serving

the community and the proteacutegeacutes they support The world would be a poor place without your selfless

giving of time friendship assistance and support

Julie Allen

Maureen Anderson

Lyn Armstrong

Barbara Ashley

Katie Bishop

Ljubica Bosevska

Mary Buchanan

Gael Butler

Nell Canty

Pauline Cole

Alison Cunningham

Mary Day (Outgoing)

Nathan Dellamarta

Lisa Edwards

Carol Grant

Angela Fitzwater

Leanne Holland

Elizabeth Homann

John Karagiannidis

Anna Leach (Outgoing)

Edith Langshaw

Penny Mallia

Maria Martin

Corrie McConville

Susan Neale

Irene Nolte (Outgoing)

Denise OBrien

Lyn Plummer

Joan Purton

Jeniffer Renda

Stuart Ritchie

Noel Roberts

David amp Claire Ross

Peter Rovers

Helen Sims

Bill Shephard

Tony Tanti

Ruth Vigus

Ivan Wadsworth

Edda Webster

Our Advocates

7

In the Office

Coordinator - David Abela

Itrsquos been an honour to be Coordinator of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury for the past 25 yrs In this time I have been

able to help take this program from something that began with the aim of asking people in the Sunbury com-

munity to visit and protect vulnerable and often abandoned people living in the large institution called Caloola

to a Citizen Advocacy program working in the wider community with a range of people and needs when Caloola

was shut down

In this time I have also been able to participate in a number of Citizen Advo-

cacy Program Evaluations (CAPE) workshops and seminars around the coun-

try reinforcing and clarifying my strong believe that people with disability

like everyone need a balance in their lives ndash being good quality services and

programs and freely given relationships offering friendship inclusion and

protection Helping people achieve this is immensely satisfying work

I live in the small township of Riddellrsquos Creek and have 4 children When not

being a CA Coordinator I have a passion for sport including equestrian tri-

athlons cycling running and various sport the children played over the

years Currently I am helping my 16 year old daughter Grace retrain and

prepare our two ex-racehorses for equestrian sport

Administration - Melita Bonett

I have been a part of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury for over 6years now and I have

loved every minute Working alongside incredible community members means

that no two days in administration are ever the same

My husband Dave and I have one beautiful daughter three horses a pony named

Sparky and a very shaggy Golden Retriever Also keeping me busy is the familys

fully self sufficient vegetable gardencomplete with hens and a worm farm

Office Volunteer - Theresa Quin

Teresa has lived in Sunbury for almost forty years but has lived in South Australia

Scotland Darwin and Papua New Guinea before making here home here with her fami-

ly A retired Library Technician who previously worked with the Brotherhood of St Law-

rence and the Moonee Valley Library Service An avid reader and theatre goer she has

been involved with singing and acting groups in the district for many years She says

her very small contribution to Citizens Advocacy Sunbury has opened her eyes to the

needs of many in our community

8

Committee of Management

Chairperson - Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller

My name is Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller and I was born in Chile I migrated to

Australia in 1983 with my mother and adopted Australia as my new home in No-

vember 1985 when I become an Australian citizen I am married to a beautiful

and warm hearted Australian lady Karen amp we have a beautiful son Charles

who is 10 years old and has special needs We have lived in Sunbury for the past

13 years I work for a company called Independence Australia which provides

Incontinence amp Wound Care products to customers with special needs My wife

works as a Disability Support worker We both are committed to assist people

with special needs due to our work commitments and also personal experienc-

es My previous involvement has been varied and wide having being in com-

mittees of management for youth accommodation groups legal aid ethnic advi-

sory groups amp community health centres I am looking forward to my further involvement with Citizens

Advisory Sunbury and the many new challenges and opportunities it will bring

Vice Chairperson - Alison Cunningham

I have been the Vice Chairperson of Citizens Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts for the

last 12 months I am involved in a number of Community groups in Sunbury and

Citizens Advocacy is the most rewarding group I am involved in It is pleasure to

be a part of Citizens advocacy from the Proteacutegeacutes and Advocates I have met to

the Board and staff Being involved in Citizens advocacy has also given me the

privilege of being an advocate for Angela and Darrell

I look forward to having a long association with Citizen Advocacy

Secretary - Angelo Micallef

I migrated to Australia from Malta in 1983 with my wife and two young daughters

All our family have been involved in voluntary work with various organisations or on

our own because we feel an obligation to share our luck This was partially ingrained

in us by my late mother who was very caring for others in need My hobbies are gar-

dening sports and travel the world with my wife

9

Treasurer - Elizabeth Homann

My favourite quote is If you want something done ask a busy person and it sums

me up perfectly I am a highly self motivated dedicated and focused person who

has a passion for small not-for-profit (or as I prefer profit-for-purpose) organisa-

tions and have spent the last 20 years serving on all kinds of Committees and

Boards in all sorts of roles I have my own Bookkeeping business as and am a regis-

tered BAS Agent Whilst my initial motivation for joining CA Sunbury was to help

out a struggling Committee of Management this has developed into a deep appre-

ciation of the incredible work that CA Sunbury does

General Member - Elizabeth Lynch

Elizabeth Lynch has been a dedicated and active part of the Citizen Advocacy Com-

mittee for over 9 years Developing and maintaining the Citizen Advocacy Sunbury

website Elizabeth has a passion for learning especially in the area of computer

based applications Elizabeth is also a proteacutegeacute of the program

General Member - Michael Homann

I am passionate about achieving the best possible outcomes for people with disabili-

ties For the last 8 years I have been the General Manager of a Western Suburbs multi

site community service organisation which provides support and employment to over

400 adults with an intellectual disability Prior to this I had over 30 years of business

management experience at a senior level

I have always been involved in my local community and have been a member of many

community committees including kindergarten school council basketball (committee

amp coach) Scouts and the Sunbury Neighbourhood House I am also a current member

of both the Wyndham and Melton councils Disability and Aging Advisory Committees

General Member - Bridie Smith

It was an honour to be a member of the Committee of Management in 2016-17 and to

chair the Key Office Activities subcommittee which supports the core activities of the

program to maintain the full potential of the Citizen Advocacy vision as conceived by Dr

Wolf Wolfenberger six decades ago

I am blessed with an awesome family mdash my wonderfully patient and supportive hus-

band John and our amazing sons Brian and Liam I am a self-employed bookkeeper and

business owner Originally from County Galway Ireland Sunbury has been home since

mid-1990s and I love the terrific community spirit

I am passionate about ensuring our program remains strong and vibrant because through the selfless generosi-

ty of people from all walks of life Citizen Advocacy does an extraordinary job of valuing and protecting the

most vulnerable members of our community

10

Chairpersonrsquos Report

On behalf of the Committee of Management I have the privilege of presenting the annual report for the 2016 2017 financial year - and it has been a challenging year

I have been on the committee for about 4 years now and since then I have had different roles This year I was fortunate to be elected chairperson The last 12 months have been challenging and a enjoyable learning experience

Highlights As it was highlighted in last yearrsquos report we developed some financial strategies to ensure the financial viability of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc from the previous year This meant sig-nificant effort and commitment by the Committee of Management was required to assure the suc-cess of these strategies laid down in our 2016- 2018 Strategic Plan and to be able to manage the organisation responsibly and ensure our survival into the future I am very pleased to report that de-spite the resignation of several members of the committee we managed to achieve this and our fi-nances for the first time in a long time are healthy Unfortunately this does not mean we can relax and enjoy the good life On the contrary the new committee of management will need to ensure they keep vigilant amp continue to act responsibly to meet future needs and challenges

As mentioned before the Committee of Management also developed a new Strategic Plan for the next three years The four key focus areas include increasing the number of matches improving the profile of CA ensuring good governance and being financially sustainable This plan aims to ensure that the organisation will continue to be relevant to the needs of the communities we support as well as fulfilling the requirements of our funding agreement with DSS

In April 2017 we underwent a surveillance quality audit which we passed with flying colours I would like to thank you to all those who were involved in this process for your support and commitment

Our biggest unknown and challenge for the future is NDIS and how it might impact on our organisation- this continues to be somewhat vague In a meeting in October with representa-tives of DSS we were informed that the field of Advocacy will continue to be funded by DSS until 2020 and therefore inde-pendent of the NDIA There will be new funding agreements with new ways of reporting and more accountability from the part of committee of management We will keep you informed of developments

As part of our plan to improve CA profile we decided it was time to update our look by developing and adopting a new logo We had a competition with over 200 entries from all over the world At the end the committee of management selected the best 5 entries and asked our stakeholders to vote on the one best suited us It was a close call but the one selected gives us a fresh modern and more vibrant look We had a launch on the 25th October at our office which was well attended by proteacutegeacutees advocates amp friends of CA Sunbury

Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller

11

Going Forward Having faced and overcome many challenges in the past year the coming year will be equally challenging We have a very small membership in our organisation and an even smaller number of members who are prepared to be committee members This year with so many resignations from the committee of management the work was left to 4 people which is not sustainable in the longer term In the same way that the organisation was at threat by financial viability if there are not enough members to form a committee the organisation will cease to exist We are actively seeking new members not only for the organisation but also to the committee of management I encourage our members to give serious consideration into becoming part of our committee of management

As part of the strategic plan the committee of management is starting to expand our program in Hume to cover areas like Broadmeadows This is to make people aware of our organisation and its role in the community as well as a way to recruit people to join our organisation and to demonstrate to our funder both Federal and State Governments and the community at large that our form of advocacy is a legitimate and valued part of our local community and service to those we support

The committee of management is determined to create a good membership base by creating a sense of community where members can come and meet like-minded people perhaps share their experiences and also learn from others To this effect we will continue to run social evenings courses and information nights

The coming year will be an interesting one with new challenges and new opportunities to grow not only in membership but knowledge amp experience We are planning to have CAPE towards the end of 2018 A CAPE is a Citizen Advocacy Program evaluation which is done by external people which are members of other CA programs in Australia or overseas This will involve a lot of time preparing for the CAPE and then meeting the Team doing the evaluation It is a worthwhile exercise one that I was fortunate to be invited to be part of at South Australia Looking forward to it

Conclusion I would like to thank the staff and office volunteers for their continued hard work in an often difficult and ever changing environment I commend you all for your diligence and assistance in meeting the challenges we have faced

I would also like to thank the advocates who continue to support their proteacutegeacutes in a totally selfless way - you are amazing and are the backbone of the organisation

I would like to thank my colleagues and fellow com-mittee members for their patience giving of their time and energy and most importantly maintaining their sense of humour under sometime difficult circum-stances amp for their support they have given me as chairperson

Finally I need to not only to thank this person but also say goodbyehellip Elizabeth Homann you have been a pillar of strength dedication amp commitment not only to the organisation amp the committee of management but to me on a personal level The support advice and constant availability to answer my many calls have been greatly appreciated You will be missed at meetings I wish you all the best in your new endeavours amp for the future Looking forward to a new challenging year with new opportunities

12

Coordinatorrsquos Report David Abela

As always it is with pleasure that I present my report and touch on some of the activities and high-

lights of the program As Coordinator there is a multitude of activities and requirements to fulfil

throughout the year The most important of course being the lsquoKey Office Activitiesrsquo which I will dis-

cuss deeper into the report

An ongoing vital activity is talking to people about Citizen Advocacy either on an individual basis or

through community presentations this started off at the beginning of the year with a presentation

to St Andrews Friendship Group and information provided to the staff at Vic Roads Sunbury

Aquatic Centre Sunbury police and various individuals

In October last year I was off to

spread the word in Melton at the

lsquoMelton Care Exporsquo Many people

were spoken to and information given

out This is not an area we generally

work in but it was an opportunity to

gauge interest in the program and to

tap into people visiting from Hume

and Macedon Ranges There was very

good interest and the day resulted in a

new advocate and several potential proteacutegeacutes With many more people expressing an interest in

the program and Citizen Advocacy in general should it ever expand into the area

Fundraising is also always on the programs agenda ensuring there are funds available should new

equipment be required and giving us the resources to put on events and training

In early November one of our proteacutegeacutes Ronnie Jelbert along with his advocate Lisa Edwards fea-

tured in the Leader Newspaper highlighting the long association with Ronnie and the past owners

of The Olive Tree Hotel (Lisarsquos family) in Sunbury The current proprietors agreed to donate 50

cents of every dessert sold over a 3-month period to CA Sunbury The story of Ronnie and the

Edwards Family was a great opportunity to raise awareness and raise a little money for a good

cause

In late 2016 our Administration Assistant Melita was successful in securing a small grant from the

State Trustees allowing us to hire a room for one day per fortnight starting February 2017 at the

Broadmeadows Community Hub I have been able to chip away at informing people from Non-

English-Speaking Backgrounds (and others) about Citizen Advocacy and how it could benefit

people in their community either as advocates or proteacutegeacutes

13

Networking has increased in the wider Hume area and we have

been able to translate and print pro-

gram information pamphlets in Ara-

bic and disseminate them at rele-

vant venues including lsquoArabic Social

Servicesrsquo

Also in February Melita engaged CA Sunbury in the Rotary Club of Ballarat South Community Raffle

Through the support of tickets sales by the Committee Proteacutegeacutes Advocates and staff the program was

able to raise a total of $1048 in profit through ticket sales

February also saw the beginning of a new sub-committee which is a great support to my main work of

recruiting proteacutegeacutes and advocates and ensuring people are supported to maintain their relationships

long term The lsquoKey Office Activities Sub-Committee meets monthly with myself and is an opportunity

for others with some knowledge of CA to assist the program and my work in making good matches for

vulnerable people in our community As a sole Co-ordinator it is always beneficial receiving

encouragement and guidance from others with genuine concern for those we are here to serve

Special thanks to Bridie Smith Peter Rovers and Mary Dight who have been the backbone of this very

important initiative

Citizen Advocacy had a stall again at Sunfest on March 18th

Although not as well positioned as the previous year CA along

with the lsquoProgress Associationrsquo attracted plenty of interest and

helped clarify this model of Advocacy to people in the local

community

Part of good CA practice is to conduct an annual Internal

Relationship Review reviewing all matches and ensuring a

good balance of proteacutegeacute situations and backgrounds and the

appropriate advocates are recruited This thorough review also helps to inform and identify gaps in

recruitment and support and develop a plan to rectify any shortcomings Thanks to John Armstrong

known to many in the program and experienced in CAPE and Internal Relationship Reviews John was

able to work with committee members and myself in between his very busy schedule to produce a very

useful and informative report

Another form of review and assessment was our annual ldquoNational Standards for Disability Services

Auditrdquo conducted in April Another successful outcome with the program fully addressing the audit

recommendations of 2016 As always the audit team was impressed by the evidence presented and

feedback from lsquostakeholdersrsquo (advocates and proteacutegeacutes) and could clearly see the bond existing

between people and the support provided by the program to advocates providing friendship protec-

tion and spokesman ship to their proteacutegeacutes Irsquom glad to say that this has resulted in continued

certification under the lsquoNational Standards for Disability Servicesrsquo

14

In April it was time to think about some more fund raising again

A tried and tested venue is the local Bunnings Being Easter

Monday made it even more busy and profitable It was a great

day which not only helped us financially but also did a lot to

help raise awareness of people with disability and Citizen Advo-

cacy Four weeks later we entered into another venture with the

Progress Association at the Sunbury United Sporting Club where

we held a fundraising Trivia Night and split the proceeds

Another successful Advocate recruitment campaign during the year beginning in May and ongoing for

several weeks has been a small notice in the ldquoWHATS ONrdquo section of the local and Macedon Ranges

Leader This simple request asking for people to help make a difference in the life of someone with an

intellectual disability has had a very positive result with several people calling or dropping in to the

office I have so far been able to recruit and match 3 new advocates that began by responding to the

notice and hope to continue with other similar forms of awareness

The National Disability Insurance Scheme or ldquoNDISrdquo is the new national system for governments to

provide specialist disability supports to people with a significant and permanent disability Citizen Ad-

vocacy is not part of this new scheme but as part of our responsibility to advocatersquos we help provide

them with knowledge and resources to enable them to best support and inform their proteacutegeacute As

many proteacutegeacutes in the program are eligible to receive NDIS funding and their advocates would possibly

be involved in planning and attending meetings it was decided to engage Rick Ruiu from VALID to give

an informative and interactive NDIS presentation to our Advocates Proteacutegeacutes and other interested

relevant people This was a very successful and useful wintery June night and I feel confident that

many people are a little more prepared and aware of what is needed to gain the most benefit at their

proteacutegeacutes planning meeting beginning in March 2018 for those in Hume

The financial year ended on a very positive note with some knowledge

sharing by two experienced ex CA practioners Professor Zana Luttiffia

has been a CA Coordinator and board member at Winnipeg Canada she

has also completed her graduate training and postdoctoral work at the

Centre of Human Policy Syracuse University She joined the University

of Manitoba in 1992 Her longstanding research interest has been

identifying and examining the factors that help or hinder the valued

social participation of individuals with intellectual disabilities in

community life A couple of committee members and myself were able

to spend a delightful and informative few hours discussing good CA

practice and solving the problems of the world over dinner at Bridie Smiths home where we were

made to feel very welcomed by the whole family

Following our time with Zana the committee and I were given further insight into an important subject

by another ex-long term Coordinator this time Bob Lee from the Sunshine Coast who has a particular

interest and talent in delivering inspiring Citizen Advocacy presentations to community groups Bob

spoke to us on how he thinks we can be most effective in asking people to become a Citizen Advocate

for a vulnerable person and how you best present the persons situation and needs

15

Over the year we inevitably gain and loose people in the pro-

gram It was with great sadness that I had the task of informing

others connected with CA of the passing of two much loved

proteges firstly Daisey Serong and then shortly after Darren

Schembri Daisey was a proteacutegeacute with the program from its incep-

tion being an ex Caloola resident when her advocate Mary Day

would visit Daisey at Caloola with her young daughter and help

Daisey with her literacy and ensure life was a good as possible in

the large institution Daisey went on to be a strong self-advocate

with her brother John who passed away last year

Darren Shembri was also a long term proteacutegeacute who as a child spent time residing at St Nicholas home

for Intellectually disabled children until coming to live in the first CRU in Sunbury in 1985 Darren had

great resilience and an amazing personality His advocate Irene Nolte was always there for him both

in good and bad times ensuring his needs were met and acting as his voice whenever necessary the

bond between them was allways evident We were privileged to know both these people and they

will be remembered in so many positive and endearing ways

Citizen Advocacy is a team effort culminating in the matches that make up the CA Relationships Eve-

ryone has a role to play A big thanks to our admin assistant Melita who has had a mixed bag of tasks

and requests this year that she has taken in her stride Theresa our office volunteer has reorganised

our match files beautifully and made this part of the office tidier and more efficient

Our Committee of management are a hard-working detected

bunch Elizabeth Lynch decided to take a break from the

committee this year and we are eternally grateful for all the work

Elizabeth has put into our website that is now due for a revamp

Elizabeth remains involved in the program through being a

protege and has expressed an interest in coming on to the Key

Office Activities committee Our President Juan Carlos Rodrigues

does an excellent job of keeping everyone in order and on time

at committee meetings as well as helping to organise many activ-

ities outside of the office including the launch of our new logo

and our upcoming Christmas Dinner Our Vice president Alison

has done a lot to support the program and is also an advocate

but has recently had to step down due to the pressures of life

Angelo our secretary does

an excellent job of making

sure the agenda minutes and correspondence are on the table

ready for our committee meetings Irsquom pleased to say Angelo is

also about to become an advocate for someone well known to

the program and Angelorsquos broad knowledge and practical ad-

vice is greatly appreciated

16

Liz our treasurer and bookkeeper and general ldquojack of all trades ldquohas

bought the program back into the black and has been instrumental in

putting our program back into a healthy financial state Liz also recently

organised our new logo and was an advocate for a young woman in a

CRU Unfortunately for us Lizrsquos own business and growing workload has

made it too difficult to stay on as Treasurer but Irsquom glad to say Liz will

still be involved with us as our bookkeeper

After a short break from the committee Bridie has been back and is a

guardian of CA practice and principles developing her understanding by

attending the CA Study group and chairing the Key Office Activities

subcommittee More recently Tony Tanti who has been involved in the

program as an advocate has been attending committee meetings and his contribution and support on a

wide range of issues is greatly appreciated and valued

Thank you to everyone for all your hard work support and making this such a special program Above

all it has been an absolute honour working with the advocates and proteges of the program Watching

the bond and friendship between two people who often live very different lives develop and come to-

gether in a very beneficial way is both motivating and humbling

17

In January 2017 the Committee of Management (CoM) setup a Key Office Activities Sub-committee

(KOAs) to guide the program in working reflectively and purposefully in the practice of Citizen Advoca-

cy and to ensure an effective balance of the seven (7) Key Office Activities

A CA office which has an effective balance of activities will do enough of the right

thing at the right time to ensure that it will achieve its mission

from CAPE (Citizen Advocacy Practice Evaluation) Manual

The Key Office Activities are

bull Vision and Creativity in Proteacutegeacute Recruitment

bull Advocate Recruitment

bull Advocate Orientation

bull Advocate-Proteacutegeacute Matching

bull Follow-along and Support to Relationships

bull Ongoing Training

bull Emphasis on Advocate-associates

I had the honour of Chairing the KOAs this year and with David advocate Peter Rovers former CoM

member Mary Dight held the inaugural meeting in February 2017 Later in the year Proteacutegeacute and former

CoM member Elizabeth Lynch and Chairperson Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller joined us

Meetings are held at the office on the 4th Monday of the month from 10 am to noon We welcome ex-

pressions of interest from prospective new members with a keen interest in Citizen Advocacy

A heartfelt thanks to David Mary Peter Elizabeth and Juan Carlos for their wisdom and dedication I

look forward to continuing our contribution to the work of making many good CA matches in 2018

Bridie Smith

Key Office Activities Subcommittee

18

Identifying and Recruiting Proteacutegeacutes

bull A 16yo boy with ID and severe epilepsy and Dyspraxia Issues around hospital appointments and treatment at school

bull Women in early 20s residing in SRS suffering from severe chronic polytechnic arthritis and social isolated

bull Young man in Diggers Rest with fragile x syndrome and reluctant to leave house

bull Spoke to sergeant at Sunbury Police Station in regards to people with ID in trouble with the law

bull Presentation to Prioletti Work Education Group

bull Young woman living in Gisborne shared public housing has a learning disability

bull Young woman in Sunbury requiring social and employment support

bull Spoke to manager of Dallas Neighbourhood House

bull Spoke to CEO of Broadmeadows Disability Services

bull Young man in his early 30s recently relocating to Gisborne has mild intellectual disability ongoing mental health

issues and drug habit Requiring strong mentor and help with developing structure in his life

bull Woman in her 50s mild ID requiring assistance with preparing to relocate from inherited house

bull Spoke to Arabic Social Services

bull 21yo woman lives in Sunbury moderate ID Lives with separated parents Needs help with budgeting and banking

skills and accessing mainstream recreation

bull 24yo woman moderate ID lives in Diggers Rest with mother father recently died of cancer Wants help to access com-

munity opportunities No access to transport

bull Married couple with intellectual disability experiencing marital difficulties

Key Office Activities

The following are brief examples of the ldquoKey Office Activitiesrdquo for the 201617 year

0 1

8

59

14

Proteacutegeacute Age

0-20

21-30

31-40

41-50

51-60

61+

AGES Male Female

0-20 0 0

21-30 0 1

31-40 3 5

41-50 2 3

51-60 4 5

61+ 2 12

19

Advocate Recruitment

bull St Andrews Friendship Group

bull Young woman with marketing background

bull Vet nurse from Lancefield

bull Ex Committee member

bull Woodend accountant

bull Woman who runs a farm with Husband

bull Sunbury Probes

bull Member of Sunbury Historical society

bull Notices in the Whatrsquos On section of Sunbury Broadmeadow and

Macedon Ranges Leader

bull Rehab and Diabetes nurse recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Gisborne Menrsquos Shed

bull Retired Public Servant with experience in intellectual disability

and Mental Health

bull Relationships Councillor recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Various inquiries from Hume Volunteer Gateway

bull Various presentations to community and service groups

bull Presentations at Church groups

bull Sunbury Police

bull Sunfest Various people

bull Retired BBC employee

bull Retired Missionary

bull Middle aged teacherrsquos aide living in Mickleham

bull Presentation to Sunbury Aquatic Centre

bull Information to VicRoads

bull Retired Lecturer

Two new Advocate Associates Recruited one in the area of health and

diabetes prevention Other in the area counselling and mental health

TYPE OF ADVOCACY Male Female

Instrumental 2 2

Expressive 1 2

Both 8 22

OTHER DISABILITY Male Female

Yes 3 4

No 8 22

Advocate Orientation

Six full orientations completed throughout this period (one

potential advocate did not go on with matching)

6

201

4 6

Residential Situation

Family Home CRU Special Accomodation

Nursing Home Independently

RESIDENTIAL SITUATION Male Female

Family Home 3 3

CRU 7 13

Special Accomodation 0 1

Nursing Home 0 4

Independently 1 5

20

Advocate Proteacutegeacute Matching

Five new matches made this year

bull A quiet 32yo woman living independently in Sunbury who has difficulties around social interactions and se-

curing part time employment due to autistic tendencies was matched to woman of similar age who is out-

going This Advocate has a marketing background and is prepared to assist proteacutegeacute with CV how she presents

herself at job interviews and socialising including being a friend

bull Another 32yo woman this time living in Gisborne in shared public housing accommodation This woman has

a learning disability secondary to Kawasaki disease and required assistance gaining some level of financial in-

dependence hygiene health care and general life skills She was also being

financially exploited by her house mates Matched to a woman who helps manage the family farm and comes

from a large family where she has gained skills and experience in supporting her parents and siblings

bull After relocating to Gisborne with his parents in an effort to get away from bad influences and a drug habit a

33yo man with intellectual and psychiatric disability required someone to help develop

connections and positive relationships in his new community giving this young man an opportunity to start a

new life and structure to his day A retired senior public servant in Gisborne with experience of intellectual

and psychiatric disability within his family was recruited Within a short period of time the advocate was able

to befriend this young man gain his confidence and as a mentor direct and guide him towards community

activities whist at the same time ensure he gain what was required from his NDIS package and support and

help to represent him in a magistrates Court hearing

bull Following her advocate moving to Ballarat it was necessary to rematch a 58yo woman with previous learning

difficulties to a new advocate The ongoing issue was someone to support this woman emotionally and prac-

tically to prepare to sell her inherited house and look for something more appropriate and manageable A

retired local woman with a background in documentary production and working for the BBC stepped forward

following a notice in the local paper The friendship was instant and as the advocate has stated ldquomutually re-

wardingrdquo Work has begun in sorting and packing and thinking about future options with the assistance of the

advocate who has ensured the proteges sister interstate is kept informed Im glad to say the previous advo-

cate will also stay in touch and remain a friend

bull A 38yo woman who has severe intellectual disability lives in a local ldquoCommunity Residential Unitrdquo in Sunbury

This woman is totally reliant on the service system and without family or friends and therefore vulnerable and

requiring a freely given relationship to help ensure her Human rights are upheld This was another rematch

due to the heavy workload of the previous advocate Another local woman with vast experience in doing vol-

untary missionary work was recruited to continue the excellent work that had begun The advocate has a

strong sense of social justice and

empathy for those that have been

forgotten and devalued The advocate

is currently developing an understand-

ing of her proteges life and how best

to protect her and her best interests

Degree of Disability

Mild Moderate Profound

21

Follow-along and support of Existing Relationships

bull Several advocates looking into NDIS planning for their proteacutegeacute Attended relevant presentations

bull Advocate insuring proteacutegeacute does not go into a nursing Home prematurely

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with confusion and stress related to Centrelink payments

bull Advocate looking into medical problem for proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate supporting proteges to live independently

bull Advocate working through family issues with proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate proteacutegeacute in dealing with solicitor re probate

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during test for epilepsy

bull Advocate vising proteacutegeacute after moving from CRU

bull Advocate taking proteacutegeacute shopping and advising on how to shop wisely

bull Advocate attended Hospital throughout night after proteges were involved in a car accident

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with CV

bull Advocate organising LINK transport for proteges

bull Proteacutegeacute contacted whist Advocate in hospital

bull Advocate supported around issues with proteges mother

bull Advocate looking into age related issues for NDIS

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during very difficult and upsetting family issue involving possible pregnancy

bull Advocate assisting proteges making a will

bull Advocate supported and informed proteacutegeacute during NDIS planning meeting and later attended a court

hearing in relation to another matter

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with the preparing and sale of house

bull 3 Advocates unfortunately attended their proteges funerals One Advocate heavily involved in the service

funeral

COMMUNICATION Male Female

Verbal 5 17

Speech Difficulties 3 5

Non Verbal 3 4

2

1637

6

1 1 1

Proteacutegeacute Day Placement

Disability Enterprise Adult Day Training School Study

Unemployed Retired Employed

Excluded Home Duties

DAY PLACEMENTS Male Female

Disability Enterprise 2 0

Adult Day Training 4 12

School Study 0 3

Unemployed 3 4

Retired 2 4

Employed 0 1

Excluded 0 1

Home Duties 0 1

22

Treasurerrsquos Report Elizabeth Homann

I am pleased to present the financial report for the year ended 30th June 2017 One of the many aspects of good

governance is good financial administration and I am please to report that Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

has continued the work started in the 2014 - 2015 year to put us in a strong stable position

RESULTS FOR 2017 We received a pleasing report from the Auditor this year with no audit adjustments required to correct the financial

results as presented

The overall result for CA Sunbury for 2017 was a surplus of $1818087 a healthy increase of $747663 from the

previous year The Commonwealth funding that the program receives increased slightly and we were fortunate

enough to receive an additional $16293 from DSS in May This allowed us to make some long awaited purchases

run training for our advocates and send 2 people to the Network Meeting in Rockhampton Our expenses continue

to rise making it more of a challenge each year to achieve a break even position We achieved the surplus through

careful management of expenses and recognition that to continue to be sustainable new income streams must be

found For the 2016 -2017 year the Staff and Committee concentrated their efforts on fundraising and grants and

were rewarded for their hard work

The net equity as at 30 June 2017 was $2892980 an increase of $1818087 from the previous year and solid

position Cash on Hand totalled $7560888

Income Overall revenue increased by $3326191 (221) from the previous year

bull Gain (Loss) on Sale of fixed Asset

o The organisationrsquos car was disposed of during the year with a resulting surplus of $598562

bull Funding increased by 332 from the previous year

o During 2016 - 2017 CASampD had one funding agreement in place

bull The Department of Social Services - National Disability Advocacy Program

o An additional $16293 was received in May

bull Grants increased by 133 from the previous year

o We received a grant from State Trustees

o We received a grant from Hume City Council

bull Fundraising was received

o Fundraising was received in the form for donations

o Fundraising was raised through sausage sizzles trivia night and a raffle

bull Employee FBT contribution decreased by 525 from the previous year

o The FBT contribution ceased when the car was sold

23

Expenses

Overall expenses increased by $2582599 (183) from the previous year

bull Depreciation costs decreased by 192 from the previous year

There was no new fixed assets purchased during the year

Depreciation calculated on diminishing value method

bull Auditorrsquos Remuneration decreased by 193 from the previous year

There was no charge for the surveillance Quality Audit was carried out this year

A Relationship Review audit was carried out this year

bull Rent expenses increased by 154 from the previous year

Rent increased as per the lease agreement

bull Program expenses increased by 2846 from the previous year

Several advocate functions were held during the year

Social Role Valorisation training was run for the Advocates

bull Consultant expenses were incurred

A consultant was engaged to review and overhaul the program database

bull Wages increased by 15 from the previous year

Limited annual leave and no long service leave was taken during the year

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc will continue to be funded by the Department of Social Services until the 30

June 2018 After this time there will be a new service agreement in place

Income

Donations FBT Employee ContributionFundraising Grants (Commonwealth)Grants (Local) Grants (Other)Gain on Asset Interest Expenses

Administration Board Depreciation

Fundraising Motor Vehicle Program

Staff

24

Financial Statements

Contents

Statement by Committee

Profit and Loss Statement

Balance Sheet

Notes to the Financial Statement

Independent Auditorrsquos Report

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Committe Members Declaration

YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2017

The committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements

In the opinion of the committee the financial report

Presents a true and fair view of the associations financial position as at 30 June 2017

2 There are reasonable grounds to believe that the association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable

NAME ~ zo6e+h ~VYIOI) Committee Member

2017

2

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

gratefully acknowledges the funding

provided by the Commonwealth of

Australia Department of Social Services

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

gratefully acknowledges the financial support

provided by

Funding amp Support

3

Funding Acknowledgement 2

What is Citizen Advocacy 4-5

Our Advocates 6

In the Office 7

Committee of Management 8-9

Chairpersonrsquos Report 10-11

Coordinatorrsquos Report 12-16

Key Office Activities Subcommittee 17

Key Office Activities 18-21

Treasurers Report 22-23

Financial Statements 24-30

Whatrsquos Inside

4

What is Citizen Advocacy

The Program

Citizen Advocacy is an innovative community based movement which aims to recognise

promote and defend the rights and interests of people with an intellectual disability

It does so by finding and supporting caring responsible citizens who are prepared to act

voluntarily to make a positive difference in the life of a person who may be lonely face difficult

challenges or be in a risky situation

Each citizen Advocacy relationship is unique The citizen advocate may for example offer his or her

proteacutegeacute friendship the experience of family new experiences and opportunities and in some

instances spokesman ship and protection from abuse

The Citizen Advocacy office carefully matches proteacutegeacutes and citizen advocates ensuring that there is a

good fit between the needs and interests of the proteacutegeacute and the abilities resources and

commitment of the citizen advocate

Types of Advocacy

Citizen Advocacy can be divided into three main forms

1 Expressive Advocacy

Everyone needs to feel warmth and understanding that comes from friendship This is what expressive

advocacy describes - the ldquofriendshiprdquo aspect of advocacy - the caring sharing emotional support

spending time together having fun and just being there

2 Instrumental Advocacy

Everyone needs assistance at different times just to learn how to get along in everyday life The way we

learn most things is through experience and by having someone there to show us different ways to do

things Instrumental advocacy describes the practical aspect of advocacy

3 Spokesmanship

In some situations people with intellectual disabilities are not treated with respect and dignity their basic

human rights are denied and they are expected to put up with life-conditions and services that you and I

would not accept Advocates may need to speak out on behalf of a person to ensure their rights are met

or assist that person to speak out for themselves An advocate will need to represent their friendrsquos

interests as if they were their own

5

Our Mission

To recognise promote and defend the rights and interests of people from culturally diverse

backgrounds and situations within our community who have an intellectual disability We do so by

recruiting and supporting caring responsible citizens (advocates) on a long term one to one basis

who are prepared to act voluntarily to make a positive difference in the life of a person who may

be lonely face difficult challenges or be in a risky situation (proteacutegeacutes) We carefully match

proteacutegeacutes and citizen advocates ensuring that there is a good fit between the needs and interests of

the proteacutegeacutes and the abilities resources and commitment of the citizen advocate

Principles

The operation of a Citizen Advocacy program is based on the following principles

Advocate Independence

bull Advocates must be free to develop a primary loyalty to the person with whom they are matched and be able to act as independently as possible

bull Citizen Advocates are supported as unpaid independent citizens acting as an advocate for an Individual person

Program Independence

bull Our program is independent and free from conflict of interest in how it is administered and funded The office is administratively and physically separated from agencies which operate direct service programs involving (potential) Proteacutegeacutes

Clarity of Staff Functions

bull Our Citizen Advocacy staff understand the nature and possibilities of Citizen Advocacy and communicate this understanding by

bull Supporting not supplanting ProteacutegeacuteAdvocate relationships

bull Directing their energies toward building and maintaining the office as a whole

Balanced Orientation to Needs of People requiring Advocates

bull People with an intellectual disability have a wide variety of needs for representation and relationships which can be met by Citizen Advocates Our program works to developed plans for recruiting and supporting a range of relationships

Positive Interpretations of People with a Disability

bull The Citizen Advocacy program model provides a positive interpretation of people with disabilities The program always seeks the most highly positive value conferring and yet valid possible associations which support developmental growth potential citizenship role and individual personhood of people at risk of social devaluation

Non-Discriminatory Advocacy

bull Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc promotes to Citizen Advocates sensitivity towards the social and cultural values beliefs and practices of the Proteacutegeacutes

6

We would like to acknowledge the advocates of CA Sunbury for their wonderful achievements in serving

the community and the proteacutegeacutes they support The world would be a poor place without your selfless

giving of time friendship assistance and support

Julie Allen

Maureen Anderson

Lyn Armstrong

Barbara Ashley

Katie Bishop

Ljubica Bosevska

Mary Buchanan

Gael Butler

Nell Canty

Pauline Cole

Alison Cunningham

Mary Day (Outgoing)

Nathan Dellamarta

Lisa Edwards

Carol Grant

Angela Fitzwater

Leanne Holland

Elizabeth Homann

John Karagiannidis

Anna Leach (Outgoing)

Edith Langshaw

Penny Mallia

Maria Martin

Corrie McConville

Susan Neale

Irene Nolte (Outgoing)

Denise OBrien

Lyn Plummer

Joan Purton

Jeniffer Renda

Stuart Ritchie

Noel Roberts

David amp Claire Ross

Peter Rovers

Helen Sims

Bill Shephard

Tony Tanti

Ruth Vigus

Ivan Wadsworth

Edda Webster

Our Advocates

7

In the Office

Coordinator - David Abela

Itrsquos been an honour to be Coordinator of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury for the past 25 yrs In this time I have been

able to help take this program from something that began with the aim of asking people in the Sunbury com-

munity to visit and protect vulnerable and often abandoned people living in the large institution called Caloola

to a Citizen Advocacy program working in the wider community with a range of people and needs when Caloola

was shut down

In this time I have also been able to participate in a number of Citizen Advo-

cacy Program Evaluations (CAPE) workshops and seminars around the coun-

try reinforcing and clarifying my strong believe that people with disability

like everyone need a balance in their lives ndash being good quality services and

programs and freely given relationships offering friendship inclusion and

protection Helping people achieve this is immensely satisfying work

I live in the small township of Riddellrsquos Creek and have 4 children When not

being a CA Coordinator I have a passion for sport including equestrian tri-

athlons cycling running and various sport the children played over the

years Currently I am helping my 16 year old daughter Grace retrain and

prepare our two ex-racehorses for equestrian sport

Administration - Melita Bonett

I have been a part of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury for over 6years now and I have

loved every minute Working alongside incredible community members means

that no two days in administration are ever the same

My husband Dave and I have one beautiful daughter three horses a pony named

Sparky and a very shaggy Golden Retriever Also keeping me busy is the familys

fully self sufficient vegetable gardencomplete with hens and a worm farm

Office Volunteer - Theresa Quin

Teresa has lived in Sunbury for almost forty years but has lived in South Australia

Scotland Darwin and Papua New Guinea before making here home here with her fami-

ly A retired Library Technician who previously worked with the Brotherhood of St Law-

rence and the Moonee Valley Library Service An avid reader and theatre goer she has

been involved with singing and acting groups in the district for many years She says

her very small contribution to Citizens Advocacy Sunbury has opened her eyes to the

needs of many in our community

8

Committee of Management

Chairperson - Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller

My name is Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller and I was born in Chile I migrated to

Australia in 1983 with my mother and adopted Australia as my new home in No-

vember 1985 when I become an Australian citizen I am married to a beautiful

and warm hearted Australian lady Karen amp we have a beautiful son Charles

who is 10 years old and has special needs We have lived in Sunbury for the past

13 years I work for a company called Independence Australia which provides

Incontinence amp Wound Care products to customers with special needs My wife

works as a Disability Support worker We both are committed to assist people

with special needs due to our work commitments and also personal experienc-

es My previous involvement has been varied and wide having being in com-

mittees of management for youth accommodation groups legal aid ethnic advi-

sory groups amp community health centres I am looking forward to my further involvement with Citizens

Advisory Sunbury and the many new challenges and opportunities it will bring

Vice Chairperson - Alison Cunningham

I have been the Vice Chairperson of Citizens Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts for the

last 12 months I am involved in a number of Community groups in Sunbury and

Citizens Advocacy is the most rewarding group I am involved in It is pleasure to

be a part of Citizens advocacy from the Proteacutegeacutes and Advocates I have met to

the Board and staff Being involved in Citizens advocacy has also given me the

privilege of being an advocate for Angela and Darrell

I look forward to having a long association with Citizen Advocacy

Secretary - Angelo Micallef

I migrated to Australia from Malta in 1983 with my wife and two young daughters

All our family have been involved in voluntary work with various organisations or on

our own because we feel an obligation to share our luck This was partially ingrained

in us by my late mother who was very caring for others in need My hobbies are gar-

dening sports and travel the world with my wife

9

Treasurer - Elizabeth Homann

My favourite quote is If you want something done ask a busy person and it sums

me up perfectly I am a highly self motivated dedicated and focused person who

has a passion for small not-for-profit (or as I prefer profit-for-purpose) organisa-

tions and have spent the last 20 years serving on all kinds of Committees and

Boards in all sorts of roles I have my own Bookkeeping business as and am a regis-

tered BAS Agent Whilst my initial motivation for joining CA Sunbury was to help

out a struggling Committee of Management this has developed into a deep appre-

ciation of the incredible work that CA Sunbury does

General Member - Elizabeth Lynch

Elizabeth Lynch has been a dedicated and active part of the Citizen Advocacy Com-

mittee for over 9 years Developing and maintaining the Citizen Advocacy Sunbury

website Elizabeth has a passion for learning especially in the area of computer

based applications Elizabeth is also a proteacutegeacute of the program

General Member - Michael Homann

I am passionate about achieving the best possible outcomes for people with disabili-

ties For the last 8 years I have been the General Manager of a Western Suburbs multi

site community service organisation which provides support and employment to over

400 adults with an intellectual disability Prior to this I had over 30 years of business

management experience at a senior level

I have always been involved in my local community and have been a member of many

community committees including kindergarten school council basketball (committee

amp coach) Scouts and the Sunbury Neighbourhood House I am also a current member

of both the Wyndham and Melton councils Disability and Aging Advisory Committees

General Member - Bridie Smith

It was an honour to be a member of the Committee of Management in 2016-17 and to

chair the Key Office Activities subcommittee which supports the core activities of the

program to maintain the full potential of the Citizen Advocacy vision as conceived by Dr

Wolf Wolfenberger six decades ago

I am blessed with an awesome family mdash my wonderfully patient and supportive hus-

band John and our amazing sons Brian and Liam I am a self-employed bookkeeper and

business owner Originally from County Galway Ireland Sunbury has been home since

mid-1990s and I love the terrific community spirit

I am passionate about ensuring our program remains strong and vibrant because through the selfless generosi-

ty of people from all walks of life Citizen Advocacy does an extraordinary job of valuing and protecting the

most vulnerable members of our community

10

Chairpersonrsquos Report

On behalf of the Committee of Management I have the privilege of presenting the annual report for the 2016 2017 financial year - and it has been a challenging year

I have been on the committee for about 4 years now and since then I have had different roles This year I was fortunate to be elected chairperson The last 12 months have been challenging and a enjoyable learning experience

Highlights As it was highlighted in last yearrsquos report we developed some financial strategies to ensure the financial viability of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc from the previous year This meant sig-nificant effort and commitment by the Committee of Management was required to assure the suc-cess of these strategies laid down in our 2016- 2018 Strategic Plan and to be able to manage the organisation responsibly and ensure our survival into the future I am very pleased to report that de-spite the resignation of several members of the committee we managed to achieve this and our fi-nances for the first time in a long time are healthy Unfortunately this does not mean we can relax and enjoy the good life On the contrary the new committee of management will need to ensure they keep vigilant amp continue to act responsibly to meet future needs and challenges

As mentioned before the Committee of Management also developed a new Strategic Plan for the next three years The four key focus areas include increasing the number of matches improving the profile of CA ensuring good governance and being financially sustainable This plan aims to ensure that the organisation will continue to be relevant to the needs of the communities we support as well as fulfilling the requirements of our funding agreement with DSS

In April 2017 we underwent a surveillance quality audit which we passed with flying colours I would like to thank you to all those who were involved in this process for your support and commitment

Our biggest unknown and challenge for the future is NDIS and how it might impact on our organisation- this continues to be somewhat vague In a meeting in October with representa-tives of DSS we were informed that the field of Advocacy will continue to be funded by DSS until 2020 and therefore inde-pendent of the NDIA There will be new funding agreements with new ways of reporting and more accountability from the part of committee of management We will keep you informed of developments

As part of our plan to improve CA profile we decided it was time to update our look by developing and adopting a new logo We had a competition with over 200 entries from all over the world At the end the committee of management selected the best 5 entries and asked our stakeholders to vote on the one best suited us It was a close call but the one selected gives us a fresh modern and more vibrant look We had a launch on the 25th October at our office which was well attended by proteacutegeacutees advocates amp friends of CA Sunbury

Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller

11

Going Forward Having faced and overcome many challenges in the past year the coming year will be equally challenging We have a very small membership in our organisation and an even smaller number of members who are prepared to be committee members This year with so many resignations from the committee of management the work was left to 4 people which is not sustainable in the longer term In the same way that the organisation was at threat by financial viability if there are not enough members to form a committee the organisation will cease to exist We are actively seeking new members not only for the organisation but also to the committee of management I encourage our members to give serious consideration into becoming part of our committee of management

As part of the strategic plan the committee of management is starting to expand our program in Hume to cover areas like Broadmeadows This is to make people aware of our organisation and its role in the community as well as a way to recruit people to join our organisation and to demonstrate to our funder both Federal and State Governments and the community at large that our form of advocacy is a legitimate and valued part of our local community and service to those we support

The committee of management is determined to create a good membership base by creating a sense of community where members can come and meet like-minded people perhaps share their experiences and also learn from others To this effect we will continue to run social evenings courses and information nights

The coming year will be an interesting one with new challenges and new opportunities to grow not only in membership but knowledge amp experience We are planning to have CAPE towards the end of 2018 A CAPE is a Citizen Advocacy Program evaluation which is done by external people which are members of other CA programs in Australia or overseas This will involve a lot of time preparing for the CAPE and then meeting the Team doing the evaluation It is a worthwhile exercise one that I was fortunate to be invited to be part of at South Australia Looking forward to it

Conclusion I would like to thank the staff and office volunteers for their continued hard work in an often difficult and ever changing environment I commend you all for your diligence and assistance in meeting the challenges we have faced

I would also like to thank the advocates who continue to support their proteacutegeacutes in a totally selfless way - you are amazing and are the backbone of the organisation

I would like to thank my colleagues and fellow com-mittee members for their patience giving of their time and energy and most importantly maintaining their sense of humour under sometime difficult circum-stances amp for their support they have given me as chairperson

Finally I need to not only to thank this person but also say goodbyehellip Elizabeth Homann you have been a pillar of strength dedication amp commitment not only to the organisation amp the committee of management but to me on a personal level The support advice and constant availability to answer my many calls have been greatly appreciated You will be missed at meetings I wish you all the best in your new endeavours amp for the future Looking forward to a new challenging year with new opportunities

12

Coordinatorrsquos Report David Abela

As always it is with pleasure that I present my report and touch on some of the activities and high-

lights of the program As Coordinator there is a multitude of activities and requirements to fulfil

throughout the year The most important of course being the lsquoKey Office Activitiesrsquo which I will dis-

cuss deeper into the report

An ongoing vital activity is talking to people about Citizen Advocacy either on an individual basis or

through community presentations this started off at the beginning of the year with a presentation

to St Andrews Friendship Group and information provided to the staff at Vic Roads Sunbury

Aquatic Centre Sunbury police and various individuals

In October last year I was off to

spread the word in Melton at the

lsquoMelton Care Exporsquo Many people

were spoken to and information given

out This is not an area we generally

work in but it was an opportunity to

gauge interest in the program and to

tap into people visiting from Hume

and Macedon Ranges There was very

good interest and the day resulted in a

new advocate and several potential proteacutegeacutes With many more people expressing an interest in

the program and Citizen Advocacy in general should it ever expand into the area

Fundraising is also always on the programs agenda ensuring there are funds available should new

equipment be required and giving us the resources to put on events and training

In early November one of our proteacutegeacutes Ronnie Jelbert along with his advocate Lisa Edwards fea-

tured in the Leader Newspaper highlighting the long association with Ronnie and the past owners

of The Olive Tree Hotel (Lisarsquos family) in Sunbury The current proprietors agreed to donate 50

cents of every dessert sold over a 3-month period to CA Sunbury The story of Ronnie and the

Edwards Family was a great opportunity to raise awareness and raise a little money for a good

cause

In late 2016 our Administration Assistant Melita was successful in securing a small grant from the

State Trustees allowing us to hire a room for one day per fortnight starting February 2017 at the

Broadmeadows Community Hub I have been able to chip away at informing people from Non-

English-Speaking Backgrounds (and others) about Citizen Advocacy and how it could benefit

people in their community either as advocates or proteacutegeacutes

13

Networking has increased in the wider Hume area and we have

been able to translate and print pro-

gram information pamphlets in Ara-

bic and disseminate them at rele-

vant venues including lsquoArabic Social

Servicesrsquo

Also in February Melita engaged CA Sunbury in the Rotary Club of Ballarat South Community Raffle

Through the support of tickets sales by the Committee Proteacutegeacutes Advocates and staff the program was

able to raise a total of $1048 in profit through ticket sales

February also saw the beginning of a new sub-committee which is a great support to my main work of

recruiting proteacutegeacutes and advocates and ensuring people are supported to maintain their relationships

long term The lsquoKey Office Activities Sub-Committee meets monthly with myself and is an opportunity

for others with some knowledge of CA to assist the program and my work in making good matches for

vulnerable people in our community As a sole Co-ordinator it is always beneficial receiving

encouragement and guidance from others with genuine concern for those we are here to serve

Special thanks to Bridie Smith Peter Rovers and Mary Dight who have been the backbone of this very

important initiative

Citizen Advocacy had a stall again at Sunfest on March 18th

Although not as well positioned as the previous year CA along

with the lsquoProgress Associationrsquo attracted plenty of interest and

helped clarify this model of Advocacy to people in the local

community

Part of good CA practice is to conduct an annual Internal

Relationship Review reviewing all matches and ensuring a

good balance of proteacutegeacute situations and backgrounds and the

appropriate advocates are recruited This thorough review also helps to inform and identify gaps in

recruitment and support and develop a plan to rectify any shortcomings Thanks to John Armstrong

known to many in the program and experienced in CAPE and Internal Relationship Reviews John was

able to work with committee members and myself in between his very busy schedule to produce a very

useful and informative report

Another form of review and assessment was our annual ldquoNational Standards for Disability Services

Auditrdquo conducted in April Another successful outcome with the program fully addressing the audit

recommendations of 2016 As always the audit team was impressed by the evidence presented and

feedback from lsquostakeholdersrsquo (advocates and proteacutegeacutes) and could clearly see the bond existing

between people and the support provided by the program to advocates providing friendship protec-

tion and spokesman ship to their proteacutegeacutes Irsquom glad to say that this has resulted in continued

certification under the lsquoNational Standards for Disability Servicesrsquo

14

In April it was time to think about some more fund raising again

A tried and tested venue is the local Bunnings Being Easter

Monday made it even more busy and profitable It was a great

day which not only helped us financially but also did a lot to

help raise awareness of people with disability and Citizen Advo-

cacy Four weeks later we entered into another venture with the

Progress Association at the Sunbury United Sporting Club where

we held a fundraising Trivia Night and split the proceeds

Another successful Advocate recruitment campaign during the year beginning in May and ongoing for

several weeks has been a small notice in the ldquoWHATS ONrdquo section of the local and Macedon Ranges

Leader This simple request asking for people to help make a difference in the life of someone with an

intellectual disability has had a very positive result with several people calling or dropping in to the

office I have so far been able to recruit and match 3 new advocates that began by responding to the

notice and hope to continue with other similar forms of awareness

The National Disability Insurance Scheme or ldquoNDISrdquo is the new national system for governments to

provide specialist disability supports to people with a significant and permanent disability Citizen Ad-

vocacy is not part of this new scheme but as part of our responsibility to advocatersquos we help provide

them with knowledge and resources to enable them to best support and inform their proteacutegeacute As

many proteacutegeacutes in the program are eligible to receive NDIS funding and their advocates would possibly

be involved in planning and attending meetings it was decided to engage Rick Ruiu from VALID to give

an informative and interactive NDIS presentation to our Advocates Proteacutegeacutes and other interested

relevant people This was a very successful and useful wintery June night and I feel confident that

many people are a little more prepared and aware of what is needed to gain the most benefit at their

proteacutegeacutes planning meeting beginning in March 2018 for those in Hume

The financial year ended on a very positive note with some knowledge

sharing by two experienced ex CA practioners Professor Zana Luttiffia

has been a CA Coordinator and board member at Winnipeg Canada she

has also completed her graduate training and postdoctoral work at the

Centre of Human Policy Syracuse University She joined the University

of Manitoba in 1992 Her longstanding research interest has been

identifying and examining the factors that help or hinder the valued

social participation of individuals with intellectual disabilities in

community life A couple of committee members and myself were able

to spend a delightful and informative few hours discussing good CA

practice and solving the problems of the world over dinner at Bridie Smiths home where we were

made to feel very welcomed by the whole family

Following our time with Zana the committee and I were given further insight into an important subject

by another ex-long term Coordinator this time Bob Lee from the Sunshine Coast who has a particular

interest and talent in delivering inspiring Citizen Advocacy presentations to community groups Bob

spoke to us on how he thinks we can be most effective in asking people to become a Citizen Advocate

for a vulnerable person and how you best present the persons situation and needs

15

Over the year we inevitably gain and loose people in the pro-

gram It was with great sadness that I had the task of informing

others connected with CA of the passing of two much loved

proteges firstly Daisey Serong and then shortly after Darren

Schembri Daisey was a proteacutegeacute with the program from its incep-

tion being an ex Caloola resident when her advocate Mary Day

would visit Daisey at Caloola with her young daughter and help

Daisey with her literacy and ensure life was a good as possible in

the large institution Daisey went on to be a strong self-advocate

with her brother John who passed away last year

Darren Shembri was also a long term proteacutegeacute who as a child spent time residing at St Nicholas home

for Intellectually disabled children until coming to live in the first CRU in Sunbury in 1985 Darren had

great resilience and an amazing personality His advocate Irene Nolte was always there for him both

in good and bad times ensuring his needs were met and acting as his voice whenever necessary the

bond between them was allways evident We were privileged to know both these people and they

will be remembered in so many positive and endearing ways

Citizen Advocacy is a team effort culminating in the matches that make up the CA Relationships Eve-

ryone has a role to play A big thanks to our admin assistant Melita who has had a mixed bag of tasks

and requests this year that she has taken in her stride Theresa our office volunteer has reorganised

our match files beautifully and made this part of the office tidier and more efficient

Our Committee of management are a hard-working detected

bunch Elizabeth Lynch decided to take a break from the

committee this year and we are eternally grateful for all the work

Elizabeth has put into our website that is now due for a revamp

Elizabeth remains involved in the program through being a

protege and has expressed an interest in coming on to the Key

Office Activities committee Our President Juan Carlos Rodrigues

does an excellent job of keeping everyone in order and on time

at committee meetings as well as helping to organise many activ-

ities outside of the office including the launch of our new logo

and our upcoming Christmas Dinner Our Vice president Alison

has done a lot to support the program and is also an advocate

but has recently had to step down due to the pressures of life

Angelo our secretary does

an excellent job of making

sure the agenda minutes and correspondence are on the table

ready for our committee meetings Irsquom pleased to say Angelo is

also about to become an advocate for someone well known to

the program and Angelorsquos broad knowledge and practical ad-

vice is greatly appreciated

16

Liz our treasurer and bookkeeper and general ldquojack of all trades ldquohas

bought the program back into the black and has been instrumental in

putting our program back into a healthy financial state Liz also recently

organised our new logo and was an advocate for a young woman in a

CRU Unfortunately for us Lizrsquos own business and growing workload has

made it too difficult to stay on as Treasurer but Irsquom glad to say Liz will

still be involved with us as our bookkeeper

After a short break from the committee Bridie has been back and is a

guardian of CA practice and principles developing her understanding by

attending the CA Study group and chairing the Key Office Activities

subcommittee More recently Tony Tanti who has been involved in the

program as an advocate has been attending committee meetings and his contribution and support on a

wide range of issues is greatly appreciated and valued

Thank you to everyone for all your hard work support and making this such a special program Above

all it has been an absolute honour working with the advocates and proteges of the program Watching

the bond and friendship between two people who often live very different lives develop and come to-

gether in a very beneficial way is both motivating and humbling

17

In January 2017 the Committee of Management (CoM) setup a Key Office Activities Sub-committee

(KOAs) to guide the program in working reflectively and purposefully in the practice of Citizen Advoca-

cy and to ensure an effective balance of the seven (7) Key Office Activities

A CA office which has an effective balance of activities will do enough of the right

thing at the right time to ensure that it will achieve its mission

from CAPE (Citizen Advocacy Practice Evaluation) Manual

The Key Office Activities are

bull Vision and Creativity in Proteacutegeacute Recruitment

bull Advocate Recruitment

bull Advocate Orientation

bull Advocate-Proteacutegeacute Matching

bull Follow-along and Support to Relationships

bull Ongoing Training

bull Emphasis on Advocate-associates

I had the honour of Chairing the KOAs this year and with David advocate Peter Rovers former CoM

member Mary Dight held the inaugural meeting in February 2017 Later in the year Proteacutegeacute and former

CoM member Elizabeth Lynch and Chairperson Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller joined us

Meetings are held at the office on the 4th Monday of the month from 10 am to noon We welcome ex-

pressions of interest from prospective new members with a keen interest in Citizen Advocacy

A heartfelt thanks to David Mary Peter Elizabeth and Juan Carlos for their wisdom and dedication I

look forward to continuing our contribution to the work of making many good CA matches in 2018

Bridie Smith

Key Office Activities Subcommittee

18

Identifying and Recruiting Proteacutegeacutes

bull A 16yo boy with ID and severe epilepsy and Dyspraxia Issues around hospital appointments and treatment at school

bull Women in early 20s residing in SRS suffering from severe chronic polytechnic arthritis and social isolated

bull Young man in Diggers Rest with fragile x syndrome and reluctant to leave house

bull Spoke to sergeant at Sunbury Police Station in regards to people with ID in trouble with the law

bull Presentation to Prioletti Work Education Group

bull Young woman living in Gisborne shared public housing has a learning disability

bull Young woman in Sunbury requiring social and employment support

bull Spoke to manager of Dallas Neighbourhood House

bull Spoke to CEO of Broadmeadows Disability Services

bull Young man in his early 30s recently relocating to Gisborne has mild intellectual disability ongoing mental health

issues and drug habit Requiring strong mentor and help with developing structure in his life

bull Woman in her 50s mild ID requiring assistance with preparing to relocate from inherited house

bull Spoke to Arabic Social Services

bull 21yo woman lives in Sunbury moderate ID Lives with separated parents Needs help with budgeting and banking

skills and accessing mainstream recreation

bull 24yo woman moderate ID lives in Diggers Rest with mother father recently died of cancer Wants help to access com-

munity opportunities No access to transport

bull Married couple with intellectual disability experiencing marital difficulties

Key Office Activities

The following are brief examples of the ldquoKey Office Activitiesrdquo for the 201617 year

0 1

8

59

14

Proteacutegeacute Age

0-20

21-30

31-40

41-50

51-60

61+

AGES Male Female

0-20 0 0

21-30 0 1

31-40 3 5

41-50 2 3

51-60 4 5

61+ 2 12

19

Advocate Recruitment

bull St Andrews Friendship Group

bull Young woman with marketing background

bull Vet nurse from Lancefield

bull Ex Committee member

bull Woodend accountant

bull Woman who runs a farm with Husband

bull Sunbury Probes

bull Member of Sunbury Historical society

bull Notices in the Whatrsquos On section of Sunbury Broadmeadow and

Macedon Ranges Leader

bull Rehab and Diabetes nurse recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Gisborne Menrsquos Shed

bull Retired Public Servant with experience in intellectual disability

and Mental Health

bull Relationships Councillor recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Various inquiries from Hume Volunteer Gateway

bull Various presentations to community and service groups

bull Presentations at Church groups

bull Sunbury Police

bull Sunfest Various people

bull Retired BBC employee

bull Retired Missionary

bull Middle aged teacherrsquos aide living in Mickleham

bull Presentation to Sunbury Aquatic Centre

bull Information to VicRoads

bull Retired Lecturer

Two new Advocate Associates Recruited one in the area of health and

diabetes prevention Other in the area counselling and mental health

TYPE OF ADVOCACY Male Female

Instrumental 2 2

Expressive 1 2

Both 8 22

OTHER DISABILITY Male Female

Yes 3 4

No 8 22

Advocate Orientation

Six full orientations completed throughout this period (one

potential advocate did not go on with matching)

