RIDBC ANNUAL REPORT2017

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2017 marked the second year of a substantial strategic evolution for Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children (RIDBC), that will result in a new era of service provision for Australians with vision or hearing loss, their families, and the professionals who support them

CONTENTS 4

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Report of the RIDBC President and RIDBC Chief Executive

About RIDBC

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16 2017 At a glance

2017 Highlights

2017 Financial summary

2016 - 2020 Strategic intent

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20 Reach more people

Deliver best practice

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34 60

Secure our future

Our peopleAnnual concise financial report

Thank you to our supporters

Front Cover:Pip, Gem, Jack and Pia are some of the many children, adults and professionals supported by RIDBC

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RIDBC's 2020 vision ‘to do more for those who need us’ is clear:• We are reaching more people through

expansion and partnerships;• We are developing, delivering and

demonstrating best practice in everything we do; and

• We are securing our future - continuing to strengthen our identity and operations - whilst remaining relevant and responsive to the needs of the children, adults, families and professionals who need us.

2017 IN REVIEW2017 marks the second year of implementation against RIDBC’s 2020 Strategic Plan – a substantial strategic evolution for RIDBC that is heralding a new era of service provision for Australians with vision or hearing loss, their families, and the professionals who support them.

Reaching More PeopleThroughout 2017, we undertook programs to expand RIDBC’s footprint, opening new permanent and visiting sites as well as advancing new merger opportunities. With this focus on accessibility, in 2017 we were proud to be able to provide services to more than 8,000 people from 20 sites around Australia.

In October, we re-opened our newly refurbished site at the Australian Hearing Hub, a fit-for-purpose facility showcasing the very best of RIDBC - both in terms of service delivery to our full array of clients, and in positioning RIDBC as a key organisation within the Macquarie University Hearing Hub collaboration.

In November, we officially opened RIDBC’s first, purpose-built site in Toowoomba, Queensland, following a $2.8M donation from local philanthropist, Clive Berghofer. Operational since August, this site is shaping up to be a significant hub for the expansion of RIDBC’s services across regional and remote areas of Australia.

During 2017, we also successfully lobbied for - and achieved - universal access to cochlear implant surgery for public clients across NSW, as well as publicly funded cochlear implant surgery in the Northern Territory. In addition, we were the first organisation to secure government funding for sound processor upgrades. Our cochlear implant program now offers ongoing support to over 3,300 people with cochlear implants, and in 2017 we performed 425 cochlear implant surgeries - with 318 people receiving their first implant. The reach of this service continues to grow and we are now working with over 17 partner hospitals and 14 surgeons, ensuring increased access for those who can benefit from this life-changing technology.

Our services for people with vision impairment continued to grow in 2017, with more than 1,000 children across Australia supported by RIDBC. Our significant influence in the vision sector also increased, with RIDBC staff leading

many of the most influential professional bodies, consumer representative organisations and lobbying groups within the vision sector, both nationally and internationally.

Throughout 2016 and into 2017, RIDBC, alongside Cochlear Limited and Macquarie University, continued to work as a consortium to propose options for the potential transfer of Australian Hearing into non-government ownership. However, in early 2017, we officially withdrew our consortium proposal and welcomed the news that the Australian Federal Government had decided to retain ownership of Australian Hearing. Following this decision, we have continued to lobby government and advocate for the needs of all Australians with hearing loss. We have participated in a number of government inquiries and are actively working with others in our sector to ensure Australia continues to be a world leader in hearing health.

From a merger perspective, we recognised the cost effectiveness of bringing relevant and aligned organisations under the umbrella of RIDBC, staving off potential market failure of important and necessary services.

To this end, we are pleased to announce the completion of our mergers with the Early Education Program (EEP) for Hearing Impaired Children, Victoria; and with Taralye - a Melbourne-based, early intervention centre for children with hearing loss. Together we have a shared commitment to a bright and vibrant future for people with hearing loss, and a shared aspiration to meet community need across Victoria.

Delivering Best PracticeThroughout 2017, we continued recalibrating and realigning our programs and services – developing, delivering and demonstrating a total service offering that will comprise the RIDBC Centres of Excellence and ultimately define the world-class experience delivered at all RIDBC sites across Australia.