6

201

4 6

Residential Situation

Family Home CRU Special Accomodation

Nursing Home Independently

RESIDENTIAL SITUATION Male Female

Family Home 3 3

CRU 7 13

Special Accomodation 0 1

Nursing Home 0 4

Independently 1 5

20

Advocate Proteacutegeacute Matching

Five new matches made this year

bull A quiet 32yo woman living independently in Sunbury who has difficulties around social interactions and se-

curing part time employment due to autistic tendencies was matched to woman of similar age who is out-

going This Advocate has a marketing background and is prepared to assist proteacutegeacute with CV how she presents

herself at job interviews and socialising including being a friend

bull Another 32yo woman this time living in Gisborne in shared public housing accommodation This woman has

a learning disability secondary to Kawasaki disease and required assistance gaining some level of financial in-

dependence hygiene health care and general life skills She was also being

financially exploited by her house mates Matched to a woman who helps manage the family farm and comes

from a large family where she has gained skills and experience in supporting her parents and siblings

bull After relocating to Gisborne with his parents in an effort to get away from bad influences and a drug habit a

33yo man with intellectual and psychiatric disability required someone to help develop

connections and positive relationships in his new community giving this young man an opportunity to start a

new life and structure to his day A retired senior public servant in Gisborne with experience of intellectual

and psychiatric disability within his family was recruited Within a short period of time the advocate was able

to befriend this young man gain his confidence and as a mentor direct and guide him towards community

activities whist at the same time ensure he gain what was required from his NDIS package and support and

help to represent him in a magistrates Court hearing

bull Following her advocate moving to Ballarat it was necessary to rematch a 58yo woman with previous learning

difficulties to a new advocate The ongoing issue was someone to support this woman emotionally and prac-

tically to prepare to sell her inherited house and look for something more appropriate and manageable A

retired local woman with a background in documentary production and working for the BBC stepped forward

following a notice in the local paper The friendship was instant and as the advocate has stated ldquomutually re-

wardingrdquo Work has begun in sorting and packing and thinking about future options with the assistance of the

advocate who has ensured the proteges sister interstate is kept informed Im glad to say the previous advo-

cate will also stay in touch and remain a friend

bull A 38yo woman who has severe intellectual disability lives in a local ldquoCommunity Residential Unitrdquo in Sunbury

This woman is totally reliant on the service system and without family or friends and therefore vulnerable and

requiring a freely given relationship to help ensure her Human rights are upheld This was another rematch

due to the heavy workload of the previous advocate Another local woman with vast experience in doing vol-

untary missionary work was recruited to continue the excellent work that had begun The advocate has a

strong sense of social justice and

empathy for those that have been

forgotten and devalued The advocate

is currently developing an understand-

ing of her proteges life and how best

to protect her and her best interests

Degree of Disability

Mild Moderate Profound

21

Follow-along and support of Existing Relationships

bull Several advocates looking into NDIS planning for their proteacutegeacute Attended relevant presentations

bull Advocate insuring proteacutegeacute does not go into a nursing Home prematurely

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with confusion and stress related to Centrelink payments

bull Advocate looking into medical problem for proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate supporting proteges to live independently

bull Advocate working through family issues with proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate proteacutegeacute in dealing with solicitor re probate

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during test for epilepsy

bull Advocate vising proteacutegeacute after moving from CRU

bull Advocate taking proteacutegeacute shopping and advising on how to shop wisely

bull Advocate attended Hospital throughout night after proteges were involved in a car accident

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with CV

bull Advocate organising LINK transport for proteges

bull Proteacutegeacute contacted whist Advocate in hospital

bull Advocate supported around issues with proteges mother

bull Advocate looking into age related issues for NDIS

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during very difficult and upsetting family issue involving possible pregnancy

bull Advocate assisting proteges making a will

bull Advocate supported and informed proteacutegeacute during NDIS planning meeting and later attended a court

hearing in relation to another matter

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with the preparing and sale of house

bull 3 Advocates unfortunately attended their proteges funerals One Advocate heavily involved in the service

funeral

COMMUNICATION Male Female

Verbal 5 17

Speech Difficulties 3 5

Non Verbal 3 4

2

1637

6

1 1 1

Proteacutegeacute Day Placement

Disability Enterprise Adult Day Training School Study

Unemployed Retired Employed

Excluded Home Duties

DAY PLACEMENTS Male Female

Disability Enterprise 2 0

Adult Day Training 4 12

School Study 0 3

Unemployed 3 4

Retired 2 4

Employed 0 1

Excluded 0 1

Home Duties 0 1

22

Treasurerrsquos Report Elizabeth Homann

I am pleased to present the financial report for the year ended 30th June 2017 One of the many aspects of good

governance is good financial administration and I am please to report that Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

has continued the work started in the 2014 - 2015 year to put us in a strong stable position

RESULTS FOR 2017 We received a pleasing report from the Auditor this year with no audit adjustments required to correct the financial

results as presented

The overall result for CA Sunbury for 2017 was a surplus of $1818087 a healthy increase of $747663 from the

previous year The Commonwealth funding that the program receives increased slightly and we were fortunate

enough to receive an additional $16293 from DSS in May This allowed us to make some long awaited purchases

run training for our advocates and send 2 people to the Network Meeting in Rockhampton Our expenses continue

to rise making it more of a challenge each year to achieve a break even position We achieved the surplus through

careful management of expenses and recognition that to continue to be sustainable new income streams must be

found For the 2016 -2017 year the Staff and Committee concentrated their efforts on fundraising and grants and

were rewarded for their hard work

The net equity as at 30 June 2017 was $2892980 an increase of $1818087 from the previous year and solid

position Cash on Hand totalled $7560888

Income Overall revenue increased by $3326191 (221) from the previous year

bull Gain (Loss) on Sale of fixed Asset

o The organisationrsquos car was disposed of during the year with a resulting surplus of $598562

bull Funding increased by 332 from the previous year

o During 2016 - 2017 CASampD had one funding agreement in place

bull The Department of Social Services - National Disability Advocacy Program

o An additional $16293 was received in May

bull Grants increased by 133 from the previous year

o We received a grant from State Trustees

o We received a grant from Hume City Council

bull Fundraising was received

o Fundraising was received in the form for donations

o Fundraising was raised through sausage sizzles trivia night and a raffle

bull Employee FBT contribution decreased by 525 from the previous year

o The FBT contribution ceased when the car was sold

23

Expenses

Overall expenses increased by $2582599 (183) from the previous year

bull Depreciation costs decreased by 192 from the previous year

There was no new fixed assets purchased during the year

Depreciation calculated on diminishing value method

bull Auditorrsquos Remuneration decreased by 193 from the previous year

There was no charge for the surveillance Quality Audit was carried out this year

A Relationship Review audit was carried out this year

bull Rent expenses increased by 154 from the previous year

Rent increased as per the lease agreement

bull Program expenses increased by 2846 from the previous year

Several advocate functions were held during the year

Social Role Valorisation training was run for the Advocates

bull Consultant expenses were incurred

A consultant was engaged to review and overhaul the program database

bull Wages increased by 15 from the previous year

Limited annual leave and no long service leave was taken during the year

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc will continue to be funded by the Department of Social Services until the 30

June 2018 After this time there will be a new service agreement in place

Income

Donations FBT Employee ContributionFundraising Grants (Commonwealth)Grants (Local) Grants (Other)Gain on Asset Interest Expenses

Administration Board Depreciation

Fundraising Motor Vehicle Program

Staff

24

Financial Statements

Contents

Statement by Committee

Profit and Loss Statement

Balance Sheet

Notes to the Financial Statement

Independent Auditorrsquos Report

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Committe Members Declaration

YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2017

The committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements

In the opinion of the committee the financial report

Presents a true and fair view of the associations financial position as at 30 June 2017

2 There are reasonable grounds to believe that the association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable

NAME ~ zo6e+h ~VYIOI) Committee Member

2017

3

Funding Acknowledgement 2

What is Citizen Advocacy 4-5

Our Advocates 6

In the Office 7

Committee of Management 8-9

Chairpersonrsquos Report 10-11

Coordinatorrsquos Report 12-16

Key Office Activities Subcommittee 17

Key Office Activities 18-21

Treasurers Report 22-23

Financial Statements 24-30

Whatrsquos Inside

4

What is Citizen Advocacy

The Program

Citizen Advocacy is an innovative community based movement which aims to recognise

promote and defend the rights and interests of people with an intellectual disability

It does so by finding and supporting caring responsible citizens who are prepared to act

voluntarily to make a positive difference in the life of a person who may be lonely face difficult

challenges or be in a risky situation

Each citizen Advocacy relationship is unique The citizen advocate may for example offer his or her

proteacutegeacute friendship the experience of family new experiences and opportunities and in some

instances spokesman ship and protection from abuse

The Citizen Advocacy office carefully matches proteacutegeacutes and citizen advocates ensuring that there is a

good fit between the needs and interests of the proteacutegeacute and the abilities resources and

commitment of the citizen advocate

Types of Advocacy

Citizen Advocacy can be divided into three main forms

1 Expressive Advocacy

Everyone needs to feel warmth and understanding that comes from friendship This is what expressive

advocacy describes - the ldquofriendshiprdquo aspect of advocacy - the caring sharing emotional support

spending time together having fun and just being there

2 Instrumental Advocacy

Everyone needs assistance at different times just to learn how to get along in everyday life The way we

learn most things is through experience and by having someone there to show us different ways to do

things Instrumental advocacy describes the practical aspect of advocacy

3 Spokesmanship

In some situations people with intellectual disabilities are not treated with respect and dignity their basic

human rights are denied and they are expected to put up with life-conditions and services that you and I

would not accept Advocates may need to speak out on behalf of a person to ensure their rights are met

or assist that person to speak out for themselves An advocate will need to represent their friendrsquos

interests as if they were their own

5

Our Mission

To recognise promote and defend the rights and interests of people from culturally diverse

backgrounds and situations within our community who have an intellectual disability We do so by

recruiting and supporting caring responsible citizens (advocates) on a long term one to one basis

who are prepared to act voluntarily to make a positive difference in the life of a person who may

be lonely face difficult challenges or be in a risky situation (proteacutegeacutes) We carefully match

proteacutegeacutes and citizen advocates ensuring that there is a good fit between the needs and interests of

the proteacutegeacutes and the abilities resources and commitment of the citizen advocate

Principles

The operation of a Citizen Advocacy program is based on the following principles

Advocate Independence

bull Advocates must be free to develop a primary loyalty to the person with whom they are matched and be able to act as independently as possible

bull Citizen Advocates are supported as unpaid independent citizens acting as an advocate for an Individual person

Program Independence

bull Our program is independent and free from conflict of interest in how it is administered and funded The office is administratively and physically separated from agencies which operate direct service programs involving (potential) Proteacutegeacutes

Clarity of Staff Functions

bull Our Citizen Advocacy staff understand the nature and possibilities of Citizen Advocacy and communicate this understanding by

bull Supporting not supplanting ProteacutegeacuteAdvocate relationships

bull Directing their energies toward building and maintaining the office as a whole

Balanced Orientation to Needs of People requiring Advocates

bull People with an intellectual disability have a wide variety of needs for representation and relationships which can be met by Citizen Advocates Our program works to developed plans for recruiting and supporting a range of relationships

Positive Interpretations of People with a Disability

bull The Citizen Advocacy program model provides a positive interpretation of people with disabilities The program always seeks the most highly positive value conferring and yet valid possible associations which support developmental growth potential citizenship role and individual personhood of people at risk of social devaluation

Non-Discriminatory Advocacy

bull Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc promotes to Citizen Advocates sensitivity towards the social and cultural values beliefs and practices of the Proteacutegeacutes

6

We would like to acknowledge the advocates of CA Sunbury for their wonderful achievements in serving

the community and the proteacutegeacutes they support The world would be a poor place without your selfless

giving of time friendship assistance and support

Julie Allen

Maureen Anderson

Lyn Armstrong

Barbara Ashley

Katie Bishop

Ljubica Bosevska

Mary Buchanan

Gael Butler

Nell Canty

Pauline Cole

Alison Cunningham

Mary Day (Outgoing)

Nathan Dellamarta

Lisa Edwards

Carol Grant

Angela Fitzwater

Leanne Holland

Elizabeth Homann

John Karagiannidis

Anna Leach (Outgoing)

Edith Langshaw

Penny Mallia

Maria Martin

Corrie McConville

Susan Neale

Irene Nolte (Outgoing)

Denise OBrien

Lyn Plummer

Joan Purton

Jeniffer Renda

Stuart Ritchie

Noel Roberts

David amp Claire Ross

Peter Rovers

Helen Sims

Bill Shephard

Tony Tanti

Ruth Vigus

Ivan Wadsworth

Edda Webster

Our Advocates

7

In the Office

Coordinator - David Abela

Itrsquos been an honour to be Coordinator of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury for the past 25 yrs In this time I have been

able to help take this program from something that began with the aim of asking people in the Sunbury com-

munity to visit and protect vulnerable and often abandoned people living in the large institution called Caloola

to a Citizen Advocacy program working in the wider community with a range of people and needs when Caloola

was shut down

In this time I have also been able to participate in a number of Citizen Advo-

cacy Program Evaluations (CAPE) workshops and seminars around the coun-

try reinforcing and clarifying my strong believe that people with disability

like everyone need a balance in their lives ndash being good quality services and

programs and freely given relationships offering friendship inclusion and

protection Helping people achieve this is immensely satisfying work

I live in the small township of Riddellrsquos Creek and have 4 children When not

being a CA Coordinator I have a passion for sport including equestrian tri-

athlons cycling running and various sport the children played over the

years Currently I am helping my 16 year old daughter Grace retrain and

prepare our two ex-racehorses for equestrian sport

Administration - Melita Bonett

I have been a part of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury for over 6years now and I have

loved every minute Working alongside incredible community members means

that no two days in administration are ever the same

My husband Dave and I have one beautiful daughter three horses a pony named

Sparky and a very shaggy Golden Retriever Also keeping me busy is the familys

fully self sufficient vegetable gardencomplete with hens and a worm farm

Office Volunteer - Theresa Quin

Teresa has lived in Sunbury for almost forty years but has lived in South Australia

Scotland Darwin and Papua New Guinea before making here home here with her fami-

ly A retired Library Technician who previously worked with the Brotherhood of St Law-

rence and the Moonee Valley Library Service An avid reader and theatre goer she has

been involved with singing and acting groups in the district for many years She says

her very small contribution to Citizens Advocacy Sunbury has opened her eyes to the

needs of many in our community

8

Committee of Management

Chairperson - Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller

My name is Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller and I was born in Chile I migrated to

Australia in 1983 with my mother and adopted Australia as my new home in No-

vember 1985 when I become an Australian citizen I am married to a beautiful

and warm hearted Australian lady Karen amp we have a beautiful son Charles

who is 10 years old and has special needs We have lived in Sunbury for the past

13 years I work for a company called Independence Australia which provides

Incontinence amp Wound Care products to customers with special needs My wife

works as a Disability Support worker We both are committed to assist people

with special needs due to our work commitments and also personal experienc-

es My previous involvement has been varied and wide having being in com-

mittees of management for youth accommodation groups legal aid ethnic advi-

sory groups amp community health centres I am looking forward to my further involvement with Citizens

Advisory Sunbury and the many new challenges and opportunities it will bring

Vice Chairperson - Alison Cunningham

I have been the Vice Chairperson of Citizens Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts for the

last 12 months I am involved in a number of Community groups in Sunbury and

Citizens Advocacy is the most rewarding group I am involved in It is pleasure to

be a part of Citizens advocacy from the Proteacutegeacutes and Advocates I have met to

the Board and staff Being involved in Citizens advocacy has also given me the

privilege of being an advocate for Angela and Darrell

I look forward to having a long association with Citizen Advocacy

Secretary - Angelo Micallef

I migrated to Australia from Malta in 1983 with my wife and two young daughters

All our family have been involved in voluntary work with various organisations or on

our own because we feel an obligation to share our luck This was partially ingrained

in us by my late mother who was very caring for others in need My hobbies are gar-

dening sports and travel the world with my wife

9

Treasurer - Elizabeth Homann

My favourite quote is If you want something done ask a busy person and it sums

me up perfectly I am a highly self motivated dedicated and focused person who

has a passion for small not-for-profit (or as I prefer profit-for-purpose) organisa-

tions and have spent the last 20 years serving on all kinds of Committees and

Boards in all sorts of roles I have my own Bookkeeping business as and am a regis-

tered BAS Agent Whilst my initial motivation for joining CA Sunbury was to help

out a struggling Committee of Management this has developed into a deep appre-

ciation of the incredible work that CA Sunbury does

General Member - Elizabeth Lynch

Elizabeth Lynch has been a dedicated and active part of the Citizen Advocacy Com-

mittee for over 9 years Developing and maintaining the Citizen Advocacy Sunbury

website Elizabeth has a passion for learning especially in the area of computer

based applications Elizabeth is also a proteacutegeacute of the program

General Member - Michael Homann

I am passionate about achieving the best possible outcomes for people with disabili-

ties For the last 8 years I have been the General Manager of a Western Suburbs multi

site community service organisation which provides support and employment to over

400 adults with an intellectual disability Prior to this I had over 30 years of business

management experience at a senior level

I have always been involved in my local community and have been a member of many

community committees including kindergarten school council basketball (committee

amp coach) Scouts and the Sunbury Neighbourhood House I am also a current member

of both the Wyndham and Melton councils Disability and Aging Advisory Committees

General Member - Bridie Smith

It was an honour to be a member of the Committee of Management in 2016-17 and to

chair the Key Office Activities subcommittee which supports the core activities of the

program to maintain the full potential of the Citizen Advocacy vision as conceived by Dr

Wolf Wolfenberger six decades ago

I am blessed with an awesome family mdash my wonderfully patient and supportive hus-

band John and our amazing sons Brian and Liam I am a self-employed bookkeeper and

business owner Originally from County Galway Ireland Sunbury has been home since

mid-1990s and I love the terrific community spirit

I am passionate about ensuring our program remains strong and vibrant because through the selfless generosi-

ty of people from all walks of life Citizen Advocacy does an extraordinary job of valuing and protecting the

most vulnerable members of our community

10

Chairpersonrsquos Report

On behalf of the Committee of Management I have the privilege of presenting the annual report for the 2016 2017 financial year - and it has been a challenging year

I have been on the committee for about 4 years now and since then I have had different roles This year I was fortunate to be elected chairperson The last 12 months have been challenging and a enjoyable learning experience

Highlights As it was highlighted in last yearrsquos report we developed some financial strategies to ensure the financial viability of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc from the previous year This meant sig-nificant effort and commitment by the Committee of Management was required to assure the suc-cess of these strategies laid down in our 2016- 2018 Strategic Plan and to be able to manage the organisation responsibly and ensure our survival into the future I am very pleased to report that de-spite the resignation of several members of the committee we managed to achieve this and our fi-nances for the first time in a long time are healthy Unfortunately this does not mean we can relax and enjoy the good life On the contrary the new committee of management will need to ensure they keep vigilant amp continue to act responsibly to meet future needs and challenges

As mentioned before the Committee of Management also developed a new Strategic Plan for the next three years The four key focus areas include increasing the number of matches improving the profile of CA ensuring good governance and being financially sustainable This plan aims to ensure that the organisation will continue to be relevant to the needs of the communities we support as well as fulfilling the requirements of our funding agreement with DSS

In April 2017 we underwent a surveillance quality audit which we passed with flying colours I would like to thank you to all those who were involved in this process for your support and commitment

Our biggest unknown and challenge for the future is NDIS and how it might impact on our organisation- this continues to be somewhat vague In a meeting in October with representa-tives of DSS we were informed that the field of Advocacy will continue to be funded by DSS until 2020 and therefore inde-pendent of the NDIA There will be new funding agreements with new ways of reporting and more accountability from the part of committee of management We will keep you informed of developments

As part of our plan to improve CA profile we decided it was time to update our look by developing and adopting a new logo We had a competition with over 200 entries from all over the world At the end the committee of management selected the best 5 entries and asked our stakeholders to vote on the one best suited us It was a close call but the one selected gives us a fresh modern and more vibrant look We had a launch on the 25th October at our office which was well attended by proteacutegeacutees advocates amp friends of CA Sunbury

Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller

11

Going Forward Having faced and overcome many challenges in the past year the coming year will be equally challenging We have a very small membership in our organisation and an even smaller number of members who are prepared to be committee members This year with so many resignations from the committee of management the work was left to 4 people which is not sustainable in the longer term In the same way that the organisation was at threat by financial viability if there are not enough members to form a committee the organisation will cease to exist We are actively seeking new members not only for the organisation but also to the committee of management I encourage our members to give serious consideration into becoming part of our committee of management

As part of the strategic plan the committee of management is starting to expand our program in Hume to cover areas like Broadmeadows This is to make people aware of our organisation and its role in the community as well as a way to recruit people to join our organisation and to demonstrate to our funder both Federal and State Governments and the community at large that our form of advocacy is a legitimate and valued part of our local community and service to those we support

The committee of management is determined to create a good membership base by creating a sense of community where members can come and meet like-minded people perhaps share their experiences and also learn from others To this effect we will continue to run social evenings courses and information nights

The coming year will be an interesting one with new challenges and new opportunities to grow not only in membership but knowledge amp experience We are planning to have CAPE towards the end of 2018 A CAPE is a Citizen Advocacy Program evaluation which is done by external people which are members of other CA programs in Australia or overseas This will involve a lot of time preparing for the CAPE and then meeting the Team doing the evaluation It is a worthwhile exercise one that I was fortunate to be invited to be part of at South Australia Looking forward to it

Conclusion I would like to thank the staff and office volunteers for their continued hard work in an often difficult and ever changing environment I commend you all for your diligence and assistance in meeting the challenges we have faced

I would also like to thank the advocates who continue to support their proteacutegeacutes in a totally selfless way - you are amazing and are the backbone of the organisation

I would like to thank my colleagues and fellow com-mittee members for their patience giving of their time and energy and most importantly maintaining their sense of humour under sometime difficult circum-stances amp for their support they have given me as chairperson

Finally I need to not only to thank this person but also say goodbyehellip Elizabeth Homann you have been a pillar of strength dedication amp commitment not only to the organisation amp the committee of management but to me on a personal level The support advice and constant availability to answer my many calls have been greatly appreciated You will be missed at meetings I wish you all the best in your new endeavours amp for the future Looking forward to a new challenging year with new opportunities

12

Coordinatorrsquos Report David Abela

As always it is with pleasure that I present my report and touch on some of the activities and high-

lights of the program As Coordinator there is a multitude of activities and requirements to fulfil

throughout the year The most important of course being the lsquoKey Office Activitiesrsquo which I will dis-

cuss deeper into the report

An ongoing vital activity is talking to people about Citizen Advocacy either on an individual basis or

through community presentations this started off at the beginning of the year with a presentation

to St Andrews Friendship Group and information provided to the staff at Vic Roads Sunbury

Aquatic Centre Sunbury police and various individuals

In October last year I was off to

spread the word in Melton at the

lsquoMelton Care Exporsquo Many people

were spoken to and information given

out This is not an area we generally

work in but it was an opportunity to

gauge interest in the program and to

tap into people visiting from Hume

and Macedon Ranges There was very

good interest and the day resulted in a

new advocate and several potential proteacutegeacutes With many more people expressing an interest in

the program and Citizen Advocacy in general should it ever expand into the area

Fundraising is also always on the programs agenda ensuring there are funds available should new

equipment be required and giving us the resources to put on events and training

In early November one of our proteacutegeacutes Ronnie Jelbert along with his advocate Lisa Edwards fea-

tured in the Leader Newspaper highlighting the long association with Ronnie and the past owners

of The Olive Tree Hotel (Lisarsquos family) in Sunbury The current proprietors agreed to donate 50

cents of every dessert sold over a 3-month period to CA Sunbury The story of Ronnie and the

Edwards Family was a great opportunity to raise awareness and raise a little money for a good

cause

In late 2016 our Administration Assistant Melita was successful in securing a small grant from the

State Trustees allowing us to hire a room for one day per fortnight starting February 2017 at the

Broadmeadows Community Hub I have been able to chip away at informing people from Non-

English-Speaking Backgrounds (and others) about Citizen Advocacy and how it could benefit

people in their community either as advocates or proteacutegeacutes

13

Networking has increased in the wider Hume area and we have

been able to translate and print pro-

gram information pamphlets in Ara-

bic and disseminate them at rele-

vant venues including lsquoArabic Social

Servicesrsquo

Also in February Melita engaged CA Sunbury in the Rotary Club of Ballarat South Community Raffle

Through the support of tickets sales by the Committee Proteacutegeacutes Advocates and staff the program was

able to raise a total of $1048 in profit through ticket sales

February also saw the beginning of a new sub-committee which is a great support to my main work of

recruiting proteacutegeacutes and advocates and ensuring people are supported to maintain their relationships

long term The lsquoKey Office Activities Sub-Committee meets monthly with myself and is an opportunity

for others with some knowledge of CA to assist the program and my work in making good matches for

vulnerable people in our community As a sole Co-ordinator it is always beneficial receiving

encouragement and guidance from others with genuine concern for those we are here to serve

Special thanks to Bridie Smith Peter Rovers and Mary Dight who have been the backbone of this very

important initiative

Citizen Advocacy had a stall again at Sunfest on March 18th

Although not as well positioned as the previous year CA along

with the lsquoProgress Associationrsquo attracted plenty of interest and

helped clarify this model of Advocacy to people in the local

community

Part of good CA practice is to conduct an annual Internal

Relationship Review reviewing all matches and ensuring a

good balance of proteacutegeacute situations and backgrounds and the

appropriate advocates are recruited This thorough review also helps to inform and identify gaps in

recruitment and support and develop a plan to rectify any shortcomings Thanks to John Armstrong

known to many in the program and experienced in CAPE and Internal Relationship Reviews John was

able to work with committee members and myself in between his very busy schedule to produce a very

useful and informative report

Another form of review and assessment was our annual ldquoNational Standards for Disability Services

Auditrdquo conducted in April Another successful outcome with the program fully addressing the audit

recommendations of 2016 As always the audit team was impressed by the evidence presented and

feedback from lsquostakeholdersrsquo (advocates and proteacutegeacutes) and could clearly see the bond existing

between people and the support provided by the program to advocates providing friendship protec-

tion and spokesman ship to their proteacutegeacutes Irsquom glad to say that this has resulted in continued

certification under the lsquoNational Standards for Disability Servicesrsquo

14

In April it was time to think about some more fund raising again

A tried and tested venue is the local Bunnings Being Easter

Monday made it even more busy and profitable It was a great

day which not only helped us financially but also did a lot to

help raise awareness of people with disability and Citizen Advo-

cacy Four weeks later we entered into another venture with the

Progress Association at the Sunbury United Sporting Club where

we held a fundraising Trivia Night and split the proceeds

Another successful Advocate recruitment campaign during the year beginning in May and ongoing for

several weeks has been a small notice in the ldquoWHATS ONrdquo section of the local and Macedon Ranges

Leader This simple request asking for people to help make a difference in the life of someone with an

intellectual disability has had a very positive result with several people calling or dropping in to the

office I have so far been able to recruit and match 3 new advocates that began by responding to the

notice and hope to continue with other similar forms of awareness

The National Disability Insurance Scheme or ldquoNDISrdquo is the new national system for governments to

provide specialist disability supports to people with a significant and permanent disability Citizen Ad-

vocacy is not part of this new scheme but as part of our responsibility to advocatersquos we help provide

them with knowledge and resources to enable them to best support and inform their proteacutegeacute As

many proteacutegeacutes in the program are eligible to receive NDIS funding and their advocates would possibly

be involved in planning and attending meetings it was decided to engage Rick Ruiu from VALID to give

an informative and interactive NDIS presentation to our Advocates Proteacutegeacutes and other interested

relevant people This was a very successful and useful wintery June night and I feel confident that

many people are a little more prepared and aware of what is needed to gain the most benefit at their

proteacutegeacutes planning meeting beginning in March 2018 for those in Hume

The financial year ended on a very positive note with some knowledge

sharing by two experienced ex CA practioners Professor Zana Luttiffia

has been a CA Coordinator and board member at Winnipeg Canada she

has also completed her graduate training and postdoctoral work at the

Centre of Human Policy Syracuse University She joined the University

of Manitoba in 1992 Her longstanding research interest has been

identifying and examining the factors that help or hinder the valued

social participation of individuals with intellectual disabilities in

community life A couple of committee members and myself were able

to spend a delightful and informative few hours discussing good CA

practice and solving the problems of the world over dinner at Bridie Smiths home where we were

made to feel very welcomed by the whole family

Following our time with Zana the committee and I were given further insight into an important subject

by another ex-long term Coordinator this time Bob Lee from the Sunshine Coast who has a particular

interest and talent in delivering inspiring Citizen Advocacy presentations to community groups Bob

spoke to us on how he thinks we can be most effective in asking people to become a Citizen Advocate

for a vulnerable person and how you best present the persons situation and needs

15

Over the year we inevitably gain and loose people in the pro-

gram It was with great sadness that I had the task of informing

others connected with CA of the passing of two much loved

proteges firstly Daisey Serong and then shortly after Darren

Schembri Daisey was a proteacutegeacute with the program from its incep-

tion being an ex Caloola resident when her advocate Mary Day

would visit Daisey at Caloola with her young daughter and help

Daisey with her literacy and ensure life was a good as possible in

the large institution Daisey went on to be a strong self-advocate

with her brother John who passed away last year

Darren Shembri was also a long term proteacutegeacute who as a child spent time residing at St Nicholas home

for Intellectually disabled children until coming to live in the first CRU in Sunbury in 1985 Darren had

great resilience and an amazing personality His advocate Irene Nolte was always there for him both

in good and bad times ensuring his needs were met and acting as his voice whenever necessary the

bond between them was allways evident We were privileged to know both these people and they

will be remembered in so many positive and endearing ways

Citizen Advocacy is a team effort culminating in the matches that make up the CA Relationships Eve-

ryone has a role to play A big thanks to our admin assistant Melita who has had a mixed bag of tasks

and requests this year that she has taken in her stride Theresa our office volunteer has reorganised

our match files beautifully and made this part of the office tidier and more efficient

Our Committee of management are a hard-working detected

bunch Elizabeth Lynch decided to take a break from the

committee this year and we are eternally grateful for all the work

Elizabeth has put into our website that is now due for a revamp

Elizabeth remains involved in the program through being a

protege and has expressed an interest in coming on to the Key

Office Activities committee Our President Juan Carlos Rodrigues

does an excellent job of keeping everyone in order and on time

at committee meetings as well as helping to organise many activ-

ities outside of the office including the launch of our new logo

and our upcoming Christmas Dinner Our Vice president Alison

has done a lot to support the program and is also an advocate

but has recently had to step down due to the pressures of life

Angelo our secretary does

an excellent job of making

sure the agenda minutes and correspondence are on the table

ready for our committee meetings Irsquom pleased to say Angelo is

also about to become an advocate for someone well known to

the program and Angelorsquos broad knowledge and practical ad-

vice is greatly appreciated

16

Liz our treasurer and bookkeeper and general ldquojack of all trades ldquohas

bought the program back into the black and has been instrumental in

putting our program back into a healthy financial state Liz also recently

organised our new logo and was an advocate for a young woman in a

CRU Unfortunately for us Lizrsquos own business and growing workload has

made it too difficult to stay on as Treasurer but Irsquom glad to say Liz will

still be involved with us as our bookkeeper

After a short break from the committee Bridie has been back and is a

guardian of CA practice and principles developing her understanding by

attending the CA Study group and chairing the Key Office Activities

subcommittee More recently Tony Tanti who has been involved in the

program as an advocate has been attending committee meetings and his contribution and support on a

wide range of issues is greatly appreciated and valued

Thank you to everyone for all your hard work support and making this such a special program Above

all it has been an absolute honour working with the advocates and proteges of the program Watching

the bond and friendship between two people who often live very different lives develop and come to-

gether in a very beneficial way is both motivating and humbling

17

In January 2017 the Committee of Management (CoM) setup a Key Office Activities Sub-committee

(KOAs) to guide the program in working reflectively and purposefully in the practice of Citizen Advoca-

cy and to ensure an effective balance of the seven (7) Key Office Activities

A CA office which has an effective balance of activities will do enough of the right

thing at the right time to ensure that it will achieve its mission

from CAPE (Citizen Advocacy Practice Evaluation) Manual

The Key Office Activities are

bull Vision and Creativity in Proteacutegeacute Recruitment

bull Advocate Recruitment

bull Advocate Orientation

bull Advocate-Proteacutegeacute Matching

bull Follow-along and Support to Relationships

bull Ongoing Training

bull Emphasis on Advocate-associates

I had the honour of Chairing the KOAs this year and with David advocate Peter Rovers former CoM

member Mary Dight held the inaugural meeting in February 2017 Later in the year Proteacutegeacute and former

CoM member Elizabeth Lynch and Chairperson Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller joined us

Meetings are held at the office on the 4th Monday of the month from 10 am to noon We welcome ex-

pressions of interest from prospective new members with a keen interest in Citizen Advocacy

A heartfelt thanks to David Mary Peter Elizabeth and Juan Carlos for their wisdom and dedication I

look forward to continuing our contribution to the work of making many good CA matches in 2018

Bridie Smith

Key Office Activities Subcommittee

18

Identifying and Recruiting Proteacutegeacutes

bull A 16yo boy with ID and severe epilepsy and Dyspraxia Issues around hospital appointments and treatment at school

bull Women in early 20s residing in SRS suffering from severe chronic polytechnic arthritis and social isolated

bull Young man in Diggers Rest with fragile x syndrome and reluctant to leave house

bull Spoke to sergeant at Sunbury Police Station in regards to people with ID in trouble with the law

bull Presentation to Prioletti Work Education Group

bull Young woman living in Gisborne shared public housing has a learning disability

bull Young woman in Sunbury requiring social and employment support

bull Spoke to manager of Dallas Neighbourhood House

bull Spoke to CEO of Broadmeadows Disability Services

bull Young man in his early 30s recently relocating to Gisborne has mild intellectual disability ongoing mental health

issues and drug habit Requiring strong mentor and help with developing structure in his life

bull Woman in her 50s mild ID requiring assistance with preparing to relocate from inherited house

bull Spoke to Arabic Social Services

bull 21yo woman lives in Sunbury moderate ID Lives with separated parents Needs help with budgeting and banking

skills and accessing mainstream recreation

bull 24yo woman moderate ID lives in Diggers Rest with mother father recently died of cancer Wants help to access com-

munity opportunities No access to transport

bull Married couple with intellectual disability experiencing marital difficulties

Key Office Activities

The following are brief examples of the ldquoKey Office Activitiesrdquo for the 201617 year

0 1

8

59

14

Proteacutegeacute Age

0-20

21-30

31-40

41-50

51-60

61+

AGES Male Female

0-20 0 0

21-30 0 1

31-40 3 5

41-50 2 3

51-60 4 5

61+ 2 12

19

Advocate Recruitment

bull St Andrews Friendship Group

bull Young woman with marketing background

bull Vet nurse from Lancefield

bull Ex Committee member

bull Woodend accountant

bull Woman who runs a farm with Husband

bull Sunbury Probes

bull Member of Sunbury Historical society

bull Notices in the Whatrsquos On section of Sunbury Broadmeadow and

Macedon Ranges Leader

bull Rehab and Diabetes nurse recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Gisborne Menrsquos Shed

bull Retired Public Servant with experience in intellectual disability

and Mental Health

bull Relationships Councillor recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Various inquiries from Hume Volunteer Gateway

bull Various presentations to community and service groups

bull Presentations at Church groups

bull Sunbury Police

bull Sunfest Various people

bull Retired BBC employee

bull Retired Missionary

bull Middle aged teacherrsquos aide living in Mickleham

bull Presentation to Sunbury Aquatic Centre

bull Information to VicRoads

bull Retired Lecturer

Two new Advocate Associates Recruited one in the area of health and

diabetes prevention Other in the area counselling and mental health

TYPE OF ADVOCACY Male Female

Instrumental 2 2

Expressive 1 2

Both 8 22

OTHER DISABILITY Male Female

Yes 3 4

No 8 22

Advocate Orientation

Six full orientations completed throughout this period (one

potential advocate did not go on with matching)

6

201

4 6

Residential Situation

Family Home CRU Special Accomodation

Nursing Home Independently

RESIDENTIAL SITUATION Male Female

Family Home 3 3

CRU 7 13

Special Accomodation 0 1

Nursing Home 0 4

Independently 1 5

20

Advocate Proteacutegeacute Matching

Five new matches made this year

bull A quiet 32yo woman living independently in Sunbury who has difficulties around social interactions and se-

curing part time employment due to autistic tendencies was matched to woman of similar age who is out-

going This Advocate has a marketing background and is prepared to assist proteacutegeacute with CV how she presents

herself at job interviews and socialising including being a friend

bull Another 32yo woman this time living in Gisborne in shared public housing accommodation This woman has

a learning disability secondary to Kawasaki disease and required assistance gaining some level of financial in-

dependence hygiene health care and general life skills She was also being

financially exploited by her house mates Matched to a woman who helps manage the family farm and comes

from a large family where she has gained skills and experience in supporting her parents and siblings

bull After relocating to Gisborne with his parents in an effort to get away from bad influences and a drug habit a

33yo man with intellectual and psychiatric disability required someone to help develop

connections and positive relationships in his new community giving this young man an opportunity to start a

new life and structure to his day A retired senior public servant in Gisborne with experience of intellectual

and psychiatric disability within his family was recruited Within a short period of time the advocate was able

to befriend this young man gain his confidence and as a mentor direct and guide him towards community

activities whist at the same time ensure he gain what was required from his NDIS package and support and

help to represent him in a magistrates Court hearing

bull Following her advocate moving to Ballarat it was necessary to rematch a 58yo woman with previous learning

difficulties to a new advocate The ongoing issue was someone to support this woman emotionally and prac-

tically to prepare to sell her inherited house and look for something more appropriate and manageable A

retired local woman with a background in documentary production and working for the BBC stepped forward

following a notice in the local paper The friendship was instant and as the advocate has stated ldquomutually re-

wardingrdquo Work has begun in sorting and packing and thinking about future options with the assistance of the

advocate who has ensured the proteges sister interstate is kept informed Im glad to say the previous advo-

cate will also stay in touch and remain a friend

bull A 38yo woman who has severe intellectual disability lives in a local ldquoCommunity Residential Unitrdquo in Sunbury

This woman is totally reliant on the service system and without family or friends and therefore vulnerable and

requiring a freely given relationship to help ensure her Human rights are upheld This was another rematch

due to the heavy workload of the previous advocate Another local woman with vast experience in doing vol-

untary missionary work was recruited to continue the excellent work that had begun The advocate has a

strong sense of social justice and

empathy for those that have been

forgotten and devalued The advocate

is currently developing an understand-

ing of her proteges life and how best

to protect her and her best interests

Degree of Disability

Mild Moderate Profound

21

Follow-along and support of Existing Relationships

bull Several advocates looking into NDIS planning for their proteacutegeacute Attended relevant presentations

bull Advocate insuring proteacutegeacute does not go into a nursing Home prematurely

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with confusion and stress related to Centrelink payments

bull Advocate looking into medical problem for proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate supporting proteges to live independently

bull Advocate working through family issues with proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate proteacutegeacute in dealing with solicitor re probate

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during test for epilepsy

bull Advocate vising proteacutegeacute after moving from CRU

bull Advocate taking proteacutegeacute shopping and advising on how to shop wisely

bull Advocate attended Hospital throughout night after proteges were involved in a car accident

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with CV

bull Advocate organising LINK transport for proteges

bull Proteacutegeacute contacted whist Advocate in hospital

bull Advocate supported around issues with proteges mother

bull Advocate looking into age related issues for NDIS

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during very difficult and upsetting family issue involving possible pregnancy

bull Advocate assisting proteges making a will

bull Advocate supported and informed proteacutegeacute during NDIS planning meeting and later attended a court

hearing in relation to another matter

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with the preparing and sale of house

bull 3 Advocates unfortunately attended their proteges funerals One Advocate heavily involved in the service

funeral

COMMUNICATION Male Female

Verbal 5 17

Speech Difficulties 3 5

Non Verbal 3 4

2

1637

6

1 1 1

Proteacutegeacute Day Placement

Disability Enterprise Adult Day Training School Study

Unemployed Retired Employed

Excluded Home Duties

DAY PLACEMENTS Male Female

Disability Enterprise 2 0

Adult Day Training 4 12

School Study 0 3

Unemployed 3 4

Retired 2 4

Employed 0 1

Excluded 0 1

Home Duties 0 1

22

Treasurerrsquos Report Elizabeth Homann

I am pleased to present the financial report for the year ended 30th June 2017 One of the many aspects of good

governance is good financial administration and I am please to report that Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

has continued the work started in the 2014 - 2015 year to put us in a strong stable position

RESULTS FOR 2017 We received a pleasing report from the Auditor this year with no audit adjustments required to correct the financial

results as presented

The overall result for CA Sunbury for 2017 was a surplus of $1818087 a healthy increase of $747663 from the

previous year The Commonwealth funding that the program receives increased slightly and we were fortunate

enough to receive an additional $16293 from DSS in May This allowed us to make some long awaited purchases

run training for our advocates and send 2 people to the Network Meeting in Rockhampton Our expenses continue

to rise making it more of a challenge each year to achieve a break even position We achieved the surplus through

careful management of expenses and recognition that to continue to be sustainable new income streams must be

found For the 2016 -2017 year the Staff and Committee concentrated their efforts on fundraising and grants and

were rewarded for their hard work

The net equity as at 30 June 2017 was $2892980 an increase of $1818087 from the previous year and solid

position Cash on Hand totalled $7560888

Income Overall revenue increased by $3326191 (221) from the previous year

bull Gain (Loss) on Sale of fixed Asset

o The organisationrsquos car was disposed of during the year with a resulting surplus of $598562

bull Funding increased by 332 from the previous year

o During 2016 - 2017 CASampD had one funding agreement in place

bull The Department of Social Services - National Disability Advocacy Program

o An additional $16293 was received in May

bull Grants increased by 133 from the previous year

o We received a grant from State Trustees

o We received a grant from Hume City Council

bull Fundraising was received

o Fundraising was received in the form for donations

o Fundraising was raised through sausage sizzles trivia night and a raffle

bull Employee FBT contribution decreased by 525 from the previous year

o The FBT contribution ceased when the car was sold

23

Expenses

Overall expenses increased by $2582599 (183) from the previous year

bull Depreciation costs decreased by 192 from the previous year

There was no new fixed assets purchased during the year

Depreciation calculated on diminishing value method

bull Auditorrsquos Remuneration decreased by 193 from the previous year

There was no charge for the surveillance Quality Audit was carried out this year

A Relationship Review audit was carried out this year

bull Rent expenses increased by 154 from the previous year

Rent increased as per the lease agreement

bull Program expenses increased by 2846 from the previous year

Several advocate functions were held during the year

Social Role Valorisation training was run for the Advocates

bull Consultant expenses were incurred

A consultant was engaged to review and overhaul the program database

bull Wages increased by 15 from the previous year

Limited annual leave and no long service leave was taken during the year

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc will continue to be funded by the Department of Social Services until the 30

June 2018 After this time there will be a new service agreement in place

Income

Donations FBT Employee ContributionFundraising Grants (Commonwealth)Grants (Local) Grants (Other)Gain on Asset Interest Expenses

Administration Board Depreciation

Fundraising Motor Vehicle Program

Staff

24

Financial Statements

Contents

Statement by Committee

Profit and Loss Statement

Balance Sheet

Notes to the Financial Statement

Independent Auditorrsquos Report

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Committe Members Declaration

YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2017

The committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements

In the opinion of the committee the financial report

Presents a true and fair view of the associations financial position as at 30 June 2017

2 There are reasonable grounds to believe that the association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable

NAME ~ zo6e+h ~VYIOI) Committee Member

2017

4

What is Citizen Advocacy

The Program

Citizen Advocacy is an innovative community based movement which aims to recognise

promote and defend the rights and interests of people with an intellectual disability

It does so by finding and supporting caring responsible citizens who are prepared to act

voluntarily to make a positive difference in the life of a person who may be lonely face difficult

challenges or be in a risky situation

Each citizen Advocacy relationship is unique The citizen advocate may for example offer his or her

proteacutegeacute friendship the experience of family new experiences and opportunities and in some

instances spokesman ship and protection from abuse

The Citizen Advocacy office carefully matches proteacutegeacutes and citizen advocates ensuring that there is a

good fit between the needs and interests of the proteacutegeacute and the abilities resources and

commitment of the citizen advocate

Types of Advocacy

Citizen Advocacy can be divided into three main forms

1 Expressive Advocacy

Everyone needs to feel warmth and understanding that comes from friendship This is what expressive

advocacy describes - the ldquofriendshiprdquo aspect of advocacy - the caring sharing emotional support

spending time together having fun and just being there

2 Instrumental Advocacy

Everyone needs assistance at different times just to learn how to get along in everyday life The way we

learn most things is through experience and by having someone there to show us different ways to do

things Instrumental advocacy describes the practical aspect of advocacy

3 Spokesmanship

In some situations people with intellectual disabilities are not treated with respect and dignity their basic

human rights are denied and they are expected to put up with life-conditions and services that you and I

would not accept Advocates may need to speak out on behalf of a person to ensure their rights are met

or assist that person to speak out for themselves An advocate will need to represent their friendrsquos

interests as if they were their own

5

Our Mission

To recognise promote and defend the rights and interests of people from culturally diverse

backgrounds and situations within our community who have an intellectual disability We do so by

recruiting and supporting caring responsible citizens (advocates) on a long term one to one basis

who are prepared to act voluntarily to make a positive difference in the life of a person who may

be lonely face difficult challenges or be in a risky situation (proteacutegeacutes) We carefully match

proteacutegeacutes and citizen advocates ensuring that there is a good fit between the needs and interests of

the proteacutegeacutes and the abilities resources and commitment of the citizen advocate

Principles

The operation of a Citizen Advocacy program is based on the following principles

Advocate Independence

bull Advocates must be free to develop a primary loyalty to the person with whom they are matched and be able to act as independently as possible

bull Citizen Advocates are supported as unpaid independent citizens acting as an advocate for an Individual person

Program Independence

bull Our program is independent and free from conflict of interest in how it is administered and funded The office is administratively and physically separated from agencies which operate direct service programs involving (potential) Proteacutegeacutes

Clarity of Staff Functions

bull Our Citizen Advocacy staff understand the nature and possibilities of Citizen Advocacy and communicate this understanding by

bull Supporting not supplanting ProteacutegeacuteAdvocate relationships

bull Directing their energies toward building and maintaining the office as a whole

Balanced Orientation to Needs of People requiring Advocates

bull People with an intellectual disability have a wide variety of needs for representation and relationships which can be met by Citizen Advocates Our program works to developed plans for recruiting and supporting a range of relationships

Positive Interpretations of People with a Disability

bull The Citizen Advocacy program model provides a positive interpretation of people with disabilities The program always seeks the most highly positive value conferring and yet valid possible associations which support developmental growth potential citizenship role and individual personhood of people at risk of social devaluation

Non-Discriminatory Advocacy

bull Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc promotes to Citizen Advocates sensitivity towards the social and cultural values beliefs and practices of the Proteacutegeacutes

6

We would like to acknowledge the advocates of CA Sunbury for their wonderful achievements in serving

the community and the proteacutegeacutes they support The world would be a poor place without your selfless

giving of time friendship assistance and support

Julie Allen

Maureen Anderson

Lyn Armstrong

Barbara Ashley

Katie Bishop

Ljubica Bosevska

Mary Buchanan

Gael Butler

Nell Canty

Pauline Cole

Alison Cunningham

Mary Day (Outgoing)

Nathan Dellamarta

Lisa Edwards

Carol Grant

Angela Fitzwater

Leanne Holland

Elizabeth Homann

John Karagiannidis

Anna Leach (Outgoing)

Edith Langshaw

Penny Mallia

Maria Martin

Corrie McConville

Susan Neale

Irene Nolte (Outgoing)

Denise OBrien

Lyn Plummer

Joan Purton

Jeniffer Renda

Stuart Ritchie

Noel Roberts

David amp Claire Ross

Peter Rovers

Helen Sims

Bill Shephard

Tony Tanti

Ruth Vigus

Ivan Wadsworth

Edda Webster

Our Advocates

7

In the Office

Coordinator - David Abela

Itrsquos been an honour to be Coordinator of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury for the past 25 yrs In this time I have been

able to help take this program from something that began with the aim of asking people in the Sunbury com-

munity to visit and protect vulnerable and often abandoned people living in the large institution called Caloola

to a Citizen Advocacy program working in the wider community with a range of people and needs when Caloola

was shut down

In this time I have also been able to participate in a number of Citizen Advo-

cacy Program Evaluations (CAPE) workshops and seminars around the coun-

try reinforcing and clarifying my strong believe that people with disability

like everyone need a balance in their lives ndash being good quality services and

programs and freely given relationships offering friendship inclusion and

protection Helping people achieve this is immensely satisfying work

I live in the small township of Riddellrsquos Creek and have 4 children When not

being a CA Coordinator I have a passion for sport including equestrian tri-

athlons cycling running and various sport the children played over the

years Currently I am helping my 16 year old daughter Grace retrain and

prepare our two ex-racehorses for equestrian sport

Administration - Melita Bonett

I have been a part of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury for over 6years now and I have

loved every minute Working alongside incredible community members means

that no two days in administration are ever the same

My husband Dave and I have one beautiful daughter three horses a pony named

Sparky and a very shaggy Golden Retriever Also keeping me busy is the familys

fully self sufficient vegetable gardencomplete with hens and a worm farm

Office Volunteer - Theresa Quin

Teresa has lived in Sunbury for almost forty years but has lived in South Australia

Scotland Darwin and Papua New Guinea before making here home here with her fami-

ly A retired Library Technician who previously worked with the Brotherhood of St Law-

rence and the Moonee Valley Library Service An avid reader and theatre goer she has

been involved with singing and acting groups in the district for many years She says

her very small contribution to Citizens Advocacy Sunbury has opened her eyes to the

needs of many in our community

8

Committee of Management

Chairperson - Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller

My name is Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller and I was born in Chile I migrated to

Australia in 1983 with my mother and adopted Australia as my new home in No-

vember 1985 when I become an Australian citizen I am married to a beautiful

and warm hearted Australian lady Karen amp we have a beautiful son Charles

who is 10 years old and has special needs We have lived in Sunbury for the past

13 years I work for a company called Independence Australia which provides

Incontinence amp Wound Care products to customers with special needs My wife

works as a Disability Support worker We both are committed to assist people

with special needs due to our work commitments and also personal experienc-

es My previous involvement has been varied and wide having being in com-

mittees of management for youth accommodation groups legal aid ethnic advi-

sory groups amp community health centres I am looking forward to my further involvement with Citizens

Advisory Sunbury and the many new challenges and opportunities it will bring

Vice Chairperson - Alison Cunningham

I have been the Vice Chairperson of Citizens Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts for the

last 12 months I am involved in a number of Community groups in Sunbury and

Citizens Advocacy is the most rewarding group I am involved in It is pleasure to

be a part of Citizens advocacy from the Proteacutegeacutes and Advocates I have met to

the Board and staff Being involved in Citizens advocacy has also given me the

privilege of being an advocate for Angela and Darrell

I look forward to having a long association with Citizen Advocacy

Secretary - Angelo Micallef

I migrated to Australia from Malta in 1983 with my wife and two young daughters

All our family have been involved in voluntary work with various organisations or on

our own because we feel an obligation to share our luck This was partially ingrained

in us by my late mother who was very caring for others in need My hobbies are gar-

dening sports and travel the world with my wife

9

Treasurer - Elizabeth Homann

My favourite quote is If you want something done ask a busy person and it sums

me up perfectly I am a highly self motivated dedicated and focused person who

has a passion for small not-for-profit (or as I prefer profit-for-purpose) organisa-

tions and have spent the last 20 years serving on all kinds of Committees and

Boards in all sorts of roles I have my own Bookkeeping business as and am a regis-

tered BAS Agent Whilst my initial motivation for joining CA Sunbury was to help

out a struggling Committee of Management this has developed into a deep appre-

ciation of the incredible work that CA Sunbury does

General Member - Elizabeth Lynch

Elizabeth Lynch has been a dedicated and active part of the Citizen Advocacy Com-

mittee for over 9 years Developing and maintaining the Citizen Advocacy Sunbury

website Elizabeth has a passion for learning especially in the area of computer

based applications Elizabeth is also a proteacutegeacute of the program

General Member - Michael Homann

I am passionate about achieving the best possible outcomes for people with disabili-

ties For the last 8 years I have been the General Manager of a Western Suburbs multi

site community service organisation which provides support and employment to over

400 adults with an intellectual disability Prior to this I had over 30 years of business

management experience at a senior level

I have always been involved in my local community and have been a member of many

community committees including kindergarten school council basketball (committee

amp coach) Scouts and the Sunbury Neighbourhood House I am also a current member

of both the Wyndham and Melton councils Disability and Aging Advisory Committees

General Member - Bridie Smith

It was an honour to be a member of the Committee of Management in 2016-17 and to

chair the Key Office Activities subcommittee which supports the core activities of the

program to maintain the full potential of the Citizen Advocacy vision as conceived by Dr

Wolf Wolfenberger six decades ago

I am blessed with an awesome family mdash my wonderfully patient and supportive hus-

band John and our amazing sons Brian and Liam I am a self-employed bookkeeper and

business owner Originally from County Galway Ireland Sunbury has been home since

mid-1990s and I love the terrific community spirit

I am passionate about ensuring our program remains strong and vibrant because through the selfless generosi-

ty of people from all walks of life Citizen Advocacy does an extraordinary job of valuing and protecting the

most vulnerable members of our community

10

Chairpersonrsquos Report

On behalf of the Committee of Management I have the privilege of presenting the annual report for the 2016 2017 financial year - and it has been a challenging year

I have been on the committee for about 4 years now and since then I have had different roles This year I was fortunate to be elected chairperson The last 12 months have been challenging and a enjoyable learning experience

Highlights As it was highlighted in last yearrsquos report we developed some financial strategies to ensure the financial viability of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc from the previous year This meant sig-nificant effort and commitment by the Committee of Management was required to assure the suc-cess of these strategies laid down in our 2016- 2018 Strategic Plan and to be able to manage the organisation responsibly and ensure our survival into the future I am very pleased to report that de-spite the resignation of several members of the committee we managed to achieve this and our fi-nances for the first time in a long time are healthy Unfortunately this does not mean we can relax and enjoy the good life On the contrary the new committee of management will need to ensure they keep vigilant amp continue to act responsibly to meet future needs and challenges

As mentioned before the Committee of Management also developed a new Strategic Plan for the next three years The four key focus areas include increasing the number of matches improving the profile of CA ensuring good governance and being financially sustainable This plan aims to ensure that the organisation will continue to be relevant to the needs of the communities we support as well as fulfilling the requirements of our funding agreement with DSS

In April 2017 we underwent a surveillance quality audit which we passed with flying colours I would like to thank you to all those who were involved in this process for your support and commitment

Our biggest unknown and challenge for the future is NDIS and how it might impact on our organisation- this continues to be somewhat vague In a meeting in October with representa-tives of DSS we were informed that the field of Advocacy will continue to be funded by DSS until 2020 and therefore inde-pendent of the NDIA There will be new funding agreements with new ways of reporting and more accountability from the part of committee of management We will keep you informed of developments

As part of our plan to improve CA profile we decided it was time to update our look by developing and adopting a new logo We had a competition with over 200 entries from all over the world At the end the committee of management selected the best 5 entries and asked our stakeholders to vote on the one best suited us It was a close call but the one selected gives us a fresh modern and more vibrant look We had a launch on the 25th October at our office which was well attended by proteacutegeacutees advocates amp friends of CA Sunbury

Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller

11

Going Forward Having faced and overcome many challenges in the past year the coming year will be equally challenging We have a very small membership in our organisation and an even smaller number of members who are prepared to be committee members This year with so many resignations from the committee of management the work was left to 4 people which is not sustainable in the longer term In the same way that the organisation was at threat by financial viability if there are not enough members to form a committee the organisation will cease to exist We are actively seeking new members not only for the organisation but also to the committee of management I encourage our members to give serious consideration into becoming part of our committee of management

As part of the strategic plan the committee of management is starting to expand our program in Hume to cover areas like Broadmeadows This is to make people aware of our organisation and its role in the community as well as a way to recruit people to join our organisation and to demonstrate to our funder both Federal and State Governments and the community at large that our form of advocacy is a legitimate and valued part of our local community and service to those we support

The committee of management is determined to create a good membership base by creating a sense of community where members can come and meet like-minded people perhaps share their experiences and also learn from others To this effect we will continue to run social evenings courses and information nights

The coming year will be an interesting one with new challenges and new opportunities to grow not only in membership but knowledge amp experience We are planning to have CAPE towards the end of 2018 A CAPE is a Citizen Advocacy Program evaluation which is done by external people which are members of other CA programs in Australia or overseas This will involve a lot of time preparing for the CAPE and then meeting the Team doing the evaluation It is a worthwhile exercise one that I was fortunate to be invited to be part of at South Australia Looking forward to it

Conclusion I would like to thank the staff and office volunteers for their continued hard work in an often difficult and ever changing environment I commend you all for your diligence and assistance in meeting the challenges we have faced

I would also like to thank the advocates who continue to support their proteacutegeacutes in a totally selfless way - you are amazing and are the backbone of the organisation

I would like to thank my colleagues and fellow com-mittee members for their patience giving of their time and energy and most importantly maintaining their sense of humour under sometime difficult circum-stances amp for their support they have given me as chairperson

Finally I need to not only to thank this person but also say goodbyehellip Elizabeth Homann you have been a pillar of strength dedication amp commitment not only to the organisation amp the committee of management but to me on a personal level The support advice and constant availability to answer my many calls have been greatly appreciated You will be missed at meetings I wish you all the best in your new endeavours amp for the future Looking forward to a new challenging year with new opportunities

12

Coordinatorrsquos Report David Abela

As always it is with pleasure that I present my report and touch on some of the activities and high-

lights of the program As Coordinator there is a multitude of activities and requirements to fulfil

throughout the year The most important of course being the lsquoKey Office Activitiesrsquo which I will dis-

cuss deeper into the report

An ongoing vital activity is talking to people about Citizen Advocacy either on an individual basis or

through community presentations this started off at the beginning of the year with a presentation

to St Andrews Friendship Group and information provided to the staff at Vic Roads Sunbury

Aquatic Centre Sunbury police and various individuals

In October last year I was off to

spread the word in Melton at the

lsquoMelton Care Exporsquo Many people

were spoken to and information given

out This is not an area we generally

work in but it was an opportunity to

gauge interest in the program and to

tap into people visiting from Hume

and Macedon Ranges There was very

good interest and the day resulted in a

new advocate and several potential proteacutegeacutes With many more people expressing an interest in

the program and Citizen Advocacy in general should it ever expand into the area

Fundraising is also always on the programs agenda ensuring there are funds available should new

equipment be required and giving us the resources to put on events and training

In early November one of our proteacutegeacutes Ronnie Jelbert along with his advocate Lisa Edwards fea-

tured in the Leader Newspaper highlighting the long association with Ronnie and the past owners

of The Olive Tree Hotel (Lisarsquos family) in Sunbury The current proprietors agreed to donate 50

cents of every dessert sold over a 3-month period to CA Sunbury The story of Ronnie and the

Edwards Family was a great opportunity to raise awareness and raise a little money for a good

cause

In late 2016 our Administration Assistant Melita was successful in securing a small grant from the

State Trustees allowing us to hire a room for one day per fortnight starting February 2017 at the

Broadmeadows Community Hub I have been able to chip away at informing people from Non-

English-Speaking Backgrounds (and others) about Citizen Advocacy and how it could benefit

people in their community either as advocates or proteacutegeacutes

13

Networking has increased in the wider Hume area and we have

been able to translate and print pro-

gram information pamphlets in Ara-

bic and disseminate them at rele-

vant venues including lsquoArabic Social

Servicesrsquo

Also in February Melita engaged CA Sunbury in the Rotary Club of Ballarat South Community Raffle

Through the support of tickets sales by the Committee Proteacutegeacutes Advocates and staff the program was

able to raise a total of $1048 in profit through ticket sales

February also saw the beginning of a new sub-committee which is a great support to my main work of

recruiting proteacutegeacutes and advocates and ensuring people are supported to maintain their relationships

long term The lsquoKey Office Activities Sub-Committee meets monthly with myself and is an opportunity

for others with some knowledge of CA to assist the program and my work in making good matches for

vulnerable people in our community As a sole Co-ordinator it is always beneficial receiving

encouragement and guidance from others with genuine concern for those we are here to serve

Special thanks to Bridie Smith Peter Rovers and Mary Dight who have been the backbone of this very

important initiative

Citizen Advocacy had a stall again at Sunfest on March 18th

Although not as well positioned as the previous year CA along

with the lsquoProgress Associationrsquo attracted plenty of interest and

helped clarify this model of Advocacy to people in the local

community

Part of good CA practice is to conduct an annual Internal

Relationship Review reviewing all matches and ensuring a

good balance of proteacutegeacute situations and backgrounds and the

appropriate advocates are recruited This thorough review also helps to inform and identify gaps in

recruitment and support and develop a plan to rectify any shortcomings Thanks to John Armstrong

known to many in the program and experienced in CAPE and Internal Relationship Reviews John was

able to work with committee members and myself in between his very busy schedule to produce a very

useful and informative report

Another form of review and assessment was our annual ldquoNational Standards for Disability Services

Auditrdquo conducted in April Another successful outcome with the program fully addressing the audit

recommendations of 2016 As always the audit team was impressed by the evidence presented and

feedback from lsquostakeholdersrsquo (advocates and proteacutegeacutes) and could clearly see the bond existing

between people and the support provided by the program to advocates providing friendship protec-

tion and spokesman ship to their proteacutegeacutes Irsquom glad to say that this has resulted in continued

certification under the lsquoNational Standards for Disability Servicesrsquo

14

In April it was time to think about some more fund raising again

A tried and tested venue is the local Bunnings Being Easter

Monday made it even more busy and profitable It was a great

day which not only helped us financially but also did a lot to

help raise awareness of people with disability and Citizen Advo-

cacy Four weeks later we entered into another venture with the

Progress Association at the Sunbury United Sporting Club where

we held a fundraising Trivia Night and split the proceeds

Another successful Advocate recruitment campaign during the year beginning in May and ongoing for

several weeks has been a small notice in the ldquoWHATS ONrdquo section of the local and Macedon Ranges

Leader This simple request asking for people to help make a difference in the life of someone with an

intellectual disability has had a very positive result with several people calling or dropping in to the

office I have so far been able to recruit and match 3 new advocates that began by responding to the

notice and hope to continue with other similar forms of awareness

The National Disability Insurance Scheme or ldquoNDISrdquo is the new national system for governments to

provide specialist disability supports to people with a significant and permanent disability Citizen Ad-

vocacy is not part of this new scheme but as part of our responsibility to advocatersquos we help provide

them with knowledge and resources to enable them to best support and inform their proteacutegeacute As

many proteacutegeacutes in the program are eligible to receive NDIS funding and their advocates would possibly

be involved in planning and attending meetings it was decided to engage Rick Ruiu from VALID to give

an informative and interactive NDIS presentation to our Advocates Proteacutegeacutes and other interested

relevant people This was a very successful and useful wintery June night and I feel confident that

many people are a little more prepared and aware of what is needed to gain the most benefit at their

proteacutegeacutes planning meeting beginning in March 2018 for those in Hume

The financial year ended on a very positive note with some knowledge

sharing by two experienced ex CA practioners Professor Zana Luttiffia

has been a CA Coordinator and board member at Winnipeg Canada she

has also completed her graduate training and postdoctoral work at the

Centre of Human Policy Syracuse University She joined the University

of Manitoba in 1992 Her longstanding research interest has been

identifying and examining the factors that help or hinder the valued

social participation of individuals with intellectual disabilities in

community life A couple of committee members and myself were able

to spend a delightful and informative few hours discussing good CA

practice and solving the problems of the world over dinner at Bridie Smiths home where we were

made to feel very welcomed by the whole family

Following our time with Zana the committee and I were given further insight into an important subject

by another ex-long term Coordinator this time Bob Lee from the Sunshine Coast who has a particular

interest and talent in delivering inspiring Citizen Advocacy presentations to community groups Bob

spoke to us on how he thinks we can be most effective in asking people to become a Citizen Advocate

for a vulnerable person and how you best present the persons situation and needs

15

Over the year we inevitably gain and loose people in the pro-

gram It was with great sadness that I had the task of informing

others connected with CA of the passing of two much loved

proteges firstly Daisey Serong and then shortly after Darren

Schembri Daisey was a proteacutegeacute with the program from its incep-

tion being an ex Caloola resident when her advocate Mary Day

would visit Daisey at Caloola with her young daughter and help

Daisey with her literacy and ensure life was a good as possible in

the large institution Daisey went on to be a strong self-advocate

with her brother John who passed away last year

Darren Shembri was also a long term proteacutegeacute who as a child spent time residing at St Nicholas home

for Intellectually disabled children until coming to live in the first CRU in Sunbury in 1985 Darren had

great resilience and an amazing personality His advocate Irene Nolte was always there for him both

in good and bad times ensuring his needs were met and acting as his voice whenever necessary the

bond between them was allways evident We were privileged to know both these people and they

will be remembered in so many positive and endearing ways

Citizen Advocacy is a team effort culminating in the matches that make up the CA Relationships Eve-

ryone has a role to play A big thanks to our admin assistant Melita who has had a mixed bag of tasks

and requests this year that she has taken in her stride Theresa our office volunteer has reorganised

our match files beautifully and made this part of the office tidier and more efficient

Our Committee of management are a hard-working detected

bunch Elizabeth Lynch decided to take a break from the

committee this year and we are eternally grateful for all the work

Elizabeth has put into our website that is now due for a revamp

Elizabeth remains involved in the program through being a

protege and has expressed an interest in coming on to the Key

Office Activities committee Our President Juan Carlos Rodrigues

does an excellent job of keeping everyone in order and on time

at committee meetings as well as helping to organise many activ-

ities outside of the office including the launch of our new logo

and our upcoming Christmas Dinner Our Vice president Alison

has done a lot to support the program and is also an advocate

but has recently had to step down due to the pressures of life

Angelo our secretary does

an excellent job of making

sure the agenda minutes and correspondence are on the table

ready for our committee meetings Irsquom pleased to say Angelo is

also about to become an advocate for someone well known to

the program and Angelorsquos broad knowledge and practical ad-

vice is greatly appreciated

16

Liz our treasurer and bookkeeper and general ldquojack of all trades ldquohas

bought the program back into the black and has been instrumental in

putting our program back into a healthy financial state Liz also recently

organised our new logo and was an advocate for a young woman in a

CRU Unfortunately for us Lizrsquos own business and growing workload has

made it too difficult to stay on as Treasurer but Irsquom glad to say Liz will

still be involved with us as our bookkeeper

After a short break from the committee Bridie has been back and is a

guardian of CA practice and principles developing her understanding by

attending the CA Study group and chairing the Key Office Activities

subcommittee More recently Tony Tanti who has been involved in the

program as an advocate has been attending committee meetings and his contribution and support on a

wide range of issues is greatly appreciated and valued

Thank you to everyone for all your hard work support and making this such a special program Above

all it has been an absolute honour working with the advocates and proteges of the program Watching

the bond and friendship between two people who often live very different lives develop and come to-

gether in a very beneficial way is both motivating and humbling

17

In January 2017 the Committee of Management (CoM) setup a Key Office Activities Sub-committee

(KOAs) to guide the program in working reflectively and purposefully in the practice of Citizen Advoca-

cy and to ensure an effective balance of the seven (7) Key Office Activities

A CA office which has an effective balance of activities will do enough of the right

thing at the right time to ensure that it will achieve its mission

from CAPE (Citizen Advocacy Practice Evaluation) Manual

The Key Office Activities are

bull Vision and Creativity in Proteacutegeacute Recruitment

bull Advocate Recruitment

bull Advocate Orientation

bull Advocate-Proteacutegeacute Matching

bull Follow-along and Support to Relationships

bull Ongoing Training

bull Emphasis on Advocate-associates

I had the honour of Chairing the KOAs this year and with David advocate Peter Rovers former CoM

member Mary Dight held the inaugural meeting in February 2017 Later in the year Proteacutegeacute and former

CoM member Elizabeth Lynch and Chairperson Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller joined us

Meetings are held at the office on the 4th Monday of the month from 10 am to noon We welcome ex-

pressions of interest from prospective new members with a keen interest in Citizen Advocacy

A heartfelt thanks to David Mary Peter Elizabeth and Juan Carlos for their wisdom and dedication I

look forward to continuing our contribution to the work of making many good CA matches in 2018

Bridie Smith

Key Office Activities Subcommittee

18

Identifying and Recruiting Proteacutegeacutes

bull A 16yo boy with ID and severe epilepsy and Dyspraxia Issues around hospital appointments and treatment at school

bull Women in early 20s residing in SRS suffering from severe chronic polytechnic arthritis and social isolated

bull Young man in Diggers Rest with fragile x syndrome and reluctant to leave house

bull Spoke to sergeant at Sunbury Police Station in regards to people with ID in trouble with the law

bull Presentation to Prioletti Work Education Group

bull Young woman living in Gisborne shared public housing has a learning disability

bull Young woman in Sunbury requiring social and employment support

bull Spoke to manager of Dallas Neighbourhood House

bull Spoke to CEO of Broadmeadows Disability Services

bull Young man in his early 30s recently relocating to Gisborne has mild intellectual disability ongoing mental health

issues and drug habit Requiring strong mentor and help with developing structure in his life

bull Woman in her 50s mild ID requiring assistance with preparing to relocate from inherited house

bull Spoke to Arabic Social Services

bull 21yo woman lives in Sunbury moderate ID Lives with separated parents Needs help with budgeting and banking

skills and accessing mainstream recreation

bull 24yo woman moderate ID lives in Diggers Rest with mother father recently died of cancer Wants help to access com-

munity opportunities No access to transport

bull Married couple with intellectual disability experiencing marital difficulties

Key Office Activities

The following are brief examples of the ldquoKey Office Activitiesrdquo for the 201617 year

0 1

8

59

14

Proteacutegeacute Age

0-20

21-30

31-40

41-50

51-60

61+

AGES Male Female

0-20 0 0

21-30 0 1

31-40 3 5

41-50 2 3

51-60 4 5

61+ 2 12

19

Advocate Recruitment

bull St Andrews Friendship Group

bull Young woman with marketing background

bull Vet nurse from Lancefield

bull Ex Committee member

bull Woodend accountant

bull Woman who runs a farm with Husband

bull Sunbury Probes

bull Member of Sunbury Historical society

bull Notices in the Whatrsquos On section of Sunbury Broadmeadow and

Macedon Ranges Leader

bull Rehab and Diabetes nurse recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Gisborne Menrsquos Shed

bull Retired Public Servant with experience in intellectual disability

and Mental Health

bull Relationships Councillor recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Various inquiries from Hume Volunteer Gateway

bull Various presentations to community and service groups

bull Presentations at Church groups

bull Sunbury Police

bull Sunfest Various people

bull Retired BBC employee

bull Retired Missionary

bull Middle aged teacherrsquos aide living in Mickleham

bull Presentation to Sunbury Aquatic Centre

bull Information to VicRoads

bull Retired Lecturer

Two new Advocate Associates Recruited one in the area of health and

diabetes prevention Other in the area counselling and mental health

TYPE OF ADVOCACY Male Female

Instrumental 2 2

Expressive 1 2

Both 8 22

OTHER DISABILITY Male Female

Yes 3 4

No 8 22

Advocate Orientation

Six full orientations completed throughout this period (one

potential advocate did not go on with matching)

6

201

4 6

Residential Situation

Family Home CRU Special Accomodation

Nursing Home Independently

RESIDENTIAL SITUATION Male Female

Family Home 3 3

CRU 7 13

Special Accomodation 0 1

Nursing Home 0 4

Independently 1 5

20

Advocate Proteacutegeacute Matching

Five new matches made this year

bull A quiet 32yo woman living independently in Sunbury who has difficulties around social interactions and se-

curing part time employment due to autistic tendencies was matched to woman of similar age who is out-

going This Advocate has a marketing background and is prepared to assist proteacutegeacute with CV how she presents

herself at job interviews and socialising including being a friend

bull Another 32yo woman this time living in Gisborne in shared public housing accommodation This woman has

a learning disability secondary to Kawasaki disease and required assistance gaining some level of financial in-

dependence hygiene health care and general life skills She was also being

financially exploited by her house mates Matched to a woman who helps manage the family farm and comes

from a large family where she has gained skills and experience in supporting her parents and siblings

bull After relocating to Gisborne with his parents in an effort to get away from bad influences and a drug habit a

33yo man with intellectual and psychiatric disability required someone to help develop

connections and positive relationships in his new community giving this young man an opportunity to start a

new life and structure to his day A retired senior public servant in Gisborne with experience of intellectual

and psychiatric disability within his family was recruited Within a short period of time the advocate was able

to befriend this young man gain his confidence and as a mentor direct and guide him towards community

activities whist at the same time ensure he gain what was required from his NDIS package and support and

help to represent him in a magistrates Court hearing

bull Following her advocate moving to Ballarat it was necessary to rematch a 58yo woman with previous learning

difficulties to a new advocate The ongoing issue was someone to support this woman emotionally and prac-

tically to prepare to sell her inherited house and look for something more appropriate and manageable A

retired local woman with a background in documentary production and working for the BBC stepped forward

following a notice in the local paper The friendship was instant and as the advocate has stated ldquomutually re-

wardingrdquo Work has begun in sorting and packing and thinking about future options with the assistance of the

advocate who has ensured the proteges sister interstate is kept informed Im glad to say the previous advo-

cate will also stay in touch and remain a friend

bull A 38yo woman who has severe intellectual disability lives in a local ldquoCommunity Residential Unitrdquo in Sunbury

This woman is totally reliant on the service system and without family or friends and therefore vulnerable and

requiring a freely given relationship to help ensure her Human rights are upheld This was another rematch

due to the heavy workload of the previous advocate Another local woman with vast experience in doing vol-

untary missionary work was recruited to continue the excellent work that had begun The advocate has a

strong sense of social justice and

empathy for those that have been

forgotten and devalued The advocate

is currently developing an understand-

ing of her proteges life and how best

to protect her and her best interests

Degree of Disability

Mild Moderate Profound

21

Follow-along and support of Existing Relationships

bull Several advocates looking into NDIS planning for their proteacutegeacute Attended relevant presentations

bull Advocate insuring proteacutegeacute does not go into a nursing Home prematurely

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with confusion and stress related to Centrelink payments

bull Advocate looking into medical problem for proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate supporting proteges to live independently

bull Advocate working through family issues with proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate proteacutegeacute in dealing with solicitor re probate

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during test for epilepsy

bull Advocate vising proteacutegeacute after moving from CRU

bull Advocate taking proteacutegeacute shopping and advising on how to shop wisely

bull Advocate attended Hospital throughout night after proteges were involved in a car accident

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with CV

bull Advocate organising LINK transport for proteges

bull Proteacutegeacute contacted whist Advocate in hospital

bull Advocate supported around issues with proteges mother

bull Advocate looking into age related issues for NDIS

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during very difficult and upsetting family issue involving possible pregnancy

bull Advocate assisting proteges making a will

bull Advocate supported and informed proteacutegeacute during NDIS planning meeting and later attended a court

hearing in relation to another matter

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with the preparing and sale of house

bull 3 Advocates unfortunately attended their proteges funerals One Advocate heavily involved in the service

funeral

COMMUNICATION Male Female

Verbal 5 17

Speech Difficulties 3 5

Non Verbal 3 4

2

1637

6

1 1 1

Proteacutegeacute Day Placement

Disability Enterprise Adult Day Training School Study

Unemployed Retired Employed

Excluded Home Duties

DAY PLACEMENTS Male Female

Disability Enterprise 2 0

Adult Day Training 4 12

School Study 0 3

Unemployed 3 4

Retired 2 4

Employed 0 1

Excluded 0 1

Home Duties 0 1

22

Treasurerrsquos Report Elizabeth Homann

I am pleased to present the financial report for the year ended 30th June 2017 One of the many aspects of good

governance is good financial administration and I am please to report that Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

has continued the work started in the 2014 - 2015 year to put us in a strong stable position

RESULTS FOR 2017 We received a pleasing report from the Auditor this year with no audit adjustments required to correct the financial

results as presented

The overall result for CA Sunbury for 2017 was a surplus of $1818087 a healthy increase of $747663 from the

previous year The Commonwealth funding that the program receives increased slightly and we were fortunate

enough to receive an additional $16293 from DSS in May This allowed us to make some long awaited purchases

run training for our advocates and send 2 people to the Network Meeting in Rockhampton Our expenses continue

to rise making it more of a challenge each year to achieve a break even position We achieved the surplus through

careful management of expenses and recognition that to continue to be sustainable new income streams must be

found For the 2016 -2017 year the Staff and Committee concentrated their efforts on fundraising and grants and

were rewarded for their hard work

The net equity as at 30 June 2017 was $2892980 an increase of $1818087 from the previous year and solid

position Cash on Hand totalled $7560888

Income Overall revenue increased by $3326191 (221) from the previous year

bull Gain (Loss) on Sale of fixed Asset

o The organisationrsquos car was disposed of during the year with a resulting surplus of $598562

bull Funding increased by 332 from the previous year

o During 2016 - 2017 CASampD had one funding agreement in place

bull The Department of Social Services - National Disability Advocacy Program

o An additional $16293 was received in May

bull Grants increased by 133 from the previous year

o We received a grant from State Trustees

o We received a grant from Hume City Council

bull Fundraising was received

o Fundraising was received in the form for donations

o Fundraising was raised through sausage sizzles trivia night and a raffle

bull Employee FBT contribution decreased by 525 from the previous year

o The FBT contribution ceased when the car was sold

23

Expenses

Overall expenses increased by $2582599 (183) from the previous year

bull Depreciation costs decreased by 192 from the previous year

There was no new fixed assets purchased during the year

Depreciation calculated on diminishing value method

bull Auditorrsquos Remuneration decreased by 193 from the previous year

There was no charge for the surveillance Quality Audit was carried out this year

A Relationship Review audit was carried out this year

bull Rent expenses increased by 154 from the previous year

Rent increased as per the lease agreement

bull Program expenses increased by 2846 from the previous year

Several advocate functions were held during the year

Social Role Valorisation training was run for the Advocates

bull Consultant expenses were incurred

A consultant was engaged to review and overhaul the program database

bull Wages increased by 15 from the previous year

Limited annual leave and no long service leave was taken during the year

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc will continue to be funded by the Department of Social Services until the 30

June 2018 After this time there will be a new service agreement in place

Income

Donations FBT Employee ContributionFundraising Grants (Commonwealth)Grants (Local) Grants (Other)Gain on Asset Interest Expenses

Administration Board Depreciation

Fundraising Motor Vehicle Program

Staff

24

Financial Statements

Contents

Statement by Committee

Profit and Loss Statement

Balance Sheet

Notes to the Financial Statement

Independent Auditorrsquos Report

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Committe Members Declaration

YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2017

The committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements

In the opinion of the committee the financial report

Presents a true and fair view of the associations financial position as at 30 June 2017

2 There are reasonable grounds to believe that the association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable

NAME ~ zo6e+h ~VYIOI) Committee Member

2017

5

Our Mission

To recognise promote and defend the rights and interests of people from culturally diverse

backgrounds and situations within our community who have an intellectual disability We do so by

recruiting and supporting caring responsible citizens (advocates) on a long term one to one basis

who are prepared to act voluntarily to make a positive difference in the life of a person who may

be lonely face difficult challenges or be in a risky situation (proteacutegeacutes) We carefully match

proteacutegeacutes and citizen advocates ensuring that there is a good fit between the needs and interests of

the proteacutegeacutes and the abilities resources and commitment of the citizen advocate

Principles

The operation of a Citizen Advocacy program is based on the following principles

Advocate Independence

bull Advocates must be free to develop a primary loyalty to the person with whom they are matched and be able to act as independently as possible

bull Citizen Advocates are supported as unpaid independent citizens acting as an advocate for an Individual person

Program Independence

bull Our program is independent and free from conflict of interest in how it is administered and funded The office is administratively and physically separated from agencies which operate direct service programs involving (potential) Proteacutegeacutes

Clarity of Staff Functions

bull Our Citizen Advocacy staff understand the nature and possibilities of Citizen Advocacy and communicate this understanding by

bull Supporting not supplanting ProteacutegeacuteAdvocate relationships

bull Directing their energies toward building and maintaining the office as a whole

Balanced Orientation to Needs of People requiring Advocates

bull People with an intellectual disability have a wide variety of needs for representation and relationships which can be met by Citizen Advocates Our program works to developed plans for recruiting and supporting a range of relationships

Positive Interpretations of People with a Disability

bull The Citizen Advocacy program model provides a positive interpretation of people with disabilities The program always seeks the most highly positive value conferring and yet valid possible associations which support developmental growth potential citizenship role and individual personhood of people at risk of social devaluation

Non-Discriminatory Advocacy

bull Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc promotes to Citizen Advocates sensitivity towards the social and cultural values beliefs and practices of the Proteacutegeacutes

6

We would like to acknowledge the advocates of CA Sunbury for their wonderful achievements in serving

the community and the proteacutegeacutes they support The world would be a poor place without your selfless

giving of time friendship assistance and support

Julie Allen

Maureen Anderson

Lyn Armstrong

Barbara Ashley

Katie Bishop

Ljubica Bosevska

Mary Buchanan

Gael Butler

Nell Canty

Pauline Cole

Alison Cunningham

Mary Day (Outgoing)

Nathan Dellamarta

Lisa Edwards

Carol Grant

Angela Fitzwater

Leanne Holland

Elizabeth Homann

John Karagiannidis

Anna Leach (Outgoing)

Edith Langshaw

Penny Mallia

Maria Martin

Corrie McConville

Susan Neale

Irene Nolte (Outgoing)

Denise OBrien

Lyn Plummer

Joan Purton

Jeniffer Renda

Stuart Ritchie

Noel Roberts

David amp Claire Ross

Peter Rovers

Helen Sims

Bill Shephard

Tony Tanti

Ruth Vigus

Ivan Wadsworth

Edda Webster

Our Advocates

7

In the Office

Coordinator - David Abela

Itrsquos been an honour to be Coordinator of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury for the past 25 yrs In this time I have been

able to help take this program from something that began with the aim of asking people in the Sunbury com-

munity to visit and protect vulnerable and often abandoned people living in the large institution called Caloola

to a Citizen Advocacy program working in the wider community with a range of people and needs when Caloola

was shut down

In this time I have also been able to participate in a number of Citizen Advo-

cacy Program Evaluations (CAPE) workshops and seminars around the coun-

try reinforcing and clarifying my strong believe that people with disability

like everyone need a balance in their lives ndash being good quality services and

programs and freely given relationships offering friendship inclusion and

protection Helping people achieve this is immensely satisfying work

I live in the small township of Riddellrsquos Creek and have 4 children When not

being a CA Coordinator I have a passion for sport including equestrian tri-

athlons cycling running and various sport the children played over the

years Currently I am helping my 16 year old daughter Grace retrain and

prepare our two ex-racehorses for equestrian sport

Administration - Melita Bonett

I have been a part of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury for over 6years now and I have

loved every minute Working alongside incredible community members means

that no two days in administration are ever the same

My husband Dave and I have one beautiful daughter three horses a pony named

Sparky and a very shaggy Golden Retriever Also keeping me busy is the familys

fully self sufficient vegetable gardencomplete with hens and a worm farm

Office Volunteer - Theresa Quin

Teresa has lived in Sunbury for almost forty years but has lived in South Australia

Scotland Darwin and Papua New Guinea before making here home here with her fami-

ly A retired Library Technician who previously worked with the Brotherhood of St Law-

rence and the Moonee Valley Library Service An avid reader and theatre goer she has

been involved with singing and acting groups in the district for many years She says

her very small contribution to Citizens Advocacy Sunbury has opened her eyes to the

needs of many in our community

8

Committee of Management

Chairperson - Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller

My name is Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller and I was born in Chile I migrated to

Australia in 1983 with my mother and adopted Australia as my new home in No-

vember 1985 when I become an Australian citizen I am married to a beautiful

and warm hearted Australian lady Karen amp we have a beautiful son Charles

who is 10 years old and has special needs We have lived in Sunbury for the past

13 years I work for a company called Independence Australia which provides

Incontinence amp Wound Care products to customers with special needs My wife

works as a Disability Support worker We both are committed to assist people

with special needs due to our work commitments and also personal experienc-

es My previous involvement has been varied and wide having being in com-

mittees of management for youth accommodation groups legal aid ethnic advi-

sory groups amp community health centres I am looking forward to my further involvement with Citizens

Advisory Sunbury and the many new challenges and opportunities it will bring

Vice Chairperson - Alison Cunningham

I have been the Vice Chairperson of Citizens Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts for the

last 12 months I am involved in a number of Community groups in Sunbury and

Citizens Advocacy is the most rewarding group I am involved in It is pleasure to

be a part of Citizens advocacy from the Proteacutegeacutes and Advocates I have met to

the Board and staff Being involved in Citizens advocacy has also given me the

privilege of being an advocate for Angela and Darrell

I look forward to having a long association with Citizen Advocacy

Secretary - Angelo Micallef

I migrated to Australia from Malta in 1983 with my wife and two young daughters

All our family have been involved in voluntary work with various organisations or on

our own because we feel an obligation to share our luck This was partially ingrained

in us by my late mother who was very caring for others in need My hobbies are gar-

dening sports and travel the world with my wife

9

Treasurer - Elizabeth Homann

My favourite quote is If you want something done ask a busy person and it sums

me up perfectly I am a highly self motivated dedicated and focused person who

has a passion for small not-for-profit (or as I prefer profit-for-purpose) organisa-

tions and have spent the last 20 years serving on all kinds of Committees and

Boards in all sorts of roles I have my own Bookkeeping business as and am a regis-

tered BAS Agent Whilst my initial motivation for joining CA Sunbury was to help

out a struggling Committee of Management this has developed into a deep appre-

ciation of the incredible work that CA Sunbury does

General Member - Elizabeth Lynch

Elizabeth Lynch has been a dedicated and active part of the Citizen Advocacy Com-

mittee for over 9 years Developing and maintaining the Citizen Advocacy Sunbury

website Elizabeth has a passion for learning especially in the area of computer

based applications Elizabeth is also a proteacutegeacute of the program

General Member - Michael Homann

I am passionate about achieving the best possible outcomes for people with disabili-

ties For the last 8 years I have been the General Manager of a Western Suburbs multi

site community service organisation which provides support and employment to over

400 adults with an intellectual disability Prior to this I had over 30 years of business

management experience at a senior level

I have always been involved in my local community and have been a member of many

community committees including kindergarten school council basketball (committee

amp coach) Scouts and the Sunbury Neighbourhood House I am also a current member

of both the Wyndham and Melton councils Disability and Aging Advisory Committees

General Member - Bridie Smith

It was an honour to be a member of the Committee of Management in 2016-17 and to

chair the Key Office Activities subcommittee which supports the core activities of the

program to maintain the full potential of the Citizen Advocacy vision as conceived by Dr

Wolf Wolfenberger six decades ago

I am blessed with an awesome family mdash my wonderfully patient and supportive hus-

band John and our amazing sons Brian and Liam I am a self-employed bookkeeper and

business owner Originally from County Galway Ireland Sunbury has been home since

mid-1990s and I love the terrific community spirit

I am passionate about ensuring our program remains strong and vibrant because through the selfless generosi-

ty of people from all walks of life Citizen Advocacy does an extraordinary job of valuing and protecting the

most vulnerable members of our community

10

Chairpersonrsquos Report

On behalf of the Committee of Management I have the privilege of presenting the annual report for the 2016 2017 financial year - and it has been a challenging year

I have been on the committee for about 4 years now and since then I have had different roles This year I was fortunate to be elected chairperson The last 12 months have been challenging and a enjoyable learning experience

Highlights As it was highlighted in last yearrsquos report we developed some financial strategies to ensure the financial viability of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc from the previous year This meant sig-nificant effort and commitment by the Committee of Management was required to assure the suc-cess of these strategies laid down in our 2016- 2018 Strategic Plan and to be able to manage the organisation responsibly and ensure our survival into the future I am very pleased to report that de-spite the resignation of several members of the committee we managed to achieve this and our fi-nances for the first time in a long time are healthy Unfortunately this does not mean we can relax and enjoy the good life On the contrary the new committee of management will need to ensure they keep vigilant amp continue to act responsibly to meet future needs and challenges

As mentioned before the Committee of Management also developed a new Strategic Plan for the next three years The four key focus areas include increasing the number of matches improving the profile of CA ensuring good governance and being financially sustainable This plan aims to ensure that the organisation will continue to be relevant to the needs of the communities we support as well as fulfilling the requirements of our funding agreement with DSS

In April 2017 we underwent a surveillance quality audit which we passed with flying colours I would like to thank you to all those who were involved in this process for your support and commitment

Our biggest unknown and challenge for the future is NDIS and how it might impact on our organisation- this continues to be somewhat vague In a meeting in October with representa-tives of DSS we were informed that the field of Advocacy will continue to be funded by DSS until 2020 and therefore inde-pendent of the NDIA There will be new funding agreements with new ways of reporting and more accountability from the part of committee of management We will keep you informed of developments

As part of our plan to improve CA profile we decided it was time to update our look by developing and adopting a new logo We had a competition with over 200 entries from all over the world At the end the committee of management selected the best 5 entries and asked our stakeholders to vote on the one best suited us It was a close call but the one selected gives us a fresh modern and more vibrant look We had a launch on the 25th October at our office which was well attended by proteacutegeacutees advocates amp friends of CA Sunbury

Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller

11

Going Forward Having faced and overcome many challenges in the past year the coming year will be equally challenging We have a very small membership in our organisation and an even smaller number of members who are prepared to be committee members This year with so many resignations from the committee of management the work was left to 4 people which is not sustainable in the longer term In the same way that the organisation was at threat by financial viability if there are not enough members to form a committee the organisation will cease to exist We are actively seeking new members not only for the organisation but also to the committee of management I encourage our members to give serious consideration into becoming part of our committee of management

As part of the strategic plan the committee of management is starting to expand our program in Hume to cover areas like Broadmeadows This is to make people aware of our organisation and its role in the community as well as a way to recruit people to join our organisation and to demonstrate to our funder both Federal and State Governments and the community at large that our form of advocacy is a legitimate and valued part of our local community and service to those we support

The committee of management is determined to create a good membership base by creating a sense of community where members can come and meet like-minded people perhaps share their experiences and also learn from others To this effect we will continue to run social evenings courses and information nights

The coming year will be an interesting one with new challenges and new opportunities to grow not only in membership but knowledge amp experience We are planning to have CAPE towards the end of 2018 A CAPE is a Citizen Advocacy Program evaluation which is done by external people which are members of other CA programs in Australia or overseas This will involve a lot of time preparing for the CAPE and then meeting the Team doing the evaluation It is a worthwhile exercise one that I was fortunate to be invited to be part of at South Australia Looking forward to it

Conclusion I would like to thank the staff and office volunteers for their continued hard work in an often difficult and ever changing environment I commend you all for your diligence and assistance in meeting the challenges we have faced

I would also like to thank the advocates who continue to support their proteacutegeacutes in a totally selfless way - you are amazing and are the backbone of the organisation

I would like to thank my colleagues and fellow com-mittee members for their patience giving of their time and energy and most importantly maintaining their sense of humour under sometime difficult circum-stances amp for their support they have given me as chairperson

Finally I need to not only to thank this person but also say goodbyehellip Elizabeth Homann you have been a pillar of strength dedication amp commitment not only to the organisation amp the committee of management but to me on a personal level The support advice and constant availability to answer my many calls have been greatly appreciated You will be missed at meetings I wish you all the best in your new endeavours amp for the future Looking forward to a new challenging year with new opportunities

12

Coordinatorrsquos Report David Abela

As always it is with pleasure that I present my report and touch on some of the activities and high-

lights of the program As Coordinator there is a multitude of activities and requirements to fulfil

throughout the year The most important of course being the lsquoKey Office Activitiesrsquo which I will dis-

cuss deeper into the report

An ongoing vital activity is talking to people about Citizen Advocacy either on an individual basis or

through community presentations this started off at the beginning of the year with a presentation

to St Andrews Friendship Group and information provided to the staff at Vic Roads Sunbury

Aquatic Centre Sunbury police and various individuals

In October last year I was off to

spread the word in Melton at the

lsquoMelton Care Exporsquo Many people

were spoken to and information given

out This is not an area we generally

work in but it was an opportunity to

gauge interest in the program and to

tap into people visiting from Hume

and Macedon Ranges There was very

good interest and the day resulted in a

new advocate and several potential proteacutegeacutes With many more people expressing an interest in

the program and Citizen Advocacy in general should it ever expand into the area

Fundraising is also always on the programs agenda ensuring there are funds available should new

equipment be required and giving us the resources to put on events and training

In early November one of our proteacutegeacutes Ronnie Jelbert along with his advocate Lisa Edwards fea-

tured in the Leader Newspaper highlighting the long association with Ronnie and the past owners

of The Olive Tree Hotel (Lisarsquos family) in Sunbury The current proprietors agreed to donate 50

cents of every dessert sold over a 3-month period to CA Sunbury The story of Ronnie and the

Edwards Family was a great opportunity to raise awareness and raise a little money for a good

cause

In late 2016 our Administration Assistant Melita was successful in securing a small grant from the

State Trustees allowing us to hire a room for one day per fortnight starting February 2017 at the

Broadmeadows Community Hub I have been able to chip away at informing people from Non-

English-Speaking Backgrounds (and others) about Citizen Advocacy and how it could benefit

people in their community either as advocates or proteacutegeacutes

13

Networking has increased in the wider Hume area and we have

been able to translate and print pro-

gram information pamphlets in Ara-

bic and disseminate them at rele-

vant venues including lsquoArabic Social

Servicesrsquo

Also in February Melita engaged CA Sunbury in the Rotary Club of Ballarat South Community Raffle

Through the support of tickets sales by the Committee Proteacutegeacutes Advocates and staff the program was

able to raise a total of $1048 in profit through ticket sales

February also saw the beginning of a new sub-committee which is a great support to my main work of

recruiting proteacutegeacutes and advocates and ensuring people are supported to maintain their relationships

long term The lsquoKey Office Activities Sub-Committee meets monthly with myself and is an opportunity

for others with some knowledge of CA to assist the program and my work in making good matches for

vulnerable people in our community As a sole Co-ordinator it is always beneficial receiving

encouragement and guidance from others with genuine concern for those we are here to serve

Special thanks to Bridie Smith Peter Rovers and Mary Dight who have been the backbone of this very

important initiative

Citizen Advocacy had a stall again at Sunfest on March 18th

Although not as well positioned as the previous year CA along

with the lsquoProgress Associationrsquo attracted plenty of interest and

helped clarify this model of Advocacy to people in the local

community

Part of good CA practice is to conduct an annual Internal

Relationship Review reviewing all matches and ensuring a

good balance of proteacutegeacute situations and backgrounds and the

appropriate advocates are recruited This thorough review also helps to inform and identify gaps in

recruitment and support and develop a plan to rectify any shortcomings Thanks to John Armstrong

known to many in the program and experienced in CAPE and Internal Relationship Reviews John was

able to work with committee members and myself in between his very busy schedule to produce a very

useful and informative report

Another form of review and assessment was our annual ldquoNational Standards for Disability Services

Auditrdquo conducted in April Another successful outcome with the program fully addressing the audit

recommendations of 2016 As always the audit team was impressed by the evidence presented and

feedback from lsquostakeholdersrsquo (advocates and proteacutegeacutes) and could clearly see the bond existing

between people and the support provided by the program to advocates providing friendship protec-

tion and spokesman ship to their proteacutegeacutes Irsquom glad to say that this has resulted in continued

certification under the lsquoNational Standards for Disability Servicesrsquo

14

In April it was time to think about some more fund raising again

A tried and tested venue is the local Bunnings Being Easter

Monday made it even more busy and profitable It was a great

day which not only helped us financially but also did a lot to

help raise awareness of people with disability and Citizen Advo-

cacy Four weeks later we entered into another venture with the

Progress Association at the Sunbury United Sporting Club where

we held a fundraising Trivia Night and split the proceeds

Another successful Advocate recruitment campaign during the year beginning in May and ongoing for

several weeks has been a small notice in the ldquoWHATS ONrdquo section of the local and Macedon Ranges

Leader This simple request asking for people to help make a difference in the life of someone with an

intellectual disability has had a very positive result with several people calling or dropping in to the

office I have so far been able to recruit and match 3 new advocates that began by responding to the

notice and hope to continue with other similar forms of awareness

The National Disability Insurance Scheme or ldquoNDISrdquo is the new national system for governments to

provide specialist disability supports to people with a significant and permanent disability Citizen Ad-

vocacy is not part of this new scheme but as part of our responsibility to advocatersquos we help provide

them with knowledge and resources to enable them to best support and inform their proteacutegeacute As

many proteacutegeacutes in the program are eligible to receive NDIS funding and their advocates would possibly

be involved in planning and attending meetings it was decided to engage Rick Ruiu from VALID to give

an informative and interactive NDIS presentation to our Advocates Proteacutegeacutes and other interested

relevant people This was a very successful and useful wintery June night and I feel confident that

many people are a little more prepared and aware of what is needed to gain the most benefit at their

proteacutegeacutes planning meeting beginning in March 2018 for those in Hume

The financial year ended on a very positive note with some knowledge

sharing by two experienced ex CA practioners Professor Zana Luttiffia

has been a CA Coordinator and board member at Winnipeg Canada she

has also completed her graduate training and postdoctoral work at the

Centre of Human Policy Syracuse University She joined the University

of Manitoba in 1992 Her longstanding research interest has been

identifying and examining the factors that help or hinder the valued

social participation of individuals with intellectual disabilities in

community life A couple of committee members and myself were able

to spend a delightful and informative few hours discussing good CA

practice and solving the problems of the world over dinner at Bridie Smiths home where we were

made to feel very welcomed by the whole family

Following our time with Zana the committee and I were given further insight into an important subject

by another ex-long term Coordinator this time Bob Lee from the Sunshine Coast who has a particular

interest and talent in delivering inspiring Citizen Advocacy presentations to community groups Bob

spoke to us on how he thinks we can be most effective in asking people to become a Citizen Advocate

for a vulnerable person and how you best present the persons situation and needs

15

Over the year we inevitably gain and loose people in the pro-

gram It was with great sadness that I had the task of informing

others connected with CA of the passing of two much loved

proteges firstly Daisey Serong and then shortly after Darren

Schembri Daisey was a proteacutegeacute with the program from its incep-

tion being an ex Caloola resident when her advocate Mary Day

would visit Daisey at Caloola with her young daughter and help

Daisey with her literacy and ensure life was a good as possible in

the large institution Daisey went on to be a strong self-advocate

with her brother John who passed away last year

Darren Shembri was also a long term proteacutegeacute who as a child spent time residing at St Nicholas home

for Intellectually disabled children until coming to live in the first CRU in Sunbury in 1985 Darren had

great resilience and an amazing personality His advocate Irene Nolte was always there for him both

in good and bad times ensuring his needs were met and acting as his voice whenever necessary the

bond between them was allways evident We were privileged to know both these people and they

will be remembered in so many positive and endearing ways

Citizen Advocacy is a team effort culminating in the matches that make up the CA Relationships Eve-

ryone has a role to play A big thanks to our admin assistant Melita who has had a mixed bag of tasks

and requests this year that she has taken in her stride Theresa our office volunteer has reorganised

our match files beautifully and made this part of the office tidier and more efficient

Our Committee of management are a hard-working detected

bunch Elizabeth Lynch decided to take a break from the

committee this year and we are eternally grateful for all the work

Elizabeth has put into our website that is now due for a revamp

Elizabeth remains involved in the program through being a

protege and has expressed an interest in coming on to the Key

Office Activities committee Our President Juan Carlos Rodrigues

does an excellent job of keeping everyone in order and on time

at committee meetings as well as helping to organise many activ-

ities outside of the office including the launch of our new logo

and our upcoming Christmas Dinner Our Vice president Alison

has done a lot to support the program and is also an advocate

but has recently had to step down due to the pressures of life

Angelo our secretary does

an excellent job of making

sure the agenda minutes and correspondence are on the table

ready for our committee meetings Irsquom pleased to say Angelo is

also about to become an advocate for someone well known to

the program and Angelorsquos broad knowledge and practical ad-

vice is greatly appreciated

16

Liz our treasurer and bookkeeper and general ldquojack of all trades ldquohas

bought the program back into the black and has been instrumental in

putting our program back into a healthy financial state Liz also recently

organised our new logo and was an advocate for a young woman in a

CRU Unfortunately for us Lizrsquos own business and growing workload has

made it too difficult to stay on as Treasurer but Irsquom glad to say Liz will

still be involved with us as our bookkeeper

After a short break from the committee Bridie has been back and is a

guardian of CA practice and principles developing her understanding by

attending the CA Study group and chairing the Key Office Activities

subcommittee More recently Tony Tanti who has been involved in the

program as an advocate has been attending committee meetings and his contribution and support on a

wide range of issues is greatly appreciated and valued

Thank you to everyone for all your hard work support and making this such a special program Above

all it has been an absolute honour working with the advocates and proteges of the program Watching

the bond and friendship between two people who often live very different lives develop and come to-

gether in a very beneficial way is both motivating and humbling

17

In January 2017 the Committee of Management (CoM) setup a Key Office Activities Sub-committee

(KOAs) to guide the program in working reflectively and purposefully in the practice of Citizen Advoca-

cy and to ensure an effective balance of the seven (7) Key Office Activities

A CA office which has an effective balance of activities will do enough of the right

thing at the right time to ensure that it will achieve its mission

from CAPE (Citizen Advocacy Practice Evaluation) Manual

The Key Office Activities are

bull Vision and Creativity in Proteacutegeacute Recruitment

bull Advocate Recruitment

bull Advocate Orientation

bull Advocate-Proteacutegeacute Matching

bull Follow-along and Support to Relationships

bull Ongoing Training

bull Emphasis on Advocate-associates

I had the honour of Chairing the KOAs this year and with David advocate Peter Rovers former CoM

member Mary Dight held the inaugural meeting in February 2017 Later in the year Proteacutegeacute and former

CoM member Elizabeth Lynch and Chairperson Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller joined us

Meetings are held at the office on the 4th Monday of the month from 10 am to noon We welcome ex-

pressions of interest from prospective new members with a keen interest in Citizen Advocacy

A heartfelt thanks to David Mary Peter Elizabeth and Juan Carlos for their wisdom and dedication I

look forward to continuing our contribution to the work of making many good CA matches in 2018

Bridie Smith

Key Office Activities Subcommittee

18

Identifying and Recruiting Proteacutegeacutes

bull A 16yo boy with ID and severe epilepsy and Dyspraxia Issues around hospital appointments and treatment at school

bull Women in early 20s residing in SRS suffering from severe chronic polytechnic arthritis and social isolated

bull Young man in Diggers Rest with fragile x syndrome and reluctant to leave house

bull Spoke to sergeant at Sunbury Police Station in regards to people with ID in trouble with the law

bull Presentation to Prioletti Work Education Group

bull Young woman living in Gisborne shared public housing has a learning disability

bull Young woman in Sunbury requiring social and employment support

bull Spoke to manager of Dallas Neighbourhood House

bull Spoke to CEO of Broadmeadows Disability Services

bull Young man in his early 30s recently relocating to Gisborne has mild intellectual disability ongoing mental health

issues and drug habit Requiring strong mentor and help with developing structure in his life

bull Woman in her 50s mild ID requiring assistance with preparing to relocate from inherited house

bull Spoke to Arabic Social Services

bull 21yo woman lives in Sunbury moderate ID Lives with separated parents Needs help with budgeting and banking

skills and accessing mainstream recreation

bull 24yo woman moderate ID lives in Diggers Rest with mother father recently died of cancer Wants help to access com-

munity opportunities No access to transport

bull Married couple with intellectual disability experiencing marital difficulties

Key Office Activities

The following are brief examples of the ldquoKey Office Activitiesrdquo for the 201617 year

0 1

8

59

14

Proteacutegeacute Age

0-20

21-30

31-40

41-50

51-60

61+

AGES Male Female

0-20 0 0

21-30 0 1

31-40 3 5

41-50 2 3

51-60 4 5

61+ 2 12

19

Advocate Recruitment

bull St Andrews Friendship Group

bull Young woman with marketing background

bull Vet nurse from Lancefield

bull Ex Committee member

bull Woodend accountant

bull Woman who runs a farm with Husband

bull Sunbury Probes

bull Member of Sunbury Historical society

bull Notices in the Whatrsquos On section of Sunbury Broadmeadow and

Macedon Ranges Leader

bull Rehab and Diabetes nurse recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Gisborne Menrsquos Shed

bull Retired Public Servant with experience in intellectual disability

and Mental Health

bull Relationships Councillor recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Various inquiries from Hume Volunteer Gateway

bull Various presentations to community and service groups

bull Presentations at Church groups

bull Sunbury Police

bull Sunfest Various people

bull Retired BBC employee

bull Retired Missionary

bull Middle aged teacherrsquos aide living in Mickleham

bull Presentation to Sunbury Aquatic Centre

bull Information to VicRoads

bull Retired Lecturer

Two new Advocate Associates Recruited one in the area of health and

diabetes prevention Other in the area counselling and mental health

TYPE OF ADVOCACY Male Female

Instrumental 2 2

Expressive 1 2

Both 8 22

OTHER DISABILITY Male Female

Yes 3 4

No 8 22

Advocate Orientation

Six full orientations completed throughout this period (one

potential advocate did not go on with matching)

6

201

4 6

Residential Situation

Family Home CRU Special Accomodation

Nursing Home Independently

RESIDENTIAL SITUATION Male Female

Family Home 3 3

CRU 7 13

Special Accomodation 0 1

Nursing Home 0 4

Independently 1 5

20

Advocate Proteacutegeacute Matching

Five new matches made this year

bull A quiet 32yo woman living independently in Sunbury who has difficulties around social interactions and se-

curing part time employment due to autistic tendencies was matched to woman of similar age who is out-

going This Advocate has a marketing background and is prepared to assist proteacutegeacute with CV how she presents

herself at job interviews and socialising including being a friend

bull Another 32yo woman this time living in Gisborne in shared public housing accommodation This woman has

a learning disability secondary to Kawasaki disease and required assistance gaining some level of financial in-

dependence hygiene health care and general life skills She was also being

financially exploited by her house mates Matched to a woman who helps manage the family farm and comes

from a large family where she has gained skills and experience in supporting her parents and siblings

bull After relocating to Gisborne with his parents in an effort to get away from bad influences and a drug habit a

33yo man with intellectual and psychiatric disability required someone to help develop

connections and positive relationships in his new community giving this young man an opportunity to start a

new life and structure to his day A retired senior public servant in Gisborne with experience of intellectual

and psychiatric disability within his family was recruited Within a short period of time the advocate was able

to befriend this young man gain his confidence and as a mentor direct and guide him towards community

activities whist at the same time ensure he gain what was required from his NDIS package and support and

help to represent him in a magistrates Court hearing

bull Following her advocate moving to Ballarat it was necessary to rematch a 58yo woman with previous learning

difficulties to a new advocate The ongoing issue was someone to support this woman emotionally and prac-

tically to prepare to sell her inherited house and look for something more appropriate and manageable A

retired local woman with a background in documentary production and working for the BBC stepped forward

following a notice in the local paper The friendship was instant and as the advocate has stated ldquomutually re-

wardingrdquo Work has begun in sorting and packing and thinking about future options with the assistance of the

advocate who has ensured the proteges sister interstate is kept informed Im glad to say the previous advo-

cate will also stay in touch and remain a friend

bull A 38yo woman who has severe intellectual disability lives in a local ldquoCommunity Residential Unitrdquo in Sunbury

This woman is totally reliant on the service system and without family or friends and therefore vulnerable and

requiring a freely given relationship to help ensure her Human rights are upheld This was another rematch

due to the heavy workload of the previous advocate Another local woman with vast experience in doing vol-

untary missionary work was recruited to continue the excellent work that had begun The advocate has a

strong sense of social justice and

empathy for those that have been

forgotten and devalued The advocate

is currently developing an understand-

ing of her proteges life and how best

to protect her and her best interests

Degree of Disability

Mild Moderate Profound

21

Follow-along and support of Existing Relationships

bull Several advocates looking into NDIS planning for their proteacutegeacute Attended relevant presentations

bull Advocate insuring proteacutegeacute does not go into a nursing Home prematurely

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with confusion and stress related to Centrelink payments

bull Advocate looking into medical problem for proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate supporting proteges to live independently

bull Advocate working through family issues with proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate proteacutegeacute in dealing with solicitor re probate

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during test for epilepsy

bull Advocate vising proteacutegeacute after moving from CRU

bull Advocate taking proteacutegeacute shopping and advising on how to shop wisely

bull Advocate attended Hospital throughout night after proteges were involved in a car accident

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with CV

bull Advocate organising LINK transport for proteges

bull Proteacutegeacute contacted whist Advocate in hospital

bull Advocate supported around issues with proteges mother

bull Advocate looking into age related issues for NDIS

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during very difficult and upsetting family issue involving possible pregnancy

bull Advocate assisting proteges making a will

bull Advocate supported and informed proteacutegeacute during NDIS planning meeting and later attended a court

hearing in relation to another matter

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with the preparing and sale of house

bull 3 Advocates unfortunately attended their proteges funerals One Advocate heavily involved in the service

funeral

COMMUNICATION Male Female

Verbal 5 17

Speech Difficulties 3 5

Non Verbal 3 4

2

1637

6

1 1 1

Proteacutegeacute Day Placement

Disability Enterprise Adult Day Training School Study

Unemployed Retired Employed

Excluded Home Duties

DAY PLACEMENTS Male Female

Disability Enterprise 2 0

Adult Day Training 4 12

School Study 0 3

Unemployed 3 4

Retired 2 4

Employed 0 1

Excluded 0 1

Home Duties 0 1

22

Treasurerrsquos Report Elizabeth Homann

I am pleased to present the financial report for the year ended 30th June 2017 One of the many aspects of good

governance is good financial administration and I am please to report that Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

has continued the work started in the 2014 - 2015 year to put us in a strong stable position

RESULTS FOR 2017 We received a pleasing report from the Auditor this year with no audit adjustments required to correct the financial

results as presented

The overall result for CA Sunbury for 2017 was a surplus of $1818087 a healthy increase of $747663 from the

previous year The Commonwealth funding that the program receives increased slightly and we were fortunate

enough to receive an additional $16293 from DSS in May This allowed us to make some long awaited purchases

run training for our advocates and send 2 people to the Network Meeting in Rockhampton Our expenses continue

to rise making it more of a challenge each year to achieve a break even position We achieved the surplus through

careful management of expenses and recognition that to continue to be sustainable new income streams must be

found For the 2016 -2017 year the Staff and Committee concentrated their efforts on fundraising and grants and

were rewarded for their hard work

The net equity as at 30 June 2017 was $2892980 an increase of $1818087 from the previous year and solid

position Cash on Hand totalled $7560888

Income Overall revenue increased by $3326191 (221) from the previous year

bull Gain (Loss) on Sale of fixed Asset

o The organisationrsquos car was disposed of during the year with a resulting surplus of $598562

bull Funding increased by 332 from the previous year

o During 2016 - 2017 CASampD had one funding agreement in place

bull The Department of Social Services - National Disability Advocacy Program

o An additional $16293 was received in May

bull Grants increased by 133 from the previous year

o We received a grant from State Trustees

o We received a grant from Hume City Council

bull Fundraising was received

o Fundraising was received in the form for donations

o Fundraising was raised through sausage sizzles trivia night and a raffle

bull Employee FBT contribution decreased by 525 from the previous year

o The FBT contribution ceased when the car was sold

23

Expenses

Overall expenses increased by $2582599 (183) from the previous year

bull Depreciation costs decreased by 192 from the previous year

There was no new fixed assets purchased during the year

Depreciation calculated on diminishing value method

bull Auditorrsquos Remuneration decreased by 193 from the previous year

There was no charge for the surveillance Quality Audit was carried out this year

A Relationship Review audit was carried out this year

bull Rent expenses increased by 154 from the previous year

Rent increased as per the lease agreement

bull Program expenses increased by 2846 from the previous year

Several advocate functions were held during the year

Social Role Valorisation training was run for the Advocates

bull Consultant expenses were incurred

A consultant was engaged to review and overhaul the program database

bull Wages increased by 15 from the previous year

Limited annual leave and no long service leave was taken during the year

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc will continue to be funded by the Department of Social Services until the 30

June 2018 After this time there will be a new service agreement in place

Income

Donations FBT Employee ContributionFundraising Grants (Commonwealth)Grants (Local) Grants (Other)Gain on Asset Interest Expenses

Administration Board Depreciation

Fundraising Motor Vehicle Program

Staff

24

Financial Statements

Contents

Statement by Committee

Profit and Loss Statement

Balance Sheet

Notes to the Financial Statement

Independent Auditorrsquos Report

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Committe Members Declaration

YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2017

The committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements

In the opinion of the committee the financial report

Presents a true and fair view of the associations financial position as at 30 June 2017

2 There are reasonable grounds to believe that the association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable

NAME ~ zo6e+h ~VYIOI) Committee Member

2017

6

We would like to acknowledge the advocates of CA Sunbury for their wonderful achievements in serving

the community and the proteacutegeacutes they support The world would be a poor place without your selfless

giving of time friendship assistance and support

Julie Allen

Maureen Anderson

Lyn Armstrong

Barbara Ashley

Katie Bishop

Ljubica Bosevska

Mary Buchanan

Gael Butler

Nell Canty

Pauline Cole

Alison Cunningham

Mary Day (Outgoing)

Nathan Dellamarta

Lisa Edwards

Carol Grant

Angela Fitzwater

Leanne Holland

Elizabeth Homann

John Karagiannidis

Anna Leach (Outgoing)

Edith Langshaw

Penny Mallia

Maria Martin

Corrie McConville

Susan Neale

Irene Nolte (Outgoing)

Denise OBrien

Lyn Plummer

Joan Purton

Jeniffer Renda

Stuart Ritchie

Noel Roberts

David amp Claire Ross

Peter Rovers

Helen Sims

Bill Shephard

Tony Tanti

Ruth Vigus

Ivan Wadsworth

Edda Webster

Our Advocates

7

In the Office

Coordinator - David Abela

Itrsquos been an honour to be Coordinator of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury for the past 25 yrs In this time I have been

able to help take this program from something that began with the aim of asking people in the Sunbury com-

munity to visit and protect vulnerable and often abandoned people living in the large institution called Caloola

to a Citizen Advocacy program working in the wider community with a range of people and needs when Caloola

was shut down

In this time I have also been able to participate in a number of Citizen Advo-

cacy Program Evaluations (CAPE) workshops and seminars around the coun-

try reinforcing and clarifying my strong believe that people with disability

like everyone need a balance in their lives ndash being good quality services and

programs and freely given relationships offering friendship inclusion and

protection Helping people achieve this is immensely satisfying work

I live in the small township of Riddellrsquos Creek and have 4 children When not

being a CA Coordinator I have a passion for sport including equestrian tri-

athlons cycling running and various sport the children played over the

years Currently I am helping my 16 year old daughter Grace retrain and

prepare our two ex-racehorses for equestrian sport

Administration - Melita Bonett

I have been a part of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury for over 6years now and I have

loved every minute Working alongside incredible community members means

that no two days in administration are ever the same

My husband Dave and I have one beautiful daughter three horses a pony named

Sparky and a very shaggy Golden Retriever Also keeping me busy is the familys

fully self sufficient vegetable gardencomplete with hens and a worm farm

Office Volunteer - Theresa Quin

Teresa has lived in Sunbury for almost forty years but has lived in South Australia

Scotland Darwin and Papua New Guinea before making here home here with her fami-

ly A retired Library Technician who previously worked with the Brotherhood of St Law-

rence and the Moonee Valley Library Service An avid reader and theatre goer she has

been involved with singing and acting groups in the district for many years She says

her very small contribution to Citizens Advocacy Sunbury has opened her eyes to the

needs of many in our community

8

Committee of Management

Chairperson - Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller

My name is Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller and I was born in Chile I migrated to

Australia in 1983 with my mother and adopted Australia as my new home in No-

vember 1985 when I become an Australian citizen I am married to a beautiful

and warm hearted Australian lady Karen amp we have a beautiful son Charles

who is 10 years old and has special needs We have lived in Sunbury for the past

13 years I work for a company called Independence Australia which provides

Incontinence amp Wound Care products to customers with special needs My wife

works as a Disability Support worker We both are committed to assist people

with special needs due to our work commitments and also personal experienc-

es My previous involvement has been varied and wide having being in com-

mittees of management for youth accommodation groups legal aid ethnic advi-

sory groups amp community health centres I am looking forward to my further involvement with Citizens

Advisory Sunbury and the many new challenges and opportunities it will bring

Vice Chairperson - Alison Cunningham

I have been the Vice Chairperson of Citizens Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts for the

last 12 months I am involved in a number of Community groups in Sunbury and

Citizens Advocacy is the most rewarding group I am involved in It is pleasure to

be a part of Citizens advocacy from the Proteacutegeacutes and Advocates I have met to

the Board and staff Being involved in Citizens advocacy has also given me the

privilege of being an advocate for Angela and Darrell

I look forward to having a long association with Citizen Advocacy

Secretary - Angelo Micallef

I migrated to Australia from Malta in 1983 with my wife and two young daughters

All our family have been involved in voluntary work with various organisations or on

our own because we feel an obligation to share our luck This was partially ingrained

in us by my late mother who was very caring for others in need My hobbies are gar-

dening sports and travel the world with my wife

9

Treasurer - Elizabeth Homann

My favourite quote is If you want something done ask a busy person and it sums

me up perfectly I am a highly self motivated dedicated and focused person who

has a passion for small not-for-profit (or as I prefer profit-for-purpose) organisa-

tions and have spent the last 20 years serving on all kinds of Committees and

Boards in all sorts of roles I have my own Bookkeeping business as and am a regis-

tered BAS Agent Whilst my initial motivation for joining CA Sunbury was to help

out a struggling Committee of Management this has developed into a deep appre-

ciation of the incredible work that CA Sunbury does

General Member - Elizabeth Lynch

Elizabeth Lynch has been a dedicated and active part of the Citizen Advocacy Com-

mittee for over 9 years Developing and maintaining the Citizen Advocacy Sunbury

website Elizabeth has a passion for learning especially in the area of computer

based applications Elizabeth is also a proteacutegeacute of the program

General Member - Michael Homann

I am passionate about achieving the best possible outcomes for people with disabili-

ties For the last 8 years I have been the General Manager of a Western Suburbs multi

site community service organisation which provides support and employment to over

400 adults with an intellectual disability Prior to this I had over 30 years of business

management experience at a senior level

I have always been involved in my local community and have been a member of many

community committees including kindergarten school council basketball (committee

amp coach) Scouts and the Sunbury Neighbourhood House I am also a current member

of both the Wyndham and Melton councils Disability and Aging Advisory Committees

General Member - Bridie Smith

It was an honour to be a member of the Committee of Management in 2016-17 and to

chair the Key Office Activities subcommittee which supports the core activities of the

program to maintain the full potential of the Citizen Advocacy vision as conceived by Dr

Wolf Wolfenberger six decades ago

I am blessed with an awesome family mdash my wonderfully patient and supportive hus-

band John and our amazing sons Brian and Liam I am a self-employed bookkeeper and

business owner Originally from County Galway Ireland Sunbury has been home since

mid-1990s and I love the terrific community spirit

I am passionate about ensuring our program remains strong and vibrant because through the selfless generosi-

ty of people from all walks of life Citizen Advocacy does an extraordinary job of valuing and protecting the

most vulnerable members of our community

10

Chairpersonrsquos Report

On behalf of the Committee of Management I have the privilege of presenting the annual report for the 2016 2017 financial year - and it has been a challenging year

I have been on the committee for about 4 years now and since then I have had different roles This year I was fortunate to be elected chairperson The last 12 months have been challenging and a enjoyable learning experience

Highlights As it was highlighted in last yearrsquos report we developed some financial strategies to ensure the financial viability of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc from the previous year This meant sig-nificant effort and commitment by the Committee of Management was required to assure the suc-cess of these strategies laid down in our 2016- 2018 Strategic Plan and to be able to manage the organisation responsibly and ensure our survival into the future I am very pleased to report that de-spite the resignation of several members of the committee we managed to achieve this and our fi-nances for the first time in a long time are healthy Unfortunately this does not mean we can relax and enjoy the good life On the contrary the new committee of management will need to ensure they keep vigilant amp continue to act responsibly to meet future needs and challenges

As mentioned before the Committee of Management also developed a new Strategic Plan for the next three years The four key focus areas include increasing the number of matches improving the profile of CA ensuring good governance and being financially sustainable This plan aims to ensure that the organisation will continue to be relevant to the needs of the communities we support as well as fulfilling the requirements of our funding agreement with DSS

In April 2017 we underwent a surveillance quality audit which we passed with flying colours I would like to thank you to all those who were involved in this process for your support and commitment

Our biggest unknown and challenge for the future is NDIS and how it might impact on our organisation- this continues to be somewhat vague In a meeting in October with representa-tives of DSS we were informed that the field of Advocacy will continue to be funded by DSS until 2020 and therefore inde-pendent of the NDIA There will be new funding agreements with new ways of reporting and more accountability from the part of committee of management We will keep you informed of developments

As part of our plan to improve CA profile we decided it was time to update our look by developing and adopting a new logo We had a competition with over 200 entries from all over the world At the end the committee of management selected the best 5 entries and asked our stakeholders to vote on the one best suited us It was a close call but the one selected gives us a fresh modern and more vibrant look We had a launch on the 25th October at our office which was well attended by proteacutegeacutees advocates amp friends of CA Sunbury

Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller

11

Going Forward Having faced and overcome many challenges in the past year the coming year will be equally challenging We have a very small membership in our organisation and an even smaller number of members who are prepared to be committee members This year with so many resignations from the committee of management the work was left to 4 people which is not sustainable in the longer term In the same way that the organisation was at threat by financial viability if there are not enough members to form a committee the organisation will cease to exist We are actively seeking new members not only for the organisation but also to the committee of management I encourage our members to give serious consideration into becoming part of our committee of management

As part of the strategic plan the committee of management is starting to expand our program in Hume to cover areas like Broadmeadows This is to make people aware of our organisation and its role in the community as well as a way to recruit people to join our organisation and to demonstrate to our funder both Federal and State Governments and the community at large that our form of advocacy is a legitimate and valued part of our local community and service to those we support

The committee of management is determined to create a good membership base by creating a sense of community where members can come and meet like-minded people perhaps share their experiences and also learn from others To this effect we will continue to run social evenings courses and information nights

The coming year will be an interesting one with new challenges and new opportunities to grow not only in membership but knowledge amp experience We are planning to have CAPE towards the end of 2018 A CAPE is a Citizen Advocacy Program evaluation which is done by external people which are members of other CA programs in Australia or overseas This will involve a lot of time preparing for the CAPE and then meeting the Team doing the evaluation It is a worthwhile exercise one that I was fortunate to be invited to be part of at South Australia Looking forward to it

Conclusion I would like to thank the staff and office volunteers for their continued hard work in an often difficult and ever changing environment I commend you all for your diligence and assistance in meeting the challenges we have faced

I would also like to thank the advocates who continue to support their proteacutegeacutes in a totally selfless way - you are amazing and are the backbone of the organisation

I would like to thank my colleagues and fellow com-mittee members for their patience giving of their time and energy and most importantly maintaining their sense of humour under sometime difficult circum-stances amp for their support they have given me as chairperson

Finally I need to not only to thank this person but also say goodbyehellip Elizabeth Homann you have been a pillar of strength dedication amp commitment not only to the organisation amp the committee of management but to me on a personal level The support advice and constant availability to answer my many calls have been greatly appreciated You will be missed at meetings I wish you all the best in your new endeavours amp for the future Looking forward to a new challenging year with new opportunities

12

Coordinatorrsquos Report David Abela

As always it is with pleasure that I present my report and touch on some of the activities and high-

lights of the program As Coordinator there is a multitude of activities and requirements to fulfil

throughout the year The most important of course being the lsquoKey Office Activitiesrsquo which I will dis-

cuss deeper into the report

An ongoing vital activity is talking to people about Citizen Advocacy either on an individual basis or

through community presentations this started off at the beginning of the year with a presentation

to St Andrews Friendship Group and information provided to the staff at Vic Roads Sunbury

Aquatic Centre Sunbury police and various individuals

In October last year I was off to

spread the word in Melton at the

lsquoMelton Care Exporsquo Many people

were spoken to and information given

out This is not an area we generally

work in but it was an opportunity to

gauge interest in the program and to

tap into people visiting from Hume

and Macedon Ranges There was very

good interest and the day resulted in a

new advocate and several potential proteacutegeacutes With many more people expressing an interest in

the program and Citizen Advocacy in general should it ever expand into the area

Fundraising is also always on the programs agenda ensuring there are funds available should new

equipment be required and giving us the resources to put on events and training

In early November one of our proteacutegeacutes Ronnie Jelbert along with his advocate Lisa Edwards fea-

tured in the Leader Newspaper highlighting the long association with Ronnie and the past owners

of The Olive Tree Hotel (Lisarsquos family) in Sunbury The current proprietors agreed to donate 50

cents of every dessert sold over a 3-month period to CA Sunbury The story of Ronnie and the

Edwards Family was a great opportunity to raise awareness and raise a little money for a good

cause

In late 2016 our Administration Assistant Melita was successful in securing a small grant from the

State Trustees allowing us to hire a room for one day per fortnight starting February 2017 at the

Broadmeadows Community Hub I have been able to chip away at informing people from Non-

English-Speaking Backgrounds (and others) about Citizen Advocacy and how it could benefit

people in their community either as advocates or proteacutegeacutes

13

Networking has increased in the wider Hume area and we have

been able to translate and print pro-

gram information pamphlets in Ara-

bic and disseminate them at rele-

vant venues including lsquoArabic Social

Servicesrsquo

Also in February Melita engaged CA Sunbury in the Rotary Club of Ballarat South Community Raffle

Through the support of tickets sales by the Committee Proteacutegeacutes Advocates and staff the program was

able to raise a total of $1048 in profit through ticket sales

February also saw the beginning of a new sub-committee which is a great support to my main work of

recruiting proteacutegeacutes and advocates and ensuring people are supported to maintain their relationships

long term The lsquoKey Office Activities Sub-Committee meets monthly with myself and is an opportunity

for others with some knowledge of CA to assist the program and my work in making good matches for

vulnerable people in our community As a sole Co-ordinator it is always beneficial receiving

encouragement and guidance from others with genuine concern for those we are here to serve

Special thanks to Bridie Smith Peter Rovers and Mary Dight who have been the backbone of this very

important initiative

Citizen Advocacy had a stall again at Sunfest on March 18th

Although not as well positioned as the previous year CA along

with the lsquoProgress Associationrsquo attracted plenty of interest and

helped clarify this model of Advocacy to people in the local

community

Part of good CA practice is to conduct an annual Internal

Relationship Review reviewing all matches and ensuring a

good balance of proteacutegeacute situations and backgrounds and the

appropriate advocates are recruited This thorough review also helps to inform and identify gaps in

recruitment and support and develop a plan to rectify any shortcomings Thanks to John Armstrong

known to many in the program and experienced in CAPE and Internal Relationship Reviews John was

able to work with committee members and myself in between his very busy schedule to produce a very

useful and informative report

Another form of review and assessment was our annual ldquoNational Standards for Disability Services

Auditrdquo conducted in April Another successful outcome with the program fully addressing the audit

recommendations of 2016 As always the audit team was impressed by the evidence presented and

feedback from lsquostakeholdersrsquo (advocates and proteacutegeacutes) and could clearly see the bond existing

between people and the support provided by the program to advocates providing friendship protec-

tion and spokesman ship to their proteacutegeacutes Irsquom glad to say that this has resulted in continued

certification under the lsquoNational Standards for Disability Servicesrsquo

14

In April it was time to think about some more fund raising again

A tried and tested venue is the local Bunnings Being Easter

Monday made it even more busy and profitable It was a great

day which not only helped us financially but also did a lot to

help raise awareness of people with disability and Citizen Advo-

cacy Four weeks later we entered into another venture with the

Progress Association at the Sunbury United Sporting Club where

we held a fundraising Trivia Night and split the proceeds

Another successful Advocate recruitment campaign during the year beginning in May and ongoing for

several weeks has been a small notice in the ldquoWHATS ONrdquo section of the local and Macedon Ranges

Leader This simple request asking for people to help make a difference in the life of someone with an

intellectual disability has had a very positive result with several people calling or dropping in to the

office I have so far been able to recruit and match 3 new advocates that began by responding to the

notice and hope to continue with other similar forms of awareness

The National Disability Insurance Scheme or ldquoNDISrdquo is the new national system for governments to

provide specialist disability supports to people with a significant and permanent disability Citizen Ad-

vocacy is not part of this new scheme but as part of our responsibility to advocatersquos we help provide

them with knowledge and resources to enable them to best support and inform their proteacutegeacute As

many proteacutegeacutes in the program are eligible to receive NDIS funding and their advocates would possibly

be involved in planning and attending meetings it was decided to engage Rick Ruiu from VALID to give

an informative and interactive NDIS presentation to our Advocates Proteacutegeacutes and other interested

relevant people This was a very successful and useful wintery June night and I feel confident that

many people are a little more prepared and aware of what is needed to gain the most benefit at their

proteacutegeacutes planning meeting beginning in March 2018 for those in Hume

The financial year ended on a very positive note with some knowledge

sharing by two experienced ex CA practioners Professor Zana Luttiffia

has been a CA Coordinator and board member at Winnipeg Canada she

has also completed her graduate training and postdoctoral work at the

Centre of Human Policy Syracuse University She joined the University

of Manitoba in 1992 Her longstanding research interest has been

identifying and examining the factors that help or hinder the valued

social participation of individuals with intellectual disabilities in

community life A couple of committee members and myself were able

to spend a delightful and informative few hours discussing good CA

practice and solving the problems of the world over dinner at Bridie Smiths home where we were

made to feel very welcomed by the whole family

Following our time with Zana the committee and I were given further insight into an important subject

by another ex-long term Coordinator this time Bob Lee from the Sunshine Coast who has a particular

interest and talent in delivering inspiring Citizen Advocacy presentations to community groups Bob

spoke to us on how he thinks we can be most effective in asking people to become a Citizen Advocate

for a vulnerable person and how you best present the persons situation and needs

15

Over the year we inevitably gain and loose people in the pro-

gram It was with great sadness that I had the task of informing

others connected with CA of the passing of two much loved

proteges firstly Daisey Serong and then shortly after Darren

Schembri Daisey was a proteacutegeacute with the program from its incep-

tion being an ex Caloola resident when her advocate Mary Day

would visit Daisey at Caloola with her young daughter and help

Daisey with her literacy and ensure life was a good as possible in

the large institution Daisey went on to be a strong self-advocate

with her brother John who passed away last year

Darren Shembri was also a long term proteacutegeacute who as a child spent time residing at St Nicholas home

for Intellectually disabled children until coming to live in the first CRU in Sunbury in 1985 Darren had

great resilience and an amazing personality His advocate Irene Nolte was always there for him both

in good and bad times ensuring his needs were met and acting as his voice whenever necessary the

bond between them was allways evident We were privileged to know both these people and they

will be remembered in so many positive and endearing ways

Citizen Advocacy is a team effort culminating in the matches that make up the CA Relationships Eve-

ryone has a role to play A big thanks to our admin assistant Melita who has had a mixed bag of tasks

and requests this year that she has taken in her stride Theresa our office volunteer has reorganised

our match files beautifully and made this part of the office tidier and more efficient

Our Committee of management are a hard-working detected

bunch Elizabeth Lynch decided to take a break from the

committee this year and we are eternally grateful for all the work

Elizabeth has put into our website that is now due for a revamp

Elizabeth remains involved in the program through being a

protege and has expressed an interest in coming on to the Key

Office Activities committee Our President Juan Carlos Rodrigues

does an excellent job of keeping everyone in order and on time

at committee meetings as well as helping to organise many activ-

ities outside of the office including the launch of our new logo

and our upcoming Christmas Dinner Our Vice president Alison

has done a lot to support the program and is also an advocate

but has recently had to step down due to the pressures of life

Angelo our secretary does

an excellent job of making

sure the agenda minutes and correspondence are on the table

ready for our committee meetings Irsquom pleased to say Angelo is

also about to become an advocate for someone well known to

the program and Angelorsquos broad knowledge and practical ad-

vice is greatly appreciated

16

Liz our treasurer and bookkeeper and general ldquojack of all trades ldquohas

bought the program back into the black and has been instrumental in

putting our program back into a healthy financial state Liz also recently

organised our new logo and was an advocate for a young woman in a

CRU Unfortunately for us Lizrsquos own business and growing workload has

made it too difficult to stay on as Treasurer but Irsquom glad to say Liz will

still be involved with us as our bookkeeper

After a short break from the committee Bridie has been back and is a

guardian of CA practice and principles developing her understanding by

attending the CA Study group and chairing the Key Office Activities

subcommittee More recently Tony Tanti who has been involved in the

program as an advocate has been attending committee meetings and his contribution and support on a

wide range of issues is greatly appreciated and valued

Thank you to everyone for all your hard work support and making this such a special program Above

all it has been an absolute honour working with the advocates and proteges of the program Watching

the bond and friendship between two people who often live very different lives develop and come to-

gether in a very beneficial way is both motivating and humbling

17

In January 2017 the Committee of Management (CoM) setup a Key Office Activities Sub-committee

(KOAs) to guide the program in working reflectively and purposefully in the practice of Citizen Advoca-

cy and to ensure an effective balance of the seven (7) Key Office Activities

A CA office which has an effective balance of activities will do enough of the right

thing at the right time to ensure that it will achieve its mission

from CAPE (Citizen Advocacy Practice Evaluation) Manual

The Key Office Activities are

bull Vision and Creativity in Proteacutegeacute Recruitment

bull Advocate Recruitment

bull Advocate Orientation

bull Advocate-Proteacutegeacute Matching

bull Follow-along and Support to Relationships

bull Ongoing Training

bull Emphasis on Advocate-associates

I had the honour of Chairing the KOAs this year and with David advocate Peter Rovers former CoM

member Mary Dight held the inaugural meeting in February 2017 Later in the year Proteacutegeacute and former

CoM member Elizabeth Lynch and Chairperson Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller joined us

Meetings are held at the office on the 4th Monday of the month from 10 am to noon We welcome ex-

pressions of interest from prospective new members with a keen interest in Citizen Advocacy

A heartfelt thanks to David Mary Peter Elizabeth and Juan Carlos for their wisdom and dedication I

look forward to continuing our contribution to the work of making many good CA matches in 2018

Bridie Smith

Key Office Activities Subcommittee

18

Identifying and Recruiting Proteacutegeacutes

bull A 16yo boy with ID and severe epilepsy and Dyspraxia Issues around hospital appointments and treatment at school

bull Women in early 20s residing in SRS suffering from severe chronic polytechnic arthritis and social isolated

bull Young man in Diggers Rest with fragile x syndrome and reluctant to leave house

bull Spoke to sergeant at Sunbury Police Station in regards to people with ID in trouble with the law

bull Presentation to Prioletti Work Education Group

bull Young woman living in Gisborne shared public housing has a learning disability

bull Young woman in Sunbury requiring social and employment support

bull Spoke to manager of Dallas Neighbourhood House

bull Spoke to CEO of Broadmeadows Disability Services

bull Young man in his early 30s recently relocating to Gisborne has mild intellectual disability ongoing mental health

issues and drug habit Requiring strong mentor and help with developing structure in his life

bull Woman in her 50s mild ID requiring assistance with preparing to relocate from inherited house

bull Spoke to Arabic Social Services

bull 21yo woman lives in Sunbury moderate ID Lives with separated parents Needs help with budgeting and banking

skills and accessing mainstream recreation

bull 24yo woman moderate ID lives in Diggers Rest with mother father recently died of cancer Wants help to access com-

munity opportunities No access to transport

bull Married couple with intellectual disability experiencing marital difficulties

Key Office Activities

The following are brief examples of the ldquoKey Office Activitiesrdquo for the 201617 year

0 1

8

59

14

Proteacutegeacute Age

0-20

21-30

31-40

41-50

51-60

61+

AGES Male Female

0-20 0 0

21-30 0 1

31-40 3 5

41-50 2 3

51-60 4 5

61+ 2 12

19

Advocate Recruitment

bull St Andrews Friendship Group

bull Young woman with marketing background

bull Vet nurse from Lancefield

bull Ex Committee member

bull Woodend accountant

bull Woman who runs a farm with Husband

bull Sunbury Probes

bull Member of Sunbury Historical society

bull Notices in the Whatrsquos On section of Sunbury Broadmeadow and

Macedon Ranges Leader

bull Rehab and Diabetes nurse recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Gisborne Menrsquos Shed

bull Retired Public Servant with experience in intellectual disability

and Mental Health

bull Relationships Councillor recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Various inquiries from Hume Volunteer Gateway

bull Various presentations to community and service groups

bull Presentations at Church groups

bull Sunbury Police

bull Sunfest Various people

bull Retired BBC employee

bull Retired Missionary

bull Middle aged teacherrsquos aide living in Mickleham

bull Presentation to Sunbury Aquatic Centre

bull Information to VicRoads

bull Retired Lecturer

Two new Advocate Associates Recruited one in the area of health and

diabetes prevention Other in the area counselling and mental health

TYPE OF ADVOCACY Male Female

Instrumental 2 2

Expressive 1 2

Both 8 22

OTHER DISABILITY Male Female

Yes 3 4

No 8 22

Advocate Orientation

Six full orientations completed throughout this period (one

potential advocate did not go on with matching)

6

201

4 6

Residential Situation

Family Home CRU Special Accomodation

Nursing Home Independently

RESIDENTIAL SITUATION Male Female

Family Home 3 3

CRU 7 13

Special Accomodation 0 1

Nursing Home 0 4

Independently 1 5

20

Advocate Proteacutegeacute Matching

Five new matches made this year

bull A quiet 32yo woman living independently in Sunbury who has difficulties around social interactions and se-

curing part time employment due to autistic tendencies was matched to woman of similar age who is out-

going This Advocate has a marketing background and is prepared to assist proteacutegeacute with CV how she presents

herself at job interviews and socialising including being a friend

bull Another 32yo woman this time living in Gisborne in shared public housing accommodation This woman has

a learning disability secondary to Kawasaki disease and required assistance gaining some level of financial in-

dependence hygiene health care and general life skills She was also being

financially exploited by her house mates Matched to a woman who helps manage the family farm and comes

from a large family where she has gained skills and experience in supporting her parents and siblings

bull After relocating to Gisborne with his parents in an effort to get away from bad influences and a drug habit a

33yo man with intellectual and psychiatric disability required someone to help develop

connections and positive relationships in his new community giving this young man an opportunity to start a

new life and structure to his day A retired senior public servant in Gisborne with experience of intellectual

and psychiatric disability within his family was recruited Within a short period of time the advocate was able

to befriend this young man gain his confidence and as a mentor direct and guide him towards community

activities whist at the same time ensure he gain what was required from his NDIS package and support and

help to represent him in a magistrates Court hearing

bull Following her advocate moving to Ballarat it was necessary to rematch a 58yo woman with previous learning

difficulties to a new advocate The ongoing issue was someone to support this woman emotionally and prac-

tically to prepare to sell her inherited house and look for something more appropriate and manageable A

retired local woman with a background in documentary production and working for the BBC stepped forward

following a notice in the local paper The friendship was instant and as the advocate has stated ldquomutually re-

wardingrdquo Work has begun in sorting and packing and thinking about future options with the assistance of the

advocate who has ensured the proteges sister interstate is kept informed Im glad to say the previous advo-

cate will also stay in touch and remain a friend

bull A 38yo woman who has severe intellectual disability lives in a local ldquoCommunity Residential Unitrdquo in Sunbury

This woman is totally reliant on the service system and without family or friends and therefore vulnerable and

requiring a freely given relationship to help ensure her Human rights are upheld This was another rematch

due to the heavy workload of the previous advocate Another local woman with vast experience in doing vol-

untary missionary work was recruited to continue the excellent work that had begun The advocate has a

strong sense of social justice and

empathy for those that have been

forgotten and devalued The advocate

is currently developing an understand-

ing of her proteges life and how best

to protect her and her best interests

Degree of Disability

Mild Moderate Profound

21

Follow-along and support of Existing Relationships

bull Several advocates looking into NDIS planning for their proteacutegeacute Attended relevant presentations

bull Advocate insuring proteacutegeacute does not go into a nursing Home prematurely

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with confusion and stress related to Centrelink payments

bull Advocate looking into medical problem for proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate supporting proteges to live independently

bull Advocate working through family issues with proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate proteacutegeacute in dealing with solicitor re probate

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during test for epilepsy

bull Advocate vising proteacutegeacute after moving from CRU

bull Advocate taking proteacutegeacute shopping and advising on how to shop wisely

bull Advocate attended Hospital throughout night after proteges were involved in a car accident

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with CV

bull Advocate organising LINK transport for proteges

bull Proteacutegeacute contacted whist Advocate in hospital

bull Advocate supported around issues with proteges mother

bull Advocate looking into age related issues for NDIS

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during very difficult and upsetting family issue involving possible pregnancy

bull Advocate assisting proteges making a will

bull Advocate supported and informed proteacutegeacute during NDIS planning meeting and later attended a court

hearing in relation to another matter

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with the preparing and sale of house

bull 3 Advocates unfortunately attended their proteges funerals One Advocate heavily involved in the service

funeral

COMMUNICATION Male Female

Verbal 5 17

Speech Difficulties 3 5

Non Verbal 3 4

2

1637

6

1 1 1

Proteacutegeacute Day Placement

Disability Enterprise Adult Day Training School Study

Unemployed Retired Employed

Excluded Home Duties

DAY PLACEMENTS Male Female

Disability Enterprise 2 0

Adult Day Training 4 12

School Study 0 3

Unemployed 3 4

Retired 2 4

Employed 0 1

Excluded 0 1

Home Duties 0 1

22

Treasurerrsquos Report Elizabeth Homann

I am pleased to present the financial report for the year ended 30th June 2017 One of the many aspects of good

governance is good financial administration and I am please to report that Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

has continued the work started in the 2014 - 2015 year to put us in a strong stable position

RESULTS FOR 2017 We received a pleasing report from the Auditor this year with no audit adjustments required to correct the financial

results as presented

The overall result for CA Sunbury for 2017 was a surplus of $1818087 a healthy increase of $747663 from the

previous year The Commonwealth funding that the program receives increased slightly and we were fortunate

enough to receive an additional $16293 from DSS in May This allowed us to make some long awaited purchases

run training for our advocates and send 2 people to the Network Meeting in Rockhampton Our expenses continue

to rise making it more of a challenge each year to achieve a break even position We achieved the surplus through

careful management of expenses and recognition that to continue to be sustainable new income streams must be

found For the 2016 -2017 year the Staff and Committee concentrated their efforts on fundraising and grants and

were rewarded for their hard work

The net equity as at 30 June 2017 was $2892980 an increase of $1818087 from the previous year and solid

position Cash on Hand totalled $7560888

Income Overall revenue increased by $3326191 (221) from the previous year

bull Gain (Loss) on Sale of fixed Asset

o The organisationrsquos car was disposed of during the year with a resulting surplus of $598562

bull Funding increased by 332 from the previous year

o During 2016 - 2017 CASampD had one funding agreement in place

bull The Department of Social Services - National Disability Advocacy Program

o An additional $16293 was received in May

bull Grants increased by 133 from the previous year

o We received a grant from State Trustees

o We received a grant from Hume City Council

bull Fundraising was received

o Fundraising was received in the form for donations

o Fundraising was raised through sausage sizzles trivia night and a raffle

bull Employee FBT contribution decreased by 525 from the previous year

o The FBT contribution ceased when the car was sold

23

Expenses

Overall expenses increased by $2582599 (183) from the previous year

bull Depreciation costs decreased by 192 from the previous year

There was no new fixed assets purchased during the year

Depreciation calculated on diminishing value method

bull Auditorrsquos Remuneration decreased by 193 from the previous year

There was no charge for the surveillance Quality Audit was carried out this year

A Relationship Review audit was carried out this year

bull Rent expenses increased by 154 from the previous year

Rent increased as per the lease agreement

bull Program expenses increased by 2846 from the previous year

Several advocate functions were held during the year

Social Role Valorisation training was run for the Advocates

bull Consultant expenses were incurred

A consultant was engaged to review and overhaul the program database

bull Wages increased by 15 from the previous year

Limited annual leave and no long service leave was taken during the year

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc will continue to be funded by the Department of Social Services until the 30

June 2018 After this time there will be a new service agreement in place

Income

Donations FBT Employee ContributionFundraising Grants (Commonwealth)Grants (Local) Grants (Other)Gain on Asset Interest Expenses

Administration Board Depreciation

Fundraising Motor Vehicle Program

Staff

24

Financial Statements

Contents

Statement by Committee

Profit and Loss Statement

Balance Sheet

Notes to the Financial Statement

Independent Auditorrsquos Report

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Committe Members Declaration

YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2017

The committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements

In the opinion of the committee the financial report

Presents a true and fair view of the associations financial position as at 30 June 2017

2 There are reasonable grounds to believe that the association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable

NAME ~ zo6e+h ~VYIOI) Committee Member

2017

7

In the Office

Coordinator - David Abela

Itrsquos been an honour to be Coordinator of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury for the past 25 yrs In this time I have been

able to help take this program from something that began with the aim of asking people in the Sunbury com-

munity to visit and protect vulnerable and often abandoned people living in the large institution called Caloola

to a Citizen Advocacy program working in the wider community with a range of people and needs when Caloola

was shut down

In this time I have also been able to participate in a number of Citizen Advo-

cacy Program Evaluations (CAPE) workshops and seminars around the coun-

try reinforcing and clarifying my strong believe that people with disability

like everyone need a balance in their lives ndash being good quality services and

programs and freely given relationships offering friendship inclusion and

protection Helping people achieve this is immensely satisfying work

I live in the small township of Riddellrsquos Creek and have 4 children When not

being a CA Coordinator I have a passion for sport including equestrian tri-

athlons cycling running and various sport the children played over the

years Currently I am helping my 16 year old daughter Grace retrain and

prepare our two ex-racehorses for equestrian sport

Administration - Melita Bonett

I have been a part of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury for over 6years now and I have

loved every minute Working alongside incredible community members means

that no two days in administration are ever the same

My husband Dave and I have one beautiful daughter three horses a pony named

Sparky and a very shaggy Golden Retriever Also keeping me busy is the familys

fully self sufficient vegetable gardencomplete with hens and a worm farm

Office Volunteer - Theresa Quin

Teresa has lived in Sunbury for almost forty years but has lived in South Australia

Scotland Darwin and Papua New Guinea before making here home here with her fami-

ly A retired Library Technician who previously worked with the Brotherhood of St Law-

rence and the Moonee Valley Library Service An avid reader and theatre goer she has

been involved with singing and acting groups in the district for many years She says

her very small contribution to Citizens Advocacy Sunbury has opened her eyes to the

needs of many in our community

8

Committee of Management

Chairperson - Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller

My name is Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller and I was born in Chile I migrated to

Australia in 1983 with my mother and adopted Australia as my new home in No-

vember 1985 when I become an Australian citizen I am married to a beautiful

and warm hearted Australian lady Karen amp we have a beautiful son Charles

who is 10 years old and has special needs We have lived in Sunbury for the past

13 years I work for a company called Independence Australia which provides

Incontinence amp Wound Care products to customers with special needs My wife

works as a Disability Support worker We both are committed to assist people

with special needs due to our work commitments and also personal experienc-

es My previous involvement has been varied and wide having being in com-

mittees of management for youth accommodation groups legal aid ethnic advi-

sory groups amp community health centres I am looking forward to my further involvement with Citizens

Advisory Sunbury and the many new challenges and opportunities it will bring

Vice Chairperson - Alison Cunningham

I have been the Vice Chairperson of Citizens Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts for the

last 12 months I am involved in a number of Community groups in Sunbury and

Citizens Advocacy is the most rewarding group I am involved in It is pleasure to

be a part of Citizens advocacy from the Proteacutegeacutes and Advocates I have met to

the Board and staff Being involved in Citizens advocacy has also given me the

privilege of being an advocate for Angela and Darrell

I look forward to having a long association with Citizen Advocacy

Secretary - Angelo Micallef

I migrated to Australia from Malta in 1983 with my wife and two young daughters

All our family have been involved in voluntary work with various organisations or on

our own because we feel an obligation to share our luck This was partially ingrained

in us by my late mother who was very caring for others in need My hobbies are gar-

dening sports and travel the world with my wife

9

Treasurer - Elizabeth Homann

My favourite quote is If you want something done ask a busy person and it sums

me up perfectly I am a highly self motivated dedicated and focused person who

has a passion for small not-for-profit (or as I prefer profit-for-purpose) organisa-

tions and have spent the last 20 years serving on all kinds of Committees and

Boards in all sorts of roles I have my own Bookkeeping business as and am a regis-

tered BAS Agent Whilst my initial motivation for joining CA Sunbury was to help

out a struggling Committee of Management this has developed into a deep appre-

ciation of the incredible work that CA Sunbury does

General Member - Elizabeth Lynch

Elizabeth Lynch has been a dedicated and active part of the Citizen Advocacy Com-

mittee for over 9 years Developing and maintaining the Citizen Advocacy Sunbury

website Elizabeth has a passion for learning especially in the area of computer

based applications Elizabeth is also a proteacutegeacute of the program

General Member - Michael Homann

I am passionate about achieving the best possible outcomes for people with disabili-

ties For the last 8 years I have been the General Manager of a Western Suburbs multi

site community service organisation which provides support and employment to over

400 adults with an intellectual disability Prior to this I had over 30 years of business

management experience at a senior level

I have always been involved in my local community and have been a member of many

community committees including kindergarten school council basketball (committee

amp coach) Scouts and the Sunbury Neighbourhood House I am also a current member

of both the Wyndham and Melton councils Disability and Aging Advisory Committees

General Member - Bridie Smith

It was an honour to be a member of the Committee of Management in 2016-17 and to

chair the Key Office Activities subcommittee which supports the core activities of the

program to maintain the full potential of the Citizen Advocacy vision as conceived by Dr

Wolf Wolfenberger six decades ago

I am blessed with an awesome family mdash my wonderfully patient and supportive hus-

band John and our amazing sons Brian and Liam I am a self-employed bookkeeper and

business owner Originally from County Galway Ireland Sunbury has been home since

mid-1990s and I love the terrific community spirit

I am passionate about ensuring our program remains strong and vibrant because through the selfless generosi-

ty of people from all walks of life Citizen Advocacy does an extraordinary job of valuing and protecting the

most vulnerable members of our community

10

Chairpersonrsquos Report

On behalf of the Committee of Management I have the privilege of presenting the annual report for the 2016 2017 financial year - and it has been a challenging year

I have been on the committee for about 4 years now and since then I have had different roles This year I was fortunate to be elected chairperson The last 12 months have been challenging and a enjoyable learning experience

Highlights As it was highlighted in last yearrsquos report we developed some financial strategies to ensure the financial viability of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc from the previous year This meant sig-nificant effort and commitment by the Committee of Management was required to assure the suc-cess of these strategies laid down in our 2016- 2018 Strategic Plan and to be able to manage the organisation responsibly and ensure our survival into the future I am very pleased to report that de-spite the resignation of several members of the committee we managed to achieve this and our fi-nances for the first time in a long time are healthy Unfortunately this does not mean we can relax and enjoy the good life On the contrary the new committee of management will need to ensure they keep vigilant amp continue to act responsibly to meet future needs and challenges

As mentioned before the Committee of Management also developed a new Strategic Plan for the next three years The four key focus areas include increasing the number of matches improving the profile of CA ensuring good governance and being financially sustainable This plan aims to ensure that the organisation will continue to be relevant to the needs of the communities we support as well as fulfilling the requirements of our funding agreement with DSS

In April 2017 we underwent a surveillance quality audit which we passed with flying colours I would like to thank you to all those who were involved in this process for your support and commitment

Our biggest unknown and challenge for the future is NDIS and how it might impact on our organisation- this continues to be somewhat vague In a meeting in October with representa-tives of DSS we were informed that the field of Advocacy will continue to be funded by DSS until 2020 and therefore inde-pendent of the NDIA There will be new funding agreements with new ways of reporting and more accountability from the part of committee of management We will keep you informed of developments

As part of our plan to improve CA profile we decided it was time to update our look by developing and adopting a new logo We had a competition with over 200 entries from all over the world At the end the committee of management selected the best 5 entries and asked our stakeholders to vote on the one best suited us It was a close call but the one selected gives us a fresh modern and more vibrant look We had a launch on the 25th October at our office which was well attended by proteacutegeacutees advocates amp friends of CA Sunbury

Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller

11

Going Forward Having faced and overcome many challenges in the past year the coming year will be equally challenging We have a very small membership in our organisation and an even smaller number of members who are prepared to be committee members This year with so many resignations from the committee of management the work was left to 4 people which is not sustainable in the longer term In the same way that the organisation was at threat by financial viability if there are not enough members to form a committee the organisation will cease to exist We are actively seeking new members not only for the organisation but also to the committee of management I encourage our members to give serious consideration into becoming part of our committee of management

As part of the strategic plan the committee of management is starting to expand our program in Hume to cover areas like Broadmeadows This is to make people aware of our organisation and its role in the community as well as a way to recruit people to join our organisation and to demonstrate to our funder both Federal and State Governments and the community at large that our form of advocacy is a legitimate and valued part of our local community and service to those we support

The committee of management is determined to create a good membership base by creating a sense of community where members can come and meet like-minded people perhaps share their experiences and also learn from others To this effect we will continue to run social evenings courses and information nights

The coming year will be an interesting one with new challenges and new opportunities to grow not only in membership but knowledge amp experience We are planning to have CAPE towards the end of 2018 A CAPE is a Citizen Advocacy Program evaluation which is done by external people which are members of other CA programs in Australia or overseas This will involve a lot of time preparing for the CAPE and then meeting the Team doing the evaluation It is a worthwhile exercise one that I was fortunate to be invited to be part of at South Australia Looking forward to it

Conclusion I would like to thank the staff and office volunteers for their continued hard work in an often difficult and ever changing environment I commend you all for your diligence and assistance in meeting the challenges we have faced

I would also like to thank the advocates who continue to support their proteacutegeacutes in a totally selfless way - you are amazing and are the backbone of the organisation

I would like to thank my colleagues and fellow com-mittee members for their patience giving of their time and energy and most importantly maintaining their sense of humour under sometime difficult circum-stances amp for their support they have given me as chairperson

Finally I need to not only to thank this person but also say goodbyehellip Elizabeth Homann you have been a pillar of strength dedication amp commitment not only to the organisation amp the committee of management but to me on a personal level The support advice and constant availability to answer my many calls have been greatly appreciated You will be missed at meetings I wish you all the best in your new endeavours amp for the future Looking forward to a new challenging year with new opportunities

12

Coordinatorrsquos Report David Abela

As always it is with pleasure that I present my report and touch on some of the activities and high-

lights of the program As Coordinator there is a multitude of activities and requirements to fulfil

throughout the year The most important of course being the lsquoKey Office Activitiesrsquo which I will dis-

cuss deeper into the report

An ongoing vital activity is talking to people about Citizen Advocacy either on an individual basis or

through community presentations this started off at the beginning of the year with a presentation

to St Andrews Friendship Group and information provided to the staff at Vic Roads Sunbury

Aquatic Centre Sunbury police and various individuals

In October last year I was off to

spread the word in Melton at the

lsquoMelton Care Exporsquo Many people

were spoken to and information given

out This is not an area we generally

work in but it was an opportunity to

gauge interest in the program and to

tap into people visiting from Hume

and Macedon Ranges There was very

good interest and the day resulted in a

new advocate and several potential proteacutegeacutes With many more people expressing an interest in

the program and Citizen Advocacy in general should it ever expand into the area

Fundraising is also always on the programs agenda ensuring there are funds available should new

equipment be required and giving us the resources to put on events and training

In early November one of our proteacutegeacutes Ronnie Jelbert along with his advocate Lisa Edwards fea-

tured in the Leader Newspaper highlighting the long association with Ronnie and the past owners

of The Olive Tree Hotel (Lisarsquos family) in Sunbury The current proprietors agreed to donate 50

cents of every dessert sold over a 3-month period to CA Sunbury The story of Ronnie and the

Edwards Family was a great opportunity to raise awareness and raise a little money for a good

cause

In late 2016 our Administration Assistant Melita was successful in securing a small grant from the

State Trustees allowing us to hire a room for one day per fortnight starting February 2017 at the

Broadmeadows Community Hub I have been able to chip away at informing people from Non-

English-Speaking Backgrounds (and others) about Citizen Advocacy and how it could benefit

people in their community either as advocates or proteacutegeacutes

13

Networking has increased in the wider Hume area and we have

been able to translate and print pro-

gram information pamphlets in Ara-

bic and disseminate them at rele-

vant venues including lsquoArabic Social

Servicesrsquo

Also in February Melita engaged CA Sunbury in the Rotary Club of Ballarat South Community Raffle

Through the support of tickets sales by the Committee Proteacutegeacutes Advocates and staff the program was

able to raise a total of $1048 in profit through ticket sales

February also saw the beginning of a new sub-committee which is a great support to my main work of

recruiting proteacutegeacutes and advocates and ensuring people are supported to maintain their relationships

long term The lsquoKey Office Activities Sub-Committee meets monthly with myself and is an opportunity

for others with some knowledge of CA to assist the program and my work in making good matches for

vulnerable people in our community As a sole Co-ordinator it is always beneficial receiving

encouragement and guidance from others with genuine concern for those we are here to serve

Special thanks to Bridie Smith Peter Rovers and Mary Dight who have been the backbone of this very

important initiative

Citizen Advocacy had a stall again at Sunfest on March 18th

Although not as well positioned as the previous year CA along

with the lsquoProgress Associationrsquo attracted plenty of interest and

helped clarify this model of Advocacy to people in the local

community

Part of good CA practice is to conduct an annual Internal

Relationship Review reviewing all matches and ensuring a

good balance of proteacutegeacute situations and backgrounds and the

appropriate advocates are recruited This thorough review also helps to inform and identify gaps in

recruitment and support and develop a plan to rectify any shortcomings Thanks to John Armstrong

known to many in the program and experienced in CAPE and Internal Relationship Reviews John was

able to work with committee members and myself in between his very busy schedule to produce a very

useful and informative report

Another form of review and assessment was our annual ldquoNational Standards for Disability Services

Auditrdquo conducted in April Another successful outcome with the program fully addressing the audit

recommendations of 2016 As always the audit team was impressed by the evidence presented and

feedback from lsquostakeholdersrsquo (advocates and proteacutegeacutes) and could clearly see the bond existing

between people and the support provided by the program to advocates providing friendship protec-

tion and spokesman ship to their proteacutegeacutes Irsquom glad to say that this has resulted in continued

certification under the lsquoNational Standards for Disability Servicesrsquo

14

In April it was time to think about some more fund raising again

A tried and tested venue is the local Bunnings Being Easter

Monday made it even more busy and profitable It was a great

day which not only helped us financially but also did a lot to

help raise awareness of people with disability and Citizen Advo-

cacy Four weeks later we entered into another venture with the

Progress Association at the Sunbury United Sporting Club where

we held a fundraising Trivia Night and split the proceeds

Another successful Advocate recruitment campaign during the year beginning in May and ongoing for

several weeks has been a small notice in the ldquoWHATS ONrdquo section of the local and Macedon Ranges

Leader This simple request asking for people to help make a difference in the life of someone with an

intellectual disability has had a very positive result with several people calling or dropping in to the

office I have so far been able to recruit and match 3 new advocates that began by responding to the

notice and hope to continue with other similar forms of awareness

The National Disability Insurance Scheme or ldquoNDISrdquo is the new national system for governments to

provide specialist disability supports to people with a significant and permanent disability Citizen Ad-

vocacy is not part of this new scheme but as part of our responsibility to advocatersquos we help provide

them with knowledge and resources to enable them to best support and inform their proteacutegeacute As

many proteacutegeacutes in the program are eligible to receive NDIS funding and their advocates would possibly

be involved in planning and attending meetings it was decided to engage Rick Ruiu from VALID to give

an informative and interactive NDIS presentation to our Advocates Proteacutegeacutes and other interested

relevant people This was a very successful and useful wintery June night and I feel confident that

many people are a little more prepared and aware of what is needed to gain the most benefit at their

proteacutegeacutes planning meeting beginning in March 2018 for those in Hume

The financial year ended on a very positive note with some knowledge

sharing by two experienced ex CA practioners Professor Zana Luttiffia

has been a CA Coordinator and board member at Winnipeg Canada she

has also completed her graduate training and postdoctoral work at the

Centre of Human Policy Syracuse University She joined the University

of Manitoba in 1992 Her longstanding research interest has been

identifying and examining the factors that help or hinder the valued

social participation of individuals with intellectual disabilities in

community life A couple of committee members and myself were able

to spend a delightful and informative few hours discussing good CA

practice and solving the problems of the world over dinner at Bridie Smiths home where we were

made to feel very welcomed by the whole family

Following our time with Zana the committee and I were given further insight into an important subject

by another ex-long term Coordinator this time Bob Lee from the Sunshine Coast who has a particular

interest and talent in delivering inspiring Citizen Advocacy presentations to community groups Bob

spoke to us on how he thinks we can be most effective in asking people to become a Citizen Advocate

for a vulnerable person and how you best present the persons situation and needs

15

Over the year we inevitably gain and loose people in the pro-

gram It was with great sadness that I had the task of informing

others connected with CA of the passing of two much loved

proteges firstly Daisey Serong and then shortly after Darren

Schembri Daisey was a proteacutegeacute with the program from its incep-

tion being an ex Caloola resident when her advocate Mary Day

would visit Daisey at Caloola with her young daughter and help

Daisey with her literacy and ensure life was a good as possible in

the large institution Daisey went on to be a strong self-advocate

with her brother John who passed away last year

Darren Shembri was also a long term proteacutegeacute who as a child spent time residing at St Nicholas home

for Intellectually disabled children until coming to live in the first CRU in Sunbury in 1985 Darren had

great resilience and an amazing personality His advocate Irene Nolte was always there for him both

in good and bad times ensuring his needs were met and acting as his voice whenever necessary the

bond between them was allways evident We were privileged to know both these people and they

will be remembered in so many positive and endearing ways

Citizen Advocacy is a team effort culminating in the matches that make up the CA Relationships Eve-

ryone has a role to play A big thanks to our admin assistant Melita who has had a mixed bag of tasks

and requests this year that she has taken in her stride Theresa our office volunteer has reorganised

our match files beautifully and made this part of the office tidier and more efficient

Our Committee of management are a hard-working detected

bunch Elizabeth Lynch decided to take a break from the

committee this year and we are eternally grateful for all the work

Elizabeth has put into our website that is now due for a revamp

Elizabeth remains involved in the program through being a

protege and has expressed an interest in coming on to the Key

Office Activities committee Our President Juan Carlos Rodrigues

does an excellent job of keeping everyone in order and on time

at committee meetings as well as helping to organise many activ-

ities outside of the office including the launch of our new logo

and our upcoming Christmas Dinner Our Vice president Alison

has done a lot to support the program and is also an advocate

but has recently had to step down due to the pressures of life

Angelo our secretary does

an excellent job of making

sure the agenda minutes and correspondence are on the table

ready for our committee meetings Irsquom pleased to say Angelo is

also about to become an advocate for someone well known to

the program and Angelorsquos broad knowledge and practical ad-

vice is greatly appreciated

16

Liz our treasurer and bookkeeper and general ldquojack of all trades ldquohas

bought the program back into the black and has been instrumental in

putting our program back into a healthy financial state Liz also recently

organised our new logo and was an advocate for a young woman in a

CRU Unfortunately for us Lizrsquos own business and growing workload has

made it too difficult to stay on as Treasurer but Irsquom glad to say Liz will

still be involved with us as our bookkeeper

After a short break from the committee Bridie has been back and is a

guardian of CA practice and principles developing her understanding by

attending the CA Study group and chairing the Key Office Activities

subcommittee More recently Tony Tanti who has been involved in the

program as an advocate has been attending committee meetings and his contribution and support on a

wide range of issues is greatly appreciated and valued

Thank you to everyone for all your hard work support and making this such a special program Above

all it has been an absolute honour working with the advocates and proteges of the program Watching

the bond and friendship between two people who often live very different lives develop and come to-

gether in a very beneficial way is both motivating and humbling

17

In January 2017 the Committee of Management (CoM) setup a Key Office Activities Sub-committee

(KOAs) to guide the program in working reflectively and purposefully in the practice of Citizen Advoca-

cy and to ensure an effective balance of the seven (7) Key Office Activities

A CA office which has an effective balance of activities will do enough of the right

thing at the right time to ensure that it will achieve its mission

from CAPE (Citizen Advocacy Practice Evaluation) Manual

The Key Office Activities are

bull Vision and Creativity in Proteacutegeacute Recruitment

bull Advocate Recruitment

bull Advocate Orientation

bull Advocate-Proteacutegeacute Matching

bull Follow-along and Support to Relationships

bull Ongoing Training

bull Emphasis on Advocate-associates

I had the honour of Chairing the KOAs this year and with David advocate Peter Rovers former CoM

member Mary Dight held the inaugural meeting in February 2017 Later in the year Proteacutegeacute and former

CoM member Elizabeth Lynch and Chairperson Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller joined us

Meetings are held at the office on the 4th Monday of the month from 10 am to noon We welcome ex-

pressions of interest from prospective new members with a keen interest in Citizen Advocacy

A heartfelt thanks to David Mary Peter Elizabeth and Juan Carlos for their wisdom and dedication I

look forward to continuing our contribution to the work of making many good CA matches in 2018

Bridie Smith

Key Office Activities Subcommittee

18

Identifying and Recruiting Proteacutegeacutes

bull A 16yo boy with ID and severe epilepsy and Dyspraxia Issues around hospital appointments and treatment at school

bull Women in early 20s residing in SRS suffering from severe chronic polytechnic arthritis and social isolated

bull Young man in Diggers Rest with fragile x syndrome and reluctant to leave house

bull Spoke to sergeant at Sunbury Police Station in regards to people with ID in trouble with the law

bull Presentation to Prioletti Work Education Group

bull Young woman living in Gisborne shared public housing has a learning disability

bull Young woman in Sunbury requiring social and employment support

bull Spoke to manager of Dallas Neighbourhood House

bull Spoke to CEO of Broadmeadows Disability Services

bull Young man in his early 30s recently relocating to Gisborne has mild intellectual disability ongoing mental health

issues and drug habit Requiring strong mentor and help with developing structure in his life

bull Woman in her 50s mild ID requiring assistance with preparing to relocate from inherited house

bull Spoke to Arabic Social Services

bull 21yo woman lives in Sunbury moderate ID Lives with separated parents Needs help with budgeting and banking

skills and accessing mainstream recreation

bull 24yo woman moderate ID lives in Diggers Rest with mother father recently died of cancer Wants help to access com-

munity opportunities No access to transport

bull Married couple with intellectual disability experiencing marital difficulties

Key Office Activities

The following are brief examples of the ldquoKey Office Activitiesrdquo for the 201617 year

0 1

8

59

14

Proteacutegeacute Age

0-20

21-30

31-40

41-50

51-60

61+

AGES Male Female

0-20 0 0

21-30 0 1

31-40 3 5

41-50 2 3

51-60 4 5

61+ 2 12

19

Advocate Recruitment

bull St Andrews Friendship Group

bull Young woman with marketing background

bull Vet nurse from Lancefield

bull Ex Committee member

bull Woodend accountant

bull Woman who runs a farm with Husband

bull Sunbury Probes

bull Member of Sunbury Historical society

bull Notices in the Whatrsquos On section of Sunbury Broadmeadow and

Macedon Ranges Leader

bull Rehab and Diabetes nurse recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Gisborne Menrsquos Shed

bull Retired Public Servant with experience in intellectual disability

and Mental Health

bull Relationships Councillor recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Various inquiries from Hume Volunteer Gateway

bull Various presentations to community and service groups

bull Presentations at Church groups

bull Sunbury Police

bull Sunfest Various people

bull Retired BBC employee

bull Retired Missionary

bull Middle aged teacherrsquos aide living in Mickleham

bull Presentation to Sunbury Aquatic Centre

bull Information to VicRoads

bull Retired Lecturer

Two new Advocate Associates Recruited one in the area of health and

diabetes prevention Other in the area counselling and mental health

TYPE OF ADVOCACY Male Female

Instrumental 2 2

Expressive 1 2

Both 8 22

OTHER DISABILITY Male Female

Yes 3 4

No 8 22

Advocate Orientation

Six full orientations completed throughout this period (one

potential advocate did not go on with matching)

6

201

4 6

Residential Situation

Family Home CRU Special Accomodation

Nursing Home Independently

RESIDENTIAL SITUATION Male Female

Family Home 3 3

CRU 7 13

Special Accomodation 0 1

Nursing Home 0 4

Independently 1 5

20

Advocate Proteacutegeacute Matching

Five new matches made this year

bull A quiet 32yo woman living independently in Sunbury who has difficulties around social interactions and se-

curing part time employment due to autistic tendencies was matched to woman of similar age who is out-

going This Advocate has a marketing background and is prepared to assist proteacutegeacute with CV how she presents

herself at job interviews and socialising including being a friend

bull Another 32yo woman this time living in Gisborne in shared public housing accommodation This woman has

a learning disability secondary to Kawasaki disease and required assistance gaining some level of financial in-

dependence hygiene health care and general life skills She was also being

financially exploited by her house mates Matched to a woman who helps manage the family farm and comes

from a large family where she has gained skills and experience in supporting her parents and siblings

bull After relocating to Gisborne with his parents in an effort to get away from bad influences and a drug habit a

33yo man with intellectual and psychiatric disability required someone to help develop

connections and positive relationships in his new community giving this young man an opportunity to start a

new life and structure to his day A retired senior public servant in Gisborne with experience of intellectual

and psychiatric disability within his family was recruited Within a short period of time the advocate was able

to befriend this young man gain his confidence and as a mentor direct and guide him towards community

activities whist at the same time ensure he gain what was required from his NDIS package and support and

help to represent him in a magistrates Court hearing

bull Following her advocate moving to Ballarat it was necessary to rematch a 58yo woman with previous learning

difficulties to a new advocate The ongoing issue was someone to support this woman emotionally and prac-

tically to prepare to sell her inherited house and look for something more appropriate and manageable A

retired local woman with a background in documentary production and working for the BBC stepped forward

following a notice in the local paper The friendship was instant and as the advocate has stated ldquomutually re-

wardingrdquo Work has begun in sorting and packing and thinking about future options with the assistance of the

advocate who has ensured the proteges sister interstate is kept informed Im glad to say the previous advo-

cate will also stay in touch and remain a friend

bull A 38yo woman who has severe intellectual disability lives in a local ldquoCommunity Residential Unitrdquo in Sunbury

This woman is totally reliant on the service system and without family or friends and therefore vulnerable and

requiring a freely given relationship to help ensure her Human rights are upheld This was another rematch

due to the heavy workload of the previous advocate Another local woman with vast experience in doing vol-

untary missionary work was recruited to continue the excellent work that had begun The advocate has a

strong sense of social justice and

empathy for those that have been

forgotten and devalued The advocate

is currently developing an understand-

ing of her proteges life and how best

to protect her and her best interests

Degree of Disability

Mild Moderate Profound

21

Follow-along and support of Existing Relationships

bull Several advocates looking into NDIS planning for their proteacutegeacute Attended relevant presentations

bull Advocate insuring proteacutegeacute does not go into a nursing Home prematurely

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with confusion and stress related to Centrelink payments

bull Advocate looking into medical problem for proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate supporting proteges to live independently

bull Advocate working through family issues with proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate proteacutegeacute in dealing with solicitor re probate

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during test for epilepsy

bull Advocate vising proteacutegeacute after moving from CRU

bull Advocate taking proteacutegeacute shopping and advising on how to shop wisely

bull Advocate attended Hospital throughout night after proteges were involved in a car accident

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with CV

bull Advocate organising LINK transport for proteges

bull Proteacutegeacute contacted whist Advocate in hospital

bull Advocate supported around issues with proteges mother

bull Advocate looking into age related issues for NDIS

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during very difficult and upsetting family issue involving possible pregnancy

bull Advocate assisting proteges making a will

bull Advocate supported and informed proteacutegeacute during NDIS planning meeting and later attended a court

hearing in relation to another matter

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with the preparing and sale of house

bull 3 Advocates unfortunately attended their proteges funerals One Advocate heavily involved in the service

funeral

COMMUNICATION Male Female

Verbal 5 17

Speech Difficulties 3 5

Non Verbal 3 4

2

1637

6

1 1 1

Proteacutegeacute Day Placement

Disability Enterprise Adult Day Training School Study

Unemployed Retired Employed

Excluded Home Duties

DAY PLACEMENTS Male Female

Disability Enterprise 2 0

Adult Day Training 4 12

School Study 0 3

Unemployed 3 4

Retired 2 4

Employed 0 1

Excluded 0 1

Home Duties 0 1

22

Treasurerrsquos Report Elizabeth Homann

I am pleased to present the financial report for the year ended 30th June 2017 One of the many aspects of good

governance is good financial administration and I am please to report that Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

has continued the work started in the 2014 - 2015 year to put us in a strong stable position

RESULTS FOR 2017 We received a pleasing report from the Auditor this year with no audit adjustments required to correct the financial

results as presented

The overall result for CA Sunbury for 2017 was a surplus of $1818087 a healthy increase of $747663 from the

previous year The Commonwealth funding that the program receives increased slightly and we were fortunate

enough to receive an additional $16293 from DSS in May This allowed us to make some long awaited purchases

run training for our advocates and send 2 people to the Network Meeting in Rockhampton Our expenses continue

to rise making it more of a challenge each year to achieve a break even position We achieved the surplus through

careful management of expenses and recognition that to continue to be sustainable new income streams must be

found For the 2016 -2017 year the Staff and Committee concentrated their efforts on fundraising and grants and

were rewarded for their hard work

The net equity as at 30 June 2017 was $2892980 an increase of $1818087 from the previous year and solid

position Cash on Hand totalled $7560888

Income Overall revenue increased by $3326191 (221) from the previous year

bull Gain (Loss) on Sale of fixed Asset

o The organisationrsquos car was disposed of during the year with a resulting surplus of $598562

bull Funding increased by 332 from the previous year

o During 2016 - 2017 CASampD had one funding agreement in place

bull The Department of Social Services - National Disability Advocacy Program

o An additional $16293 was received in May

bull Grants increased by 133 from the previous year

o We received a grant from State Trustees

o We received a grant from Hume City Council

bull Fundraising was received

o Fundraising was received in the form for donations

o Fundraising was raised through sausage sizzles trivia night and a raffle

bull Employee FBT contribution decreased by 525 from the previous year

o The FBT contribution ceased when the car was sold

23

Expenses

Overall expenses increased by $2582599 (183) from the previous year

bull Depreciation costs decreased by 192 from the previous year

There was no new fixed assets purchased during the year

Depreciation calculated on diminishing value method

bull Auditorrsquos Remuneration decreased by 193 from the previous year

There was no charge for the surveillance Quality Audit was carried out this year

A Relationship Review audit was carried out this year

bull Rent expenses increased by 154 from the previous year

Rent increased as per the lease agreement

bull Program expenses increased by 2846 from the previous year

Several advocate functions were held during the year

Social Role Valorisation training was run for the Advocates

bull Consultant expenses were incurred

A consultant was engaged to review and overhaul the program database

bull Wages increased by 15 from the previous year

Limited annual leave and no long service leave was taken during the year

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc will continue to be funded by the Department of Social Services until the 30

June 2018 After this time there will be a new service agreement in place

Income

Donations FBT Employee ContributionFundraising Grants (Commonwealth)Grants (Local) Grants (Other)Gain on Asset Interest Expenses

Administration Board Depreciation

Fundraising Motor Vehicle Program

Staff

24

Financial Statements

Contents

Statement by Committee

Profit and Loss Statement

Balance Sheet

Notes to the Financial Statement

Independent Auditorrsquos Report

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Committe Members Declaration

YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2017

The committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements

In the opinion of the committee the financial report

Presents a true and fair view of the associations financial position as at 30 June 2017

2 There are reasonable grounds to believe that the association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable

NAME ~ zo6e+h ~VYIOI) Committee Member

2017

8

Committee of Management

Chairperson - Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller

My name is Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller and I was born in Chile I migrated to

Australia in 1983 with my mother and adopted Australia as my new home in No-

vember 1985 when I become an Australian citizen I am married to a beautiful

and warm hearted Australian lady Karen amp we have a beautiful son Charles

who is 10 years old and has special needs We have lived in Sunbury for the past

13 years I work for a company called Independence Australia which provides

Incontinence amp Wound Care products to customers with special needs My wife

works as a Disability Support worker We both are committed to assist people

with special needs due to our work commitments and also personal experienc-

es My previous involvement has been varied and wide having being in com-

mittees of management for youth accommodation groups legal aid ethnic advi-

sory groups amp community health centres I am looking forward to my further involvement with Citizens

Advisory Sunbury and the many new challenges and opportunities it will bring

Vice Chairperson - Alison Cunningham

I have been the Vice Chairperson of Citizens Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts for the

last 12 months I am involved in a number of Community groups in Sunbury and

Citizens Advocacy is the most rewarding group I am involved in It is pleasure to

be a part of Citizens advocacy from the Proteacutegeacutes and Advocates I have met to

the Board and staff Being involved in Citizens advocacy has also given me the

privilege of being an advocate for Angela and Darrell

I look forward to having a long association with Citizen Advocacy

Secretary - Angelo Micallef

I migrated to Australia from Malta in 1983 with my wife and two young daughters

All our family have been involved in voluntary work with various organisations or on

our own because we feel an obligation to share our luck This was partially ingrained

in us by my late mother who was very caring for others in need My hobbies are gar-

dening sports and travel the world with my wife

9

Treasurer - Elizabeth Homann

My favourite quote is If you want something done ask a busy person and it sums

me up perfectly I am a highly self motivated dedicated and focused person who

has a passion for small not-for-profit (or as I prefer profit-for-purpose) organisa-

tions and have spent the last 20 years serving on all kinds of Committees and

Boards in all sorts of roles I have my own Bookkeeping business as and am a regis-

tered BAS Agent Whilst my initial motivation for joining CA Sunbury was to help

out a struggling Committee of Management this has developed into a deep appre-

ciation of the incredible work that CA Sunbury does

General Member - Elizabeth Lynch

Elizabeth Lynch has been a dedicated and active part of the Citizen Advocacy Com-

mittee for over 9 years Developing and maintaining the Citizen Advocacy Sunbury

website Elizabeth has a passion for learning especially in the area of computer

based applications Elizabeth is also a proteacutegeacute of the program

General Member - Michael Homann

I am passionate about achieving the best possible outcomes for people with disabili-

ties For the last 8 years I have been the General Manager of a Western Suburbs multi

site community service organisation which provides support and employment to over

400 adults with an intellectual disability Prior to this I had over 30 years of business

management experience at a senior level

I have always been involved in my local community and have been a member of many

community committees including kindergarten school council basketball (committee

amp coach) Scouts and the Sunbury Neighbourhood House I am also a current member

of both the Wyndham and Melton councils Disability and Aging Advisory Committees

General Member - Bridie Smith

It was an honour to be a member of the Committee of Management in 2016-17 and to

chair the Key Office Activities subcommittee which supports the core activities of the

program to maintain the full potential of the Citizen Advocacy vision as conceived by Dr

Wolf Wolfenberger six decades ago

I am blessed with an awesome family mdash my wonderfully patient and supportive hus-

band John and our amazing sons Brian and Liam I am a self-employed bookkeeper and

business owner Originally from County Galway Ireland Sunbury has been home since

mid-1990s and I love the terrific community spirit

I am passionate about ensuring our program remains strong and vibrant because through the selfless generosi-

ty of people from all walks of life Citizen Advocacy does an extraordinary job of valuing and protecting the

most vulnerable members of our community

10

Chairpersonrsquos Report

On behalf of the Committee of Management I have the privilege of presenting the annual report for the 2016 2017 financial year - and it has been a challenging year

I have been on the committee for about 4 years now and since then I have had different roles This year I was fortunate to be elected chairperson The last 12 months have been challenging and a enjoyable learning experience

Highlights As it was highlighted in last yearrsquos report we developed some financial strategies to ensure the financial viability of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc from the previous year This meant sig-nificant effort and commitment by the Committee of Management was required to assure the suc-cess of these strategies laid down in our 2016- 2018 Strategic Plan and to be able to manage the organisation responsibly and ensure our survival into the future I am very pleased to report that de-spite the resignation of several members of the committee we managed to achieve this and our fi-nances for the first time in a long time are healthy Unfortunately this does not mean we can relax and enjoy the good life On the contrary the new committee of management will need to ensure they keep vigilant amp continue to act responsibly to meet future needs and challenges

As mentioned before the Committee of Management also developed a new Strategic Plan for the next three years The four key focus areas include increasing the number of matches improving the profile of CA ensuring good governance and being financially sustainable This plan aims to ensure that the organisation will continue to be relevant to the needs of the communities we support as well as fulfilling the requirements of our funding agreement with DSS

In April 2017 we underwent a surveillance quality audit which we passed with flying colours I would like to thank you to all those who were involved in this process for your support and commitment

Our biggest unknown and challenge for the future is NDIS and how it might impact on our organisation- this continues to be somewhat vague In a meeting in October with representa-tives of DSS we were informed that the field of Advocacy will continue to be funded by DSS until 2020 and therefore inde-pendent of the NDIA There will be new funding agreements with new ways of reporting and more accountability from the part of committee of management We will keep you informed of developments

As part of our plan to improve CA profile we decided it was time to update our look by developing and adopting a new logo We had a competition with over 200 entries from all over the world At the end the committee of management selected the best 5 entries and asked our stakeholders to vote on the one best suited us It was a close call but the one selected gives us a fresh modern and more vibrant look We had a launch on the 25th October at our office which was well attended by proteacutegeacutees advocates amp friends of CA Sunbury

Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller

11

Going Forward Having faced and overcome many challenges in the past year the coming year will be equally challenging We have a very small membership in our organisation and an even smaller number of members who are prepared to be committee members This year with so many resignations from the committee of management the work was left to 4 people which is not sustainable in the longer term In the same way that the organisation was at threat by financial viability if there are not enough members to form a committee the organisation will cease to exist We are actively seeking new members not only for the organisation but also to the committee of management I encourage our members to give serious consideration into becoming part of our committee of management

As part of the strategic plan the committee of management is starting to expand our program in Hume to cover areas like Broadmeadows This is to make people aware of our organisation and its role in the community as well as a way to recruit people to join our organisation and to demonstrate to our funder both Federal and State Governments and the community at large that our form of advocacy is a legitimate and valued part of our local community and service to those we support

The committee of management is determined to create a good membership base by creating a sense of community where members can come and meet like-minded people perhaps share their experiences and also learn from others To this effect we will continue to run social evenings courses and information nights

The coming year will be an interesting one with new challenges and new opportunities to grow not only in membership but knowledge amp experience We are planning to have CAPE towards the end of 2018 A CAPE is a Citizen Advocacy Program evaluation which is done by external people which are members of other CA programs in Australia or overseas This will involve a lot of time preparing for the CAPE and then meeting the Team doing the evaluation It is a worthwhile exercise one that I was fortunate to be invited to be part of at South Australia Looking forward to it

Conclusion I would like to thank the staff and office volunteers for their continued hard work in an often difficult and ever changing environment I commend you all for your diligence and assistance in meeting the challenges we have faced

I would also like to thank the advocates who continue to support their proteacutegeacutes in a totally selfless way - you are amazing and are the backbone of the organisation

I would like to thank my colleagues and fellow com-mittee members for their patience giving of their time and energy and most importantly maintaining their sense of humour under sometime difficult circum-stances amp for their support they have given me as chairperson

Finally I need to not only to thank this person but also say goodbyehellip Elizabeth Homann you have been a pillar of strength dedication amp commitment not only to the organisation amp the committee of management but to me on a personal level The support advice and constant availability to answer my many calls have been greatly appreciated You will be missed at meetings I wish you all the best in your new endeavours amp for the future Looking forward to a new challenging year with new opportunities

12

Coordinatorrsquos Report David Abela

As always it is with pleasure that I present my report and touch on some of the activities and high-

lights of the program As Coordinator there is a multitude of activities and requirements to fulfil

throughout the year The most important of course being the lsquoKey Office Activitiesrsquo which I will dis-

cuss deeper into the report

An ongoing vital activity is talking to people about Citizen Advocacy either on an individual basis or

through community presentations this started off at the beginning of the year with a presentation

to St Andrews Friendship Group and information provided to the staff at Vic Roads Sunbury

Aquatic Centre Sunbury police and various individuals

In October last year I was off to

spread the word in Melton at the

lsquoMelton Care Exporsquo Many people

were spoken to and information given

out This is not an area we generally

work in but it was an opportunity to

gauge interest in the program and to

tap into people visiting from Hume

and Macedon Ranges There was very

good interest and the day resulted in a

new advocate and several potential proteacutegeacutes With many more people expressing an interest in

the program and Citizen Advocacy in general should it ever expand into the area

Fundraising is also always on the programs agenda ensuring there are funds available should new

equipment be required and giving us the resources to put on events and training

In early November one of our proteacutegeacutes Ronnie Jelbert along with his advocate Lisa Edwards fea-

tured in the Leader Newspaper highlighting the long association with Ronnie and the past owners

of The Olive Tree Hotel (Lisarsquos family) in Sunbury The current proprietors agreed to donate 50

cents of every dessert sold over a 3-month period to CA Sunbury The story of Ronnie and the

Edwards Family was a great opportunity to raise awareness and raise a little money for a good

cause

In late 2016 our Administration Assistant Melita was successful in securing a small grant from the

State Trustees allowing us to hire a room for one day per fortnight starting February 2017 at the

Broadmeadows Community Hub I have been able to chip away at informing people from Non-

English-Speaking Backgrounds (and others) about Citizen Advocacy and how it could benefit

people in their community either as advocates or proteacutegeacutes

13

Networking has increased in the wider Hume area and we have

been able to translate and print pro-

gram information pamphlets in Ara-

bic and disseminate them at rele-

vant venues including lsquoArabic Social

Servicesrsquo

Also in February Melita engaged CA Sunbury in the Rotary Club of Ballarat South Community Raffle

Through the support of tickets sales by the Committee Proteacutegeacutes Advocates and staff the program was

able to raise a total of $1048 in profit through ticket sales

February also saw the beginning of a new sub-committee which is a great support to my main work of

recruiting proteacutegeacutes and advocates and ensuring people are supported to maintain their relationships

long term The lsquoKey Office Activities Sub-Committee meets monthly with myself and is an opportunity

for others with some knowledge of CA to assist the program and my work in making good matches for

vulnerable people in our community As a sole Co-ordinator it is always beneficial receiving

encouragement and guidance from others with genuine concern for those we are here to serve

Special thanks to Bridie Smith Peter Rovers and Mary Dight who have been the backbone of this very

important initiative

Citizen Advocacy had a stall again at Sunfest on March 18th

Although not as well positioned as the previous year CA along

with the lsquoProgress Associationrsquo attracted plenty of interest and

helped clarify this model of Advocacy to people in the local

community

Part of good CA practice is to conduct an annual Internal

Relationship Review reviewing all matches and ensuring a

good balance of proteacutegeacute situations and backgrounds and the

appropriate advocates are recruited This thorough review also helps to inform and identify gaps in

recruitment and support and develop a plan to rectify any shortcomings Thanks to John Armstrong

known to many in the program and experienced in CAPE and Internal Relationship Reviews John was

able to work with committee members and myself in between his very busy schedule to produce a very

useful and informative report

Another form of review and assessment was our annual ldquoNational Standards for Disability Services

Auditrdquo conducted in April Another successful outcome with the program fully addressing the audit

recommendations of 2016 As always the audit team was impressed by the evidence presented and

feedback from lsquostakeholdersrsquo (advocates and proteacutegeacutes) and could clearly see the bond existing

between people and the support provided by the program to advocates providing friendship protec-

tion and spokesman ship to their proteacutegeacutes Irsquom glad to say that this has resulted in continued

certification under the lsquoNational Standards for Disability Servicesrsquo

14

In April it was time to think about some more fund raising again

A tried and tested venue is the local Bunnings Being Easter

Monday made it even more busy and profitable It was a great

day which not only helped us financially but also did a lot to

help raise awareness of people with disability and Citizen Advo-

cacy Four weeks later we entered into another venture with the

Progress Association at the Sunbury United Sporting Club where

we held a fundraising Trivia Night and split the proceeds

Another successful Advocate recruitment campaign during the year beginning in May and ongoing for

several weeks has been a small notice in the ldquoWHATS ONrdquo section of the local and Macedon Ranges

Leader This simple request asking for people to help make a difference in the life of someone with an

intellectual disability has had a very positive result with several people calling or dropping in to the

office I have so far been able to recruit and match 3 new advocates that began by responding to the

notice and hope to continue with other similar forms of awareness

The National Disability Insurance Scheme or ldquoNDISrdquo is the new national system for governments to

provide specialist disability supports to people with a significant and permanent disability Citizen Ad-

vocacy is not part of this new scheme but as part of our responsibility to advocatersquos we help provide

them with knowledge and resources to enable them to best support and inform their proteacutegeacute As

many proteacutegeacutes in the program are eligible to receive NDIS funding and their advocates would possibly

be involved in planning and attending meetings it was decided to engage Rick Ruiu from VALID to give

an informative and interactive NDIS presentation to our Advocates Proteacutegeacutes and other interested

relevant people This was a very successful and useful wintery June night and I feel confident that

many people are a little more prepared and aware of what is needed to gain the most benefit at their

proteacutegeacutes planning meeting beginning in March 2018 for those in Hume

The financial year ended on a very positive note with some knowledge

sharing by two experienced ex CA practioners Professor Zana Luttiffia

has been a CA Coordinator and board member at Winnipeg Canada she

has also completed her graduate training and postdoctoral work at the

Centre of Human Policy Syracuse University She joined the University

of Manitoba in 1992 Her longstanding research interest has been

identifying and examining the factors that help or hinder the valued

social participation of individuals with intellectual disabilities in

community life A couple of committee members and myself were able

to spend a delightful and informative few hours discussing good CA

practice and solving the problems of the world over dinner at Bridie Smiths home where we were

made to feel very welcomed by the whole family

Following our time with Zana the committee and I were given further insight into an important subject

by another ex-long term Coordinator this time Bob Lee from the Sunshine Coast who has a particular

interest and talent in delivering inspiring Citizen Advocacy presentations to community groups Bob

spoke to us on how he thinks we can be most effective in asking people to become a Citizen Advocate

for a vulnerable person and how you best present the persons situation and needs

15

Over the year we inevitably gain and loose people in the pro-

gram It was with great sadness that I had the task of informing

others connected with CA of the passing of two much loved

proteges firstly Daisey Serong and then shortly after Darren

Schembri Daisey was a proteacutegeacute with the program from its incep-

tion being an ex Caloola resident when her advocate Mary Day

would visit Daisey at Caloola with her young daughter and help

Daisey with her literacy and ensure life was a good as possible in

the large institution Daisey went on to be a strong self-advocate

with her brother John who passed away last year

Darren Shembri was also a long term proteacutegeacute who as a child spent time residing at St Nicholas home

for Intellectually disabled children until coming to live in the first CRU in Sunbury in 1985 Darren had

great resilience and an amazing personality His advocate Irene Nolte was always there for him both

in good and bad times ensuring his needs were met and acting as his voice whenever necessary the

bond between them was allways evident We were privileged to know both these people and they

will be remembered in so many positive and endearing ways

Citizen Advocacy is a team effort culminating in the matches that make up the CA Relationships Eve-

ryone has a role to play A big thanks to our admin assistant Melita who has had a mixed bag of tasks

and requests this year that she has taken in her stride Theresa our office volunteer has reorganised

our match files beautifully and made this part of the office tidier and more efficient

Our Committee of management are a hard-working detected

bunch Elizabeth Lynch decided to take a break from the

committee this year and we are eternally grateful for all the work

Elizabeth has put into our website that is now due for a revamp

Elizabeth remains involved in the program through being a

protege and has expressed an interest in coming on to the Key

Office Activities committee Our President Juan Carlos Rodrigues

does an excellent job of keeping everyone in order and on time

at committee meetings as well as helping to organise many activ-

ities outside of the office including the launch of our new logo

and our upcoming Christmas Dinner Our Vice president Alison

has done a lot to support the program and is also an advocate

but has recently had to step down due to the pressures of life

Angelo our secretary does

an excellent job of making

sure the agenda minutes and correspondence are on the table

ready for our committee meetings Irsquom pleased to say Angelo is

also about to become an advocate for someone well known to

the program and Angelorsquos broad knowledge and practical ad-

vice is greatly appreciated

16

Liz our treasurer and bookkeeper and general ldquojack of all trades ldquohas

bought the program back into the black and has been instrumental in

putting our program back into a healthy financial state Liz also recently

organised our new logo and was an advocate for a young woman in a

CRU Unfortunately for us Lizrsquos own business and growing workload has

made it too difficult to stay on as Treasurer but Irsquom glad to say Liz will

still be involved with us as our bookkeeper

After a short break from the committee Bridie has been back and is a

guardian of CA practice and principles developing her understanding by

attending the CA Study group and chairing the Key Office Activities

subcommittee More recently Tony Tanti who has been involved in the

program as an advocate has been attending committee meetings and his contribution and support on a

wide range of issues is greatly appreciated and valued

Thank you to everyone for all your hard work support and making this such a special program Above

all it has been an absolute honour working with the advocates and proteges of the program Watching

the bond and friendship between two people who often live very different lives develop and come to-

gether in a very beneficial way is both motivating and humbling

17

In January 2017 the Committee of Management (CoM) setup a Key Office Activities Sub-committee

(KOAs) to guide the program in working reflectively and purposefully in the practice of Citizen Advoca-

cy and to ensure an effective balance of the seven (7) Key Office Activities

A CA office which has an effective balance of activities will do enough of the right

thing at the right time to ensure that it will achieve its mission

from CAPE (Citizen Advocacy Practice Evaluation) Manual

The Key Office Activities are

bull Vision and Creativity in Proteacutegeacute Recruitment

bull Advocate Recruitment

bull Advocate Orientation

bull Advocate-Proteacutegeacute Matching

bull Follow-along and Support to Relationships

bull Ongoing Training

bull Emphasis on Advocate-associates

I had the honour of Chairing the KOAs this year and with David advocate Peter Rovers former CoM

member Mary Dight held the inaugural meeting in February 2017 Later in the year Proteacutegeacute and former

CoM member Elizabeth Lynch and Chairperson Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller joined us

Meetings are held at the office on the 4th Monday of the month from 10 am to noon We welcome ex-

pressions of interest from prospective new members with a keen interest in Citizen Advocacy

A heartfelt thanks to David Mary Peter Elizabeth and Juan Carlos for their wisdom and dedication I

look forward to continuing our contribution to the work of making many good CA matches in 2018

Bridie Smith

Key Office Activities Subcommittee

18

Identifying and Recruiting Proteacutegeacutes

bull A 16yo boy with ID and severe epilepsy and Dyspraxia Issues around hospital appointments and treatment at school

bull Women in early 20s residing in SRS suffering from severe chronic polytechnic arthritis and social isolated

bull Young man in Diggers Rest with fragile x syndrome and reluctant to leave house

bull Spoke to sergeant at Sunbury Police Station in regards to people with ID in trouble with the law

bull Presentation to Prioletti Work Education Group

bull Young woman living in Gisborne shared public housing has a learning disability

bull Young woman in Sunbury requiring social and employment support

bull Spoke to manager of Dallas Neighbourhood House

bull Spoke to CEO of Broadmeadows Disability Services

bull Young man in his early 30s recently relocating to Gisborne has mild intellectual disability ongoing mental health

issues and drug habit Requiring strong mentor and help with developing structure in his life

bull Woman in her 50s mild ID requiring assistance with preparing to relocate from inherited house

bull Spoke to Arabic Social Services

bull 21yo woman lives in Sunbury moderate ID Lives with separated parents Needs help with budgeting and banking

skills and accessing mainstream recreation

bull 24yo woman moderate ID lives in Diggers Rest with mother father recently died of cancer Wants help to access com-

munity opportunities No access to transport

bull Married couple with intellectual disability experiencing marital difficulties

Key Office Activities

The following are brief examples of the ldquoKey Office Activitiesrdquo for the 201617 year

0 1

8

59

14

Proteacutegeacute Age

0-20

21-30

31-40

41-50

51-60

61+

AGES Male Female

0-20 0 0

21-30 0 1

31-40 3 5

41-50 2 3

51-60 4 5

61+ 2 12

19

Advocate Recruitment

bull St Andrews Friendship Group

bull Young woman with marketing background

bull Vet nurse from Lancefield

bull Ex Committee member

bull Woodend accountant

bull Woman who runs a farm with Husband

bull Sunbury Probes

bull Member of Sunbury Historical society

bull Notices in the Whatrsquos On section of Sunbury Broadmeadow and

Macedon Ranges Leader

bull Rehab and Diabetes nurse recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Gisborne Menrsquos Shed

bull Retired Public Servant with experience in intellectual disability

and Mental Health

bull Relationships Councillor recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Various inquiries from Hume Volunteer Gateway

bull Various presentations to community and service groups

bull Presentations at Church groups

bull Sunbury Police

bull Sunfest Various people

bull Retired BBC employee

bull Retired Missionary

bull Middle aged teacherrsquos aide living in Mickleham

bull Presentation to Sunbury Aquatic Centre

bull Information to VicRoads

bull Retired Lecturer

Two new Advocate Associates Recruited one in the area of health and

diabetes prevention Other in the area counselling and mental health

TYPE OF ADVOCACY Male Female

Instrumental 2 2

Expressive 1 2

Both 8 22

OTHER DISABILITY Male Female

Yes 3 4

No 8 22

Advocate Orientation

Six full orientations completed throughout this period (one

potential advocate did not go on with matching)

6

201

4 6

Residential Situation

Family Home CRU Special Accomodation

Nursing Home Independently

RESIDENTIAL SITUATION Male Female

Family Home 3 3

CRU 7 13

Special Accomodation 0 1

Nursing Home 0 4

Independently 1 5

20

Advocate Proteacutegeacute Matching

Five new matches made this year

bull A quiet 32yo woman living independently in Sunbury who has difficulties around social interactions and se-

curing part time employment due to autistic tendencies was matched to woman of similar age who is out-

going This Advocate has a marketing background and is prepared to assist proteacutegeacute with CV how she presents

herself at job interviews and socialising including being a friend

bull Another 32yo woman this time living in Gisborne in shared public housing accommodation This woman has

a learning disability secondary to Kawasaki disease and required assistance gaining some level of financial in-

dependence hygiene health care and general life skills She was also being

financially exploited by her house mates Matched to a woman who helps manage the family farm and comes

from a large family where she has gained skills and experience in supporting her parents and siblings

bull After relocating to Gisborne with his parents in an effort to get away from bad influences and a drug habit a

33yo man with intellectual and psychiatric disability required someone to help develop

connections and positive relationships in his new community giving this young man an opportunity to start a

new life and structure to his day A retired senior public servant in Gisborne with experience of intellectual

and psychiatric disability within his family was recruited Within a short period of time the advocate was able

to befriend this young man gain his confidence and as a mentor direct and guide him towards community

activities whist at the same time ensure he gain what was required from his NDIS package and support and

help to represent him in a magistrates Court hearing

bull Following her advocate moving to Ballarat it was necessary to rematch a 58yo woman with previous learning

difficulties to a new advocate The ongoing issue was someone to support this woman emotionally and prac-

tically to prepare to sell her inherited house and look for something more appropriate and manageable A

retired local woman with a background in documentary production and working for the BBC stepped forward

following a notice in the local paper The friendship was instant and as the advocate has stated ldquomutually re-

wardingrdquo Work has begun in sorting and packing and thinking about future options with the assistance of the

advocate who has ensured the proteges sister interstate is kept informed Im glad to say the previous advo-

cate will also stay in touch and remain a friend

bull A 38yo woman who has severe intellectual disability lives in a local ldquoCommunity Residential Unitrdquo in Sunbury

This woman is totally reliant on the service system and without family or friends and therefore vulnerable and

requiring a freely given relationship to help ensure her Human rights are upheld This was another rematch

due to the heavy workload of the previous advocate Another local woman with vast experience in doing vol-

untary missionary work was recruited to continue the excellent work that had begun The advocate has a

strong sense of social justice and

empathy for those that have been

forgotten and devalued The advocate

is currently developing an understand-

ing of her proteges life and how best

to protect her and her best interests

Degree of Disability

Mild Moderate Profound

21

Follow-along and support of Existing Relationships

bull Several advocates looking into NDIS planning for their proteacutegeacute Attended relevant presentations

bull Advocate insuring proteacutegeacute does not go into a nursing Home prematurely

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with confusion and stress related to Centrelink payments

bull Advocate looking into medical problem for proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate supporting proteges to live independently

bull Advocate working through family issues with proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate proteacutegeacute in dealing with solicitor re probate

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during test for epilepsy

bull Advocate vising proteacutegeacute after moving from CRU

bull Advocate taking proteacutegeacute shopping and advising on how to shop wisely

bull Advocate attended Hospital throughout night after proteges were involved in a car accident

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with CV

bull Advocate organising LINK transport for proteges

bull Proteacutegeacute contacted whist Advocate in hospital

bull Advocate supported around issues with proteges mother

bull Advocate looking into age related issues for NDIS

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during very difficult and upsetting family issue involving possible pregnancy

bull Advocate assisting proteges making a will

bull Advocate supported and informed proteacutegeacute during NDIS planning meeting and later attended a court

hearing in relation to another matter

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with the preparing and sale of house

bull 3 Advocates unfortunately attended their proteges funerals One Advocate heavily involved in the service

funeral

COMMUNICATION Male Female

Verbal 5 17

Speech Difficulties 3 5

Non Verbal 3 4

2

1637

6

1 1 1

Proteacutegeacute Day Placement

Disability Enterprise Adult Day Training School Study

Unemployed Retired Employed

Excluded Home Duties

DAY PLACEMENTS Male Female

Disability Enterprise 2 0

Adult Day Training 4 12

School Study 0 3

Unemployed 3 4

Retired 2 4

Employed 0 1

Excluded 0 1

Home Duties 0 1

22

Treasurerrsquos Report Elizabeth Homann

I am pleased to present the financial report for the year ended 30th June 2017 One of the many aspects of good

governance is good financial administration and I am please to report that Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

has continued the work started in the 2014 - 2015 year to put us in a strong stable position

RESULTS FOR 2017 We received a pleasing report from the Auditor this year with no audit adjustments required to correct the financial

results as presented

The overall result for CA Sunbury for 2017 was a surplus of $1818087 a healthy increase of $747663 from the

previous year The Commonwealth funding that the program receives increased slightly and we were fortunate

enough to receive an additional $16293 from DSS in May This allowed us to make some long awaited purchases

run training for our advocates and send 2 people to the Network Meeting in Rockhampton Our expenses continue

to rise making it more of a challenge each year to achieve a break even position We achieved the surplus through

careful management of expenses and recognition that to continue to be sustainable new income streams must be

found For the 2016 -2017 year the Staff and Committee concentrated their efforts on fundraising and grants and

were rewarded for their hard work

The net equity as at 30 June 2017 was $2892980 an increase of $1818087 from the previous year and solid

position Cash on Hand totalled $7560888

Income Overall revenue increased by $3326191 (221) from the previous year

bull Gain (Loss) on Sale of fixed Asset

o The organisationrsquos car was disposed of during the year with a resulting surplus of $598562

bull Funding increased by 332 from the previous year

o During 2016 - 2017 CASampD had one funding agreement in place

bull The Department of Social Services - National Disability Advocacy Program

o An additional $16293 was received in May

bull Grants increased by 133 from the previous year

o We received a grant from State Trustees

o We received a grant from Hume City Council

bull Fundraising was received

o Fundraising was received in the form for donations

o Fundraising was raised through sausage sizzles trivia night and a raffle

bull Employee FBT contribution decreased by 525 from the previous year

o The FBT contribution ceased when the car was sold

23

Expenses

Overall expenses increased by $2582599 (183) from the previous year

bull Depreciation costs decreased by 192 from the previous year

There was no new fixed assets purchased during the year

Depreciation calculated on diminishing value method

bull Auditorrsquos Remuneration decreased by 193 from the previous year

There was no charge for the surveillance Quality Audit was carried out this year

A Relationship Review audit was carried out this year

bull Rent expenses increased by 154 from the previous year

Rent increased as per the lease agreement

bull Program expenses increased by 2846 from the previous year

Several advocate functions were held during the year

Social Role Valorisation training was run for the Advocates

bull Consultant expenses were incurred

A consultant was engaged to review and overhaul the program database

bull Wages increased by 15 from the previous year

Limited annual leave and no long service leave was taken during the year

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc will continue to be funded by the Department of Social Services until the 30

June 2018 After this time there will be a new service agreement in place

Income

Donations FBT Employee ContributionFundraising Grants (Commonwealth)Grants (Local) Grants (Other)Gain on Asset Interest Expenses

Administration Board Depreciation

Fundraising Motor Vehicle Program

Staff

24

Financial Statements

Contents

Statement by Committee

Profit and Loss Statement

Balance Sheet

Notes to the Financial Statement

Independent Auditorrsquos Report

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Committe Members Declaration

YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2017

The committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements

In the opinion of the committee the financial report

Presents a true and fair view of the associations financial position as at 30 June 2017

2 There are reasonable grounds to believe that the association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable

NAME ~ zo6e+h ~VYIOI) Committee Member

2017

9

Treasurer - Elizabeth Homann

My favourite quote is If you want something done ask a busy person and it sums

me up perfectly I am a highly self motivated dedicated and focused person who

has a passion for small not-for-profit (or as I prefer profit-for-purpose) organisa-

tions and have spent the last 20 years serving on all kinds of Committees and

Boards in all sorts of roles I have my own Bookkeeping business as and am a regis-

tered BAS Agent Whilst my initial motivation for joining CA Sunbury was to help

out a struggling Committee of Management this has developed into a deep appre-

ciation of the incredible work that CA Sunbury does

General Member - Elizabeth Lynch

Elizabeth Lynch has been a dedicated and active part of the Citizen Advocacy Com-

mittee for over 9 years Developing and maintaining the Citizen Advocacy Sunbury

website Elizabeth has a passion for learning especially in the area of computer

based applications Elizabeth is also a proteacutegeacute of the program

General Member - Michael Homann

I am passionate about achieving the best possible outcomes for people with disabili-

ties For the last 8 years I have been the General Manager of a Western Suburbs multi

site community service organisation which provides support and employment to over

400 adults with an intellectual disability Prior to this I had over 30 years of business

management experience at a senior level

I have always been involved in my local community and have been a member of many

community committees including kindergarten school council basketball (committee

amp coach) Scouts and the Sunbury Neighbourhood House I am also a current member

of both the Wyndham and Melton councils Disability and Aging Advisory Committees

General Member - Bridie Smith

It was an honour to be a member of the Committee of Management in 2016-17 and to

chair the Key Office Activities subcommittee which supports the core activities of the

program to maintain the full potential of the Citizen Advocacy vision as conceived by Dr

Wolf Wolfenberger six decades ago

I am blessed with an awesome family mdash my wonderfully patient and supportive hus-

band John and our amazing sons Brian and Liam I am a self-employed bookkeeper and

business owner Originally from County Galway Ireland Sunbury has been home since

mid-1990s and I love the terrific community spirit

I am passionate about ensuring our program remains strong and vibrant because through the selfless generosi-

ty of people from all walks of life Citizen Advocacy does an extraordinary job of valuing and protecting the

most vulnerable members of our community

10

Chairpersonrsquos Report

On behalf of the Committee of Management I have the privilege of presenting the annual report for the 2016 2017 financial year - and it has been a challenging year

I have been on the committee for about 4 years now and since then I have had different roles This year I was fortunate to be elected chairperson The last 12 months have been challenging and a enjoyable learning experience

Highlights As it was highlighted in last yearrsquos report we developed some financial strategies to ensure the financial viability of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc from the previous year This meant sig-nificant effort and commitment by the Committee of Management was required to assure the suc-cess of these strategies laid down in our 2016- 2018 Strategic Plan and to be able to manage the organisation responsibly and ensure our survival into the future I am very pleased to report that de-spite the resignation of several members of the committee we managed to achieve this and our fi-nances for the first time in a long time are healthy Unfortunately this does not mean we can relax and enjoy the good life On the contrary the new committee of management will need to ensure they keep vigilant amp continue to act responsibly to meet future needs and challenges

As mentioned before the Committee of Management also developed a new Strategic Plan for the next three years The four key focus areas include increasing the number of matches improving the profile of CA ensuring good governance and being financially sustainable This plan aims to ensure that the organisation will continue to be relevant to the needs of the communities we support as well as fulfilling the requirements of our funding agreement with DSS

In April 2017 we underwent a surveillance quality audit which we passed with flying colours I would like to thank you to all those who were involved in this process for your support and commitment

Our biggest unknown and challenge for the future is NDIS and how it might impact on our organisation- this continues to be somewhat vague In a meeting in October with representa-tives of DSS we were informed that the field of Advocacy will continue to be funded by DSS until 2020 and therefore inde-pendent of the NDIA There will be new funding agreements with new ways of reporting and more accountability from the part of committee of management We will keep you informed of developments

As part of our plan to improve CA profile we decided it was time to update our look by developing and adopting a new logo We had a competition with over 200 entries from all over the world At the end the committee of management selected the best 5 entries and asked our stakeholders to vote on the one best suited us It was a close call but the one selected gives us a fresh modern and more vibrant look We had a launch on the 25th October at our office which was well attended by proteacutegeacutees advocates amp friends of CA Sunbury

Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller

11

Going Forward Having faced and overcome many challenges in the past year the coming year will be equally challenging We have a very small membership in our organisation and an even smaller number of members who are prepared to be committee members This year with so many resignations from the committee of management the work was left to 4 people which is not sustainable in the longer term In the same way that the organisation was at threat by financial viability if there are not enough members to form a committee the organisation will cease to exist We are actively seeking new members not only for the organisation but also to the committee of management I encourage our members to give serious consideration into becoming part of our committee of management

As part of the strategic plan the committee of management is starting to expand our program in Hume to cover areas like Broadmeadows This is to make people aware of our organisation and its role in the community as well as a way to recruit people to join our organisation and to demonstrate to our funder both Federal and State Governments and the community at large that our form of advocacy is a legitimate and valued part of our local community and service to those we support

The committee of management is determined to create a good membership base by creating a sense of community where members can come and meet like-minded people perhaps share their experiences and also learn from others To this effect we will continue to run social evenings courses and information nights

The coming year will be an interesting one with new challenges and new opportunities to grow not only in membership but knowledge amp experience We are planning to have CAPE towards the end of 2018 A CAPE is a Citizen Advocacy Program evaluation which is done by external people which are members of other CA programs in Australia or overseas This will involve a lot of time preparing for the CAPE and then meeting the Team doing the evaluation It is a worthwhile exercise one that I was fortunate to be invited to be part of at South Australia Looking forward to it

Conclusion I would like to thank the staff and office volunteers for their continued hard work in an often difficult and ever changing environment I commend you all for your diligence and assistance in meeting the challenges we have faced

I would also like to thank the advocates who continue to support their proteacutegeacutes in a totally selfless way - you are amazing and are the backbone of the organisation

I would like to thank my colleagues and fellow com-mittee members for their patience giving of their time and energy and most importantly maintaining their sense of humour under sometime difficult circum-stances amp for their support they have given me as chairperson

Finally I need to not only to thank this person but also say goodbyehellip Elizabeth Homann you have been a pillar of strength dedication amp commitment not only to the organisation amp the committee of management but to me on a personal level The support advice and constant availability to answer my many calls have been greatly appreciated You will be missed at meetings I wish you all the best in your new endeavours amp for the future Looking forward to a new challenging year with new opportunities

12

Coordinatorrsquos Report David Abela

As always it is with pleasure that I present my report and touch on some of the activities and high-

lights of the program As Coordinator there is a multitude of activities and requirements to fulfil

throughout the year The most important of course being the lsquoKey Office Activitiesrsquo which I will dis-

cuss deeper into the report

An ongoing vital activity is talking to people about Citizen Advocacy either on an individual basis or

through community presentations this started off at the beginning of the year with a presentation

to St Andrews Friendship Group and information provided to the staff at Vic Roads Sunbury

Aquatic Centre Sunbury police and various individuals

In October last year I was off to

spread the word in Melton at the

lsquoMelton Care Exporsquo Many people

were spoken to and information given

out This is not an area we generally

work in but it was an opportunity to

gauge interest in the program and to

tap into people visiting from Hume

and Macedon Ranges There was very

good interest and the day resulted in a

new advocate and several potential proteacutegeacutes With many more people expressing an interest in

the program and Citizen Advocacy in general should it ever expand into the area

Fundraising is also always on the programs agenda ensuring there are funds available should new

equipment be required and giving us the resources to put on events and training

In early November one of our proteacutegeacutes Ronnie Jelbert along with his advocate Lisa Edwards fea-

tured in the Leader Newspaper highlighting the long association with Ronnie and the past owners

of The Olive Tree Hotel (Lisarsquos family) in Sunbury The current proprietors agreed to donate 50

cents of every dessert sold over a 3-month period to CA Sunbury The story of Ronnie and the

Edwards Family was a great opportunity to raise awareness and raise a little money for a good

cause

In late 2016 our Administration Assistant Melita was successful in securing a small grant from the

State Trustees allowing us to hire a room for one day per fortnight starting February 2017 at the

Broadmeadows Community Hub I have been able to chip away at informing people from Non-

English-Speaking Backgrounds (and others) about Citizen Advocacy and how it could benefit

people in their community either as advocates or proteacutegeacutes

13

Networking has increased in the wider Hume area and we have

been able to translate and print pro-

gram information pamphlets in Ara-

bic and disseminate them at rele-

vant venues including lsquoArabic Social

Servicesrsquo

Also in February Melita engaged CA Sunbury in the Rotary Club of Ballarat South Community Raffle

Through the support of tickets sales by the Committee Proteacutegeacutes Advocates and staff the program was

able to raise a total of $1048 in profit through ticket sales

February also saw the beginning of a new sub-committee which is a great support to my main work of

recruiting proteacutegeacutes and advocates and ensuring people are supported to maintain their relationships

long term The lsquoKey Office Activities Sub-Committee meets monthly with myself and is an opportunity

for others with some knowledge of CA to assist the program and my work in making good matches for

vulnerable people in our community As a sole Co-ordinator it is always beneficial receiving

encouragement and guidance from others with genuine concern for those we are here to serve

Special thanks to Bridie Smith Peter Rovers and Mary Dight who have been the backbone of this very

important initiative

Citizen Advocacy had a stall again at Sunfest on March 18th

Although not as well positioned as the previous year CA along

with the lsquoProgress Associationrsquo attracted plenty of interest and

helped clarify this model of Advocacy to people in the local

community

Part of good CA practice is to conduct an annual Internal

Relationship Review reviewing all matches and ensuring a

good balance of proteacutegeacute situations and backgrounds and the

appropriate advocates are recruited This thorough review also helps to inform and identify gaps in

recruitment and support and develop a plan to rectify any shortcomings Thanks to John Armstrong

known to many in the program and experienced in CAPE and Internal Relationship Reviews John was

able to work with committee members and myself in between his very busy schedule to produce a very

useful and informative report

Another form of review and assessment was our annual ldquoNational Standards for Disability Services

Auditrdquo conducted in April Another successful outcome with the program fully addressing the audit

recommendations of 2016 As always the audit team was impressed by the evidence presented and

feedback from lsquostakeholdersrsquo (advocates and proteacutegeacutes) and could clearly see the bond existing

between people and the support provided by the program to advocates providing friendship protec-

tion and spokesman ship to their proteacutegeacutes Irsquom glad to say that this has resulted in continued

certification under the lsquoNational Standards for Disability Servicesrsquo

14

In April it was time to think about some more fund raising again

A tried and tested venue is the local Bunnings Being Easter

Monday made it even more busy and profitable It was a great

day which not only helped us financially but also did a lot to

help raise awareness of people with disability and Citizen Advo-

cacy Four weeks later we entered into another venture with the

Progress Association at the Sunbury United Sporting Club where

we held a fundraising Trivia Night and split the proceeds

Another successful Advocate recruitment campaign during the year beginning in May and ongoing for

several weeks has been a small notice in the ldquoWHATS ONrdquo section of the local and Macedon Ranges

Leader This simple request asking for people to help make a difference in the life of someone with an

intellectual disability has had a very positive result with several people calling or dropping in to the

office I have so far been able to recruit and match 3 new advocates that began by responding to the

notice and hope to continue with other similar forms of awareness

The National Disability Insurance Scheme or ldquoNDISrdquo is the new national system for governments to

provide specialist disability supports to people with a significant and permanent disability Citizen Ad-

vocacy is not part of this new scheme but as part of our responsibility to advocatersquos we help provide

them with knowledge and resources to enable them to best support and inform their proteacutegeacute As

many proteacutegeacutes in the program are eligible to receive NDIS funding and their advocates would possibly

be involved in planning and attending meetings it was decided to engage Rick Ruiu from VALID to give

an informative and interactive NDIS presentation to our Advocates Proteacutegeacutes and other interested

relevant people This was a very successful and useful wintery June night and I feel confident that

many people are a little more prepared and aware of what is needed to gain the most benefit at their

proteacutegeacutes planning meeting beginning in March 2018 for those in Hume

The financial year ended on a very positive note with some knowledge

sharing by two experienced ex CA practioners Professor Zana Luttiffia

has been a CA Coordinator and board member at Winnipeg Canada she

has also completed her graduate training and postdoctoral work at the

Centre of Human Policy Syracuse University She joined the University

of Manitoba in 1992 Her longstanding research interest has been

identifying and examining the factors that help or hinder the valued

social participation of individuals with intellectual disabilities in

community life A couple of committee members and myself were able

to spend a delightful and informative few hours discussing good CA

practice and solving the problems of the world over dinner at Bridie Smiths home where we were

made to feel very welcomed by the whole family

Following our time with Zana the committee and I were given further insight into an important subject

by another ex-long term Coordinator this time Bob Lee from the Sunshine Coast who has a particular

interest and talent in delivering inspiring Citizen Advocacy presentations to community groups Bob

spoke to us on how he thinks we can be most effective in asking people to become a Citizen Advocate

for a vulnerable person and how you best present the persons situation and needs

15

Over the year we inevitably gain and loose people in the pro-

gram It was with great sadness that I had the task of informing

others connected with CA of the passing of two much loved

proteges firstly Daisey Serong and then shortly after Darren

Schembri Daisey was a proteacutegeacute with the program from its incep-

tion being an ex Caloola resident when her advocate Mary Day

would visit Daisey at Caloola with her young daughter and help

Daisey with her literacy and ensure life was a good as possible in

the large institution Daisey went on to be a strong self-advocate

with her brother John who passed away last year

Darren Shembri was also a long term proteacutegeacute who as a child spent time residing at St Nicholas home

for Intellectually disabled children until coming to live in the first CRU in Sunbury in 1985 Darren had

great resilience and an amazing personality His advocate Irene Nolte was always there for him both

in good and bad times ensuring his needs were met and acting as his voice whenever necessary the

bond between them was allways evident We were privileged to know both these people and they

will be remembered in so many positive and endearing ways

Citizen Advocacy is a team effort culminating in the matches that make up the CA Relationships Eve-

ryone has a role to play A big thanks to our admin assistant Melita who has had a mixed bag of tasks

and requests this year that she has taken in her stride Theresa our office volunteer has reorganised

our match files beautifully and made this part of the office tidier and more efficient

Our Committee of management are a hard-working detected

bunch Elizabeth Lynch decided to take a break from the

committee this year and we are eternally grateful for all the work

Elizabeth has put into our website that is now due for a revamp

Elizabeth remains involved in the program through being a

protege and has expressed an interest in coming on to the Key

Office Activities committee Our President Juan Carlos Rodrigues

does an excellent job of keeping everyone in order and on time

at committee meetings as well as helping to organise many activ-

ities outside of the office including the launch of our new logo

and our upcoming Christmas Dinner Our Vice president Alison

has done a lot to support the program and is also an advocate

but has recently had to step down due to the pressures of life

Angelo our secretary does

an excellent job of making

sure the agenda minutes and correspondence are on the table

ready for our committee meetings Irsquom pleased to say Angelo is

also about to become an advocate for someone well known to

the program and Angelorsquos broad knowledge and practical ad-

vice is greatly appreciated

16

Liz our treasurer and bookkeeper and general ldquojack of all trades ldquohas

bought the program back into the black and has been instrumental in

putting our program back into a healthy financial state Liz also recently

organised our new logo and was an advocate for a young woman in a

CRU Unfortunately for us Lizrsquos own business and growing workload has

made it too difficult to stay on as Treasurer but Irsquom glad to say Liz will

still be involved with us as our bookkeeper

After a short break from the committee Bridie has been back and is a

guardian of CA practice and principles developing her understanding by

attending the CA Study group and chairing the Key Office Activities

subcommittee More recently Tony Tanti who has been involved in the

program as an advocate has been attending committee meetings and his contribution and support on a

wide range of issues is greatly appreciated and valued

Thank you to everyone for all your hard work support and making this such a special program Above

all it has been an absolute honour working with the advocates and proteges of the program Watching

the bond and friendship between two people who often live very different lives develop and come to-

gether in a very beneficial way is both motivating and humbling

17

In January 2017 the Committee of Management (CoM) setup a Key Office Activities Sub-committee

(KOAs) to guide the program in working reflectively and purposefully in the practice of Citizen Advoca-

cy and to ensure an effective balance of the seven (7) Key Office Activities

A CA office which has an effective balance of activities will do enough of the right

thing at the right time to ensure that it will achieve its mission

from CAPE (Citizen Advocacy Practice Evaluation) Manual

The Key Office Activities are

bull Vision and Creativity in Proteacutegeacute Recruitment

bull Advocate Recruitment

bull Advocate Orientation

bull Advocate-Proteacutegeacute Matching

bull Follow-along and Support to Relationships

bull Ongoing Training

bull Emphasis on Advocate-associates

I had the honour of Chairing the KOAs this year and with David advocate Peter Rovers former CoM

member Mary Dight held the inaugural meeting in February 2017 Later in the year Proteacutegeacute and former

CoM member Elizabeth Lynch and Chairperson Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller joined us

Meetings are held at the office on the 4th Monday of the month from 10 am to noon We welcome ex-

pressions of interest from prospective new members with a keen interest in Citizen Advocacy

A heartfelt thanks to David Mary Peter Elizabeth and Juan Carlos for their wisdom and dedication I

look forward to continuing our contribution to the work of making many good CA matches in 2018

Bridie Smith

Key Office Activities Subcommittee

18

Identifying and Recruiting Proteacutegeacutes

bull A 16yo boy with ID and severe epilepsy and Dyspraxia Issues around hospital appointments and treatment at school

bull Women in early 20s residing in SRS suffering from severe chronic polytechnic arthritis and social isolated

bull Young man in Diggers Rest with fragile x syndrome and reluctant to leave house

bull Spoke to sergeant at Sunbury Police Station in regards to people with ID in trouble with the law

bull Presentation to Prioletti Work Education Group

bull Young woman living in Gisborne shared public housing has a learning disability

bull Young woman in Sunbury requiring social and employment support

bull Spoke to manager of Dallas Neighbourhood House

bull Spoke to CEO of Broadmeadows Disability Services

bull Young man in his early 30s recently relocating to Gisborne has mild intellectual disability ongoing mental health

issues and drug habit Requiring strong mentor and help with developing structure in his life

bull Woman in her 50s mild ID requiring assistance with preparing to relocate from inherited house

bull Spoke to Arabic Social Services

bull 21yo woman lives in Sunbury moderate ID Lives with separated parents Needs help with budgeting and banking

skills and accessing mainstream recreation

bull 24yo woman moderate ID lives in Diggers Rest with mother father recently died of cancer Wants help to access com-

munity opportunities No access to transport

bull Married couple with intellectual disability experiencing marital difficulties

Key Office Activities

The following are brief examples of the ldquoKey Office Activitiesrdquo for the 201617 year

0 1

8

59

14

Proteacutegeacute Age

0-20

21-30

31-40

41-50

51-60

61+

AGES Male Female

0-20 0 0

21-30 0 1

31-40 3 5

41-50 2 3

51-60 4 5

61+ 2 12

19

Advocate Recruitment

bull St Andrews Friendship Group

bull Young woman with marketing background

bull Vet nurse from Lancefield

bull Ex Committee member

bull Woodend accountant

bull Woman who runs a farm with Husband

bull Sunbury Probes

bull Member of Sunbury Historical society

bull Notices in the Whatrsquos On section of Sunbury Broadmeadow and

Macedon Ranges Leader

bull Rehab and Diabetes nurse recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Gisborne Menrsquos Shed

bull Retired Public Servant with experience in intellectual disability

and Mental Health

bull Relationships Councillor recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Various inquiries from Hume Volunteer Gateway

bull Various presentations to community and service groups

bull Presentations at Church groups

bull Sunbury Police

bull Sunfest Various people

bull Retired BBC employee

bull Retired Missionary

bull Middle aged teacherrsquos aide living in Mickleham

bull Presentation to Sunbury Aquatic Centre

bull Information to VicRoads

bull Retired Lecturer

Two new Advocate Associates Recruited one in the area of health and

diabetes prevention Other in the area counselling and mental health

TYPE OF ADVOCACY Male Female

Instrumental 2 2

Expressive 1 2

Both 8 22

OTHER DISABILITY Male Female

Yes 3 4

No 8 22

Advocate Orientation

Six full orientations completed throughout this period (one

potential advocate did not go on with matching)

6

201

4 6

Residential Situation

Family Home CRU Special Accomodation

Nursing Home Independently

RESIDENTIAL SITUATION Male Female

Family Home 3 3

CRU 7 13

Special Accomodation 0 1

Nursing Home 0 4

Independently 1 5

20

Advocate Proteacutegeacute Matching

Five new matches made this year

bull A quiet 32yo woman living independently in Sunbury who has difficulties around social interactions and se-

curing part time employment due to autistic tendencies was matched to woman of similar age who is out-

going This Advocate has a marketing background and is prepared to assist proteacutegeacute with CV how she presents

herself at job interviews and socialising including being a friend

bull Another 32yo woman this time living in Gisborne in shared public housing accommodation This woman has

a learning disability secondary to Kawasaki disease and required assistance gaining some level of financial in-

dependence hygiene health care and general life skills She was also being

financially exploited by her house mates Matched to a woman who helps manage the family farm and comes

from a large family where she has gained skills and experience in supporting her parents and siblings

bull After relocating to Gisborne with his parents in an effort to get away from bad influences and a drug habit a

33yo man with intellectual and psychiatric disability required someone to help develop

connections and positive relationships in his new community giving this young man an opportunity to start a

new life and structure to his day A retired senior public servant in Gisborne with experience of intellectual

and psychiatric disability within his family was recruited Within a short period of time the advocate was able

to befriend this young man gain his confidence and as a mentor direct and guide him towards community

activities whist at the same time ensure he gain what was required from his NDIS package and support and

help to represent him in a magistrates Court hearing

bull Following her advocate moving to Ballarat it was necessary to rematch a 58yo woman with previous learning

difficulties to a new advocate The ongoing issue was someone to support this woman emotionally and prac-

tically to prepare to sell her inherited house and look for something more appropriate and manageable A

retired local woman with a background in documentary production and working for the BBC stepped forward

following a notice in the local paper The friendship was instant and as the advocate has stated ldquomutually re-

wardingrdquo Work has begun in sorting and packing and thinking about future options with the assistance of the

advocate who has ensured the proteges sister interstate is kept informed Im glad to say the previous advo-

cate will also stay in touch and remain a friend

bull A 38yo woman who has severe intellectual disability lives in a local ldquoCommunity Residential Unitrdquo in Sunbury

This woman is totally reliant on the service system and without family or friends and therefore vulnerable and

requiring a freely given relationship to help ensure her Human rights are upheld This was another rematch

due to the heavy workload of the previous advocate Another local woman with vast experience in doing vol-

untary missionary work was recruited to continue the excellent work that had begun The advocate has a

strong sense of social justice and

empathy for those that have been

forgotten and devalued The advocate

is currently developing an understand-

ing of her proteges life and how best

to protect her and her best interests

Degree of Disability

Mild Moderate Profound

21

Follow-along and support of Existing Relationships

bull Several advocates looking into NDIS planning for their proteacutegeacute Attended relevant presentations

bull Advocate insuring proteacutegeacute does not go into a nursing Home prematurely

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with confusion and stress related to Centrelink payments

bull Advocate looking into medical problem for proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate supporting proteges to live independently

bull Advocate working through family issues with proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate proteacutegeacute in dealing with solicitor re probate

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during test for epilepsy

bull Advocate vising proteacutegeacute after moving from CRU

bull Advocate taking proteacutegeacute shopping and advising on how to shop wisely

bull Advocate attended Hospital throughout night after proteges were involved in a car accident

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with CV

bull Advocate organising LINK transport for proteges

bull Proteacutegeacute contacted whist Advocate in hospital

bull Advocate supported around issues with proteges mother

bull Advocate looking into age related issues for NDIS

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during very difficult and upsetting family issue involving possible pregnancy

bull Advocate assisting proteges making a will

bull Advocate supported and informed proteacutegeacute during NDIS planning meeting and later attended a court

hearing in relation to another matter

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with the preparing and sale of house

bull 3 Advocates unfortunately attended their proteges funerals One Advocate heavily involved in the service

funeral

COMMUNICATION Male Female

Verbal 5 17

Speech Difficulties 3 5

Non Verbal 3 4

2

1637

6

1 1 1

Proteacutegeacute Day Placement

Disability Enterprise Adult Day Training School Study

Unemployed Retired Employed

Excluded Home Duties

DAY PLACEMENTS Male Female

Disability Enterprise 2 0

Adult Day Training 4 12

School Study 0 3

Unemployed 3 4

Retired 2 4

Employed 0 1

Excluded 0 1

Home Duties 0 1

22

Treasurerrsquos Report Elizabeth Homann

I am pleased to present the financial report for the year ended 30th June 2017 One of the many aspects of good

governance is good financial administration and I am please to report that Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

has continued the work started in the 2014 - 2015 year to put us in a strong stable position

RESULTS FOR 2017 We received a pleasing report from the Auditor this year with no audit adjustments required to correct the financial

results as presented

The overall result for CA Sunbury for 2017 was a surplus of $1818087 a healthy increase of $747663 from the

previous year The Commonwealth funding that the program receives increased slightly and we were fortunate

enough to receive an additional $16293 from DSS in May This allowed us to make some long awaited purchases

run training for our advocates and send 2 people to the Network Meeting in Rockhampton Our expenses continue

to rise making it more of a challenge each year to achieve a break even position We achieved the surplus through

careful management of expenses and recognition that to continue to be sustainable new income streams must be

found For the 2016 -2017 year the Staff and Committee concentrated their efforts on fundraising and grants and

were rewarded for their hard work

The net equity as at 30 June 2017 was $2892980 an increase of $1818087 from the previous year and solid

position Cash on Hand totalled $7560888

Income Overall revenue increased by $3326191 (221) from the previous year

bull Gain (Loss) on Sale of fixed Asset

o The organisationrsquos car was disposed of during the year with a resulting surplus of $598562

bull Funding increased by 332 from the previous year

o During 2016 - 2017 CASampD had one funding agreement in place

bull The Department of Social Services - National Disability Advocacy Program

o An additional $16293 was received in May

bull Grants increased by 133 from the previous year

o We received a grant from State Trustees

o We received a grant from Hume City Council

bull Fundraising was received

o Fundraising was received in the form for donations

o Fundraising was raised through sausage sizzles trivia night and a raffle

bull Employee FBT contribution decreased by 525 from the previous year

o The FBT contribution ceased when the car was sold

23

Expenses

Overall expenses increased by $2582599 (183) from the previous year

bull Depreciation costs decreased by 192 from the previous year

There was no new fixed assets purchased during the year

Depreciation calculated on diminishing value method

bull Auditorrsquos Remuneration decreased by 193 from the previous year

There was no charge for the surveillance Quality Audit was carried out this year

A Relationship Review audit was carried out this year

bull Rent expenses increased by 154 from the previous year

Rent increased as per the lease agreement

bull Program expenses increased by 2846 from the previous year

Several advocate functions were held during the year

Social Role Valorisation training was run for the Advocates

bull Consultant expenses were incurred

A consultant was engaged to review and overhaul the program database

bull Wages increased by 15 from the previous year

Limited annual leave and no long service leave was taken during the year

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc will continue to be funded by the Department of Social Services until the 30

June 2018 After this time there will be a new service agreement in place

Income

Donations FBT Employee ContributionFundraising Grants (Commonwealth)Grants (Local) Grants (Other)Gain on Asset Interest Expenses

Administration Board Depreciation

Fundraising Motor Vehicle Program

Staff

24

Financial Statements

Contents

Statement by Committee

Profit and Loss Statement

Balance Sheet

Notes to the Financial Statement

Independent Auditorrsquos Report

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Committe Members Declaration

YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2017

The committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements

In the opinion of the committee the financial report

Presents a true and fair view of the associations financial position as at 30 June 2017

2 There are reasonable grounds to believe that the association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable

NAME ~ zo6e+h ~VYIOI) Committee Member

2017

10

Chairpersonrsquos Report

On behalf of the Committee of Management I have the privilege of presenting the annual report for the 2016 2017 financial year - and it has been a challenging year

I have been on the committee for about 4 years now and since then I have had different roles This year I was fortunate to be elected chairperson The last 12 months have been challenging and a enjoyable learning experience

Highlights As it was highlighted in last yearrsquos report we developed some financial strategies to ensure the financial viability of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc from the previous year This meant sig-nificant effort and commitment by the Committee of Management was required to assure the suc-cess of these strategies laid down in our 2016- 2018 Strategic Plan and to be able to manage the organisation responsibly and ensure our survival into the future I am very pleased to report that de-spite the resignation of several members of the committee we managed to achieve this and our fi-nances for the first time in a long time are healthy Unfortunately this does not mean we can relax and enjoy the good life On the contrary the new committee of management will need to ensure they keep vigilant amp continue to act responsibly to meet future needs and challenges

As mentioned before the Committee of Management also developed a new Strategic Plan for the next three years The four key focus areas include increasing the number of matches improving the profile of CA ensuring good governance and being financially sustainable This plan aims to ensure that the organisation will continue to be relevant to the needs of the communities we support as well as fulfilling the requirements of our funding agreement with DSS

In April 2017 we underwent a surveillance quality audit which we passed with flying colours I would like to thank you to all those who were involved in this process for your support and commitment

Our biggest unknown and challenge for the future is NDIS and how it might impact on our organisation- this continues to be somewhat vague In a meeting in October with representa-tives of DSS we were informed that the field of Advocacy will continue to be funded by DSS until 2020 and therefore inde-pendent of the NDIA There will be new funding agreements with new ways of reporting and more accountability from the part of committee of management We will keep you informed of developments

As part of our plan to improve CA profile we decided it was time to update our look by developing and adopting a new logo We had a competition with over 200 entries from all over the world At the end the committee of management selected the best 5 entries and asked our stakeholders to vote on the one best suited us It was a close call but the one selected gives us a fresh modern and more vibrant look We had a launch on the 25th October at our office which was well attended by proteacutegeacutees advocates amp friends of CA Sunbury

Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller

11

Going Forward Having faced and overcome many challenges in the past year the coming year will be equally challenging We have a very small membership in our organisation and an even smaller number of members who are prepared to be committee members This year with so many resignations from the committee of management the work was left to 4 people which is not sustainable in the longer term In the same way that the organisation was at threat by financial viability if there are not enough members to form a committee the organisation will cease to exist We are actively seeking new members not only for the organisation but also to the committee of management I encourage our members to give serious consideration into becoming part of our committee of management

As part of the strategic plan the committee of management is starting to expand our program in Hume to cover areas like Broadmeadows This is to make people aware of our organisation and its role in the community as well as a way to recruit people to join our organisation and to demonstrate to our funder both Federal and State Governments and the community at large that our form of advocacy is a legitimate and valued part of our local community and service to those we support

The committee of management is determined to create a good membership base by creating a sense of community where members can come and meet like-minded people perhaps share their experiences and also learn from others To this effect we will continue to run social evenings courses and information nights

The coming year will be an interesting one with new challenges and new opportunities to grow not only in membership but knowledge amp experience We are planning to have CAPE towards the end of 2018 A CAPE is a Citizen Advocacy Program evaluation which is done by external people which are members of other CA programs in Australia or overseas This will involve a lot of time preparing for the CAPE and then meeting the Team doing the evaluation It is a worthwhile exercise one that I was fortunate to be invited to be part of at South Australia Looking forward to it

Conclusion I would like to thank the staff and office volunteers for their continued hard work in an often difficult and ever changing environment I commend you all for your diligence and assistance in meeting the challenges we have faced

I would also like to thank the advocates who continue to support their proteacutegeacutes in a totally selfless way - you are amazing and are the backbone of the organisation

I would like to thank my colleagues and fellow com-mittee members for their patience giving of their time and energy and most importantly maintaining their sense of humour under sometime difficult circum-stances amp for their support they have given me as chairperson

Finally I need to not only to thank this person but also say goodbyehellip Elizabeth Homann you have been a pillar of strength dedication amp commitment not only to the organisation amp the committee of management but to me on a personal level The support advice and constant availability to answer my many calls have been greatly appreciated You will be missed at meetings I wish you all the best in your new endeavours amp for the future Looking forward to a new challenging year with new opportunities

12

Coordinatorrsquos Report David Abela

As always it is with pleasure that I present my report and touch on some of the activities and high-

lights of the program As Coordinator there is a multitude of activities and requirements to fulfil

throughout the year The most important of course being the lsquoKey Office Activitiesrsquo which I will dis-

cuss deeper into the report

An ongoing vital activity is talking to people about Citizen Advocacy either on an individual basis or

through community presentations this started off at the beginning of the year with a presentation

to St Andrews Friendship Group and information provided to the staff at Vic Roads Sunbury

Aquatic Centre Sunbury police and various individuals

In October last year I was off to

spread the word in Melton at the

lsquoMelton Care Exporsquo Many people

were spoken to and information given

out This is not an area we generally

work in but it was an opportunity to

gauge interest in the program and to

tap into people visiting from Hume

and Macedon Ranges There was very

good interest and the day resulted in a

new advocate and several potential proteacutegeacutes With many more people expressing an interest in

the program and Citizen Advocacy in general should it ever expand into the area

Fundraising is also always on the programs agenda ensuring there are funds available should new

equipment be required and giving us the resources to put on events and training

In early November one of our proteacutegeacutes Ronnie Jelbert along with his advocate Lisa Edwards fea-

tured in the Leader Newspaper highlighting the long association with Ronnie and the past owners

of The Olive Tree Hotel (Lisarsquos family) in Sunbury The current proprietors agreed to donate 50

cents of every dessert sold over a 3-month period to CA Sunbury The story of Ronnie and the

Edwards Family was a great opportunity to raise awareness and raise a little money for a good

cause

In late 2016 our Administration Assistant Melita was successful in securing a small grant from the

State Trustees allowing us to hire a room for one day per fortnight starting February 2017 at the

Broadmeadows Community Hub I have been able to chip away at informing people from Non-

English-Speaking Backgrounds (and others) about Citizen Advocacy and how it could benefit

people in their community either as advocates or proteacutegeacutes

13

Networking has increased in the wider Hume area and we have

been able to translate and print pro-

gram information pamphlets in Ara-

bic and disseminate them at rele-

vant venues including lsquoArabic Social

Servicesrsquo

Also in February Melita engaged CA Sunbury in the Rotary Club of Ballarat South Community Raffle

Through the support of tickets sales by the Committee Proteacutegeacutes Advocates and staff the program was

able to raise a total of $1048 in profit through ticket sales

February also saw the beginning of a new sub-committee which is a great support to my main work of

recruiting proteacutegeacutes and advocates and ensuring people are supported to maintain their relationships

long term The lsquoKey Office Activities Sub-Committee meets monthly with myself and is an opportunity

for others with some knowledge of CA to assist the program and my work in making good matches for

vulnerable people in our community As a sole Co-ordinator it is always beneficial receiving

encouragement and guidance from others with genuine concern for those we are here to serve

Special thanks to Bridie Smith Peter Rovers and Mary Dight who have been the backbone of this very

important initiative

Citizen Advocacy had a stall again at Sunfest on March 18th

Although not as well positioned as the previous year CA along

with the lsquoProgress Associationrsquo attracted plenty of interest and

helped clarify this model of Advocacy to people in the local

community

Part of good CA practice is to conduct an annual Internal

Relationship Review reviewing all matches and ensuring a

good balance of proteacutegeacute situations and backgrounds and the

appropriate advocates are recruited This thorough review also helps to inform and identify gaps in

recruitment and support and develop a plan to rectify any shortcomings Thanks to John Armstrong

known to many in the program and experienced in CAPE and Internal Relationship Reviews John was

able to work with committee members and myself in between his very busy schedule to produce a very

useful and informative report

Another form of review and assessment was our annual ldquoNational Standards for Disability Services

Auditrdquo conducted in April Another successful outcome with the program fully addressing the audit

recommendations of 2016 As always the audit team was impressed by the evidence presented and

feedback from lsquostakeholdersrsquo (advocates and proteacutegeacutes) and could clearly see the bond existing

between people and the support provided by the program to advocates providing friendship protec-

tion and spokesman ship to their proteacutegeacutes Irsquom glad to say that this has resulted in continued

certification under the lsquoNational Standards for Disability Servicesrsquo

14

In April it was time to think about some more fund raising again

A tried and tested venue is the local Bunnings Being Easter

Monday made it even more busy and profitable It was a great

day which not only helped us financially but also did a lot to

help raise awareness of people with disability and Citizen Advo-

cacy Four weeks later we entered into another venture with the

Progress Association at the Sunbury United Sporting Club where

we held a fundraising Trivia Night and split the proceeds

Another successful Advocate recruitment campaign during the year beginning in May and ongoing for

several weeks has been a small notice in the ldquoWHATS ONrdquo section of the local and Macedon Ranges

Leader This simple request asking for people to help make a difference in the life of someone with an

intellectual disability has had a very positive result with several people calling or dropping in to the

office I have so far been able to recruit and match 3 new advocates that began by responding to the

notice and hope to continue with other similar forms of awareness

The National Disability Insurance Scheme or ldquoNDISrdquo is the new national system for governments to

provide specialist disability supports to people with a significant and permanent disability Citizen Ad-

vocacy is not part of this new scheme but as part of our responsibility to advocatersquos we help provide

them with knowledge and resources to enable them to best support and inform their proteacutegeacute As

many proteacutegeacutes in the program are eligible to receive NDIS funding and their advocates would possibly

be involved in planning and attending meetings it was decided to engage Rick Ruiu from VALID to give

an informative and interactive NDIS presentation to our Advocates Proteacutegeacutes and other interested

relevant people This was a very successful and useful wintery June night and I feel confident that

many people are a little more prepared and aware of what is needed to gain the most benefit at their

proteacutegeacutes planning meeting beginning in March 2018 for those in Hume

The financial year ended on a very positive note with some knowledge

sharing by two experienced ex CA practioners Professor Zana Luttiffia

has been a CA Coordinator and board member at Winnipeg Canada she

has also completed her graduate training and postdoctoral work at the

Centre of Human Policy Syracuse University She joined the University

of Manitoba in 1992 Her longstanding research interest has been

identifying and examining the factors that help or hinder the valued

social participation of individuals with intellectual disabilities in

community life A couple of committee members and myself were able

to spend a delightful and informative few hours discussing good CA

practice and solving the problems of the world over dinner at Bridie Smiths home where we were

made to feel very welcomed by the whole family

Following our time with Zana the committee and I were given further insight into an important subject

by another ex-long term Coordinator this time Bob Lee from the Sunshine Coast who has a particular

interest and talent in delivering inspiring Citizen Advocacy presentations to community groups Bob

spoke to us on how he thinks we can be most effective in asking people to become a Citizen Advocate

for a vulnerable person and how you best present the persons situation and needs

15

Over the year we inevitably gain and loose people in the pro-

gram It was with great sadness that I had the task of informing

others connected with CA of the passing of two much loved

proteges firstly Daisey Serong and then shortly after Darren

Schembri Daisey was a proteacutegeacute with the program from its incep-

tion being an ex Caloola resident when her advocate Mary Day

would visit Daisey at Caloola with her young daughter and help

Daisey with her literacy and ensure life was a good as possible in

the large institution Daisey went on to be a strong self-advocate

with her brother John who passed away last year

Darren Shembri was also a long term proteacutegeacute who as a child spent time residing at St Nicholas home

for Intellectually disabled children until coming to live in the first CRU in Sunbury in 1985 Darren had

great resilience and an amazing personality His advocate Irene Nolte was always there for him both

in good and bad times ensuring his needs were met and acting as his voice whenever necessary the

bond between them was allways evident We were privileged to know both these people and they

will be remembered in so many positive and endearing ways

Citizen Advocacy is a team effort culminating in the matches that make up the CA Relationships Eve-

ryone has a role to play A big thanks to our admin assistant Melita who has had a mixed bag of tasks

and requests this year that she has taken in her stride Theresa our office volunteer has reorganised

our match files beautifully and made this part of the office tidier and more efficient

Our Committee of management are a hard-working detected

bunch Elizabeth Lynch decided to take a break from the

committee this year and we are eternally grateful for all the work

Elizabeth has put into our website that is now due for a revamp

Elizabeth remains involved in the program through being a

protege and has expressed an interest in coming on to the Key

Office Activities committee Our President Juan Carlos Rodrigues

does an excellent job of keeping everyone in order and on time

at committee meetings as well as helping to organise many activ-

ities outside of the office including the launch of our new logo

and our upcoming Christmas Dinner Our Vice president Alison

has done a lot to support the program and is also an advocate

but has recently had to step down due to the pressures of life

Angelo our secretary does

an excellent job of making

sure the agenda minutes and correspondence are on the table

ready for our committee meetings Irsquom pleased to say Angelo is

also about to become an advocate for someone well known to

the program and Angelorsquos broad knowledge and practical ad-

vice is greatly appreciated

16

Liz our treasurer and bookkeeper and general ldquojack of all trades ldquohas

bought the program back into the black and has been instrumental in

putting our program back into a healthy financial state Liz also recently

organised our new logo and was an advocate for a young woman in a

CRU Unfortunately for us Lizrsquos own business and growing workload has

made it too difficult to stay on as Treasurer but Irsquom glad to say Liz will

still be involved with us as our bookkeeper

After a short break from the committee Bridie has been back and is a

guardian of CA practice and principles developing her understanding by

attending the CA Study group and chairing the Key Office Activities

subcommittee More recently Tony Tanti who has been involved in the

program as an advocate has been attending committee meetings and his contribution and support on a

wide range of issues is greatly appreciated and valued

Thank you to everyone for all your hard work support and making this such a special program Above

all it has been an absolute honour working with the advocates and proteges of the program Watching

the bond and friendship between two people who often live very different lives develop and come to-

gether in a very beneficial way is both motivating and humbling

17

In January 2017 the Committee of Management (CoM) setup a Key Office Activities Sub-committee

(KOAs) to guide the program in working reflectively and purposefully in the practice of Citizen Advoca-

cy and to ensure an effective balance of the seven (7) Key Office Activities

A CA office which has an effective balance of activities will do enough of the right

thing at the right time to ensure that it will achieve its mission

from CAPE (Citizen Advocacy Practice Evaluation) Manual

The Key Office Activities are

bull Vision and Creativity in Proteacutegeacute Recruitment

bull Advocate Recruitment

bull Advocate Orientation

bull Advocate-Proteacutegeacute Matching

bull Follow-along and Support to Relationships

bull Ongoing Training

bull Emphasis on Advocate-associates

I had the honour of Chairing the KOAs this year and with David advocate Peter Rovers former CoM

member Mary Dight held the inaugural meeting in February 2017 Later in the year Proteacutegeacute and former

CoM member Elizabeth Lynch and Chairperson Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller joined us

Meetings are held at the office on the 4th Monday of the month from 10 am to noon We welcome ex-

pressions of interest from prospective new members with a keen interest in Citizen Advocacy

A heartfelt thanks to David Mary Peter Elizabeth and Juan Carlos for their wisdom and dedication I

look forward to continuing our contribution to the work of making many good CA matches in 2018

Bridie Smith

Key Office Activities Subcommittee

18

Identifying and Recruiting Proteacutegeacutes

bull A 16yo boy with ID and severe epilepsy and Dyspraxia Issues around hospital appointments and treatment at school

bull Women in early 20s residing in SRS suffering from severe chronic polytechnic arthritis and social isolated

bull Young man in Diggers Rest with fragile x syndrome and reluctant to leave house

bull Spoke to sergeant at Sunbury Police Station in regards to people with ID in trouble with the law

bull Presentation to Prioletti Work Education Group

bull Young woman living in Gisborne shared public housing has a learning disability

bull Young woman in Sunbury requiring social and employment support

bull Spoke to manager of Dallas Neighbourhood House

bull Spoke to CEO of Broadmeadows Disability Services

bull Young man in his early 30s recently relocating to Gisborne has mild intellectual disability ongoing mental health

issues and drug habit Requiring strong mentor and help with developing structure in his life

bull Woman in her 50s mild ID requiring assistance with preparing to relocate from inherited house

bull Spoke to Arabic Social Services

bull 21yo woman lives in Sunbury moderate ID Lives with separated parents Needs help with budgeting and banking

skills and accessing mainstream recreation

bull 24yo woman moderate ID lives in Diggers Rest with mother father recently died of cancer Wants help to access com-

munity opportunities No access to transport

bull Married couple with intellectual disability experiencing marital difficulties

Key Office Activities

The following are brief examples of the ldquoKey Office Activitiesrdquo for the 201617 year

0 1

8

59

14

Proteacutegeacute Age

0-20

21-30

31-40

41-50

51-60

61+

AGES Male Female

0-20 0 0

21-30 0 1

31-40 3 5

41-50 2 3

51-60 4 5

61+ 2 12

19

Advocate Recruitment

bull St Andrews Friendship Group

bull Young woman with marketing background

bull Vet nurse from Lancefield

bull Ex Committee member

bull Woodend accountant

bull Woman who runs a farm with Husband

bull Sunbury Probes

bull Member of Sunbury Historical society

bull Notices in the Whatrsquos On section of Sunbury Broadmeadow and

Macedon Ranges Leader

bull Rehab and Diabetes nurse recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Gisborne Menrsquos Shed

bull Retired Public Servant with experience in intellectual disability

and Mental Health

bull Relationships Councillor recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Various inquiries from Hume Volunteer Gateway

bull Various presentations to community and service groups

bull Presentations at Church groups

bull Sunbury Police

bull Sunfest Various people

bull Retired BBC employee

bull Retired Missionary

bull Middle aged teacherrsquos aide living in Mickleham

bull Presentation to Sunbury Aquatic Centre

bull Information to VicRoads

bull Retired Lecturer

Two new Advocate Associates Recruited one in the area of health and

diabetes prevention Other in the area counselling and mental health

TYPE OF ADVOCACY Male Female

Instrumental 2 2

Expressive 1 2

Both 8 22

OTHER DISABILITY Male Female

Yes 3 4

No 8 22

Advocate Orientation

Six full orientations completed throughout this period (one

potential advocate did not go on with matching)

6

201

4 6

Residential Situation

Family Home CRU Special Accomodation

Nursing Home Independently

RESIDENTIAL SITUATION Male Female

Family Home 3 3

CRU 7 13

Special Accomodation 0 1

Nursing Home 0 4

Independently 1 5

20

Advocate Proteacutegeacute Matching

Five new matches made this year

bull A quiet 32yo woman living independently in Sunbury who has difficulties around social interactions and se-

curing part time employment due to autistic tendencies was matched to woman of similar age who is out-

going This Advocate has a marketing background and is prepared to assist proteacutegeacute with CV how she presents

herself at job interviews and socialising including being a friend

bull Another 32yo woman this time living in Gisborne in shared public housing accommodation This woman has

a learning disability secondary to Kawasaki disease and required assistance gaining some level of financial in-

dependence hygiene health care and general life skills She was also being

financially exploited by her house mates Matched to a woman who helps manage the family farm and comes

from a large family where she has gained skills and experience in supporting her parents and siblings

bull After relocating to Gisborne with his parents in an effort to get away from bad influences and a drug habit a

33yo man with intellectual and psychiatric disability required someone to help develop

connections and positive relationships in his new community giving this young man an opportunity to start a

new life and structure to his day A retired senior public servant in Gisborne with experience of intellectual

and psychiatric disability within his family was recruited Within a short period of time the advocate was able

to befriend this young man gain his confidence and as a mentor direct and guide him towards community

activities whist at the same time ensure he gain what was required from his NDIS package and support and

help to represent him in a magistrates Court hearing

bull Following her advocate moving to Ballarat it was necessary to rematch a 58yo woman with previous learning

difficulties to a new advocate The ongoing issue was someone to support this woman emotionally and prac-

tically to prepare to sell her inherited house and look for something more appropriate and manageable A

retired local woman with a background in documentary production and working for the BBC stepped forward

following a notice in the local paper The friendship was instant and as the advocate has stated ldquomutually re-

wardingrdquo Work has begun in sorting and packing and thinking about future options with the assistance of the

advocate who has ensured the proteges sister interstate is kept informed Im glad to say the previous advo-

cate will also stay in touch and remain a friend

bull A 38yo woman who has severe intellectual disability lives in a local ldquoCommunity Residential Unitrdquo in Sunbury

This woman is totally reliant on the service system and without family or friends and therefore vulnerable and

requiring a freely given relationship to help ensure her Human rights are upheld This was another rematch

due to the heavy workload of the previous advocate Another local woman with vast experience in doing vol-

untary missionary work was recruited to continue the excellent work that had begun The advocate has a

strong sense of social justice and

empathy for those that have been

forgotten and devalued The advocate

is currently developing an understand-

ing of her proteges life and how best

to protect her and her best interests

Degree of Disability

Mild Moderate Profound

21

Follow-along and support of Existing Relationships

bull Several advocates looking into NDIS planning for their proteacutegeacute Attended relevant presentations

bull Advocate insuring proteacutegeacute does not go into a nursing Home prematurely

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with confusion and stress related to Centrelink payments

bull Advocate looking into medical problem for proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate supporting proteges to live independently

bull Advocate working through family issues with proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate proteacutegeacute in dealing with solicitor re probate

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during test for epilepsy

bull Advocate vising proteacutegeacute after moving from CRU

bull Advocate taking proteacutegeacute shopping and advising on how to shop wisely

bull Advocate attended Hospital throughout night after proteges were involved in a car accident

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with CV

bull Advocate organising LINK transport for proteges

bull Proteacutegeacute contacted whist Advocate in hospital

bull Advocate supported around issues with proteges mother

bull Advocate looking into age related issues for NDIS

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during very difficult and upsetting family issue involving possible pregnancy

bull Advocate assisting proteges making a will

bull Advocate supported and informed proteacutegeacute during NDIS planning meeting and later attended a court

hearing in relation to another matter

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with the preparing and sale of house

bull 3 Advocates unfortunately attended their proteges funerals One Advocate heavily involved in the service

funeral

COMMUNICATION Male Female

Verbal 5 17

Speech Difficulties 3 5

Non Verbal 3 4

2

1637

6

1 1 1

Proteacutegeacute Day Placement

Disability Enterprise Adult Day Training School Study

Unemployed Retired Employed

Excluded Home Duties

DAY PLACEMENTS Male Female

Disability Enterprise 2 0

Adult Day Training 4 12

School Study 0 3

Unemployed 3 4

Retired 2 4

Employed 0 1

Excluded 0 1

Home Duties 0 1

22

Treasurerrsquos Report Elizabeth Homann

I am pleased to present the financial report for the year ended 30th June 2017 One of the many aspects of good

governance is good financial administration and I am please to report that Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

has continued the work started in the 2014 - 2015 year to put us in a strong stable position

RESULTS FOR 2017 We received a pleasing report from the Auditor this year with no audit adjustments required to correct the financial

results as presented

The overall result for CA Sunbury for 2017 was a surplus of $1818087 a healthy increase of $747663 from the

previous year The Commonwealth funding that the program receives increased slightly and we were fortunate

enough to receive an additional $16293 from DSS in May This allowed us to make some long awaited purchases

run training for our advocates and send 2 people to the Network Meeting in Rockhampton Our expenses continue

to rise making it more of a challenge each year to achieve a break even position We achieved the surplus through

careful management of expenses and recognition that to continue to be sustainable new income streams must be

found For the 2016 -2017 year the Staff and Committee concentrated their efforts on fundraising and grants and

were rewarded for their hard work

The net equity as at 30 June 2017 was $2892980 an increase of $1818087 from the previous year and solid

position Cash on Hand totalled $7560888

Income Overall revenue increased by $3326191 (221) from the previous year

bull Gain (Loss) on Sale of fixed Asset

o The organisationrsquos car was disposed of during the year with a resulting surplus of $598562

bull Funding increased by 332 from the previous year

o During 2016 - 2017 CASampD had one funding agreement in place

bull The Department of Social Services - National Disability Advocacy Program

o An additional $16293 was received in May

bull Grants increased by 133 from the previous year

o We received a grant from State Trustees

o We received a grant from Hume City Council

bull Fundraising was received

o Fundraising was received in the form for donations

o Fundraising was raised through sausage sizzles trivia night and a raffle

bull Employee FBT contribution decreased by 525 from the previous year

o The FBT contribution ceased when the car was sold

23

Expenses

Overall expenses increased by $2582599 (183) from the previous year

bull Depreciation costs decreased by 192 from the previous year

There was no new fixed assets purchased during the year

Depreciation calculated on diminishing value method

bull Auditorrsquos Remuneration decreased by 193 from the previous year

There was no charge for the surveillance Quality Audit was carried out this year

A Relationship Review audit was carried out this year

bull Rent expenses increased by 154 from the previous year

Rent increased as per the lease agreement

bull Program expenses increased by 2846 from the previous year

Several advocate functions were held during the year

Social Role Valorisation training was run for the Advocates

bull Consultant expenses were incurred

A consultant was engaged to review and overhaul the program database

bull Wages increased by 15 from the previous year

Limited annual leave and no long service leave was taken during the year

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc will continue to be funded by the Department of Social Services until the 30

June 2018 After this time there will be a new service agreement in place

Income

Donations FBT Employee ContributionFundraising Grants (Commonwealth)Grants (Local) Grants (Other)Gain on Asset Interest Expenses

Administration Board Depreciation

Fundraising Motor Vehicle Program

Staff

24

Financial Statements

Contents

Statement by Committee

Profit and Loss Statement

Balance Sheet

Notes to the Financial Statement

Independent Auditorrsquos Report

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Committe Members Declaration

YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2017

The committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements

In the opinion of the committee the financial report

Presents a true and fair view of the associations financial position as at 30 June 2017

2 There are reasonable grounds to believe that the association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable

NAME ~ zo6e+h ~VYIOI) Committee Member

2017

11

Going Forward Having faced and overcome many challenges in the past year the coming year will be equally challenging We have a very small membership in our organisation and an even smaller number of members who are prepared to be committee members This year with so many resignations from the committee of management the work was left to 4 people which is not sustainable in the longer term In the same way that the organisation was at threat by financial viability if there are not enough members to form a committee the organisation will cease to exist We are actively seeking new members not only for the organisation but also to the committee of management I encourage our members to give serious consideration into becoming part of our committee of management

As part of the strategic plan the committee of management is starting to expand our program in Hume to cover areas like Broadmeadows This is to make people aware of our organisation and its role in the community as well as a way to recruit people to join our organisation and to demonstrate to our funder both Federal and State Governments and the community at large that our form of advocacy is a legitimate and valued part of our local community and service to those we support

The committee of management is determined to create a good membership base by creating a sense of community where members can come and meet like-minded people perhaps share their experiences and also learn from others To this effect we will continue to run social evenings courses and information nights

The coming year will be an interesting one with new challenges and new opportunities to grow not only in membership but knowledge amp experience We are planning to have CAPE towards the end of 2018 A CAPE is a Citizen Advocacy Program evaluation which is done by external people which are members of other CA programs in Australia or overseas This will involve a lot of time preparing for the CAPE and then meeting the Team doing the evaluation It is a worthwhile exercise one that I was fortunate to be invited to be part of at South Australia Looking forward to it

Conclusion I would like to thank the staff and office volunteers for their continued hard work in an often difficult and ever changing environment I commend you all for your diligence and assistance in meeting the challenges we have faced

I would also like to thank the advocates who continue to support their proteacutegeacutes in a totally selfless way - you are amazing and are the backbone of the organisation

I would like to thank my colleagues and fellow com-mittee members for their patience giving of their time and energy and most importantly maintaining their sense of humour under sometime difficult circum-stances amp for their support they have given me as chairperson

Finally I need to not only to thank this person but also say goodbyehellip Elizabeth Homann you have been a pillar of strength dedication amp commitment not only to the organisation amp the committee of management but to me on a personal level The support advice and constant availability to answer my many calls have been greatly appreciated You will be missed at meetings I wish you all the best in your new endeavours amp for the future Looking forward to a new challenging year with new opportunities

12

Coordinatorrsquos Report David Abela

As always it is with pleasure that I present my report and touch on some of the activities and high-

lights of the program As Coordinator there is a multitude of activities and requirements to fulfil

throughout the year The most important of course being the lsquoKey Office Activitiesrsquo which I will dis-

cuss deeper into the report

An ongoing vital activity is talking to people about Citizen Advocacy either on an individual basis or

through community presentations this started off at the beginning of the year with a presentation

to St Andrews Friendship Group and information provided to the staff at Vic Roads Sunbury

Aquatic Centre Sunbury police and various individuals

In October last year I was off to

spread the word in Melton at the

lsquoMelton Care Exporsquo Many people

were spoken to and information given

out This is not an area we generally

work in but it was an opportunity to

gauge interest in the program and to

tap into people visiting from Hume

and Macedon Ranges There was very

good interest and the day resulted in a

new advocate and several potential proteacutegeacutes With many more people expressing an interest in

the program and Citizen Advocacy in general should it ever expand into the area

Fundraising is also always on the programs agenda ensuring there are funds available should new

equipment be required and giving us the resources to put on events and training

In early November one of our proteacutegeacutes Ronnie Jelbert along with his advocate Lisa Edwards fea-

tured in the Leader Newspaper highlighting the long association with Ronnie and the past owners

of The Olive Tree Hotel (Lisarsquos family) in Sunbury The current proprietors agreed to donate 50

cents of every dessert sold over a 3-month period to CA Sunbury The story of Ronnie and the

Edwards Family was a great opportunity to raise awareness and raise a little money for a good

cause

In late 2016 our Administration Assistant Melita was successful in securing a small grant from the

State Trustees allowing us to hire a room for one day per fortnight starting February 2017 at the

Broadmeadows Community Hub I have been able to chip away at informing people from Non-

English-Speaking Backgrounds (and others) about Citizen Advocacy and how it could benefit

people in their community either as advocates or proteacutegeacutes

13

Networking has increased in the wider Hume area and we have

been able to translate and print pro-

gram information pamphlets in Ara-

bic and disseminate them at rele-

vant venues including lsquoArabic Social

Servicesrsquo

Also in February Melita engaged CA Sunbury in the Rotary Club of Ballarat South Community Raffle

Through the support of tickets sales by the Committee Proteacutegeacutes Advocates and staff the program was

able to raise a total of $1048 in profit through ticket sales

February also saw the beginning of a new sub-committee which is a great support to my main work of

recruiting proteacutegeacutes and advocates and ensuring people are supported to maintain their relationships

long term The lsquoKey Office Activities Sub-Committee meets monthly with myself and is an opportunity

for others with some knowledge of CA to assist the program and my work in making good matches for

vulnerable people in our community As a sole Co-ordinator it is always beneficial receiving

encouragement and guidance from others with genuine concern for those we are here to serve

Special thanks to Bridie Smith Peter Rovers and Mary Dight who have been the backbone of this very

important initiative

Citizen Advocacy had a stall again at Sunfest on March 18th

Although not as well positioned as the previous year CA along

with the lsquoProgress Associationrsquo attracted plenty of interest and

helped clarify this model of Advocacy to people in the local

community

Part of good CA practice is to conduct an annual Internal

Relationship Review reviewing all matches and ensuring a

good balance of proteacutegeacute situations and backgrounds and the

appropriate advocates are recruited This thorough review also helps to inform and identify gaps in

recruitment and support and develop a plan to rectify any shortcomings Thanks to John Armstrong

known to many in the program and experienced in CAPE and Internal Relationship Reviews John was

able to work with committee members and myself in between his very busy schedule to produce a very

useful and informative report

Another form of review and assessment was our annual ldquoNational Standards for Disability Services

Auditrdquo conducted in April Another successful outcome with the program fully addressing the audit

recommendations of 2016 As always the audit team was impressed by the evidence presented and

feedback from lsquostakeholdersrsquo (advocates and proteacutegeacutes) and could clearly see the bond existing

between people and the support provided by the program to advocates providing friendship protec-

tion and spokesman ship to their proteacutegeacutes Irsquom glad to say that this has resulted in continued

certification under the lsquoNational Standards for Disability Servicesrsquo

14

In April it was time to think about some more fund raising again

A tried and tested venue is the local Bunnings Being Easter

Monday made it even more busy and profitable It was a great

day which not only helped us financially but also did a lot to

help raise awareness of people with disability and Citizen Advo-

cacy Four weeks later we entered into another venture with the

Progress Association at the Sunbury United Sporting Club where

we held a fundraising Trivia Night and split the proceeds

Another successful Advocate recruitment campaign during the year beginning in May and ongoing for

several weeks has been a small notice in the ldquoWHATS ONrdquo section of the local and Macedon Ranges

Leader This simple request asking for people to help make a difference in the life of someone with an

intellectual disability has had a very positive result with several people calling or dropping in to the

office I have so far been able to recruit and match 3 new advocates that began by responding to the

notice and hope to continue with other similar forms of awareness

The National Disability Insurance Scheme or ldquoNDISrdquo is the new national system for governments to

provide specialist disability supports to people with a significant and permanent disability Citizen Ad-

vocacy is not part of this new scheme but as part of our responsibility to advocatersquos we help provide

them with knowledge and resources to enable them to best support and inform their proteacutegeacute As

many proteacutegeacutes in the program are eligible to receive NDIS funding and their advocates would possibly

be involved in planning and attending meetings it was decided to engage Rick Ruiu from VALID to give

an informative and interactive NDIS presentation to our Advocates Proteacutegeacutes and other interested

relevant people This was a very successful and useful wintery June night and I feel confident that

many people are a little more prepared and aware of what is needed to gain the most benefit at their

proteacutegeacutes planning meeting beginning in March 2018 for those in Hume

The financial year ended on a very positive note with some knowledge

sharing by two experienced ex CA practioners Professor Zana Luttiffia

has been a CA Coordinator and board member at Winnipeg Canada she

has also completed her graduate training and postdoctoral work at the

Centre of Human Policy Syracuse University She joined the University

of Manitoba in 1992 Her longstanding research interest has been

identifying and examining the factors that help or hinder the valued

social participation of individuals with intellectual disabilities in

community life A couple of committee members and myself were able

to spend a delightful and informative few hours discussing good CA

practice and solving the problems of the world over dinner at Bridie Smiths home where we were

made to feel very welcomed by the whole family

Following our time with Zana the committee and I were given further insight into an important subject

by another ex-long term Coordinator this time Bob Lee from the Sunshine Coast who has a particular

interest and talent in delivering inspiring Citizen Advocacy presentations to community groups Bob

spoke to us on how he thinks we can be most effective in asking people to become a Citizen Advocate

for a vulnerable person and how you best present the persons situation and needs

15

Over the year we inevitably gain and loose people in the pro-

gram It was with great sadness that I had the task of informing

others connected with CA of the passing of two much loved

proteges firstly Daisey Serong and then shortly after Darren

Schembri Daisey was a proteacutegeacute with the program from its incep-

tion being an ex Caloola resident when her advocate Mary Day

would visit Daisey at Caloola with her young daughter and help

Daisey with her literacy and ensure life was a good as possible in

the large institution Daisey went on to be a strong self-advocate

with her brother John who passed away last year

Darren Shembri was also a long term proteacutegeacute who as a child spent time residing at St Nicholas home

for Intellectually disabled children until coming to live in the first CRU in Sunbury in 1985 Darren had

great resilience and an amazing personality His advocate Irene Nolte was always there for him both

in good and bad times ensuring his needs were met and acting as his voice whenever necessary the

bond between them was allways evident We were privileged to know both these people and they

will be remembered in so many positive and endearing ways

Citizen Advocacy is a team effort culminating in the matches that make up the CA Relationships Eve-

ryone has a role to play A big thanks to our admin assistant Melita who has had a mixed bag of tasks

and requests this year that she has taken in her stride Theresa our office volunteer has reorganised

our match files beautifully and made this part of the office tidier and more efficient

Our Committee of management are a hard-working detected

bunch Elizabeth Lynch decided to take a break from the

committee this year and we are eternally grateful for all the work

Elizabeth has put into our website that is now due for a revamp

Elizabeth remains involved in the program through being a

protege and has expressed an interest in coming on to the Key

Office Activities committee Our President Juan Carlos Rodrigues

does an excellent job of keeping everyone in order and on time

at committee meetings as well as helping to organise many activ-

ities outside of the office including the launch of our new logo

and our upcoming Christmas Dinner Our Vice president Alison

has done a lot to support the program and is also an advocate

but has recently had to step down due to the pressures of life

Angelo our secretary does

an excellent job of making

sure the agenda minutes and correspondence are on the table

ready for our committee meetings Irsquom pleased to say Angelo is

also about to become an advocate for someone well known to

the program and Angelorsquos broad knowledge and practical ad-

vice is greatly appreciated

16

Liz our treasurer and bookkeeper and general ldquojack of all trades ldquohas

bought the program back into the black and has been instrumental in

putting our program back into a healthy financial state Liz also recently

organised our new logo and was an advocate for a young woman in a

CRU Unfortunately for us Lizrsquos own business and growing workload has

made it too difficult to stay on as Treasurer but Irsquom glad to say Liz will

still be involved with us as our bookkeeper

After a short break from the committee Bridie has been back and is a

guardian of CA practice and principles developing her understanding by

attending the CA Study group and chairing the Key Office Activities

subcommittee More recently Tony Tanti who has been involved in the

program as an advocate has been attending committee meetings and his contribution and support on a

wide range of issues is greatly appreciated and valued

Thank you to everyone for all your hard work support and making this such a special program Above

all it has been an absolute honour working with the advocates and proteges of the program Watching

the bond and friendship between two people who often live very different lives develop and come to-

gether in a very beneficial way is both motivating and humbling

17

In January 2017 the Committee of Management (CoM) setup a Key Office Activities Sub-committee

(KOAs) to guide the program in working reflectively and purposefully in the practice of Citizen Advoca-

cy and to ensure an effective balance of the seven (7) Key Office Activities

A CA office which has an effective balance of activities will do enough of the right

thing at the right time to ensure that it will achieve its mission

from CAPE (Citizen Advocacy Practice Evaluation) Manual

The Key Office Activities are

bull Vision and Creativity in Proteacutegeacute Recruitment

bull Advocate Recruitment

bull Advocate Orientation

bull Advocate-Proteacutegeacute Matching

bull Follow-along and Support to Relationships

bull Ongoing Training

bull Emphasis on Advocate-associates

I had the honour of Chairing the KOAs this year and with David advocate Peter Rovers former CoM

member Mary Dight held the inaugural meeting in February 2017 Later in the year Proteacutegeacute and former

CoM member Elizabeth Lynch and Chairperson Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller joined us

Meetings are held at the office on the 4th Monday of the month from 10 am to noon We welcome ex-

pressions of interest from prospective new members with a keen interest in Citizen Advocacy

A heartfelt thanks to David Mary Peter Elizabeth and Juan Carlos for their wisdom and dedication I

look forward to continuing our contribution to the work of making many good CA matches in 2018

Bridie Smith

Key Office Activities Subcommittee

18

Identifying and Recruiting Proteacutegeacutes

bull A 16yo boy with ID and severe epilepsy and Dyspraxia Issues around hospital appointments and treatment at school

bull Women in early 20s residing in SRS suffering from severe chronic polytechnic arthritis and social isolated

bull Young man in Diggers Rest with fragile x syndrome and reluctant to leave house

bull Spoke to sergeant at Sunbury Police Station in regards to people with ID in trouble with the law

bull Presentation to Prioletti Work Education Group

bull Young woman living in Gisborne shared public housing has a learning disability

bull Young woman in Sunbury requiring social and employment support

bull Spoke to manager of Dallas Neighbourhood House

bull Spoke to CEO of Broadmeadows Disability Services

bull Young man in his early 30s recently relocating to Gisborne has mild intellectual disability ongoing mental health

issues and drug habit Requiring strong mentor and help with developing structure in his life

bull Woman in her 50s mild ID requiring assistance with preparing to relocate from inherited house

bull Spoke to Arabic Social Services

bull 21yo woman lives in Sunbury moderate ID Lives with separated parents Needs help with budgeting and banking

skills and accessing mainstream recreation

bull 24yo woman moderate ID lives in Diggers Rest with mother father recently died of cancer Wants help to access com-

munity opportunities No access to transport

bull Married couple with intellectual disability experiencing marital difficulties

Key Office Activities

The following are brief examples of the ldquoKey Office Activitiesrdquo for the 201617 year

0 1

8

59

14

Proteacutegeacute Age

0-20

21-30

31-40

41-50

51-60

61+

AGES Male Female

0-20 0 0

21-30 0 1

31-40 3 5

41-50 2 3

51-60 4 5

61+ 2 12

19

Advocate Recruitment

bull St Andrews Friendship Group

bull Young woman with marketing background

bull Vet nurse from Lancefield

bull Ex Committee member

bull Woodend accountant

bull Woman who runs a farm with Husband

bull Sunbury Probes

bull Member of Sunbury Historical society

bull Notices in the Whatrsquos On section of Sunbury Broadmeadow and

Macedon Ranges Leader

bull Rehab and Diabetes nurse recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Gisborne Menrsquos Shed

bull Retired Public Servant with experience in intellectual disability

and Mental Health

bull Relationships Councillor recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Various inquiries from Hume Volunteer Gateway

bull Various presentations to community and service groups

bull Presentations at Church groups

bull Sunbury Police

bull Sunfest Various people

bull Retired BBC employee

bull Retired Missionary

bull Middle aged teacherrsquos aide living in Mickleham

bull Presentation to Sunbury Aquatic Centre

bull Information to VicRoads

bull Retired Lecturer

Two new Advocate Associates Recruited one in the area of health and

diabetes prevention Other in the area counselling and mental health

TYPE OF ADVOCACY Male Female

Instrumental 2 2

Expressive 1 2

Both 8 22

OTHER DISABILITY Male Female

Yes 3 4

No 8 22

Advocate Orientation

Six full orientations completed throughout this period (one

potential advocate did not go on with matching)

6

201

4 6

Residential Situation

Family Home CRU Special Accomodation

Nursing Home Independently

RESIDENTIAL SITUATION Male Female

Family Home 3 3

CRU 7 13

Special Accomodation 0 1

Nursing Home 0 4

Independently 1 5

20

Advocate Proteacutegeacute Matching

Five new matches made this year

bull A quiet 32yo woman living independently in Sunbury who has difficulties around social interactions and se-

curing part time employment due to autistic tendencies was matched to woman of similar age who is out-

going This Advocate has a marketing background and is prepared to assist proteacutegeacute with CV how she presents

herself at job interviews and socialising including being a friend

bull Another 32yo woman this time living in Gisborne in shared public housing accommodation This woman has

a learning disability secondary to Kawasaki disease and required assistance gaining some level of financial in-

dependence hygiene health care and general life skills She was also being

financially exploited by her house mates Matched to a woman who helps manage the family farm and comes

from a large family where she has gained skills and experience in supporting her parents and siblings

bull After relocating to Gisborne with his parents in an effort to get away from bad influences and a drug habit a

33yo man with intellectual and psychiatric disability required someone to help develop

connections and positive relationships in his new community giving this young man an opportunity to start a

new life and structure to his day A retired senior public servant in Gisborne with experience of intellectual

and psychiatric disability within his family was recruited Within a short period of time the advocate was able

to befriend this young man gain his confidence and as a mentor direct and guide him towards community

activities whist at the same time ensure he gain what was required from his NDIS package and support and

help to represent him in a magistrates Court hearing

bull Following her advocate moving to Ballarat it was necessary to rematch a 58yo woman with previous learning

difficulties to a new advocate The ongoing issue was someone to support this woman emotionally and prac-

tically to prepare to sell her inherited house and look for something more appropriate and manageable A

retired local woman with a background in documentary production and working for the BBC stepped forward

following a notice in the local paper The friendship was instant and as the advocate has stated ldquomutually re-

wardingrdquo Work has begun in sorting and packing and thinking about future options with the assistance of the

advocate who has ensured the proteges sister interstate is kept informed Im glad to say the previous advo-

cate will also stay in touch and remain a friend

bull A 38yo woman who has severe intellectual disability lives in a local ldquoCommunity Residential Unitrdquo in Sunbury

This woman is totally reliant on the service system and without family or friends and therefore vulnerable and

requiring a freely given relationship to help ensure her Human rights are upheld This was another rematch

due to the heavy workload of the previous advocate Another local woman with vast experience in doing vol-

untary missionary work was recruited to continue the excellent work that had begun The advocate has a

strong sense of social justice and

empathy for those that have been

forgotten and devalued The advocate

is currently developing an understand-

ing of her proteges life and how best

to protect her and her best interests

Degree of Disability

Mild Moderate Profound

21

Follow-along and support of Existing Relationships

bull Several advocates looking into NDIS planning for their proteacutegeacute Attended relevant presentations

bull Advocate insuring proteacutegeacute does not go into a nursing Home prematurely

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with confusion and stress related to Centrelink payments

bull Advocate looking into medical problem for proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate supporting proteges to live independently

bull Advocate working through family issues with proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate proteacutegeacute in dealing with solicitor re probate

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during test for epilepsy

bull Advocate vising proteacutegeacute after moving from CRU

bull Advocate taking proteacutegeacute shopping and advising on how to shop wisely

bull Advocate attended Hospital throughout night after proteges were involved in a car accident

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with CV

bull Advocate organising LINK transport for proteges

bull Proteacutegeacute contacted whist Advocate in hospital

bull Advocate supported around issues with proteges mother

bull Advocate looking into age related issues for NDIS

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during very difficult and upsetting family issue involving possible pregnancy

bull Advocate assisting proteges making a will

bull Advocate supported and informed proteacutegeacute during NDIS planning meeting and later attended a court

hearing in relation to another matter

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with the preparing and sale of house

bull 3 Advocates unfortunately attended their proteges funerals One Advocate heavily involved in the service

funeral

COMMUNICATION Male Female

Verbal 5 17

Speech Difficulties 3 5

Non Verbal 3 4

2

1637

6

1 1 1

Proteacutegeacute Day Placement

Disability Enterprise Adult Day Training School Study

Unemployed Retired Employed

Excluded Home Duties

DAY PLACEMENTS Male Female

Disability Enterprise 2 0

Adult Day Training 4 12

School Study 0 3

Unemployed 3 4

Retired 2 4

Employed 0 1

Excluded 0 1

Home Duties 0 1

22

Treasurerrsquos Report Elizabeth Homann

I am pleased to present the financial report for the year ended 30th June 2017 One of the many aspects of good

governance is good financial administration and I am please to report that Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

has continued the work started in the 2014 - 2015 year to put us in a strong stable position

RESULTS FOR 2017 We received a pleasing report from the Auditor this year with no audit adjustments required to correct the financial

results as presented

The overall result for CA Sunbury for 2017 was a surplus of $1818087 a healthy increase of $747663 from the

previous year The Commonwealth funding that the program receives increased slightly and we were fortunate

enough to receive an additional $16293 from DSS in May This allowed us to make some long awaited purchases

run training for our advocates and send 2 people to the Network Meeting in Rockhampton Our expenses continue

to rise making it more of a challenge each year to achieve a break even position We achieved the surplus through

careful management of expenses and recognition that to continue to be sustainable new income streams must be

found For the 2016 -2017 year the Staff and Committee concentrated their efforts on fundraising and grants and

were rewarded for their hard work

The net equity as at 30 June 2017 was $2892980 an increase of $1818087 from the previous year and solid

position Cash on Hand totalled $7560888

Income Overall revenue increased by $3326191 (221) from the previous year

bull Gain (Loss) on Sale of fixed Asset

o The organisationrsquos car was disposed of during the year with a resulting surplus of $598562

bull Funding increased by 332 from the previous year

o During 2016 - 2017 CASampD had one funding agreement in place

bull The Department of Social Services - National Disability Advocacy Program

o An additional $16293 was received in May

bull Grants increased by 133 from the previous year

o We received a grant from State Trustees

o We received a grant from Hume City Council

bull Fundraising was received

o Fundraising was received in the form for donations

o Fundraising was raised through sausage sizzles trivia night and a raffle

bull Employee FBT contribution decreased by 525 from the previous year

o The FBT contribution ceased when the car was sold

23

Expenses

Overall expenses increased by $2582599 (183) from the previous year

bull Depreciation costs decreased by 192 from the previous year

There was no new fixed assets purchased during the year

Depreciation calculated on diminishing value method

bull Auditorrsquos Remuneration decreased by 193 from the previous year

There was no charge for the surveillance Quality Audit was carried out this year

A Relationship Review audit was carried out this year

bull Rent expenses increased by 154 from the previous year

Rent increased as per the lease agreement

bull Program expenses increased by 2846 from the previous year

Several advocate functions were held during the year

Social Role Valorisation training was run for the Advocates

bull Consultant expenses were incurred

A consultant was engaged to review and overhaul the program database

bull Wages increased by 15 from the previous year

Limited annual leave and no long service leave was taken during the year

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc will continue to be funded by the Department of Social Services until the 30

June 2018 After this time there will be a new service agreement in place

Income

Donations FBT Employee ContributionFundraising Grants (Commonwealth)Grants (Local) Grants (Other)Gain on Asset Interest Expenses

Administration Board Depreciation

Fundraising Motor Vehicle Program

Staff

24

Financial Statements

Contents

Statement by Committee

Profit and Loss Statement

Balance Sheet

Notes to the Financial Statement

Independent Auditorrsquos Report

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Committe Members Declaration

YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2017

The committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements

In the opinion of the committee the financial report

Presents a true and fair view of the associations financial position as at 30 June 2017

2 There are reasonable grounds to believe that the association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable

NAME ~ zo6e+h ~VYIOI) Committee Member

2017

12

Coordinatorrsquos Report David Abela

As always it is with pleasure that I present my report and touch on some of the activities and high-

lights of the program As Coordinator there is a multitude of activities and requirements to fulfil

throughout the year The most important of course being the lsquoKey Office Activitiesrsquo which I will dis-

cuss deeper into the report

An ongoing vital activity is talking to people about Citizen Advocacy either on an individual basis or

through community presentations this started off at the beginning of the year with a presentation

to St Andrews Friendship Group and information provided to the staff at Vic Roads Sunbury

Aquatic Centre Sunbury police and various individuals

In October last year I was off to

spread the word in Melton at the

lsquoMelton Care Exporsquo Many people

were spoken to and information given

out This is not an area we generally

work in but it was an opportunity to

gauge interest in the program and to

tap into people visiting from Hume

and Macedon Ranges There was very

good interest and the day resulted in a

new advocate and several potential proteacutegeacutes With many more people expressing an interest in

the program and Citizen Advocacy in general should it ever expand into the area

Fundraising is also always on the programs agenda ensuring there are funds available should new

equipment be required and giving us the resources to put on events and training

In early November one of our proteacutegeacutes Ronnie Jelbert along with his advocate Lisa Edwards fea-

tured in the Leader Newspaper highlighting the long association with Ronnie and the past owners

of The Olive Tree Hotel (Lisarsquos family) in Sunbury The current proprietors agreed to donate 50

cents of every dessert sold over a 3-month period to CA Sunbury The story of Ronnie and the

Edwards Family was a great opportunity to raise awareness and raise a little money for a good

cause

In late 2016 our Administration Assistant Melita was successful in securing a small grant from the

State Trustees allowing us to hire a room for one day per fortnight starting February 2017 at the

Broadmeadows Community Hub I have been able to chip away at informing people from Non-

English-Speaking Backgrounds (and others) about Citizen Advocacy and how it could benefit

people in their community either as advocates or proteacutegeacutes

13

Networking has increased in the wider Hume area and we have

been able to translate and print pro-

gram information pamphlets in Ara-

bic and disseminate them at rele-

vant venues including lsquoArabic Social

Servicesrsquo

Also in February Melita engaged CA Sunbury in the Rotary Club of Ballarat South Community Raffle

Through the support of tickets sales by the Committee Proteacutegeacutes Advocates and staff the program was

able to raise a total of $1048 in profit through ticket sales

February also saw the beginning of a new sub-committee which is a great support to my main work of

recruiting proteacutegeacutes and advocates and ensuring people are supported to maintain their relationships

long term The lsquoKey Office Activities Sub-Committee meets monthly with myself and is an opportunity

for others with some knowledge of CA to assist the program and my work in making good matches for

vulnerable people in our community As a sole Co-ordinator it is always beneficial receiving

encouragement and guidance from others with genuine concern for those we are here to serve

Special thanks to Bridie Smith Peter Rovers and Mary Dight who have been the backbone of this very

important initiative

Citizen Advocacy had a stall again at Sunfest on March 18th

Although not as well positioned as the previous year CA along

with the lsquoProgress Associationrsquo attracted plenty of interest and

helped clarify this model of Advocacy to people in the local

community

Part of good CA practice is to conduct an annual Internal

Relationship Review reviewing all matches and ensuring a

good balance of proteacutegeacute situations and backgrounds and the

appropriate advocates are recruited This thorough review also helps to inform and identify gaps in

recruitment and support and develop a plan to rectify any shortcomings Thanks to John Armstrong

known to many in the program and experienced in CAPE and Internal Relationship Reviews John was

able to work with committee members and myself in between his very busy schedule to produce a very

useful and informative report

Another form of review and assessment was our annual ldquoNational Standards for Disability Services

Auditrdquo conducted in April Another successful outcome with the program fully addressing the audit

recommendations of 2016 As always the audit team was impressed by the evidence presented and

feedback from lsquostakeholdersrsquo (advocates and proteacutegeacutes) and could clearly see the bond existing

between people and the support provided by the program to advocates providing friendship protec-

tion and spokesman ship to their proteacutegeacutes Irsquom glad to say that this has resulted in continued

certification under the lsquoNational Standards for Disability Servicesrsquo

14

In April it was time to think about some more fund raising again

A tried and tested venue is the local Bunnings Being Easter

Monday made it even more busy and profitable It was a great

day which not only helped us financially but also did a lot to

help raise awareness of people with disability and Citizen Advo-

cacy Four weeks later we entered into another venture with the

Progress Association at the Sunbury United Sporting Club where

we held a fundraising Trivia Night and split the proceeds

Another successful Advocate recruitment campaign during the year beginning in May and ongoing for

several weeks has been a small notice in the ldquoWHATS ONrdquo section of the local and Macedon Ranges

Leader This simple request asking for people to help make a difference in the life of someone with an

intellectual disability has had a very positive result with several people calling or dropping in to the

office I have so far been able to recruit and match 3 new advocates that began by responding to the

notice and hope to continue with other similar forms of awareness

The National Disability Insurance Scheme or ldquoNDISrdquo is the new national system for governments to

provide specialist disability supports to people with a significant and permanent disability Citizen Ad-

vocacy is not part of this new scheme but as part of our responsibility to advocatersquos we help provide

them with knowledge and resources to enable them to best support and inform their proteacutegeacute As

many proteacutegeacutes in the program are eligible to receive NDIS funding and their advocates would possibly

be involved in planning and attending meetings it was decided to engage Rick Ruiu from VALID to give

an informative and interactive NDIS presentation to our Advocates Proteacutegeacutes and other interested

relevant people This was a very successful and useful wintery June night and I feel confident that

many people are a little more prepared and aware of what is needed to gain the most benefit at their

proteacutegeacutes planning meeting beginning in March 2018 for those in Hume

The financial year ended on a very positive note with some knowledge

sharing by two experienced ex CA practioners Professor Zana Luttiffia

has been a CA Coordinator and board member at Winnipeg Canada she

has also completed her graduate training and postdoctoral work at the

Centre of Human Policy Syracuse University She joined the University

of Manitoba in 1992 Her longstanding research interest has been

identifying and examining the factors that help or hinder the valued

social participation of individuals with intellectual disabilities in

community life A couple of committee members and myself were able

to spend a delightful and informative few hours discussing good CA

practice and solving the problems of the world over dinner at Bridie Smiths home where we were

made to feel very welcomed by the whole family

Following our time with Zana the committee and I were given further insight into an important subject

by another ex-long term Coordinator this time Bob Lee from the Sunshine Coast who has a particular

interest and talent in delivering inspiring Citizen Advocacy presentations to community groups Bob

spoke to us on how he thinks we can be most effective in asking people to become a Citizen Advocate

for a vulnerable person and how you best present the persons situation and needs

15

Over the year we inevitably gain and loose people in the pro-

gram It was with great sadness that I had the task of informing

others connected with CA of the passing of two much loved

proteges firstly Daisey Serong and then shortly after Darren

Schembri Daisey was a proteacutegeacute with the program from its incep-

tion being an ex Caloola resident when her advocate Mary Day

would visit Daisey at Caloola with her young daughter and help

Daisey with her literacy and ensure life was a good as possible in

the large institution Daisey went on to be a strong self-advocate

with her brother John who passed away last year

Darren Shembri was also a long term proteacutegeacute who as a child spent time residing at St Nicholas home

for Intellectually disabled children until coming to live in the first CRU in Sunbury in 1985 Darren had

great resilience and an amazing personality His advocate Irene Nolte was always there for him both

in good and bad times ensuring his needs were met and acting as his voice whenever necessary the

bond between them was allways evident We were privileged to know both these people and they

will be remembered in so many positive and endearing ways

Citizen Advocacy is a team effort culminating in the matches that make up the CA Relationships Eve-

ryone has a role to play A big thanks to our admin assistant Melita who has had a mixed bag of tasks

and requests this year that she has taken in her stride Theresa our office volunteer has reorganised

our match files beautifully and made this part of the office tidier and more efficient

Our Committee of management are a hard-working detected

bunch Elizabeth Lynch decided to take a break from the

committee this year and we are eternally grateful for all the work

Elizabeth has put into our website that is now due for a revamp

Elizabeth remains involved in the program through being a

protege and has expressed an interest in coming on to the Key

Office Activities committee Our President Juan Carlos Rodrigues

does an excellent job of keeping everyone in order and on time

at committee meetings as well as helping to organise many activ-

ities outside of the office including the launch of our new logo

and our upcoming Christmas Dinner Our Vice president Alison

has done a lot to support the program and is also an advocate

but has recently had to step down due to the pressures of life

Angelo our secretary does

an excellent job of making

sure the agenda minutes and correspondence are on the table

ready for our committee meetings Irsquom pleased to say Angelo is

also about to become an advocate for someone well known to

the program and Angelorsquos broad knowledge and practical ad-

vice is greatly appreciated

16

Liz our treasurer and bookkeeper and general ldquojack of all trades ldquohas

bought the program back into the black and has been instrumental in

putting our program back into a healthy financial state Liz also recently

organised our new logo and was an advocate for a young woman in a

CRU Unfortunately for us Lizrsquos own business and growing workload has

made it too difficult to stay on as Treasurer but Irsquom glad to say Liz will

still be involved with us as our bookkeeper

After a short break from the committee Bridie has been back and is a

guardian of CA practice and principles developing her understanding by

attending the CA Study group and chairing the Key Office Activities

subcommittee More recently Tony Tanti who has been involved in the

program as an advocate has been attending committee meetings and his contribution and support on a

wide range of issues is greatly appreciated and valued

Thank you to everyone for all your hard work support and making this such a special program Above

all it has been an absolute honour working with the advocates and proteges of the program Watching

the bond and friendship between two people who often live very different lives develop and come to-

gether in a very beneficial way is both motivating and humbling

17

In January 2017 the Committee of Management (CoM) setup a Key Office Activities Sub-committee

(KOAs) to guide the program in working reflectively and purposefully in the practice of Citizen Advoca-

cy and to ensure an effective balance of the seven (7) Key Office Activities

A CA office which has an effective balance of activities will do enough of the right

thing at the right time to ensure that it will achieve its mission

from CAPE (Citizen Advocacy Practice Evaluation) Manual

The Key Office Activities are

bull Vision and Creativity in Proteacutegeacute Recruitment

bull Advocate Recruitment

bull Advocate Orientation

bull Advocate-Proteacutegeacute Matching

bull Follow-along and Support to Relationships

bull Ongoing Training

bull Emphasis on Advocate-associates

I had the honour of Chairing the KOAs this year and with David advocate Peter Rovers former CoM

member Mary Dight held the inaugural meeting in February 2017 Later in the year Proteacutegeacute and former

CoM member Elizabeth Lynch and Chairperson Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller joined us

Meetings are held at the office on the 4th Monday of the month from 10 am to noon We welcome ex-

pressions of interest from prospective new members with a keen interest in Citizen Advocacy

A heartfelt thanks to David Mary Peter Elizabeth and Juan Carlos for their wisdom and dedication I

look forward to continuing our contribution to the work of making many good CA matches in 2018

Bridie Smith

Key Office Activities Subcommittee

18

Identifying and Recruiting Proteacutegeacutes

bull A 16yo boy with ID and severe epilepsy and Dyspraxia Issues around hospital appointments and treatment at school

bull Women in early 20s residing in SRS suffering from severe chronic polytechnic arthritis and social isolated

bull Young man in Diggers Rest with fragile x syndrome and reluctant to leave house

bull Spoke to sergeant at Sunbury Police Station in regards to people with ID in trouble with the law

bull Presentation to Prioletti Work Education Group

bull Young woman living in Gisborne shared public housing has a learning disability

bull Young woman in Sunbury requiring social and employment support

bull Spoke to manager of Dallas Neighbourhood House

bull Spoke to CEO of Broadmeadows Disability Services

bull Young man in his early 30s recently relocating to Gisborne has mild intellectual disability ongoing mental health

issues and drug habit Requiring strong mentor and help with developing structure in his life

bull Woman in her 50s mild ID requiring assistance with preparing to relocate from inherited house

bull Spoke to Arabic Social Services

bull 21yo woman lives in Sunbury moderate ID Lives with separated parents Needs help with budgeting and banking

skills and accessing mainstream recreation

bull 24yo woman moderate ID lives in Diggers Rest with mother father recently died of cancer Wants help to access com-

munity opportunities No access to transport

bull Married couple with intellectual disability experiencing marital difficulties

Key Office Activities

The following are brief examples of the ldquoKey Office Activitiesrdquo for the 201617 year

0 1

8

59

14

Proteacutegeacute Age

0-20

21-30

31-40

41-50

51-60

61+

AGES Male Female

0-20 0 0

21-30 0 1

31-40 3 5

41-50 2 3

51-60 4 5

61+ 2 12

19

Advocate Recruitment

bull St Andrews Friendship Group

bull Young woman with marketing background

bull Vet nurse from Lancefield

bull Ex Committee member

bull Woodend accountant

bull Woman who runs a farm with Husband

bull Sunbury Probes

bull Member of Sunbury Historical society

bull Notices in the Whatrsquos On section of Sunbury Broadmeadow and

Macedon Ranges Leader

bull Rehab and Diabetes nurse recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Gisborne Menrsquos Shed

bull Retired Public Servant with experience in intellectual disability

and Mental Health

bull Relationships Councillor recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Various inquiries from Hume Volunteer Gateway

bull Various presentations to community and service groups

bull Presentations at Church groups

bull Sunbury Police

bull Sunfest Various people

bull Retired BBC employee

bull Retired Missionary

bull Middle aged teacherrsquos aide living in Mickleham

bull Presentation to Sunbury Aquatic Centre

bull Information to VicRoads

bull Retired Lecturer

Two new Advocate Associates Recruited one in the area of health and

diabetes prevention Other in the area counselling and mental health

TYPE OF ADVOCACY Male Female

Instrumental 2 2

Expressive 1 2

Both 8 22

OTHER DISABILITY Male Female

Yes 3 4

No 8 22

Advocate Orientation

Six full orientations completed throughout this period (one

potential advocate did not go on with matching)

6

201

4 6

Residential Situation

Family Home CRU Special Accomodation

Nursing Home Independently

RESIDENTIAL SITUATION Male Female

Family Home 3 3

CRU 7 13

Special Accomodation 0 1

Nursing Home 0 4

Independently 1 5

20

Advocate Proteacutegeacute Matching

Five new matches made this year

bull A quiet 32yo woman living independently in Sunbury who has difficulties around social interactions and se-

curing part time employment due to autistic tendencies was matched to woman of similar age who is out-

going This Advocate has a marketing background and is prepared to assist proteacutegeacute with CV how she presents

herself at job interviews and socialising including being a friend

bull Another 32yo woman this time living in Gisborne in shared public housing accommodation This woman has

a learning disability secondary to Kawasaki disease and required assistance gaining some level of financial in-

dependence hygiene health care and general life skills She was also being

financially exploited by her house mates Matched to a woman who helps manage the family farm and comes

from a large family where she has gained skills and experience in supporting her parents and siblings

bull After relocating to Gisborne with his parents in an effort to get away from bad influences and a drug habit a

33yo man with intellectual and psychiatric disability required someone to help develop

connections and positive relationships in his new community giving this young man an opportunity to start a

new life and structure to his day A retired senior public servant in Gisborne with experience of intellectual

and psychiatric disability within his family was recruited Within a short period of time the advocate was able

to befriend this young man gain his confidence and as a mentor direct and guide him towards community

activities whist at the same time ensure he gain what was required from his NDIS package and support and

help to represent him in a magistrates Court hearing

bull Following her advocate moving to Ballarat it was necessary to rematch a 58yo woman with previous learning

difficulties to a new advocate The ongoing issue was someone to support this woman emotionally and prac-

tically to prepare to sell her inherited house and look for something more appropriate and manageable A

retired local woman with a background in documentary production and working for the BBC stepped forward

following a notice in the local paper The friendship was instant and as the advocate has stated ldquomutually re-

wardingrdquo Work has begun in sorting and packing and thinking about future options with the assistance of the

advocate who has ensured the proteges sister interstate is kept informed Im glad to say the previous advo-

cate will also stay in touch and remain a friend

bull A 38yo woman who has severe intellectual disability lives in a local ldquoCommunity Residential Unitrdquo in Sunbury

This woman is totally reliant on the service system and without family or friends and therefore vulnerable and

requiring a freely given relationship to help ensure her Human rights are upheld This was another rematch

due to the heavy workload of the previous advocate Another local woman with vast experience in doing vol-

untary missionary work was recruited to continue the excellent work that had begun The advocate has a

strong sense of social justice and

empathy for those that have been

forgotten and devalued The advocate

is currently developing an understand-

ing of her proteges life and how best

to protect her and her best interests

Degree of Disability

Mild Moderate Profound

21

Follow-along and support of Existing Relationships

bull Several advocates looking into NDIS planning for their proteacutegeacute Attended relevant presentations

bull Advocate insuring proteacutegeacute does not go into a nursing Home prematurely

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with confusion and stress related to Centrelink payments

bull Advocate looking into medical problem for proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate supporting proteges to live independently

bull Advocate working through family issues with proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate proteacutegeacute in dealing with solicitor re probate

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during test for epilepsy

bull Advocate vising proteacutegeacute after moving from CRU

bull Advocate taking proteacutegeacute shopping and advising on how to shop wisely

bull Advocate attended Hospital throughout night after proteges were involved in a car accident

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with CV

bull Advocate organising LINK transport for proteges

bull Proteacutegeacute contacted whist Advocate in hospital

bull Advocate supported around issues with proteges mother

bull Advocate looking into age related issues for NDIS

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during very difficult and upsetting family issue involving possible pregnancy

bull Advocate assisting proteges making a will

bull Advocate supported and informed proteacutegeacute during NDIS planning meeting and later attended a court

hearing in relation to another matter

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with the preparing and sale of house

bull 3 Advocates unfortunately attended their proteges funerals One Advocate heavily involved in the service

funeral

COMMUNICATION Male Female

Verbal 5 17

Speech Difficulties 3 5

Non Verbal 3 4

2

1637

6

1 1 1

Proteacutegeacute Day Placement

Disability Enterprise Adult Day Training School Study

Unemployed Retired Employed

Excluded Home Duties

DAY PLACEMENTS Male Female

Disability Enterprise 2 0

Adult Day Training 4 12

School Study 0 3

Unemployed 3 4

Retired 2 4

Employed 0 1

Excluded 0 1

Home Duties 0 1

22

Treasurerrsquos Report Elizabeth Homann

I am pleased to present the financial report for the year ended 30th June 2017 One of the many aspects of good

governance is good financial administration and I am please to report that Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

has continued the work started in the 2014 - 2015 year to put us in a strong stable position

RESULTS FOR 2017 We received a pleasing report from the Auditor this year with no audit adjustments required to correct the financial

results as presented

The overall result for CA Sunbury for 2017 was a surplus of $1818087 a healthy increase of $747663 from the

previous year The Commonwealth funding that the program receives increased slightly and we were fortunate

enough to receive an additional $16293 from DSS in May This allowed us to make some long awaited purchases

run training for our advocates and send 2 people to the Network Meeting in Rockhampton Our expenses continue

to rise making it more of a challenge each year to achieve a break even position We achieved the surplus through

careful management of expenses and recognition that to continue to be sustainable new income streams must be

found For the 2016 -2017 year the Staff and Committee concentrated their efforts on fundraising and grants and

were rewarded for their hard work

The net equity as at 30 June 2017 was $2892980 an increase of $1818087 from the previous year and solid

position Cash on Hand totalled $7560888

Income Overall revenue increased by $3326191 (221) from the previous year

bull Gain (Loss) on Sale of fixed Asset

o The organisationrsquos car was disposed of during the year with a resulting surplus of $598562

bull Funding increased by 332 from the previous year

o During 2016 - 2017 CASampD had one funding agreement in place

bull The Department of Social Services - National Disability Advocacy Program

o An additional $16293 was received in May

bull Grants increased by 133 from the previous year

o We received a grant from State Trustees

o We received a grant from Hume City Council

bull Fundraising was received

o Fundraising was received in the form for donations

o Fundraising was raised through sausage sizzles trivia night and a raffle

bull Employee FBT contribution decreased by 525 from the previous year

o The FBT contribution ceased when the car was sold

23

Expenses

Overall expenses increased by $2582599 (183) from the previous year

bull Depreciation costs decreased by 192 from the previous year

There was no new fixed assets purchased during the year

Depreciation calculated on diminishing value method

bull Auditorrsquos Remuneration decreased by 193 from the previous year

There was no charge for the surveillance Quality Audit was carried out this year

A Relationship Review audit was carried out this year

bull Rent expenses increased by 154 from the previous year

Rent increased as per the lease agreement

bull Program expenses increased by 2846 from the previous year

Several advocate functions were held during the year

Social Role Valorisation training was run for the Advocates

bull Consultant expenses were incurred

A consultant was engaged to review and overhaul the program database

bull Wages increased by 15 from the previous year

Limited annual leave and no long service leave was taken during the year

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc will continue to be funded by the Department of Social Services until the 30

June 2018 After this time there will be a new service agreement in place

Income

Donations FBT Employee ContributionFundraising Grants (Commonwealth)Grants (Local) Grants (Other)Gain on Asset Interest Expenses

Administration Board Depreciation

Fundraising Motor Vehicle Program

Staff

24

Financial Statements

Contents

Statement by Committee

Profit and Loss Statement

Balance Sheet

Notes to the Financial Statement

Independent Auditorrsquos Report

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Committe Members Declaration

YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2017

The committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements

In the opinion of the committee the financial report

Presents a true and fair view of the associations financial position as at 30 June 2017

2 There are reasonable grounds to believe that the association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable

NAME ~ zo6e+h ~VYIOI) Committee Member

2017

13

Networking has increased in the wider Hume area and we have

been able to translate and print pro-

gram information pamphlets in Ara-

bic and disseminate them at rele-

vant venues including lsquoArabic Social

Servicesrsquo

Also in February Melita engaged CA Sunbury in the Rotary Club of Ballarat South Community Raffle

Through the support of tickets sales by the Committee Proteacutegeacutes Advocates and staff the program was

able to raise a total of $1048 in profit through ticket sales

February also saw the beginning of a new sub-committee which is a great support to my main work of

recruiting proteacutegeacutes and advocates and ensuring people are supported to maintain their relationships

long term The lsquoKey Office Activities Sub-Committee meets monthly with myself and is an opportunity

for others with some knowledge of CA to assist the program and my work in making good matches for

vulnerable people in our community As a sole Co-ordinator it is always beneficial receiving

encouragement and guidance from others with genuine concern for those we are here to serve

Special thanks to Bridie Smith Peter Rovers and Mary Dight who have been the backbone of this very

important initiative

Citizen Advocacy had a stall again at Sunfest on March 18th

Although not as well positioned as the previous year CA along

with the lsquoProgress Associationrsquo attracted plenty of interest and

helped clarify this model of Advocacy to people in the local

community

Part of good CA practice is to conduct an annual Internal

Relationship Review reviewing all matches and ensuring a

good balance of proteacutegeacute situations and backgrounds and the

appropriate advocates are recruited This thorough review also helps to inform and identify gaps in

recruitment and support and develop a plan to rectify any shortcomings Thanks to John Armstrong

known to many in the program and experienced in CAPE and Internal Relationship Reviews John was

able to work with committee members and myself in between his very busy schedule to produce a very

useful and informative report

Another form of review and assessment was our annual ldquoNational Standards for Disability Services

Auditrdquo conducted in April Another successful outcome with the program fully addressing the audit

recommendations of 2016 As always the audit team was impressed by the evidence presented and

feedback from lsquostakeholdersrsquo (advocates and proteacutegeacutes) and could clearly see the bond existing

between people and the support provided by the program to advocates providing friendship protec-

tion and spokesman ship to their proteacutegeacutes Irsquom glad to say that this has resulted in continued

certification under the lsquoNational Standards for Disability Servicesrsquo

14

In April it was time to think about some more fund raising again

A tried and tested venue is the local Bunnings Being Easter

Monday made it even more busy and profitable It was a great

day which not only helped us financially but also did a lot to

help raise awareness of people with disability and Citizen Advo-

cacy Four weeks later we entered into another venture with the

Progress Association at the Sunbury United Sporting Club where

we held a fundraising Trivia Night and split the proceeds

Another successful Advocate recruitment campaign during the year beginning in May and ongoing for

several weeks has been a small notice in the ldquoWHATS ONrdquo section of the local and Macedon Ranges

Leader This simple request asking for people to help make a difference in the life of someone with an

intellectual disability has had a very positive result with several people calling or dropping in to the

office I have so far been able to recruit and match 3 new advocates that began by responding to the

notice and hope to continue with other similar forms of awareness

The National Disability Insurance Scheme or ldquoNDISrdquo is the new national system for governments to

provide specialist disability supports to people with a significant and permanent disability Citizen Ad-

vocacy is not part of this new scheme but as part of our responsibility to advocatersquos we help provide

them with knowledge and resources to enable them to best support and inform their proteacutegeacute As

many proteacutegeacutes in the program are eligible to receive NDIS funding and their advocates would possibly

be involved in planning and attending meetings it was decided to engage Rick Ruiu from VALID to give

an informative and interactive NDIS presentation to our Advocates Proteacutegeacutes and other interested

relevant people This was a very successful and useful wintery June night and I feel confident that

many people are a little more prepared and aware of what is needed to gain the most benefit at their

proteacutegeacutes planning meeting beginning in March 2018 for those in Hume

The financial year ended on a very positive note with some knowledge

sharing by two experienced ex CA practioners Professor Zana Luttiffia

has been a CA Coordinator and board member at Winnipeg Canada she

has also completed her graduate training and postdoctoral work at the

Centre of Human Policy Syracuse University She joined the University

of Manitoba in 1992 Her longstanding research interest has been

identifying and examining the factors that help or hinder the valued

social participation of individuals with intellectual disabilities in

community life A couple of committee members and myself were able

to spend a delightful and informative few hours discussing good CA

practice and solving the problems of the world over dinner at Bridie Smiths home where we were

made to feel very welcomed by the whole family

Following our time with Zana the committee and I were given further insight into an important subject

by another ex-long term Coordinator this time Bob Lee from the Sunshine Coast who has a particular

interest and talent in delivering inspiring Citizen Advocacy presentations to community groups Bob

spoke to us on how he thinks we can be most effective in asking people to become a Citizen Advocate

for a vulnerable person and how you best present the persons situation and needs

15

Over the year we inevitably gain and loose people in the pro-

gram It was with great sadness that I had the task of informing

others connected with CA of the passing of two much loved

proteges firstly Daisey Serong and then shortly after Darren

Schembri Daisey was a proteacutegeacute with the program from its incep-

tion being an ex Caloola resident when her advocate Mary Day

would visit Daisey at Caloola with her young daughter and help

Daisey with her literacy and ensure life was a good as possible in

the large institution Daisey went on to be a strong self-advocate

with her brother John who passed away last year

Darren Shembri was also a long term proteacutegeacute who as a child spent time residing at St Nicholas home

for Intellectually disabled children until coming to live in the first CRU in Sunbury in 1985 Darren had

great resilience and an amazing personality His advocate Irene Nolte was always there for him both

in good and bad times ensuring his needs were met and acting as his voice whenever necessary the

bond between them was allways evident We were privileged to know both these people and they

will be remembered in so many positive and endearing ways

Citizen Advocacy is a team effort culminating in the matches that make up the CA Relationships Eve-

ryone has a role to play A big thanks to our admin assistant Melita who has had a mixed bag of tasks

and requests this year that she has taken in her stride Theresa our office volunteer has reorganised

our match files beautifully and made this part of the office tidier and more efficient

Our Committee of management are a hard-working detected

bunch Elizabeth Lynch decided to take a break from the

committee this year and we are eternally grateful for all the work

Elizabeth has put into our website that is now due for a revamp

Elizabeth remains involved in the program through being a

protege and has expressed an interest in coming on to the Key

Office Activities committee Our President Juan Carlos Rodrigues

does an excellent job of keeping everyone in order and on time

at committee meetings as well as helping to organise many activ-

ities outside of the office including the launch of our new logo

and our upcoming Christmas Dinner Our Vice president Alison

has done a lot to support the program and is also an advocate

but has recently had to step down due to the pressures of life

Angelo our secretary does

an excellent job of making

sure the agenda minutes and correspondence are on the table

ready for our committee meetings Irsquom pleased to say Angelo is

also about to become an advocate for someone well known to

the program and Angelorsquos broad knowledge and practical ad-

vice is greatly appreciated

16

Liz our treasurer and bookkeeper and general ldquojack of all trades ldquohas

bought the program back into the black and has been instrumental in

putting our program back into a healthy financial state Liz also recently

organised our new logo and was an advocate for a young woman in a

CRU Unfortunately for us Lizrsquos own business and growing workload has

made it too difficult to stay on as Treasurer but Irsquom glad to say Liz will

still be involved with us as our bookkeeper

After a short break from the committee Bridie has been back and is a

guardian of CA practice and principles developing her understanding by

attending the CA Study group and chairing the Key Office Activities

subcommittee More recently Tony Tanti who has been involved in the

program as an advocate has been attending committee meetings and his contribution and support on a

wide range of issues is greatly appreciated and valued

Thank you to everyone for all your hard work support and making this such a special program Above

all it has been an absolute honour working with the advocates and proteges of the program Watching

the bond and friendship between two people who often live very different lives develop and come to-

gether in a very beneficial way is both motivating and humbling

17

In January 2017 the Committee of Management (CoM) setup a Key Office Activities Sub-committee

(KOAs) to guide the program in working reflectively and purposefully in the practice of Citizen Advoca-

cy and to ensure an effective balance of the seven (7) Key Office Activities

A CA office which has an effective balance of activities will do enough of the right

thing at the right time to ensure that it will achieve its mission

from CAPE (Citizen Advocacy Practice Evaluation) Manual

The Key Office Activities are

bull Vision and Creativity in Proteacutegeacute Recruitment

bull Advocate Recruitment

bull Advocate Orientation

bull Advocate-Proteacutegeacute Matching

bull Follow-along and Support to Relationships

bull Ongoing Training

bull Emphasis on Advocate-associates

I had the honour of Chairing the KOAs this year and with David advocate Peter Rovers former CoM

member Mary Dight held the inaugural meeting in February 2017 Later in the year Proteacutegeacute and former

CoM member Elizabeth Lynch and Chairperson Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller joined us

Meetings are held at the office on the 4th Monday of the month from 10 am to noon We welcome ex-

pressions of interest from prospective new members with a keen interest in Citizen Advocacy

A heartfelt thanks to David Mary Peter Elizabeth and Juan Carlos for their wisdom and dedication I

look forward to continuing our contribution to the work of making many good CA matches in 2018

Bridie Smith

Key Office Activities Subcommittee

18

Identifying and Recruiting Proteacutegeacutes

bull A 16yo boy with ID and severe epilepsy and Dyspraxia Issues around hospital appointments and treatment at school

bull Women in early 20s residing in SRS suffering from severe chronic polytechnic arthritis and social isolated

bull Young man in Diggers Rest with fragile x syndrome and reluctant to leave house

bull Spoke to sergeant at Sunbury Police Station in regards to people with ID in trouble with the law

bull Presentation to Prioletti Work Education Group

bull Young woman living in Gisborne shared public housing has a learning disability

bull Young woman in Sunbury requiring social and employment support

bull Spoke to manager of Dallas Neighbourhood House

bull Spoke to CEO of Broadmeadows Disability Services

bull Young man in his early 30s recently relocating to Gisborne has mild intellectual disability ongoing mental health

issues and drug habit Requiring strong mentor and help with developing structure in his life

bull Woman in her 50s mild ID requiring assistance with preparing to relocate from inherited house

bull Spoke to Arabic Social Services

bull 21yo woman lives in Sunbury moderate ID Lives with separated parents Needs help with budgeting and banking

skills and accessing mainstream recreation

bull 24yo woman moderate ID lives in Diggers Rest with mother father recently died of cancer Wants help to access com-

munity opportunities No access to transport

bull Married couple with intellectual disability experiencing marital difficulties

Key Office Activities

The following are brief examples of the ldquoKey Office Activitiesrdquo for the 201617 year

0 1

8

59

14

Proteacutegeacute Age

0-20

21-30

31-40

41-50

51-60

61+

AGES Male Female

0-20 0 0

21-30 0 1

31-40 3 5

41-50 2 3

51-60 4 5

61+ 2 12

19

Advocate Recruitment

bull St Andrews Friendship Group

bull Young woman with marketing background

bull Vet nurse from Lancefield

bull Ex Committee member

bull Woodend accountant

bull Woman who runs a farm with Husband

bull Sunbury Probes

bull Member of Sunbury Historical society

bull Notices in the Whatrsquos On section of Sunbury Broadmeadow and

Macedon Ranges Leader

bull Rehab and Diabetes nurse recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Gisborne Menrsquos Shed

bull Retired Public Servant with experience in intellectual disability

and Mental Health

bull Relationships Councillor recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Various inquiries from Hume Volunteer Gateway

bull Various presentations to community and service groups

bull Presentations at Church groups

bull Sunbury Police

bull Sunfest Various people

bull Retired BBC employee

bull Retired Missionary

bull Middle aged teacherrsquos aide living in Mickleham

bull Presentation to Sunbury Aquatic Centre

bull Information to VicRoads

bull Retired Lecturer

Two new Advocate Associates Recruited one in the area of health and

diabetes prevention Other in the area counselling and mental health

TYPE OF ADVOCACY Male Female

Instrumental 2 2

Expressive 1 2

Both 8 22

OTHER DISABILITY Male Female

Yes 3 4

No 8 22

Advocate Orientation

Six full orientations completed throughout this period (one

potential advocate did not go on with matching)

6

201

4 6

Residential Situation

Family Home CRU Special Accomodation

Nursing Home Independently

RESIDENTIAL SITUATION Male Female

Family Home 3 3

CRU 7 13

Special Accomodation 0 1

Nursing Home 0 4

Independently 1 5

20

Advocate Proteacutegeacute Matching

Five new matches made this year

bull A quiet 32yo woman living independently in Sunbury who has difficulties around social interactions and se-

curing part time employment due to autistic tendencies was matched to woman of similar age who is out-

going This Advocate has a marketing background and is prepared to assist proteacutegeacute with CV how she presents

herself at job interviews and socialising including being a friend

bull Another 32yo woman this time living in Gisborne in shared public housing accommodation This woman has

a learning disability secondary to Kawasaki disease and required assistance gaining some level of financial in-

dependence hygiene health care and general life skills She was also being

financially exploited by her house mates Matched to a woman who helps manage the family farm and comes

from a large family where she has gained skills and experience in supporting her parents and siblings

bull After relocating to Gisborne with his parents in an effort to get away from bad influences and a drug habit a

33yo man with intellectual and psychiatric disability required someone to help develop

connections and positive relationships in his new community giving this young man an opportunity to start a

new life and structure to his day A retired senior public servant in Gisborne with experience of intellectual

and psychiatric disability within his family was recruited Within a short period of time the advocate was able

to befriend this young man gain his confidence and as a mentor direct and guide him towards community

activities whist at the same time ensure he gain what was required from his NDIS package and support and

help to represent him in a magistrates Court hearing

bull Following her advocate moving to Ballarat it was necessary to rematch a 58yo woman with previous learning

difficulties to a new advocate The ongoing issue was someone to support this woman emotionally and prac-

tically to prepare to sell her inherited house and look for something more appropriate and manageable A

retired local woman with a background in documentary production and working for the BBC stepped forward

following a notice in the local paper The friendship was instant and as the advocate has stated ldquomutually re-

wardingrdquo Work has begun in sorting and packing and thinking about future options with the assistance of the

advocate who has ensured the proteges sister interstate is kept informed Im glad to say the previous advo-

cate will also stay in touch and remain a friend

bull A 38yo woman who has severe intellectual disability lives in a local ldquoCommunity Residential Unitrdquo in Sunbury

This woman is totally reliant on the service system and without family or friends and therefore vulnerable and

requiring a freely given relationship to help ensure her Human rights are upheld This was another rematch

due to the heavy workload of the previous advocate Another local woman with vast experience in doing vol-

untary missionary work was recruited to continue the excellent work that had begun The advocate has a

strong sense of social justice and

empathy for those that have been

forgotten and devalued The advocate

is currently developing an understand-

ing of her proteges life and how best

to protect her and her best interests

Degree of Disability

Mild Moderate Profound

21

Follow-along and support of Existing Relationships

bull Several advocates looking into NDIS planning for their proteacutegeacute Attended relevant presentations

bull Advocate insuring proteacutegeacute does not go into a nursing Home prematurely

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with confusion and stress related to Centrelink payments

bull Advocate looking into medical problem for proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate supporting proteges to live independently

bull Advocate working through family issues with proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate proteacutegeacute in dealing with solicitor re probate

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during test for epilepsy

bull Advocate vising proteacutegeacute after moving from CRU

bull Advocate taking proteacutegeacute shopping and advising on how to shop wisely

bull Advocate attended Hospital throughout night after proteges were involved in a car accident

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with CV

bull Advocate organising LINK transport for proteges

bull Proteacutegeacute contacted whist Advocate in hospital

bull Advocate supported around issues with proteges mother

bull Advocate looking into age related issues for NDIS

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during very difficult and upsetting family issue involving possible pregnancy

bull Advocate assisting proteges making a will

bull Advocate supported and informed proteacutegeacute during NDIS planning meeting and later attended a court

hearing in relation to another matter

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with the preparing and sale of house

bull 3 Advocates unfortunately attended their proteges funerals One Advocate heavily involved in the service

funeral

COMMUNICATION Male Female

Verbal 5 17

Speech Difficulties 3 5

Non Verbal 3 4

2

1637

6

1 1 1

Proteacutegeacute Day Placement

Disability Enterprise Adult Day Training School Study

Unemployed Retired Employed

Excluded Home Duties

DAY PLACEMENTS Male Female

Disability Enterprise 2 0

Adult Day Training 4 12

School Study 0 3

Unemployed 3 4

Retired 2 4

Employed 0 1

Excluded 0 1

Home Duties 0 1

22

Treasurerrsquos Report Elizabeth Homann

I am pleased to present the financial report for the year ended 30th June 2017 One of the many aspects of good

governance is good financial administration and I am please to report that Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

has continued the work started in the 2014 - 2015 year to put us in a strong stable position

RESULTS FOR 2017 We received a pleasing report from the Auditor this year with no audit adjustments required to correct the financial

results as presented

The overall result for CA Sunbury for 2017 was a surplus of $1818087 a healthy increase of $747663 from the

previous year The Commonwealth funding that the program receives increased slightly and we were fortunate

enough to receive an additional $16293 from DSS in May This allowed us to make some long awaited purchases

run training for our advocates and send 2 people to the Network Meeting in Rockhampton Our expenses continue

to rise making it more of a challenge each year to achieve a break even position We achieved the surplus through

careful management of expenses and recognition that to continue to be sustainable new income streams must be

found For the 2016 -2017 year the Staff and Committee concentrated their efforts on fundraising and grants and

were rewarded for their hard work

The net equity as at 30 June 2017 was $2892980 an increase of $1818087 from the previous year and solid

position Cash on Hand totalled $7560888

Income Overall revenue increased by $3326191 (221) from the previous year

bull Gain (Loss) on Sale of fixed Asset

o The organisationrsquos car was disposed of during the year with a resulting surplus of $598562

bull Funding increased by 332 from the previous year

o During 2016 - 2017 CASampD had one funding agreement in place

bull The Department of Social Services - National Disability Advocacy Program

o An additional $16293 was received in May

bull Grants increased by 133 from the previous year

o We received a grant from State Trustees

o We received a grant from Hume City Council

bull Fundraising was received

o Fundraising was received in the form for donations

o Fundraising was raised through sausage sizzles trivia night and a raffle

bull Employee FBT contribution decreased by 525 from the previous year

o The FBT contribution ceased when the car was sold

23

Expenses

Overall expenses increased by $2582599 (183) from the previous year

bull Depreciation costs decreased by 192 from the previous year

There was no new fixed assets purchased during the year

Depreciation calculated on diminishing value method

bull Auditorrsquos Remuneration decreased by 193 from the previous year

There was no charge for the surveillance Quality Audit was carried out this year

A Relationship Review audit was carried out this year

bull Rent expenses increased by 154 from the previous year

Rent increased as per the lease agreement

bull Program expenses increased by 2846 from the previous year

Several advocate functions were held during the year

Social Role Valorisation training was run for the Advocates

bull Consultant expenses were incurred

A consultant was engaged to review and overhaul the program database

bull Wages increased by 15 from the previous year

Limited annual leave and no long service leave was taken during the year

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc will continue to be funded by the Department of Social Services until the 30

June 2018 After this time there will be a new service agreement in place

Income

Donations FBT Employee ContributionFundraising Grants (Commonwealth)Grants (Local) Grants (Other)Gain on Asset Interest Expenses

Administration Board Depreciation

Fundraising Motor Vehicle Program

Staff

24

Financial Statements

Contents

Statement by Committee

Profit and Loss Statement

Balance Sheet

Notes to the Financial Statement

Independent Auditorrsquos Report

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Committe Members Declaration

YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2017

The committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements

In the opinion of the committee the financial report

Presents a true and fair view of the associations financial position as at 30 June 2017

2 There are reasonable grounds to believe that the association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable

NAME ~ zo6e+h ~VYIOI) Committee Member

2017

14

In April it was time to think about some more fund raising again

A tried and tested venue is the local Bunnings Being Easter

Monday made it even more busy and profitable It was a great

day which not only helped us financially but also did a lot to

help raise awareness of people with disability and Citizen Advo-

cacy Four weeks later we entered into another venture with the

Progress Association at the Sunbury United Sporting Club where

we held a fundraising Trivia Night and split the proceeds

Another successful Advocate recruitment campaign during the year beginning in May and ongoing for

several weeks has been a small notice in the ldquoWHATS ONrdquo section of the local and Macedon Ranges

Leader This simple request asking for people to help make a difference in the life of someone with an

intellectual disability has had a very positive result with several people calling or dropping in to the

office I have so far been able to recruit and match 3 new advocates that began by responding to the

notice and hope to continue with other similar forms of awareness

The National Disability Insurance Scheme or ldquoNDISrdquo is the new national system for governments to

provide specialist disability supports to people with a significant and permanent disability Citizen Ad-

vocacy is not part of this new scheme but as part of our responsibility to advocatersquos we help provide

them with knowledge and resources to enable them to best support and inform their proteacutegeacute As

many proteacutegeacutes in the program are eligible to receive NDIS funding and their advocates would possibly

be involved in planning and attending meetings it was decided to engage Rick Ruiu from VALID to give

an informative and interactive NDIS presentation to our Advocates Proteacutegeacutes and other interested

relevant people This was a very successful and useful wintery June night and I feel confident that

many people are a little more prepared and aware of what is needed to gain the most benefit at their

proteacutegeacutes planning meeting beginning in March 2018 for those in Hume

The financial year ended on a very positive note with some knowledge

sharing by two experienced ex CA practioners Professor Zana Luttiffia

has been a CA Coordinator and board member at Winnipeg Canada she

has also completed her graduate training and postdoctoral work at the

Centre of Human Policy Syracuse University She joined the University

of Manitoba in 1992 Her longstanding research interest has been

identifying and examining the factors that help or hinder the valued

social participation of individuals with intellectual disabilities in

community life A couple of committee members and myself were able

to spend a delightful and informative few hours discussing good CA

practice and solving the problems of the world over dinner at Bridie Smiths home where we were

made to feel very welcomed by the whole family

Following our time with Zana the committee and I were given further insight into an important subject

by another ex-long term Coordinator this time Bob Lee from the Sunshine Coast who has a particular

interest and talent in delivering inspiring Citizen Advocacy presentations to community groups Bob

spoke to us on how he thinks we can be most effective in asking people to become a Citizen Advocate

for a vulnerable person and how you best present the persons situation and needs

15

Over the year we inevitably gain and loose people in the pro-

gram It was with great sadness that I had the task of informing

others connected with CA of the passing of two much loved

proteges firstly Daisey Serong and then shortly after Darren

Schembri Daisey was a proteacutegeacute with the program from its incep-

tion being an ex Caloola resident when her advocate Mary Day

would visit Daisey at Caloola with her young daughter and help

Daisey with her literacy and ensure life was a good as possible in

the large institution Daisey went on to be a strong self-advocate

with her brother John who passed away last year

Darren Shembri was also a long term proteacutegeacute who as a child spent time residing at St Nicholas home

for Intellectually disabled children until coming to live in the first CRU in Sunbury in 1985 Darren had

great resilience and an amazing personality His advocate Irene Nolte was always there for him both

in good and bad times ensuring his needs were met and acting as his voice whenever necessary the

bond between them was allways evident We were privileged to know both these people and they

will be remembered in so many positive and endearing ways

Citizen Advocacy is a team effort culminating in the matches that make up the CA Relationships Eve-

ryone has a role to play A big thanks to our admin assistant Melita who has had a mixed bag of tasks

and requests this year that she has taken in her stride Theresa our office volunteer has reorganised

our match files beautifully and made this part of the office tidier and more efficient

Our Committee of management are a hard-working detected

bunch Elizabeth Lynch decided to take a break from the

committee this year and we are eternally grateful for all the work

Elizabeth has put into our website that is now due for a revamp

Elizabeth remains involved in the program through being a

protege and has expressed an interest in coming on to the Key

Office Activities committee Our President Juan Carlos Rodrigues

does an excellent job of keeping everyone in order and on time

at committee meetings as well as helping to organise many activ-

ities outside of the office including the launch of our new logo

and our upcoming Christmas Dinner Our Vice president Alison

has done a lot to support the program and is also an advocate

but has recently had to step down due to the pressures of life

Angelo our secretary does

an excellent job of making

sure the agenda minutes and correspondence are on the table

ready for our committee meetings Irsquom pleased to say Angelo is

also about to become an advocate for someone well known to

the program and Angelorsquos broad knowledge and practical ad-

vice is greatly appreciated

16

Liz our treasurer and bookkeeper and general ldquojack of all trades ldquohas

bought the program back into the black and has been instrumental in

putting our program back into a healthy financial state Liz also recently

organised our new logo and was an advocate for a young woman in a

CRU Unfortunately for us Lizrsquos own business and growing workload has

made it too difficult to stay on as Treasurer but Irsquom glad to say Liz will

still be involved with us as our bookkeeper

After a short break from the committee Bridie has been back and is a

guardian of CA practice and principles developing her understanding by

attending the CA Study group and chairing the Key Office Activities

subcommittee More recently Tony Tanti who has been involved in the

program as an advocate has been attending committee meetings and his contribution and support on a

wide range of issues is greatly appreciated and valued

Thank you to everyone for all your hard work support and making this such a special program Above

all it has been an absolute honour working with the advocates and proteges of the program Watching

the bond and friendship between two people who often live very different lives develop and come to-

gether in a very beneficial way is both motivating and humbling

17

In January 2017 the Committee of Management (CoM) setup a Key Office Activities Sub-committee

(KOAs) to guide the program in working reflectively and purposefully in the practice of Citizen Advoca-

cy and to ensure an effective balance of the seven (7) Key Office Activities

A CA office which has an effective balance of activities will do enough of the right

thing at the right time to ensure that it will achieve its mission

from CAPE (Citizen Advocacy Practice Evaluation) Manual

The Key Office Activities are

bull Vision and Creativity in Proteacutegeacute Recruitment

bull Advocate Recruitment

bull Advocate Orientation

bull Advocate-Proteacutegeacute Matching

bull Follow-along and Support to Relationships

bull Ongoing Training

bull Emphasis on Advocate-associates

I had the honour of Chairing the KOAs this year and with David advocate Peter Rovers former CoM

member Mary Dight held the inaugural meeting in February 2017 Later in the year Proteacutegeacute and former

CoM member Elizabeth Lynch and Chairperson Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller joined us

Meetings are held at the office on the 4th Monday of the month from 10 am to noon We welcome ex-

pressions of interest from prospective new members with a keen interest in Citizen Advocacy

A heartfelt thanks to David Mary Peter Elizabeth and Juan Carlos for their wisdom and dedication I

look forward to continuing our contribution to the work of making many good CA matches in 2018

Bridie Smith

Key Office Activities Subcommittee

18

Identifying and Recruiting Proteacutegeacutes

bull A 16yo boy with ID and severe epilepsy and Dyspraxia Issues around hospital appointments and treatment at school

bull Women in early 20s residing in SRS suffering from severe chronic polytechnic arthritis and social isolated

bull Young man in Diggers Rest with fragile x syndrome and reluctant to leave house

bull Spoke to sergeant at Sunbury Police Station in regards to people with ID in trouble with the law

bull Presentation to Prioletti Work Education Group

bull Young woman living in Gisborne shared public housing has a learning disability

bull Young woman in Sunbury requiring social and employment support

bull Spoke to manager of Dallas Neighbourhood House

bull Spoke to CEO of Broadmeadows Disability Services

bull Young man in his early 30s recently relocating to Gisborne has mild intellectual disability ongoing mental health

issues and drug habit Requiring strong mentor and help with developing structure in his life

bull Woman in her 50s mild ID requiring assistance with preparing to relocate from inherited house

bull Spoke to Arabic Social Services

bull 21yo woman lives in Sunbury moderate ID Lives with separated parents Needs help with budgeting and banking

skills and accessing mainstream recreation

bull 24yo woman moderate ID lives in Diggers Rest with mother father recently died of cancer Wants help to access com-

munity opportunities No access to transport

bull Married couple with intellectual disability experiencing marital difficulties

Key Office Activities

The following are brief examples of the ldquoKey Office Activitiesrdquo for the 201617 year

0 1

8

59

14

Proteacutegeacute Age

0-20

21-30

31-40

41-50

51-60

61+

AGES Male Female

0-20 0 0

21-30 0 1

31-40 3 5

41-50 2 3

51-60 4 5

61+ 2 12

19

Advocate Recruitment

bull St Andrews Friendship Group

bull Young woman with marketing background

bull Vet nurse from Lancefield

bull Ex Committee member

bull Woodend accountant

bull Woman who runs a farm with Husband

bull Sunbury Probes

bull Member of Sunbury Historical society

bull Notices in the Whatrsquos On section of Sunbury Broadmeadow and

Macedon Ranges Leader

bull Rehab and Diabetes nurse recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Gisborne Menrsquos Shed

bull Retired Public Servant with experience in intellectual disability

and Mental Health

bull Relationships Councillor recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Various inquiries from Hume Volunteer Gateway

bull Various presentations to community and service groups

bull Presentations at Church groups

bull Sunbury Police

bull Sunfest Various people

bull Retired BBC employee

bull Retired Missionary

bull Middle aged teacherrsquos aide living in Mickleham

bull Presentation to Sunbury Aquatic Centre

bull Information to VicRoads

bull Retired Lecturer

Two new Advocate Associates Recruited one in the area of health and

diabetes prevention Other in the area counselling and mental health

TYPE OF ADVOCACY Male Female

Instrumental 2 2

Expressive 1 2

Both 8 22

OTHER DISABILITY Male Female

Yes 3 4

No 8 22

Advocate Orientation

Six full orientations completed throughout this period (one

potential advocate did not go on with matching)

6

201

4 6

Residential Situation

Family Home CRU Special Accomodation

Nursing Home Independently

RESIDENTIAL SITUATION Male Female

Family Home 3 3

CRU 7 13

Special Accomodation 0 1

Nursing Home 0 4

Independently 1 5

20

Advocate Proteacutegeacute Matching

Five new matches made this year

bull A quiet 32yo woman living independently in Sunbury who has difficulties around social interactions and se-

curing part time employment due to autistic tendencies was matched to woman of similar age who is out-

going This Advocate has a marketing background and is prepared to assist proteacutegeacute with CV how she presents

herself at job interviews and socialising including being a friend

bull Another 32yo woman this time living in Gisborne in shared public housing accommodation This woman has

a learning disability secondary to Kawasaki disease and required assistance gaining some level of financial in-

dependence hygiene health care and general life skills She was also being

financially exploited by her house mates Matched to a woman who helps manage the family farm and comes

from a large family where she has gained skills and experience in supporting her parents and siblings

bull After relocating to Gisborne with his parents in an effort to get away from bad influences and a drug habit a

33yo man with intellectual and psychiatric disability required someone to help develop

connections and positive relationships in his new community giving this young man an opportunity to start a

new life and structure to his day A retired senior public servant in Gisborne with experience of intellectual

and psychiatric disability within his family was recruited Within a short period of time the advocate was able

to befriend this young man gain his confidence and as a mentor direct and guide him towards community

activities whist at the same time ensure he gain what was required from his NDIS package and support and

help to represent him in a magistrates Court hearing

bull Following her advocate moving to Ballarat it was necessary to rematch a 58yo woman with previous learning

difficulties to a new advocate The ongoing issue was someone to support this woman emotionally and prac-

tically to prepare to sell her inherited house and look for something more appropriate and manageable A

retired local woman with a background in documentary production and working for the BBC stepped forward

following a notice in the local paper The friendship was instant and as the advocate has stated ldquomutually re-

wardingrdquo Work has begun in sorting and packing and thinking about future options with the assistance of the

advocate who has ensured the proteges sister interstate is kept informed Im glad to say the previous advo-

cate will also stay in touch and remain a friend

bull A 38yo woman who has severe intellectual disability lives in a local ldquoCommunity Residential Unitrdquo in Sunbury

This woman is totally reliant on the service system and without family or friends and therefore vulnerable and

requiring a freely given relationship to help ensure her Human rights are upheld This was another rematch

due to the heavy workload of the previous advocate Another local woman with vast experience in doing vol-

untary missionary work was recruited to continue the excellent work that had begun The advocate has a

strong sense of social justice and

empathy for those that have been

forgotten and devalued The advocate

is currently developing an understand-

ing of her proteges life and how best

to protect her and her best interests

Degree of Disability

Mild Moderate Profound

21

Follow-along and support of Existing Relationships

bull Several advocates looking into NDIS planning for their proteacutegeacute Attended relevant presentations

bull Advocate insuring proteacutegeacute does not go into a nursing Home prematurely

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with confusion and stress related to Centrelink payments

bull Advocate looking into medical problem for proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate supporting proteges to live independently

bull Advocate working through family issues with proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate proteacutegeacute in dealing with solicitor re probate

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during test for epilepsy

bull Advocate vising proteacutegeacute after moving from CRU

bull Advocate taking proteacutegeacute shopping and advising on how to shop wisely

bull Advocate attended Hospital throughout night after proteges were involved in a car accident

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with CV

bull Advocate organising LINK transport for proteges

bull Proteacutegeacute contacted whist Advocate in hospital

bull Advocate supported around issues with proteges mother

bull Advocate looking into age related issues for NDIS

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during very difficult and upsetting family issue involving possible pregnancy

bull Advocate assisting proteges making a will

bull Advocate supported and informed proteacutegeacute during NDIS planning meeting and later attended a court

hearing in relation to another matter

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with the preparing and sale of house

bull 3 Advocates unfortunately attended their proteges funerals One Advocate heavily involved in the service

funeral

COMMUNICATION Male Female

Verbal 5 17

Speech Difficulties 3 5

Non Verbal 3 4

2

1637

6

1 1 1

Proteacutegeacute Day Placement

Disability Enterprise Adult Day Training School Study

Unemployed Retired Employed

Excluded Home Duties

DAY PLACEMENTS Male Female

Disability Enterprise 2 0

Adult Day Training 4 12

School Study 0 3

Unemployed 3 4

Retired 2 4

Employed 0 1

Excluded 0 1

Home Duties 0 1

22

Treasurerrsquos Report Elizabeth Homann

I am pleased to present the financial report for the year ended 30th June 2017 One of the many aspects of good

governance is good financial administration and I am please to report that Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

has continued the work started in the 2014 - 2015 year to put us in a strong stable position

RESULTS FOR 2017 We received a pleasing report from the Auditor this year with no audit adjustments required to correct the financial

results as presented

The overall result for CA Sunbury for 2017 was a surplus of $1818087 a healthy increase of $747663 from the

previous year The Commonwealth funding that the program receives increased slightly and we were fortunate

enough to receive an additional $16293 from DSS in May This allowed us to make some long awaited purchases

run training for our advocates and send 2 people to the Network Meeting in Rockhampton Our expenses continue

to rise making it more of a challenge each year to achieve a break even position We achieved the surplus through

careful management of expenses and recognition that to continue to be sustainable new income streams must be

found For the 2016 -2017 year the Staff and Committee concentrated their efforts on fundraising and grants and

were rewarded for their hard work

The net equity as at 30 June 2017 was $2892980 an increase of $1818087 from the previous year and solid

position Cash on Hand totalled $7560888

Income Overall revenue increased by $3326191 (221) from the previous year

bull Gain (Loss) on Sale of fixed Asset

o The organisationrsquos car was disposed of during the year with a resulting surplus of $598562

bull Funding increased by 332 from the previous year

o During 2016 - 2017 CASampD had one funding agreement in place

bull The Department of Social Services - National Disability Advocacy Program

o An additional $16293 was received in May

bull Grants increased by 133 from the previous year

o We received a grant from State Trustees

o We received a grant from Hume City Council

bull Fundraising was received

o Fundraising was received in the form for donations

o Fundraising was raised through sausage sizzles trivia night and a raffle

bull Employee FBT contribution decreased by 525 from the previous year

o The FBT contribution ceased when the car was sold

23

Expenses

Overall expenses increased by $2582599 (183) from the previous year

bull Depreciation costs decreased by 192 from the previous year

There was no new fixed assets purchased during the year

Depreciation calculated on diminishing value method

bull Auditorrsquos Remuneration decreased by 193 from the previous year

There was no charge for the surveillance Quality Audit was carried out this year

A Relationship Review audit was carried out this year

bull Rent expenses increased by 154 from the previous year

Rent increased as per the lease agreement

bull Program expenses increased by 2846 from the previous year

Several advocate functions were held during the year

Social Role Valorisation training was run for the Advocates

bull Consultant expenses were incurred

A consultant was engaged to review and overhaul the program database

bull Wages increased by 15 from the previous year

Limited annual leave and no long service leave was taken during the year

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc will continue to be funded by the Department of Social Services until the 30

June 2018 After this time there will be a new service agreement in place

Income

Donations FBT Employee ContributionFundraising Grants (Commonwealth)Grants (Local) Grants (Other)Gain on Asset Interest Expenses

Administration Board Depreciation

Fundraising Motor Vehicle Program

Staff

24

Financial Statements

Contents

Statement by Committee

Profit and Loss Statement

Balance Sheet

Notes to the Financial Statement

Independent Auditorrsquos Report

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Committe Members Declaration

YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2017

The committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements

In the opinion of the committee the financial report

Presents a true and fair view of the associations financial position as at 30 June 2017

2 There are reasonable grounds to believe that the association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable

NAME ~ zo6e+h ~VYIOI) Committee Member

2017

15

Over the year we inevitably gain and loose people in the pro-

gram It was with great sadness that I had the task of informing

others connected with CA of the passing of two much loved

proteges firstly Daisey Serong and then shortly after Darren

Schembri Daisey was a proteacutegeacute with the program from its incep-

tion being an ex Caloola resident when her advocate Mary Day

would visit Daisey at Caloola with her young daughter and help

Daisey with her literacy and ensure life was a good as possible in

the large institution Daisey went on to be a strong self-advocate

with her brother John who passed away last year

Darren Shembri was also a long term proteacutegeacute who as a child spent time residing at St Nicholas home

for Intellectually disabled children until coming to live in the first CRU in Sunbury in 1985 Darren had

great resilience and an amazing personality His advocate Irene Nolte was always there for him both

in good and bad times ensuring his needs were met and acting as his voice whenever necessary the

bond between them was allways evident We were privileged to know both these people and they

will be remembered in so many positive and endearing ways

Citizen Advocacy is a team effort culminating in the matches that make up the CA Relationships Eve-

ryone has a role to play A big thanks to our admin assistant Melita who has had a mixed bag of tasks

and requests this year that she has taken in her stride Theresa our office volunteer has reorganised

our match files beautifully and made this part of the office tidier and more efficient

Our Committee of management are a hard-working detected

bunch Elizabeth Lynch decided to take a break from the

committee this year and we are eternally grateful for all the work

Elizabeth has put into our website that is now due for a revamp

Elizabeth remains involved in the program through being a

protege and has expressed an interest in coming on to the Key

Office Activities committee Our President Juan Carlos Rodrigues

does an excellent job of keeping everyone in order and on time

at committee meetings as well as helping to organise many activ-

ities outside of the office including the launch of our new logo

and our upcoming Christmas Dinner Our Vice president Alison

has done a lot to support the program and is also an advocate

but has recently had to step down due to the pressures of life

Angelo our secretary does

an excellent job of making

sure the agenda minutes and correspondence are on the table

ready for our committee meetings Irsquom pleased to say Angelo is

also about to become an advocate for someone well known to

the program and Angelorsquos broad knowledge and practical ad-

vice is greatly appreciated

16

Liz our treasurer and bookkeeper and general ldquojack of all trades ldquohas

bought the program back into the black and has been instrumental in

putting our program back into a healthy financial state Liz also recently

organised our new logo and was an advocate for a young woman in a

CRU Unfortunately for us Lizrsquos own business and growing workload has

made it too difficult to stay on as Treasurer but Irsquom glad to say Liz will

still be involved with us as our bookkeeper

After a short break from the committee Bridie has been back and is a

guardian of CA practice and principles developing her understanding by

attending the CA Study group and chairing the Key Office Activities

subcommittee More recently Tony Tanti who has been involved in the

program as an advocate has been attending committee meetings and his contribution and support on a

wide range of issues is greatly appreciated and valued

Thank you to everyone for all your hard work support and making this such a special program Above

all it has been an absolute honour working with the advocates and proteges of the program Watching

the bond and friendship between two people who often live very different lives develop and come to-

gether in a very beneficial way is both motivating and humbling

17

In January 2017 the Committee of Management (CoM) setup a Key Office Activities Sub-committee

(KOAs) to guide the program in working reflectively and purposefully in the practice of Citizen Advoca-

cy and to ensure an effective balance of the seven (7) Key Office Activities

A CA office which has an effective balance of activities will do enough of the right

thing at the right time to ensure that it will achieve its mission

from CAPE (Citizen Advocacy Practice Evaluation) Manual

The Key Office Activities are

bull Vision and Creativity in Proteacutegeacute Recruitment

bull Advocate Recruitment

bull Advocate Orientation

bull Advocate-Proteacutegeacute Matching

bull Follow-along and Support to Relationships

bull Ongoing Training

bull Emphasis on Advocate-associates

I had the honour of Chairing the KOAs this year and with David advocate Peter Rovers former CoM

member Mary Dight held the inaugural meeting in February 2017 Later in the year Proteacutegeacute and former

CoM member Elizabeth Lynch and Chairperson Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller joined us

Meetings are held at the office on the 4th Monday of the month from 10 am to noon We welcome ex-

pressions of interest from prospective new members with a keen interest in Citizen Advocacy

A heartfelt thanks to David Mary Peter Elizabeth and Juan Carlos for their wisdom and dedication I

look forward to continuing our contribution to the work of making many good CA matches in 2018

Bridie Smith

Key Office Activities Subcommittee

18

Identifying and Recruiting Proteacutegeacutes

bull A 16yo boy with ID and severe epilepsy and Dyspraxia Issues around hospital appointments and treatment at school

bull Women in early 20s residing in SRS suffering from severe chronic polytechnic arthritis and social isolated

bull Young man in Diggers Rest with fragile x syndrome and reluctant to leave house

bull Spoke to sergeant at Sunbury Police Station in regards to people with ID in trouble with the law

bull Presentation to Prioletti Work Education Group

bull Young woman living in Gisborne shared public housing has a learning disability

bull Young woman in Sunbury requiring social and employment support

bull Spoke to manager of Dallas Neighbourhood House

bull Spoke to CEO of Broadmeadows Disability Services

bull Young man in his early 30s recently relocating to Gisborne has mild intellectual disability ongoing mental health

issues and drug habit Requiring strong mentor and help with developing structure in his life

bull Woman in her 50s mild ID requiring assistance with preparing to relocate from inherited house

bull Spoke to Arabic Social Services

bull 21yo woman lives in Sunbury moderate ID Lives with separated parents Needs help with budgeting and banking

skills and accessing mainstream recreation

bull 24yo woman moderate ID lives in Diggers Rest with mother father recently died of cancer Wants help to access com-

munity opportunities No access to transport

bull Married couple with intellectual disability experiencing marital difficulties

Key Office Activities

The following are brief examples of the ldquoKey Office Activitiesrdquo for the 201617 year

0 1

8

59

14

Proteacutegeacute Age

0-20

21-30

31-40

41-50

51-60

61+

AGES Male Female

0-20 0 0

21-30 0 1

31-40 3 5

41-50 2 3

51-60 4 5

61+ 2 12

19

Advocate Recruitment

bull St Andrews Friendship Group

bull Young woman with marketing background

bull Vet nurse from Lancefield

bull Ex Committee member

bull Woodend accountant

bull Woman who runs a farm with Husband

bull Sunbury Probes

bull Member of Sunbury Historical society

bull Notices in the Whatrsquos On section of Sunbury Broadmeadow and

Macedon Ranges Leader

bull Rehab and Diabetes nurse recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Gisborne Menrsquos Shed

bull Retired Public Servant with experience in intellectual disability

and Mental Health

bull Relationships Councillor recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Various inquiries from Hume Volunteer Gateway

bull Various presentations to community and service groups

bull Presentations at Church groups

bull Sunbury Police

bull Sunfest Various people

bull Retired BBC employee

bull Retired Missionary

bull Middle aged teacherrsquos aide living in Mickleham

bull Presentation to Sunbury Aquatic Centre

bull Information to VicRoads

bull Retired Lecturer

Two new Advocate Associates Recruited one in the area of health and

diabetes prevention Other in the area counselling and mental health

TYPE OF ADVOCACY Male Female

Instrumental 2 2

Expressive 1 2

Both 8 22

OTHER DISABILITY Male Female

Yes 3 4

No 8 22

Advocate Orientation

Six full orientations completed throughout this period (one

potential advocate did not go on with matching)

6

201

4 6

Residential Situation

Family Home CRU Special Accomodation

Nursing Home Independently

RESIDENTIAL SITUATION Male Female

Family Home 3 3

CRU 7 13

Special Accomodation 0 1

Nursing Home 0 4

Independently 1 5

20

Advocate Proteacutegeacute Matching

Five new matches made this year

bull A quiet 32yo woman living independently in Sunbury who has difficulties around social interactions and se-

curing part time employment due to autistic tendencies was matched to woman of similar age who is out-

going This Advocate has a marketing background and is prepared to assist proteacutegeacute with CV how she presents

herself at job interviews and socialising including being a friend

bull Another 32yo woman this time living in Gisborne in shared public housing accommodation This woman has

a learning disability secondary to Kawasaki disease and required assistance gaining some level of financial in-

dependence hygiene health care and general life skills She was also being

financially exploited by her house mates Matched to a woman who helps manage the family farm and comes

from a large family where she has gained skills and experience in supporting her parents and siblings

bull After relocating to Gisborne with his parents in an effort to get away from bad influences and a drug habit a

33yo man with intellectual and psychiatric disability required someone to help develop

connections and positive relationships in his new community giving this young man an opportunity to start a

new life and structure to his day A retired senior public servant in Gisborne with experience of intellectual

and psychiatric disability within his family was recruited Within a short period of time the advocate was able

to befriend this young man gain his confidence and as a mentor direct and guide him towards community

activities whist at the same time ensure he gain what was required from his NDIS package and support and

help to represent him in a magistrates Court hearing

bull Following her advocate moving to Ballarat it was necessary to rematch a 58yo woman with previous learning

difficulties to a new advocate The ongoing issue was someone to support this woman emotionally and prac-

tically to prepare to sell her inherited house and look for something more appropriate and manageable A

retired local woman with a background in documentary production and working for the BBC stepped forward

following a notice in the local paper The friendship was instant and as the advocate has stated ldquomutually re-

wardingrdquo Work has begun in sorting and packing and thinking about future options with the assistance of the

advocate who has ensured the proteges sister interstate is kept informed Im glad to say the previous advo-

cate will also stay in touch and remain a friend

bull A 38yo woman who has severe intellectual disability lives in a local ldquoCommunity Residential Unitrdquo in Sunbury

This woman is totally reliant on the service system and without family or friends and therefore vulnerable and

requiring a freely given relationship to help ensure her Human rights are upheld This was another rematch

due to the heavy workload of the previous advocate Another local woman with vast experience in doing vol-

untary missionary work was recruited to continue the excellent work that had begun The advocate has a

strong sense of social justice and

empathy for those that have been

forgotten and devalued The advocate

is currently developing an understand-

ing of her proteges life and how best

to protect her and her best interests

Degree of Disability

Mild Moderate Profound

21

Follow-along and support of Existing Relationships

bull Several advocates looking into NDIS planning for their proteacutegeacute Attended relevant presentations

bull Advocate insuring proteacutegeacute does not go into a nursing Home prematurely

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with confusion and stress related to Centrelink payments

bull Advocate looking into medical problem for proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate supporting proteges to live independently

bull Advocate working through family issues with proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate proteacutegeacute in dealing with solicitor re probate

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during test for epilepsy

bull Advocate vising proteacutegeacute after moving from CRU

bull Advocate taking proteacutegeacute shopping and advising on how to shop wisely

bull Advocate attended Hospital throughout night after proteges were involved in a car accident

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with CV

bull Advocate organising LINK transport for proteges

bull Proteacutegeacute contacted whist Advocate in hospital

bull Advocate supported around issues with proteges mother

bull Advocate looking into age related issues for NDIS

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during very difficult and upsetting family issue involving possible pregnancy

bull Advocate assisting proteges making a will

bull Advocate supported and informed proteacutegeacute during NDIS planning meeting and later attended a court

hearing in relation to another matter

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with the preparing and sale of house

bull 3 Advocates unfortunately attended their proteges funerals One Advocate heavily involved in the service

funeral

COMMUNICATION Male Female

Verbal 5 17

Speech Difficulties 3 5

Non Verbal 3 4

2

1637

6

1 1 1

Proteacutegeacute Day Placement

Disability Enterprise Adult Day Training School Study

Unemployed Retired Employed

Excluded Home Duties

DAY PLACEMENTS Male Female

Disability Enterprise 2 0

Adult Day Training 4 12

School Study 0 3

Unemployed 3 4

Retired 2 4

Employed 0 1

Excluded 0 1

Home Duties 0 1

22

Treasurerrsquos Report Elizabeth Homann

I am pleased to present the financial report for the year ended 30th June 2017 One of the many aspects of good

governance is good financial administration and I am please to report that Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

has continued the work started in the 2014 - 2015 year to put us in a strong stable position

RESULTS FOR 2017 We received a pleasing report from the Auditor this year with no audit adjustments required to correct the financial

results as presented

The overall result for CA Sunbury for 2017 was a surplus of $1818087 a healthy increase of $747663 from the

previous year The Commonwealth funding that the program receives increased slightly and we were fortunate

enough to receive an additional $16293 from DSS in May This allowed us to make some long awaited purchases

run training for our advocates and send 2 people to the Network Meeting in Rockhampton Our expenses continue

to rise making it more of a challenge each year to achieve a break even position We achieved the surplus through

careful management of expenses and recognition that to continue to be sustainable new income streams must be

found For the 2016 -2017 year the Staff and Committee concentrated their efforts on fundraising and grants and

were rewarded for their hard work

The net equity as at 30 June 2017 was $2892980 an increase of $1818087 from the previous year and solid

position Cash on Hand totalled $7560888

Income Overall revenue increased by $3326191 (221) from the previous year

bull Gain (Loss) on Sale of fixed Asset

o The organisationrsquos car was disposed of during the year with a resulting surplus of $598562

bull Funding increased by 332 from the previous year

o During 2016 - 2017 CASampD had one funding agreement in place

bull The Department of Social Services - National Disability Advocacy Program

o An additional $16293 was received in May

bull Grants increased by 133 from the previous year

o We received a grant from State Trustees

o We received a grant from Hume City Council

bull Fundraising was received

o Fundraising was received in the form for donations

o Fundraising was raised through sausage sizzles trivia night and a raffle

bull Employee FBT contribution decreased by 525 from the previous year

o The FBT contribution ceased when the car was sold

23

Expenses

Overall expenses increased by $2582599 (183) from the previous year

bull Depreciation costs decreased by 192 from the previous year

There was no new fixed assets purchased during the year

Depreciation calculated on diminishing value method

bull Auditorrsquos Remuneration decreased by 193 from the previous year

There was no charge for the surveillance Quality Audit was carried out this year

A Relationship Review audit was carried out this year

bull Rent expenses increased by 154 from the previous year

Rent increased as per the lease agreement

bull Program expenses increased by 2846 from the previous year

Several advocate functions were held during the year

Social Role Valorisation training was run for the Advocates

bull Consultant expenses were incurred

A consultant was engaged to review and overhaul the program database

bull Wages increased by 15 from the previous year

Limited annual leave and no long service leave was taken during the year

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc will continue to be funded by the Department of Social Services until the 30

June 2018 After this time there will be a new service agreement in place

Income

Donations FBT Employee ContributionFundraising Grants (Commonwealth)Grants (Local) Grants (Other)Gain on Asset Interest Expenses

Administration Board Depreciation

Fundraising Motor Vehicle Program

Staff

24

Financial Statements

Contents

Statement by Committee

Profit and Loss Statement

Balance Sheet

Notes to the Financial Statement

Independent Auditorrsquos Report

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Committe Members Declaration

YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2017

The committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements

In the opinion of the committee the financial report

Presents a true and fair view of the associations financial position as at 30 June 2017

2 There are reasonable grounds to believe that the association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable

NAME ~ zo6e+h ~VYIOI) Committee Member

2017

16

Liz our treasurer and bookkeeper and general ldquojack of all trades ldquohas

bought the program back into the black and has been instrumental in

putting our program back into a healthy financial state Liz also recently

organised our new logo and was an advocate for a young woman in a

CRU Unfortunately for us Lizrsquos own business and growing workload has

made it too difficult to stay on as Treasurer but Irsquom glad to say Liz will

still be involved with us as our bookkeeper

After a short break from the committee Bridie has been back and is a

guardian of CA practice and principles developing her understanding by

attending the CA Study group and chairing the Key Office Activities

subcommittee More recently Tony Tanti who has been involved in the

program as an advocate has been attending committee meetings and his contribution and support on a

wide range of issues is greatly appreciated and valued

Thank you to everyone for all your hard work support and making this such a special program Above

all it has been an absolute honour working with the advocates and proteges of the program Watching

the bond and friendship between two people who often live very different lives develop and come to-

gether in a very beneficial way is both motivating and humbling

17

In January 2017 the Committee of Management (CoM) setup a Key Office Activities Sub-committee

(KOAs) to guide the program in working reflectively and purposefully in the practice of Citizen Advoca-

cy and to ensure an effective balance of the seven (7) Key Office Activities

A CA office which has an effective balance of activities will do enough of the right

thing at the right time to ensure that it will achieve its mission

from CAPE (Citizen Advocacy Practice Evaluation) Manual

The Key Office Activities are

bull Vision and Creativity in Proteacutegeacute Recruitment

bull Advocate Recruitment

bull Advocate Orientation

bull Advocate-Proteacutegeacute Matching

bull Follow-along and Support to Relationships

bull Ongoing Training

bull Emphasis on Advocate-associates

I had the honour of Chairing the KOAs this year and with David advocate Peter Rovers former CoM

member Mary Dight held the inaugural meeting in February 2017 Later in the year Proteacutegeacute and former

CoM member Elizabeth Lynch and Chairperson Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller joined us

Meetings are held at the office on the 4th Monday of the month from 10 am to noon We welcome ex-

pressions of interest from prospective new members with a keen interest in Citizen Advocacy

A heartfelt thanks to David Mary Peter Elizabeth and Juan Carlos for their wisdom and dedication I

look forward to continuing our contribution to the work of making many good CA matches in 2018

Bridie Smith

Key Office Activities Subcommittee

18

Identifying and Recruiting Proteacutegeacutes

bull A 16yo boy with ID and severe epilepsy and Dyspraxia Issues around hospital appointments and treatment at school

bull Women in early 20s residing in SRS suffering from severe chronic polytechnic arthritis and social isolated

bull Young man in Diggers Rest with fragile x syndrome and reluctant to leave house

bull Spoke to sergeant at Sunbury Police Station in regards to people with ID in trouble with the law

bull Presentation to Prioletti Work Education Group

bull Young woman living in Gisborne shared public housing has a learning disability

bull Young woman in Sunbury requiring social and employment support

bull Spoke to manager of Dallas Neighbourhood House

bull Spoke to CEO of Broadmeadows Disability Services

bull Young man in his early 30s recently relocating to Gisborne has mild intellectual disability ongoing mental health

issues and drug habit Requiring strong mentor and help with developing structure in his life

bull Woman in her 50s mild ID requiring assistance with preparing to relocate from inherited house

bull Spoke to Arabic Social Services

bull 21yo woman lives in Sunbury moderate ID Lives with separated parents Needs help with budgeting and banking

skills and accessing mainstream recreation

bull 24yo woman moderate ID lives in Diggers Rest with mother father recently died of cancer Wants help to access com-

munity opportunities No access to transport

bull Married couple with intellectual disability experiencing marital difficulties

Key Office Activities

The following are brief examples of the ldquoKey Office Activitiesrdquo for the 201617 year

0 1

8

59

14

Proteacutegeacute Age

0-20

21-30

31-40

41-50

51-60

61+

AGES Male Female

0-20 0 0

21-30 0 1

31-40 3 5

41-50 2 3

51-60 4 5

61+ 2 12

19

Advocate Recruitment

bull St Andrews Friendship Group

bull Young woman with marketing background

bull Vet nurse from Lancefield

bull Ex Committee member

bull Woodend accountant

bull Woman who runs a farm with Husband

bull Sunbury Probes

bull Member of Sunbury Historical society

bull Notices in the Whatrsquos On section of Sunbury Broadmeadow and

Macedon Ranges Leader

bull Rehab and Diabetes nurse recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Gisborne Menrsquos Shed

bull Retired Public Servant with experience in intellectual disability

and Mental Health

bull Relationships Councillor recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Various inquiries from Hume Volunteer Gateway

bull Various presentations to community and service groups

bull Presentations at Church groups

bull Sunbury Police

bull Sunfest Various people

bull Retired BBC employee

bull Retired Missionary

bull Middle aged teacherrsquos aide living in Mickleham

bull Presentation to Sunbury Aquatic Centre

bull Information to VicRoads

bull Retired Lecturer

Two new Advocate Associates Recruited one in the area of health and

diabetes prevention Other in the area counselling and mental health

TYPE OF ADVOCACY Male Female

Instrumental 2 2

Expressive 1 2

Both 8 22

OTHER DISABILITY Male Female

Yes 3 4

No 8 22

Advocate Orientation

Six full orientations completed throughout this period (one

potential advocate did not go on with matching)

6

201

4 6

Residential Situation

Family Home CRU Special Accomodation

Nursing Home Independently

RESIDENTIAL SITUATION Male Female

Family Home 3 3

CRU 7 13

Special Accomodation 0 1

Nursing Home 0 4

Independently 1 5

20

Advocate Proteacutegeacute Matching

Five new matches made this year

bull A quiet 32yo woman living independently in Sunbury who has difficulties around social interactions and se-

curing part time employment due to autistic tendencies was matched to woman of similar age who is out-

going This Advocate has a marketing background and is prepared to assist proteacutegeacute with CV how she presents

herself at job interviews and socialising including being a friend

bull Another 32yo woman this time living in Gisborne in shared public housing accommodation This woman has

a learning disability secondary to Kawasaki disease and required assistance gaining some level of financial in-

dependence hygiene health care and general life skills She was also being

financially exploited by her house mates Matched to a woman who helps manage the family farm and comes

from a large family where she has gained skills and experience in supporting her parents and siblings

bull After relocating to Gisborne with his parents in an effort to get away from bad influences and a drug habit a

33yo man with intellectual and psychiatric disability required someone to help develop

connections and positive relationships in his new community giving this young man an opportunity to start a

new life and structure to his day A retired senior public servant in Gisborne with experience of intellectual

and psychiatric disability within his family was recruited Within a short period of time the advocate was able

to befriend this young man gain his confidence and as a mentor direct and guide him towards community

activities whist at the same time ensure he gain what was required from his NDIS package and support and

help to represent him in a magistrates Court hearing

bull Following her advocate moving to Ballarat it was necessary to rematch a 58yo woman with previous learning

difficulties to a new advocate The ongoing issue was someone to support this woman emotionally and prac-

tically to prepare to sell her inherited house and look for something more appropriate and manageable A

retired local woman with a background in documentary production and working for the BBC stepped forward

following a notice in the local paper The friendship was instant and as the advocate has stated ldquomutually re-

wardingrdquo Work has begun in sorting and packing and thinking about future options with the assistance of the

advocate who has ensured the proteges sister interstate is kept informed Im glad to say the previous advo-

cate will also stay in touch and remain a friend

bull A 38yo woman who has severe intellectual disability lives in a local ldquoCommunity Residential Unitrdquo in Sunbury

This woman is totally reliant on the service system and without family or friends and therefore vulnerable and

requiring a freely given relationship to help ensure her Human rights are upheld This was another rematch

due to the heavy workload of the previous advocate Another local woman with vast experience in doing vol-

untary missionary work was recruited to continue the excellent work that had begun The advocate has a

strong sense of social justice and

empathy for those that have been

forgotten and devalued The advocate

is currently developing an understand-

ing of her proteges life and how best

to protect her and her best interests

Degree of Disability

Mild Moderate Profound

21

Follow-along and support of Existing Relationships

bull Several advocates looking into NDIS planning for their proteacutegeacute Attended relevant presentations

bull Advocate insuring proteacutegeacute does not go into a nursing Home prematurely

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with confusion and stress related to Centrelink payments

bull Advocate looking into medical problem for proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate supporting proteges to live independently

bull Advocate working through family issues with proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate proteacutegeacute in dealing with solicitor re probate

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during test for epilepsy

bull Advocate vising proteacutegeacute after moving from CRU

bull Advocate taking proteacutegeacute shopping and advising on how to shop wisely

bull Advocate attended Hospital throughout night after proteges were involved in a car accident

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with CV

bull Advocate organising LINK transport for proteges

bull Proteacutegeacute contacted whist Advocate in hospital

bull Advocate supported around issues with proteges mother

bull Advocate looking into age related issues for NDIS

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during very difficult and upsetting family issue involving possible pregnancy

bull Advocate assisting proteges making a will

bull Advocate supported and informed proteacutegeacute during NDIS planning meeting and later attended a court

hearing in relation to another matter

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with the preparing and sale of house

bull 3 Advocates unfortunately attended their proteges funerals One Advocate heavily involved in the service

funeral

COMMUNICATION Male Female

Verbal 5 17

Speech Difficulties 3 5

Non Verbal 3 4

2

1637

6

1 1 1

Proteacutegeacute Day Placement

Disability Enterprise Adult Day Training School Study

Unemployed Retired Employed

Excluded Home Duties

DAY PLACEMENTS Male Female

Disability Enterprise 2 0

Adult Day Training 4 12

School Study 0 3

Unemployed 3 4

Retired 2 4

Employed 0 1

Excluded 0 1

Home Duties 0 1

22

Treasurerrsquos Report Elizabeth Homann

I am pleased to present the financial report for the year ended 30th June 2017 One of the many aspects of good

governance is good financial administration and I am please to report that Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

has continued the work started in the 2014 - 2015 year to put us in a strong stable position

RESULTS FOR 2017 We received a pleasing report from the Auditor this year with no audit adjustments required to correct the financial

results as presented

The overall result for CA Sunbury for 2017 was a surplus of $1818087 a healthy increase of $747663 from the

previous year The Commonwealth funding that the program receives increased slightly and we were fortunate

enough to receive an additional $16293 from DSS in May This allowed us to make some long awaited purchases

run training for our advocates and send 2 people to the Network Meeting in Rockhampton Our expenses continue

to rise making it more of a challenge each year to achieve a break even position We achieved the surplus through

careful management of expenses and recognition that to continue to be sustainable new income streams must be

found For the 2016 -2017 year the Staff and Committee concentrated their efforts on fundraising and grants and

were rewarded for their hard work

The net equity as at 30 June 2017 was $2892980 an increase of $1818087 from the previous year and solid

position Cash on Hand totalled $7560888

Income Overall revenue increased by $3326191 (221) from the previous year

bull Gain (Loss) on Sale of fixed Asset

o The organisationrsquos car was disposed of during the year with a resulting surplus of $598562

bull Funding increased by 332 from the previous year

o During 2016 - 2017 CASampD had one funding agreement in place

bull The Department of Social Services - National Disability Advocacy Program

o An additional $16293 was received in May

bull Grants increased by 133 from the previous year

o We received a grant from State Trustees

o We received a grant from Hume City Council

bull Fundraising was received

o Fundraising was received in the form for donations

o Fundraising was raised through sausage sizzles trivia night and a raffle

bull Employee FBT contribution decreased by 525 from the previous year

o The FBT contribution ceased when the car was sold

23

Expenses

Overall expenses increased by $2582599 (183) from the previous year

bull Depreciation costs decreased by 192 from the previous year

There was no new fixed assets purchased during the year

Depreciation calculated on diminishing value method

bull Auditorrsquos Remuneration decreased by 193 from the previous year

There was no charge for the surveillance Quality Audit was carried out this year

A Relationship Review audit was carried out this year

bull Rent expenses increased by 154 from the previous year

Rent increased as per the lease agreement

bull Program expenses increased by 2846 from the previous year

Several advocate functions were held during the year

Social Role Valorisation training was run for the Advocates

bull Consultant expenses were incurred

A consultant was engaged to review and overhaul the program database

bull Wages increased by 15 from the previous year

Limited annual leave and no long service leave was taken during the year

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc will continue to be funded by the Department of Social Services until the 30

June 2018 After this time there will be a new service agreement in place

Income

Donations FBT Employee ContributionFundraising Grants (Commonwealth)Grants (Local) Grants (Other)Gain on Asset Interest Expenses

Administration Board Depreciation

Fundraising Motor Vehicle Program

Staff

24

Financial Statements

Contents

Statement by Committee

Profit and Loss Statement

Balance Sheet

Notes to the Financial Statement

Independent Auditorrsquos Report

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Committe Members Declaration

YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2017

The committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements

In the opinion of the committee the financial report

Presents a true and fair view of the associations financial position as at 30 June 2017

2 There are reasonable grounds to believe that the association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable

NAME ~ zo6e+h ~VYIOI) Committee Member

2017

17

In January 2017 the Committee of Management (CoM) setup a Key Office Activities Sub-committee

(KOAs) to guide the program in working reflectively and purposefully in the practice of Citizen Advoca-

cy and to ensure an effective balance of the seven (7) Key Office Activities

A CA office which has an effective balance of activities will do enough of the right

thing at the right time to ensure that it will achieve its mission

from CAPE (Citizen Advocacy Practice Evaluation) Manual

The Key Office Activities are

bull Vision and Creativity in Proteacutegeacute Recruitment

bull Advocate Recruitment

bull Advocate Orientation

bull Advocate-Proteacutegeacute Matching

bull Follow-along and Support to Relationships

bull Ongoing Training

bull Emphasis on Advocate-associates

I had the honour of Chairing the KOAs this year and with David advocate Peter Rovers former CoM

member Mary Dight held the inaugural meeting in February 2017 Later in the year Proteacutegeacute and former

CoM member Elizabeth Lynch and Chairperson Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Deller joined us

Meetings are held at the office on the 4th Monday of the month from 10 am to noon We welcome ex-

pressions of interest from prospective new members with a keen interest in Citizen Advocacy

A heartfelt thanks to David Mary Peter Elizabeth and Juan Carlos for their wisdom and dedication I

look forward to continuing our contribution to the work of making many good CA matches in 2018

Bridie Smith

Key Office Activities Subcommittee

18

Identifying and Recruiting Proteacutegeacutes

bull A 16yo boy with ID and severe epilepsy and Dyspraxia Issues around hospital appointments and treatment at school

bull Women in early 20s residing in SRS suffering from severe chronic polytechnic arthritis and social isolated

bull Young man in Diggers Rest with fragile x syndrome and reluctant to leave house

bull Spoke to sergeant at Sunbury Police Station in regards to people with ID in trouble with the law

bull Presentation to Prioletti Work Education Group

bull Young woman living in Gisborne shared public housing has a learning disability

bull Young woman in Sunbury requiring social and employment support

bull Spoke to manager of Dallas Neighbourhood House

bull Spoke to CEO of Broadmeadows Disability Services

bull Young man in his early 30s recently relocating to Gisborne has mild intellectual disability ongoing mental health

issues and drug habit Requiring strong mentor and help with developing structure in his life

bull Woman in her 50s mild ID requiring assistance with preparing to relocate from inherited house

bull Spoke to Arabic Social Services

bull 21yo woman lives in Sunbury moderate ID Lives with separated parents Needs help with budgeting and banking

skills and accessing mainstream recreation

bull 24yo woman moderate ID lives in Diggers Rest with mother father recently died of cancer Wants help to access com-

munity opportunities No access to transport

bull Married couple with intellectual disability experiencing marital difficulties

Key Office Activities

The following are brief examples of the ldquoKey Office Activitiesrdquo for the 201617 year

0 1

8

59

14

Proteacutegeacute Age

0-20

21-30

31-40

41-50

51-60

61+

AGES Male Female

0-20 0 0

21-30 0 1

31-40 3 5

41-50 2 3

51-60 4 5

61+ 2 12

19

Advocate Recruitment

bull St Andrews Friendship Group

bull Young woman with marketing background

bull Vet nurse from Lancefield

bull Ex Committee member

bull Woodend accountant

bull Woman who runs a farm with Husband

bull Sunbury Probes

bull Member of Sunbury Historical society

bull Notices in the Whatrsquos On section of Sunbury Broadmeadow and

Macedon Ranges Leader

bull Rehab and Diabetes nurse recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Gisborne Menrsquos Shed

bull Retired Public Servant with experience in intellectual disability

and Mental Health

bull Relationships Councillor recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Various inquiries from Hume Volunteer Gateway

bull Various presentations to community and service groups

bull Presentations at Church groups

bull Sunbury Police

bull Sunfest Various people

bull Retired BBC employee

bull Retired Missionary

bull Middle aged teacherrsquos aide living in Mickleham

bull Presentation to Sunbury Aquatic Centre

bull Information to VicRoads

bull Retired Lecturer

Two new Advocate Associates Recruited one in the area of health and

diabetes prevention Other in the area counselling and mental health

TYPE OF ADVOCACY Male Female

Instrumental 2 2

Expressive 1 2

Both 8 22

OTHER DISABILITY Male Female

Yes 3 4

No 8 22

Advocate Orientation

Six full orientations completed throughout this period (one

potential advocate did not go on with matching)

6

201

4 6

Residential Situation

Family Home CRU Special Accomodation

Nursing Home Independently

RESIDENTIAL SITUATION Male Female

Family Home 3 3

CRU 7 13

Special Accomodation 0 1

Nursing Home 0 4

Independently 1 5

20

Advocate Proteacutegeacute Matching

Five new matches made this year

bull A quiet 32yo woman living independently in Sunbury who has difficulties around social interactions and se-

curing part time employment due to autistic tendencies was matched to woman of similar age who is out-

going This Advocate has a marketing background and is prepared to assist proteacutegeacute with CV how she presents

herself at job interviews and socialising including being a friend

bull Another 32yo woman this time living in Gisborne in shared public housing accommodation This woman has

a learning disability secondary to Kawasaki disease and required assistance gaining some level of financial in-

dependence hygiene health care and general life skills She was also being

financially exploited by her house mates Matched to a woman who helps manage the family farm and comes

from a large family where she has gained skills and experience in supporting her parents and siblings

bull After relocating to Gisborne with his parents in an effort to get away from bad influences and a drug habit a

33yo man with intellectual and psychiatric disability required someone to help develop

connections and positive relationships in his new community giving this young man an opportunity to start a

new life and structure to his day A retired senior public servant in Gisborne with experience of intellectual

and psychiatric disability within his family was recruited Within a short period of time the advocate was able

to befriend this young man gain his confidence and as a mentor direct and guide him towards community

activities whist at the same time ensure he gain what was required from his NDIS package and support and

help to represent him in a magistrates Court hearing

bull Following her advocate moving to Ballarat it was necessary to rematch a 58yo woman with previous learning

difficulties to a new advocate The ongoing issue was someone to support this woman emotionally and prac-

tically to prepare to sell her inherited house and look for something more appropriate and manageable A

retired local woman with a background in documentary production and working for the BBC stepped forward

following a notice in the local paper The friendship was instant and as the advocate has stated ldquomutually re-

wardingrdquo Work has begun in sorting and packing and thinking about future options with the assistance of the

advocate who has ensured the proteges sister interstate is kept informed Im glad to say the previous advo-

cate will also stay in touch and remain a friend

bull A 38yo woman who has severe intellectual disability lives in a local ldquoCommunity Residential Unitrdquo in Sunbury

This woman is totally reliant on the service system and without family or friends and therefore vulnerable and

requiring a freely given relationship to help ensure her Human rights are upheld This was another rematch

due to the heavy workload of the previous advocate Another local woman with vast experience in doing vol-

untary missionary work was recruited to continue the excellent work that had begun The advocate has a

strong sense of social justice and

empathy for those that have been

forgotten and devalued The advocate

is currently developing an understand-

ing of her proteges life and how best

to protect her and her best interests

Degree of Disability

Mild Moderate Profound

21

Follow-along and support of Existing Relationships

bull Several advocates looking into NDIS planning for their proteacutegeacute Attended relevant presentations

bull Advocate insuring proteacutegeacute does not go into a nursing Home prematurely

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with confusion and stress related to Centrelink payments

bull Advocate looking into medical problem for proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate supporting proteges to live independently

bull Advocate working through family issues with proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate proteacutegeacute in dealing with solicitor re probate

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during test for epilepsy

bull Advocate vising proteacutegeacute after moving from CRU

bull Advocate taking proteacutegeacute shopping and advising on how to shop wisely

bull Advocate attended Hospital throughout night after proteges were involved in a car accident

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with CV

bull Advocate organising LINK transport for proteges

bull Proteacutegeacute contacted whist Advocate in hospital

bull Advocate supported around issues with proteges mother

bull Advocate looking into age related issues for NDIS

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during very difficult and upsetting family issue involving possible pregnancy

bull Advocate assisting proteges making a will

bull Advocate supported and informed proteacutegeacute during NDIS planning meeting and later attended a court

hearing in relation to another matter

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with the preparing and sale of house

bull 3 Advocates unfortunately attended their proteges funerals One Advocate heavily involved in the service

funeral

COMMUNICATION Male Female

Verbal 5 17

Speech Difficulties 3 5

Non Verbal 3 4

2

1637

6

1 1 1

Proteacutegeacute Day Placement

Disability Enterprise Adult Day Training School Study

Unemployed Retired Employed

Excluded Home Duties

DAY PLACEMENTS Male Female

Disability Enterprise 2 0

Adult Day Training 4 12

School Study 0 3

Unemployed 3 4

Retired 2 4

Employed 0 1

Excluded 0 1

Home Duties 0 1

22

Treasurerrsquos Report Elizabeth Homann

I am pleased to present the financial report for the year ended 30th June 2017 One of the many aspects of good

governance is good financial administration and I am please to report that Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

has continued the work started in the 2014 - 2015 year to put us in a strong stable position

RESULTS FOR 2017 We received a pleasing report from the Auditor this year with no audit adjustments required to correct the financial

results as presented

The overall result for CA Sunbury for 2017 was a surplus of $1818087 a healthy increase of $747663 from the

previous year The Commonwealth funding that the program receives increased slightly and we were fortunate

enough to receive an additional $16293 from DSS in May This allowed us to make some long awaited purchases

run training for our advocates and send 2 people to the Network Meeting in Rockhampton Our expenses continue

to rise making it more of a challenge each year to achieve a break even position We achieved the surplus through

careful management of expenses and recognition that to continue to be sustainable new income streams must be

found For the 2016 -2017 year the Staff and Committee concentrated their efforts on fundraising and grants and

were rewarded for their hard work

The net equity as at 30 June 2017 was $2892980 an increase of $1818087 from the previous year and solid

position Cash on Hand totalled $7560888

Income Overall revenue increased by $3326191 (221) from the previous year

bull Gain (Loss) on Sale of fixed Asset

o The organisationrsquos car was disposed of during the year with a resulting surplus of $598562

bull Funding increased by 332 from the previous year

o During 2016 - 2017 CASampD had one funding agreement in place

bull The Department of Social Services - National Disability Advocacy Program

o An additional $16293 was received in May

bull Grants increased by 133 from the previous year

o We received a grant from State Trustees

o We received a grant from Hume City Council

bull Fundraising was received

o Fundraising was received in the form for donations

o Fundraising was raised through sausage sizzles trivia night and a raffle

bull Employee FBT contribution decreased by 525 from the previous year

o The FBT contribution ceased when the car was sold

23

Expenses

Overall expenses increased by $2582599 (183) from the previous year

bull Depreciation costs decreased by 192 from the previous year

There was no new fixed assets purchased during the year

Depreciation calculated on diminishing value method

bull Auditorrsquos Remuneration decreased by 193 from the previous year

There was no charge for the surveillance Quality Audit was carried out this year

A Relationship Review audit was carried out this year

bull Rent expenses increased by 154 from the previous year

Rent increased as per the lease agreement

bull Program expenses increased by 2846 from the previous year

Several advocate functions were held during the year

Social Role Valorisation training was run for the Advocates

bull Consultant expenses were incurred

A consultant was engaged to review and overhaul the program database

bull Wages increased by 15 from the previous year

Limited annual leave and no long service leave was taken during the year

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc will continue to be funded by the Department of Social Services until the 30

June 2018 After this time there will be a new service agreement in place

Income

Donations FBT Employee ContributionFundraising Grants (Commonwealth)Grants (Local) Grants (Other)Gain on Asset Interest Expenses

Administration Board Depreciation

Fundraising Motor Vehicle Program

Staff

24

Financial Statements

Contents

Statement by Committee

Profit and Loss Statement

Balance Sheet

Notes to the Financial Statement

Independent Auditorrsquos Report

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Committe Members Declaration

YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2017

The committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements

In the opinion of the committee the financial report

Presents a true and fair view of the associations financial position as at 30 June 2017

2 There are reasonable grounds to believe that the association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable

NAME ~ zo6e+h ~VYIOI) Committee Member

2017

18

Identifying and Recruiting Proteacutegeacutes

bull A 16yo boy with ID and severe epilepsy and Dyspraxia Issues around hospital appointments and treatment at school

bull Women in early 20s residing in SRS suffering from severe chronic polytechnic arthritis and social isolated

bull Young man in Diggers Rest with fragile x syndrome and reluctant to leave house

bull Spoke to sergeant at Sunbury Police Station in regards to people with ID in trouble with the law

bull Presentation to Prioletti Work Education Group

bull Young woman living in Gisborne shared public housing has a learning disability

bull Young woman in Sunbury requiring social and employment support

bull Spoke to manager of Dallas Neighbourhood House

bull Spoke to CEO of Broadmeadows Disability Services

bull Young man in his early 30s recently relocating to Gisborne has mild intellectual disability ongoing mental health

issues and drug habit Requiring strong mentor and help with developing structure in his life

bull Woman in her 50s mild ID requiring assistance with preparing to relocate from inherited house

bull Spoke to Arabic Social Services

bull 21yo woman lives in Sunbury moderate ID Lives with separated parents Needs help with budgeting and banking

skills and accessing mainstream recreation

bull 24yo woman moderate ID lives in Diggers Rest with mother father recently died of cancer Wants help to access com-

munity opportunities No access to transport

bull Married couple with intellectual disability experiencing marital difficulties

Key Office Activities

The following are brief examples of the ldquoKey Office Activitiesrdquo for the 201617 year

0 1

8

59

14

Proteacutegeacute Age

0-20

21-30

31-40

41-50

51-60

61+

AGES Male Female

0-20 0 0

21-30 0 1

31-40 3 5

41-50 2 3

51-60 4 5

61+ 2 12

19

Advocate Recruitment

bull St Andrews Friendship Group

bull Young woman with marketing background

bull Vet nurse from Lancefield

bull Ex Committee member

bull Woodend accountant

bull Woman who runs a farm with Husband

bull Sunbury Probes

bull Member of Sunbury Historical society

bull Notices in the Whatrsquos On section of Sunbury Broadmeadow and

Macedon Ranges Leader

bull Rehab and Diabetes nurse recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Gisborne Menrsquos Shed

bull Retired Public Servant with experience in intellectual disability

and Mental Health

bull Relationships Councillor recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Various inquiries from Hume Volunteer Gateway

bull Various presentations to community and service groups

bull Presentations at Church groups

bull Sunbury Police

bull Sunfest Various people

bull Retired BBC employee

bull Retired Missionary

bull Middle aged teacherrsquos aide living in Mickleham

bull Presentation to Sunbury Aquatic Centre

bull Information to VicRoads

bull Retired Lecturer

Two new Advocate Associates Recruited one in the area of health and

diabetes prevention Other in the area counselling and mental health

TYPE OF ADVOCACY Male Female

Instrumental 2 2

Expressive 1 2

Both 8 22

OTHER DISABILITY Male Female

Yes 3 4

No 8 22

Advocate Orientation

Six full orientations completed throughout this period (one

potential advocate did not go on with matching)

6

201

4 6

Residential Situation

Family Home CRU Special Accomodation

Nursing Home Independently

RESIDENTIAL SITUATION Male Female

Family Home 3 3

CRU 7 13

Special Accomodation 0 1

Nursing Home 0 4

Independently 1 5

20

Advocate Proteacutegeacute Matching

Five new matches made this year

bull A quiet 32yo woman living independently in Sunbury who has difficulties around social interactions and se-

curing part time employment due to autistic tendencies was matched to woman of similar age who is out-

going This Advocate has a marketing background and is prepared to assist proteacutegeacute with CV how she presents

herself at job interviews and socialising including being a friend

bull Another 32yo woman this time living in Gisborne in shared public housing accommodation This woman has

a learning disability secondary to Kawasaki disease and required assistance gaining some level of financial in-

dependence hygiene health care and general life skills She was also being

financially exploited by her house mates Matched to a woman who helps manage the family farm and comes

from a large family where she has gained skills and experience in supporting her parents and siblings

bull After relocating to Gisborne with his parents in an effort to get away from bad influences and a drug habit a

33yo man with intellectual and psychiatric disability required someone to help develop

connections and positive relationships in his new community giving this young man an opportunity to start a

new life and structure to his day A retired senior public servant in Gisborne with experience of intellectual

and psychiatric disability within his family was recruited Within a short period of time the advocate was able

to befriend this young man gain his confidence and as a mentor direct and guide him towards community

activities whist at the same time ensure he gain what was required from his NDIS package and support and

help to represent him in a magistrates Court hearing

bull Following her advocate moving to Ballarat it was necessary to rematch a 58yo woman with previous learning

difficulties to a new advocate The ongoing issue was someone to support this woman emotionally and prac-

tically to prepare to sell her inherited house and look for something more appropriate and manageable A

retired local woman with a background in documentary production and working for the BBC stepped forward

following a notice in the local paper The friendship was instant and as the advocate has stated ldquomutually re-

wardingrdquo Work has begun in sorting and packing and thinking about future options with the assistance of the

advocate who has ensured the proteges sister interstate is kept informed Im glad to say the previous advo-

cate will also stay in touch and remain a friend

bull A 38yo woman who has severe intellectual disability lives in a local ldquoCommunity Residential Unitrdquo in Sunbury

This woman is totally reliant on the service system and without family or friends and therefore vulnerable and

requiring a freely given relationship to help ensure her Human rights are upheld This was another rematch

due to the heavy workload of the previous advocate Another local woman with vast experience in doing vol-

untary missionary work was recruited to continue the excellent work that had begun The advocate has a

strong sense of social justice and

empathy for those that have been

forgotten and devalued The advocate

is currently developing an understand-

ing of her proteges life and how best

to protect her and her best interests

Degree of Disability

Mild Moderate Profound

21

Follow-along and support of Existing Relationships

bull Several advocates looking into NDIS planning for their proteacutegeacute Attended relevant presentations

bull Advocate insuring proteacutegeacute does not go into a nursing Home prematurely

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with confusion and stress related to Centrelink payments

bull Advocate looking into medical problem for proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate supporting proteges to live independently

bull Advocate working through family issues with proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate proteacutegeacute in dealing with solicitor re probate

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during test for epilepsy

bull Advocate vising proteacutegeacute after moving from CRU

bull Advocate taking proteacutegeacute shopping and advising on how to shop wisely

bull Advocate attended Hospital throughout night after proteges were involved in a car accident

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with CV

bull Advocate organising LINK transport for proteges

bull Proteacutegeacute contacted whist Advocate in hospital

bull Advocate supported around issues with proteges mother

bull Advocate looking into age related issues for NDIS

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during very difficult and upsetting family issue involving possible pregnancy

bull Advocate assisting proteges making a will

bull Advocate supported and informed proteacutegeacute during NDIS planning meeting and later attended a court

hearing in relation to another matter

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with the preparing and sale of house

bull 3 Advocates unfortunately attended their proteges funerals One Advocate heavily involved in the service

funeral

COMMUNICATION Male Female

Verbal 5 17

Speech Difficulties 3 5

Non Verbal 3 4

2

1637

6

1 1 1

Proteacutegeacute Day Placement

Disability Enterprise Adult Day Training School Study

Unemployed Retired Employed

Excluded Home Duties

DAY PLACEMENTS Male Female

Disability Enterprise 2 0

Adult Day Training 4 12

School Study 0 3

Unemployed 3 4

Retired 2 4

Employed 0 1

Excluded 0 1

Home Duties 0 1

22

Treasurerrsquos Report Elizabeth Homann

I am pleased to present the financial report for the year ended 30th June 2017 One of the many aspects of good

governance is good financial administration and I am please to report that Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

has continued the work started in the 2014 - 2015 year to put us in a strong stable position

RESULTS FOR 2017 We received a pleasing report from the Auditor this year with no audit adjustments required to correct the financial

results as presented

The overall result for CA Sunbury for 2017 was a surplus of $1818087 a healthy increase of $747663 from the

previous year The Commonwealth funding that the program receives increased slightly and we were fortunate

enough to receive an additional $16293 from DSS in May This allowed us to make some long awaited purchases

run training for our advocates and send 2 people to the Network Meeting in Rockhampton Our expenses continue

to rise making it more of a challenge each year to achieve a break even position We achieved the surplus through

careful management of expenses and recognition that to continue to be sustainable new income streams must be

found For the 2016 -2017 year the Staff and Committee concentrated their efforts on fundraising and grants and

were rewarded for their hard work

The net equity as at 30 June 2017 was $2892980 an increase of $1818087 from the previous year and solid

position Cash on Hand totalled $7560888

Income Overall revenue increased by $3326191 (221) from the previous year

bull Gain (Loss) on Sale of fixed Asset

o The organisationrsquos car was disposed of during the year with a resulting surplus of $598562

bull Funding increased by 332 from the previous year

o During 2016 - 2017 CASampD had one funding agreement in place

bull The Department of Social Services - National Disability Advocacy Program

o An additional $16293 was received in May

bull Grants increased by 133 from the previous year

o We received a grant from State Trustees

o We received a grant from Hume City Council

bull Fundraising was received

o Fundraising was received in the form for donations

o Fundraising was raised through sausage sizzles trivia night and a raffle

bull Employee FBT contribution decreased by 525 from the previous year

o The FBT contribution ceased when the car was sold

23

Expenses

Overall expenses increased by $2582599 (183) from the previous year

bull Depreciation costs decreased by 192 from the previous year

There was no new fixed assets purchased during the year

Depreciation calculated on diminishing value method

bull Auditorrsquos Remuneration decreased by 193 from the previous year

There was no charge for the surveillance Quality Audit was carried out this year

A Relationship Review audit was carried out this year

bull Rent expenses increased by 154 from the previous year

Rent increased as per the lease agreement

bull Program expenses increased by 2846 from the previous year

Several advocate functions were held during the year

Social Role Valorisation training was run for the Advocates

bull Consultant expenses were incurred

A consultant was engaged to review and overhaul the program database

bull Wages increased by 15 from the previous year

Limited annual leave and no long service leave was taken during the year

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc will continue to be funded by the Department of Social Services until the 30

June 2018 After this time there will be a new service agreement in place

Income

Donations FBT Employee ContributionFundraising Grants (Commonwealth)Grants (Local) Grants (Other)Gain on Asset Interest Expenses

Administration Board Depreciation

Fundraising Motor Vehicle Program

Staff

24

Financial Statements

Contents

Statement by Committee

Profit and Loss Statement

Balance Sheet

Notes to the Financial Statement

Independent Auditorrsquos Report

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Committe Members Declaration

YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2017

The committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements

In the opinion of the committee the financial report

Presents a true and fair view of the associations financial position as at 30 June 2017

2 There are reasonable grounds to believe that the association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable

NAME ~ zo6e+h ~VYIOI) Committee Member

2017

19

Advocate Recruitment

bull St Andrews Friendship Group

bull Young woman with marketing background

bull Vet nurse from Lancefield

bull Ex Committee member

bull Woodend accountant

bull Woman who runs a farm with Husband

bull Sunbury Probes

bull Member of Sunbury Historical society

bull Notices in the Whatrsquos On section of Sunbury Broadmeadow and

Macedon Ranges Leader

bull Rehab and Diabetes nurse recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Gisborne Menrsquos Shed

bull Retired Public Servant with experience in intellectual disability

and Mental Health

bull Relationships Councillor recruited as Advocate Associate

bull Various inquiries from Hume Volunteer Gateway

bull Various presentations to community and service groups

bull Presentations at Church groups

bull Sunbury Police

bull Sunfest Various people

bull Retired BBC employee

bull Retired Missionary

bull Middle aged teacherrsquos aide living in Mickleham

bull Presentation to Sunbury Aquatic Centre

bull Information to VicRoads

bull Retired Lecturer

Two new Advocate Associates Recruited one in the area of health and

diabetes prevention Other in the area counselling and mental health

TYPE OF ADVOCACY Male Female

Instrumental 2 2

Expressive 1 2

Both 8 22

OTHER DISABILITY Male Female

Yes 3 4

No 8 22

Advocate Orientation

Six full orientations completed throughout this period (one

potential advocate did not go on with matching)

6

201

4 6

Residential Situation

Family Home CRU Special Accomodation

Nursing Home Independently

RESIDENTIAL SITUATION Male Female

Family Home 3 3

CRU 7 13

Special Accomodation 0 1

Nursing Home 0 4

Independently 1 5

20

Advocate Proteacutegeacute Matching

Five new matches made this year

bull A quiet 32yo woman living independently in Sunbury who has difficulties around social interactions and se-

curing part time employment due to autistic tendencies was matched to woman of similar age who is out-

going This Advocate has a marketing background and is prepared to assist proteacutegeacute with CV how she presents

herself at job interviews and socialising including being a friend

bull Another 32yo woman this time living in Gisborne in shared public housing accommodation This woman has

a learning disability secondary to Kawasaki disease and required assistance gaining some level of financial in-

dependence hygiene health care and general life skills She was also being

financially exploited by her house mates Matched to a woman who helps manage the family farm and comes

from a large family where she has gained skills and experience in supporting her parents and siblings

bull After relocating to Gisborne with his parents in an effort to get away from bad influences and a drug habit a

33yo man with intellectual and psychiatric disability required someone to help develop

connections and positive relationships in his new community giving this young man an opportunity to start a

new life and structure to his day A retired senior public servant in Gisborne with experience of intellectual

and psychiatric disability within his family was recruited Within a short period of time the advocate was able

to befriend this young man gain his confidence and as a mentor direct and guide him towards community

activities whist at the same time ensure he gain what was required from his NDIS package and support and

help to represent him in a magistrates Court hearing

bull Following her advocate moving to Ballarat it was necessary to rematch a 58yo woman with previous learning

difficulties to a new advocate The ongoing issue was someone to support this woman emotionally and prac-

tically to prepare to sell her inherited house and look for something more appropriate and manageable A

retired local woman with a background in documentary production and working for the BBC stepped forward

following a notice in the local paper The friendship was instant and as the advocate has stated ldquomutually re-

wardingrdquo Work has begun in sorting and packing and thinking about future options with the assistance of the

advocate who has ensured the proteges sister interstate is kept informed Im glad to say the previous advo-

cate will also stay in touch and remain a friend

bull A 38yo woman who has severe intellectual disability lives in a local ldquoCommunity Residential Unitrdquo in Sunbury

This woman is totally reliant on the service system and without family or friends and therefore vulnerable and

requiring a freely given relationship to help ensure her Human rights are upheld This was another rematch

due to the heavy workload of the previous advocate Another local woman with vast experience in doing vol-

untary missionary work was recruited to continue the excellent work that had begun The advocate has a

strong sense of social justice and

empathy for those that have been

forgotten and devalued The advocate

is currently developing an understand-

ing of her proteges life and how best

to protect her and her best interests

Degree of Disability

Mild Moderate Profound

21

Follow-along and support of Existing Relationships

bull Several advocates looking into NDIS planning for their proteacutegeacute Attended relevant presentations

bull Advocate insuring proteacutegeacute does not go into a nursing Home prematurely

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with confusion and stress related to Centrelink payments

bull Advocate looking into medical problem for proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate supporting proteges to live independently

bull Advocate working through family issues with proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate proteacutegeacute in dealing with solicitor re probate

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during test for epilepsy

bull Advocate vising proteacutegeacute after moving from CRU

bull Advocate taking proteacutegeacute shopping and advising on how to shop wisely

bull Advocate attended Hospital throughout night after proteges were involved in a car accident

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with CV

bull Advocate organising LINK transport for proteges

bull Proteacutegeacute contacted whist Advocate in hospital

bull Advocate supported around issues with proteges mother

bull Advocate looking into age related issues for NDIS

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during very difficult and upsetting family issue involving possible pregnancy

bull Advocate assisting proteges making a will

bull Advocate supported and informed proteacutegeacute during NDIS planning meeting and later attended a court

hearing in relation to another matter

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with the preparing and sale of house

bull 3 Advocates unfortunately attended their proteges funerals One Advocate heavily involved in the service

funeral

COMMUNICATION Male Female

Verbal 5 17

Speech Difficulties 3 5

Non Verbal 3 4

2

1637

6

1 1 1

Proteacutegeacute Day Placement

Disability Enterprise Adult Day Training School Study

Unemployed Retired Employed

Excluded Home Duties

DAY PLACEMENTS Male Female

Disability Enterprise 2 0

Adult Day Training 4 12

School Study 0 3

Unemployed 3 4

Retired 2 4

Employed 0 1

Excluded 0 1

Home Duties 0 1

22

Treasurerrsquos Report Elizabeth Homann

I am pleased to present the financial report for the year ended 30th June 2017 One of the many aspects of good

governance is good financial administration and I am please to report that Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

has continued the work started in the 2014 - 2015 year to put us in a strong stable position

RESULTS FOR 2017 We received a pleasing report from the Auditor this year with no audit adjustments required to correct the financial

results as presented

The overall result for CA Sunbury for 2017 was a surplus of $1818087 a healthy increase of $747663 from the

previous year The Commonwealth funding that the program receives increased slightly and we were fortunate

enough to receive an additional $16293 from DSS in May This allowed us to make some long awaited purchases

run training for our advocates and send 2 people to the Network Meeting in Rockhampton Our expenses continue

to rise making it more of a challenge each year to achieve a break even position We achieved the surplus through

careful management of expenses and recognition that to continue to be sustainable new income streams must be

found For the 2016 -2017 year the Staff and Committee concentrated their efforts on fundraising and grants and

were rewarded for their hard work

The net equity as at 30 June 2017 was $2892980 an increase of $1818087 from the previous year and solid

position Cash on Hand totalled $7560888

Income Overall revenue increased by $3326191 (221) from the previous year

bull Gain (Loss) on Sale of fixed Asset

o The organisationrsquos car was disposed of during the year with a resulting surplus of $598562

bull Funding increased by 332 from the previous year

o During 2016 - 2017 CASampD had one funding agreement in place

bull The Department of Social Services - National Disability Advocacy Program

o An additional $16293 was received in May

bull Grants increased by 133 from the previous year

o We received a grant from State Trustees

o We received a grant from Hume City Council

bull Fundraising was received

o Fundraising was received in the form for donations

o Fundraising was raised through sausage sizzles trivia night and a raffle

bull Employee FBT contribution decreased by 525 from the previous year

o The FBT contribution ceased when the car was sold

23

Expenses

Overall expenses increased by $2582599 (183) from the previous year

bull Depreciation costs decreased by 192 from the previous year

There was no new fixed assets purchased during the year

Depreciation calculated on diminishing value method

bull Auditorrsquos Remuneration decreased by 193 from the previous year

There was no charge for the surveillance Quality Audit was carried out this year

A Relationship Review audit was carried out this year

bull Rent expenses increased by 154 from the previous year

Rent increased as per the lease agreement

bull Program expenses increased by 2846 from the previous year

Several advocate functions were held during the year

Social Role Valorisation training was run for the Advocates

bull Consultant expenses were incurred

A consultant was engaged to review and overhaul the program database

bull Wages increased by 15 from the previous year

Limited annual leave and no long service leave was taken during the year

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc will continue to be funded by the Department of Social Services until the 30

June 2018 After this time there will be a new service agreement in place

Income

Donations FBT Employee ContributionFundraising Grants (Commonwealth)Grants (Local) Grants (Other)Gain on Asset Interest Expenses

Administration Board Depreciation

Fundraising Motor Vehicle Program

Staff

24

Financial Statements

Contents

Statement by Committee

Profit and Loss Statement

Balance Sheet

Notes to the Financial Statement

Independent Auditorrsquos Report

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Committe Members Declaration

YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2017

The committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements

In the opinion of the committee the financial report

Presents a true and fair view of the associations financial position as at 30 June 2017

2 There are reasonable grounds to believe that the association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable

NAME ~ zo6e+h ~VYIOI) Committee Member

2017

20

Advocate Proteacutegeacute Matching

Five new matches made this year

bull A quiet 32yo woman living independently in Sunbury who has difficulties around social interactions and se-

curing part time employment due to autistic tendencies was matched to woman of similar age who is out-

going This Advocate has a marketing background and is prepared to assist proteacutegeacute with CV how she presents

herself at job interviews and socialising including being a friend

bull Another 32yo woman this time living in Gisborne in shared public housing accommodation This woman has

a learning disability secondary to Kawasaki disease and required assistance gaining some level of financial in-

dependence hygiene health care and general life skills She was also being

financially exploited by her house mates Matched to a woman who helps manage the family farm and comes

from a large family where she has gained skills and experience in supporting her parents and siblings

bull After relocating to Gisborne with his parents in an effort to get away from bad influences and a drug habit a

33yo man with intellectual and psychiatric disability required someone to help develop

connections and positive relationships in his new community giving this young man an opportunity to start a

new life and structure to his day A retired senior public servant in Gisborne with experience of intellectual

and psychiatric disability within his family was recruited Within a short period of time the advocate was able

to befriend this young man gain his confidence and as a mentor direct and guide him towards community

activities whist at the same time ensure he gain what was required from his NDIS package and support and

help to represent him in a magistrates Court hearing

bull Following her advocate moving to Ballarat it was necessary to rematch a 58yo woman with previous learning

difficulties to a new advocate The ongoing issue was someone to support this woman emotionally and prac-

tically to prepare to sell her inherited house and look for something more appropriate and manageable A

retired local woman with a background in documentary production and working for the BBC stepped forward

following a notice in the local paper The friendship was instant and as the advocate has stated ldquomutually re-

wardingrdquo Work has begun in sorting and packing and thinking about future options with the assistance of the

advocate who has ensured the proteges sister interstate is kept informed Im glad to say the previous advo-

cate will also stay in touch and remain a friend

bull A 38yo woman who has severe intellectual disability lives in a local ldquoCommunity Residential Unitrdquo in Sunbury

This woman is totally reliant on the service system and without family or friends and therefore vulnerable and

requiring a freely given relationship to help ensure her Human rights are upheld This was another rematch

due to the heavy workload of the previous advocate Another local woman with vast experience in doing vol-

untary missionary work was recruited to continue the excellent work that had begun The advocate has a

strong sense of social justice and

empathy for those that have been

forgotten and devalued The advocate

is currently developing an understand-

ing of her proteges life and how best

to protect her and her best interests

Degree of Disability

Mild Moderate Profound

21

Follow-along and support of Existing Relationships

bull Several advocates looking into NDIS planning for their proteacutegeacute Attended relevant presentations

bull Advocate insuring proteacutegeacute does not go into a nursing Home prematurely

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with confusion and stress related to Centrelink payments

bull Advocate looking into medical problem for proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate supporting proteges to live independently

bull Advocate working through family issues with proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate proteacutegeacute in dealing with solicitor re probate

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during test for epilepsy

bull Advocate vising proteacutegeacute after moving from CRU

bull Advocate taking proteacutegeacute shopping and advising on how to shop wisely

bull Advocate attended Hospital throughout night after proteges were involved in a car accident

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with CV

bull Advocate organising LINK transport for proteges

bull Proteacutegeacute contacted whist Advocate in hospital

bull Advocate supported around issues with proteges mother

bull Advocate looking into age related issues for NDIS

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during very difficult and upsetting family issue involving possible pregnancy

bull Advocate assisting proteges making a will

bull Advocate supported and informed proteacutegeacute during NDIS planning meeting and later attended a court

hearing in relation to another matter

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with the preparing and sale of house

bull 3 Advocates unfortunately attended their proteges funerals One Advocate heavily involved in the service

funeral

COMMUNICATION Male Female

Verbal 5 17

Speech Difficulties 3 5

Non Verbal 3 4

2

1637

6

1 1 1

Proteacutegeacute Day Placement

Disability Enterprise Adult Day Training School Study

Unemployed Retired Employed

Excluded Home Duties

DAY PLACEMENTS Male Female

Disability Enterprise 2 0

Adult Day Training 4 12

School Study 0 3

Unemployed 3 4

Retired 2 4

Employed 0 1

Excluded 0 1

Home Duties 0 1

22

Treasurerrsquos Report Elizabeth Homann

I am pleased to present the financial report for the year ended 30th June 2017 One of the many aspects of good

governance is good financial administration and I am please to report that Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

has continued the work started in the 2014 - 2015 year to put us in a strong stable position

RESULTS FOR 2017 We received a pleasing report from the Auditor this year with no audit adjustments required to correct the financial

results as presented

The overall result for CA Sunbury for 2017 was a surplus of $1818087 a healthy increase of $747663 from the

previous year The Commonwealth funding that the program receives increased slightly and we were fortunate

enough to receive an additional $16293 from DSS in May This allowed us to make some long awaited purchases

run training for our advocates and send 2 people to the Network Meeting in Rockhampton Our expenses continue

to rise making it more of a challenge each year to achieve a break even position We achieved the surplus through

careful management of expenses and recognition that to continue to be sustainable new income streams must be

found For the 2016 -2017 year the Staff and Committee concentrated their efforts on fundraising and grants and

were rewarded for their hard work

The net equity as at 30 June 2017 was $2892980 an increase of $1818087 from the previous year and solid

position Cash on Hand totalled $7560888

Income Overall revenue increased by $3326191 (221) from the previous year

bull Gain (Loss) on Sale of fixed Asset

o The organisationrsquos car was disposed of during the year with a resulting surplus of $598562

bull Funding increased by 332 from the previous year

o During 2016 - 2017 CASampD had one funding agreement in place

bull The Department of Social Services - National Disability Advocacy Program

o An additional $16293 was received in May

bull Grants increased by 133 from the previous year

o We received a grant from State Trustees

o We received a grant from Hume City Council

bull Fundraising was received

o Fundraising was received in the form for donations

o Fundraising was raised through sausage sizzles trivia night and a raffle

bull Employee FBT contribution decreased by 525 from the previous year

o The FBT contribution ceased when the car was sold

23

Expenses

Overall expenses increased by $2582599 (183) from the previous year

bull Depreciation costs decreased by 192 from the previous year

There was no new fixed assets purchased during the year

Depreciation calculated on diminishing value method

bull Auditorrsquos Remuneration decreased by 193 from the previous year

There was no charge for the surveillance Quality Audit was carried out this year

A Relationship Review audit was carried out this year

bull Rent expenses increased by 154 from the previous year

Rent increased as per the lease agreement

bull Program expenses increased by 2846 from the previous year

Several advocate functions were held during the year

Social Role Valorisation training was run for the Advocates

bull Consultant expenses were incurred

A consultant was engaged to review and overhaul the program database

bull Wages increased by 15 from the previous year

Limited annual leave and no long service leave was taken during the year

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc will continue to be funded by the Department of Social Services until the 30

June 2018 After this time there will be a new service agreement in place

Income

Donations FBT Employee ContributionFundraising Grants (Commonwealth)Grants (Local) Grants (Other)Gain on Asset Interest Expenses

Administration Board Depreciation

Fundraising Motor Vehicle Program

Staff

24

Financial Statements

Contents

Statement by Committee

Profit and Loss Statement

Balance Sheet

Notes to the Financial Statement

Independent Auditorrsquos Report

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Committe Members Declaration

YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2017

The committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements

In the opinion of the committee the financial report

Presents a true and fair view of the associations financial position as at 30 June 2017

2 There are reasonable grounds to believe that the association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable

NAME ~ zo6e+h ~VYIOI) Committee Member

2017

21

Follow-along and support of Existing Relationships

bull Several advocates looking into NDIS planning for their proteacutegeacute Attended relevant presentations

bull Advocate insuring proteacutegeacute does not go into a nursing Home prematurely

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with confusion and stress related to Centrelink payments

bull Advocate looking into medical problem for proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate supporting proteges to live independently

bull Advocate working through family issues with proteacutegeacute

bull Advocate proteacutegeacute in dealing with solicitor re probate

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during test for epilepsy

bull Advocate vising proteacutegeacute after moving from CRU

bull Advocate taking proteacutegeacute shopping and advising on how to shop wisely

bull Advocate attended Hospital throughout night after proteges were involved in a car accident

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with CV

bull Advocate organising LINK transport for proteges

bull Proteacutegeacute contacted whist Advocate in hospital

bull Advocate supported around issues with proteges mother

bull Advocate looking into age related issues for NDIS

bull Advocate supporting proteacutegeacute during very difficult and upsetting family issue involving possible pregnancy

bull Advocate assisting proteges making a will

bull Advocate supported and informed proteacutegeacute during NDIS planning meeting and later attended a court

hearing in relation to another matter

bull Advocate assisting proteacutegeacute with the preparing and sale of house

bull 3 Advocates unfortunately attended their proteges funerals One Advocate heavily involved in the service

funeral

COMMUNICATION Male Female

Verbal 5 17

Speech Difficulties 3 5

Non Verbal 3 4

2

1637

6

1 1 1

Proteacutegeacute Day Placement

Disability Enterprise Adult Day Training School Study

Unemployed Retired Employed

Excluded Home Duties

DAY PLACEMENTS Male Female

Disability Enterprise 2 0

Adult Day Training 4 12

School Study 0 3

Unemployed 3 4

Retired 2 4

Employed 0 1

Excluded 0 1

Home Duties 0 1

22

Treasurerrsquos Report Elizabeth Homann

I am pleased to present the financial report for the year ended 30th June 2017 One of the many aspects of good

governance is good financial administration and I am please to report that Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

has continued the work started in the 2014 - 2015 year to put us in a strong stable position

RESULTS FOR 2017 We received a pleasing report from the Auditor this year with no audit adjustments required to correct the financial

results as presented

The overall result for CA Sunbury for 2017 was a surplus of $1818087 a healthy increase of $747663 from the

previous year The Commonwealth funding that the program receives increased slightly and we were fortunate

enough to receive an additional $16293 from DSS in May This allowed us to make some long awaited purchases

run training for our advocates and send 2 people to the Network Meeting in Rockhampton Our expenses continue

to rise making it more of a challenge each year to achieve a break even position We achieved the surplus through

careful management of expenses and recognition that to continue to be sustainable new income streams must be

found For the 2016 -2017 year the Staff and Committee concentrated their efforts on fundraising and grants and

were rewarded for their hard work

The net equity as at 30 June 2017 was $2892980 an increase of $1818087 from the previous year and solid

position Cash on Hand totalled $7560888

Income Overall revenue increased by $3326191 (221) from the previous year

bull Gain (Loss) on Sale of fixed Asset

o The organisationrsquos car was disposed of during the year with a resulting surplus of $598562

bull Funding increased by 332 from the previous year

o During 2016 - 2017 CASampD had one funding agreement in place

bull The Department of Social Services - National Disability Advocacy Program

o An additional $16293 was received in May

bull Grants increased by 133 from the previous year

o We received a grant from State Trustees

o We received a grant from Hume City Council

bull Fundraising was received

o Fundraising was received in the form for donations

o Fundraising was raised through sausage sizzles trivia night and a raffle

bull Employee FBT contribution decreased by 525 from the previous year

o The FBT contribution ceased when the car was sold

23

Expenses

Overall expenses increased by $2582599 (183) from the previous year

bull Depreciation costs decreased by 192 from the previous year

There was no new fixed assets purchased during the year

Depreciation calculated on diminishing value method

bull Auditorrsquos Remuneration decreased by 193 from the previous year

There was no charge for the surveillance Quality Audit was carried out this year

A Relationship Review audit was carried out this year

bull Rent expenses increased by 154 from the previous year

Rent increased as per the lease agreement

bull Program expenses increased by 2846 from the previous year

Several advocate functions were held during the year

Social Role Valorisation training was run for the Advocates

bull Consultant expenses were incurred

A consultant was engaged to review and overhaul the program database

bull Wages increased by 15 from the previous year

Limited annual leave and no long service leave was taken during the year

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc will continue to be funded by the Department of Social Services until the 30

June 2018 After this time there will be a new service agreement in place

Income

Donations FBT Employee ContributionFundraising Grants (Commonwealth)Grants (Local) Grants (Other)Gain on Asset Interest Expenses

Administration Board Depreciation

Fundraising Motor Vehicle Program

Staff

24

Financial Statements

Contents

Statement by Committee

Profit and Loss Statement

Balance Sheet

Notes to the Financial Statement

Independent Auditorrsquos Report

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Committe Members Declaration

YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2017

The committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements

In the opinion of the committee the financial report

Presents a true and fair view of the associations financial position as at 30 June 2017

2 There are reasonable grounds to believe that the association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable

NAME ~ zo6e+h ~VYIOI) Committee Member

2017

22

Treasurerrsquos Report Elizabeth Homann

I am pleased to present the financial report for the year ended 30th June 2017 One of the many aspects of good

governance is good financial administration and I am please to report that Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc

has continued the work started in the 2014 - 2015 year to put us in a strong stable position

RESULTS FOR 2017 We received a pleasing report from the Auditor this year with no audit adjustments required to correct the financial

results as presented

The overall result for CA Sunbury for 2017 was a surplus of $1818087 a healthy increase of $747663 from the

previous year The Commonwealth funding that the program receives increased slightly and we were fortunate

enough to receive an additional $16293 from DSS in May This allowed us to make some long awaited purchases

run training for our advocates and send 2 people to the Network Meeting in Rockhampton Our expenses continue

to rise making it more of a challenge each year to achieve a break even position We achieved the surplus through

careful management of expenses and recognition that to continue to be sustainable new income streams must be

found For the 2016 -2017 year the Staff and Committee concentrated their efforts on fundraising and grants and

were rewarded for their hard work

The net equity as at 30 June 2017 was $2892980 an increase of $1818087 from the previous year and solid

position Cash on Hand totalled $7560888

Income Overall revenue increased by $3326191 (221) from the previous year

bull Gain (Loss) on Sale of fixed Asset

o The organisationrsquos car was disposed of during the year with a resulting surplus of $598562

bull Funding increased by 332 from the previous year

o During 2016 - 2017 CASampD had one funding agreement in place

bull The Department of Social Services - National Disability Advocacy Program

o An additional $16293 was received in May

bull Grants increased by 133 from the previous year

o We received a grant from State Trustees

o We received a grant from Hume City Council

bull Fundraising was received

o Fundraising was received in the form for donations

o Fundraising was raised through sausage sizzles trivia night and a raffle

bull Employee FBT contribution decreased by 525 from the previous year

o The FBT contribution ceased when the car was sold

23

Expenses

Overall expenses increased by $2582599 (183) from the previous year

bull Depreciation costs decreased by 192 from the previous year

There was no new fixed assets purchased during the year

Depreciation calculated on diminishing value method

bull Auditorrsquos Remuneration decreased by 193 from the previous year

There was no charge for the surveillance Quality Audit was carried out this year

A Relationship Review audit was carried out this year

bull Rent expenses increased by 154 from the previous year

Rent increased as per the lease agreement

bull Program expenses increased by 2846 from the previous year

Several advocate functions were held during the year

Social Role Valorisation training was run for the Advocates

bull Consultant expenses were incurred

A consultant was engaged to review and overhaul the program database

bull Wages increased by 15 from the previous year

Limited annual leave and no long service leave was taken during the year

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc will continue to be funded by the Department of Social Services until the 30

June 2018 After this time there will be a new service agreement in place

Income

Donations FBT Employee ContributionFundraising Grants (Commonwealth)Grants (Local) Grants (Other)Gain on Asset Interest Expenses

Administration Board Depreciation

Fundraising Motor Vehicle Program

Staff

24

Financial Statements

Contents

Statement by Committee

Profit and Loss Statement

Balance Sheet

Notes to the Financial Statement

Independent Auditorrsquos Report

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Committe Members Declaration

YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2017

The committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements

In the opinion of the committee the financial report

Presents a true and fair view of the associations financial position as at 30 June 2017

2 There are reasonable grounds to believe that the association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable

NAME ~ zo6e+h ~VYIOI) Committee Member

2017

23

Expenses

Overall expenses increased by $2582599 (183) from the previous year

bull Depreciation costs decreased by 192 from the previous year

There was no new fixed assets purchased during the year

Depreciation calculated on diminishing value method

bull Auditorrsquos Remuneration decreased by 193 from the previous year

There was no charge for the surveillance Quality Audit was carried out this year

A Relationship Review audit was carried out this year

bull Rent expenses increased by 154 from the previous year

Rent increased as per the lease agreement

bull Program expenses increased by 2846 from the previous year

Several advocate functions were held during the year

Social Role Valorisation training was run for the Advocates

bull Consultant expenses were incurred

A consultant was engaged to review and overhaul the program database

bull Wages increased by 15 from the previous year

Limited annual leave and no long service leave was taken during the year

Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc will continue to be funded by the Department of Social Services until the 30

June 2018 After this time there will be a new service agreement in place

Income

Donations FBT Employee ContributionFundraising Grants (Commonwealth)Grants (Local) Grants (Other)Gain on Asset Interest Expenses

Administration Board Depreciation

Fundraising Motor Vehicle Program

Staff

24

Financial Statements

Contents

Statement by Committee

Profit and Loss Statement

Balance Sheet

Notes to the Financial Statement

Independent Auditorrsquos Report

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Committe Members Declaration

YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2017

The committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements

In the opinion of the committee the financial report

Presents a true and fair view of the associations financial position as at 30 June 2017

2 There are reasonable grounds to believe that the association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable

NAME ~ zo6e+h ~VYIOI) Committee Member

2017

24

Financial Statements

Contents

Statement by Committee

Profit and Loss Statement

Balance Sheet

Notes to the Financial Statement

Independent Auditorrsquos Report

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Committe Members Declaration

YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2017

The committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements

In the opinion of the committee the financial report

Presents a true and fair view of the associations financial position as at 30 June 2017

2 There are reasonable grounds to believe that the association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable

NAME ~ zo6e+h ~VYIOI) Committee Member

2017

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Committe Members Declaration

YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2017

The committee has determined that the Association is not a reporting entity and that this special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements

In the opinion of the committee the financial report

Presents a true and fair view of the associations financial position as at 30 June 2017

2 There are reasonable grounds to believe that the association will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable

NAME ~ zo6e+h ~VYIOI) Committee Member

2017

June 2017 June 2016Income

Grant Income

Grants Commonwealth $16423669 $13423727

Grants Local $110000 $000

Grants Other $513109 $718800

DonationGift Income $74200 $83680

Income From Fundraising Events $327960 $267155

FBT Employee Contribution $360769 $759048

Gain (Loss) on Sale of Asset $598562 ($170332)

Total Income $18408269 $15082078

Gross Profit $18408269 $15082078

Expenses

General Expenses

Advertising amp Marketing $297636 $000

Audit Fees $440000 $545000

Bank Fees $19474 $13414

Borrowing Expenses $4389 $35111

Cleaning Expenses $880 $18564

Computer Expenses $92000 $000

Consultant Fees $460000 $000

Council Rates $38470 $27930

Fees amp Permits $21425 $5440

General Repairs amp Maintenance $6491 $19727

Gifts $9455 $000

Membership Fees $43182 $000

Parking Tolls Expenses $455 $000

Printing $23671 $000

Postage $15452 $18273

Office Equipment $140594 $117169

Rent $1234536 $1070252

Rounding amp Adjustment ($018) $000

Stationery $126896 $141863

Subscriptions $117093 $126135

Telephone Expenses $248589 $274646

Program Expense $249554 $64882

Utilities Expense $221770 $259434

Fundraising Expense $75902 $77725

Board Governance Expense $267918 $109750

Depreciation Expenses $854629 $1057102

Motor Vehicle Expenses $361442 $599512

Insurance Expenses $532813 $336620

Payroll Expenses $10762146 $9165696

Total Expenses $16666844 $14084245

Operating Profit $1741425 $997833

Other Income

Interest Income $76662 $72591

Net Profit(Loss) $1818087 $1070424

July 2016 To June 2017

Profit amp Loss

Assets

Current Assets

Bank Accounts

BLL - Operating Account $78590 $184885

BLL - Cash Reserves Account $3699333 $1000

BLL - Staff Entitlements $3518070 $2888514

BLL - MasterCard $264895 $13861

Total Bank Accounts $7560888 $3088260

Total Current Assets $7560888 $3088260

Non-Current Assets

Fixed Assets

Office Equipment At Cost $1146400 $1146400

Accum Depr Office Equipment ($1146400) ($789978)

Computers At Cost $77735 $77735

Accum Depr Computers ($77735) ($50407)

Motor Vehicles At Cost $000 $3550800

Accum Depr Motor Vehicles $000 ($2405756)

Other Non-Current Assets

Bond - Macedon St $100000 $100000

Borrowing Costs $000 $4389

Total Non-Current Assets $100000 $1633183

Total Assets $7660888 $4721443

Liabilities

Current Liabilities

ATO $322100 $000

GST Liabilities ($68214) ($75016)

Payroll Liabilities

PAYG Withholding Payable $000 $318000

Superannuation Payable $192618 $65619

Provision - AL - Current $664470 $287986

Provision - LSL - Current $2564686 $2359302

Trade Creditors $898673 $145021

Total Current Liabilities $4574333 $3100912

Non-Current Liabilities

Payroll Liabilities

Provision - LSL - Non Current $193575 $167861

Other Non-Current Liabilites

Chattel Mortgage - Holden $000 $384612

Unexpired Charges - Holden $000 ($6835)

Total Non-Current Liabilities $193575 $545638

Total Liabilities $4767908 $3646550

Net Assets $2892980 $1074893

Equity

Retained Earnings $1074893 $1074893

Current Year SurplusDeficit $1818087 $000

Total Equity $2892980 $1074893

Balance Sheetas at 30 June 2017

CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY AND DISTRICTS INC

Notes to the Financial Statements For the year ended 30 June 2017

1 SUMMARY OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES

a Basis of Accounting

The financial statements are a special purpose financial report Special purpose financial reports are not required to be prepared in accordance with all Accounting Standards Urgent Issues Group Consensus views and other authoritative pronouncements of the Australian Accounting Standards Board

The financial report is prepared on an accruals basis where revenue is recognised when charged although it may not be received and expenditure is recognised when due although it may not be paid

b Income Tax

Citizen Avocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc is exempt from Income Tax under Section 50-45 of the I ncome Tax Assessment Act 1997

Ryecrofts pty ltd CPA amp registered company audi1or liability limited by a scheme approved under professional standards legislation

INDEPENDENT AUDIT REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF CITIZEN ADVOCACY SUNBURY amp DISTRICTS INC

Report on the Financial Report

We have audited the accompanying financial report being a special purpose financial report of Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc which comprises the balance sheet as at 30 June 2017 and the Income Statement for the year then ended

Committees Responsibility for the Financial Report

The committee of the association is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the financial report and have determined that the accounting policies described in Note 1 to the financial statements which form part of the financial report are consistent with the financial reporting requirements of the Associations Incorporation Reform Act (2012) and are appropriate to meet the needs of the members The committees responsibilities also include establishing and maintaining internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of the financial report that is free from material misstatement whether due to fraud or error selecting and applying appropriate accounting policies and making accounting estimates that are reasonable in the circumstances

Auditors Responsibility

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial report based on our audit We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards These Auditing Standards require that we comply with relevant ethical requirements relating to audit engagements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance whether the financial report is free from material misstatement

An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial report The procedures selected depend on the auditors judgment including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial report whether due to fraud or error In making those risk assessments the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entitys preparation and fair presentation of the financial report in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entitys internal control An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by the committee as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial report

The financial report has been prepared for distribution to members for the purpose of fulfilling the committees financial reporting under the Associations Incorporation Reform Act (2012) We disclaim any assumption of responsibility for any reliance on this report or on the financial report to which it relates to any person other than the members or for any purpose other than that for which it was prepared

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion

Address level 1 441 south rd bentleigh 3204 Postal po box 457 belgrave de 3160 Tel 03 9754 8630

email adminryeeroftseomau wwwryeeroftseomau abn 57 117 534 693

Independence

In conducting our with the requirements of Australian professional ethical

Auditors Opinion

In our opinion the financial amp Districts Inc presents fairly in all material respects the financial position of Citizen Sunbury amp Districts Inc as of 30 June 2017 and of its financial for the year then ended

Basis of accounting and restriction on distribution

Without modifying our opinion we draw attention to Note 1 to the financial report which describes the basis of accounting The has been prepared to assist Citizen Advocacy Sunbury amp Districts Inc to meet the of the Associations Incorporation Reform Act 2012 As a result the report may not suitable for another purpose

RYECROFTS PTY L TO

Terrence Vail CPA

Registered Company Auditor - 305706

this 3rd day of October 2017

scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation

31

32

32