A critical element of this has been preparing for a regionalised model of service delivery that will be highly relevant for our expansion across Australia. The principles for regionalisation are to ensure that:• There is a coherent plan developed across

each region that provides a clear and certain pathway to service development;

• Consistent high quality, evidence-based

REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE

RIDBC President, Sean Wareing (left), and RIDBC Chief Executive, Chris Rehn (right), spend time with RIDBC Thomas Pattison School students, Jayden and Chau

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services are provided across all sites; • All relevant modalities, and an agreed

minimum of services, are provided in an integrated manner at each site;

• Sites are responsive to the needs of local communities;

• There is strong local ownership and input into service delivery;

• Agreed individual outcomes are met for each and every child and family; and

• Staff have a sense of value. In semester one of 2017, RIDBC Renwick

Centre accepted its first intake of students into the Macquarie University Master of Disability Studies program. Thirty six students commenced their studies in three different specialisations, leading to qualifications as teachers of the deaf, teachers of students with vision impairment and as orientation and mobility instructors.

While RIDBC Renwick Centre’s University of Newcastle affiliation and postgraduate program took its final intake of students into these specialisations in semester one of 2017, we are committed to teaching more than 100 currently enrolled students through to graduation. We also continue to deliver research, library services and professional education from RIDBC in North Rocks, Sydney - including delivering continuing professional education to more than 1,000 course attendees.

Securing Our FutureThroughout 2017, we continued to work towards key elements of RIDBC's 2020 Strategy. As we recognised the aggressive timeline of our projects, major organisational change, and significant business commitments, we determined the need for additional support and established the RIDBC Transformational Management Office (TMO) to assist us to deliver on our strategic agenda.

The TMO has worked closely with the RIDBC Senior Leadership Team, the RIDBC Organisational Leadership Team and many members of the broader RIDBC community to support us on our transformation journey. The important first phase of work for the TMO has put in place the appropriate planning support, documentation, tools and processes that will ensure our transformation is a success.

We have also advanced our plans to relocate to the Macquarie University precinct by the end of 2020, and as this report goes to press we have commenced an expression of interest process for the sale of our North Rocks site.

In the meantime, the ‘once in a lifetime’ systemic changes brought about by the implementation of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) are causing a fundamental disruption to the way in which the Australian Government provides for and funds services for people with a disability.

The transition of vision and hearing services to the NDIS is having a significant impact on the children, families and adults we support, and is requiring us to drive a more commercial agenda across RIDBC to ensure the ongoing sustainability of our services and our revenue streams.

After participating in trials, engaging directly with the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA), contributing to parliamentary inquires and working within the scheme for the past three years, our clients are still experiencing significant delays in the planning, approval and consistency of NDIS funding packages. Inappropriate planning and funding processes are resulting in plan inconsistencies, chronic underfunding of participants and delays in access to early intervention services.

This places increasing financial and operational pressure on RIDBC and has resulted in a large revenue gap between previous ‘block funding’ from government and new individualised funding packages under NDIS. This gap in funding is growing year on year and is only mitigated by the prudent financial and operational management practices of RIDBC.

Fundraising continues to operate in a challenged environment – competing in a highly competitive not for profit industry sector, experiencing change and disruption with the roll out of NDIS, and managing changing donor demographics and preferences. With the exception of bequests, fundraising results have been disappointing in 2017, partly due to vacancies in key positions. However, appropriately skilled staff and sustainable revenue and expenditure plans will likely lead to an uplift in fundraising income in 2018 and beyond.

The RIDBC brand review project and services marketing activity continued in 2017, with a focus on ensuring the evidence base for any recommendations put before the RIDBC Board of Directors regarding future branding and naming possibilities. In the interim, we continue to increase our digital capability and lead generation activity, working closely with internal and external stakeholders to market our programs and services more effectively.

Engagement of our people continued to be a strong focus area in 2017. The organisational leadership team met frequently, with all-staff meetings conducted twice yearly, and internal newsletters and communications circulated regularly to ensure staff have an understanding and commitment to the significant changes underway - and a connection with RIDBC’s change agenda.

In May 2017, we welcomed two new board members to the RIDBC Board of Directors – Michele Phillips and Charles Cowper.

Financial PerformanceIn 2017, RIDBC achieved total revenue (from both operating and non-operating activities) of $52.9M which was a decrease of $1.6M or 2.9% from 2016. In 2017, the revenue was almost entirely from operating activities (non-operating revenue was negligible) and was an increase of $0.8M or 1.6% from the prior year's operating revenue.

We are most grateful for the generosity of our donors and supporters who have contributed to 42% of the operating revenue in 2017. This includes bequests and other fundraising activities.

Total expenditure on operating activities increased by $2.1M or 5% to $44.4M in 2017. This included $1.3M of strategic initiatives and $1.3M of NSW Department of Health funded cochlear implant upgrades. Excluding these two elements, the increase in operating expenditure is negligible at 0.1% of the prior year.

General administration and management costs were contained to 7.3% of operating expenditure in 2017. This represents a 0.2% improvement against 2016, reflecting RIDBC's ongoing vigilance around headcount and the operating costs associated with these functions.

Whilst execution of the RIDBC strategic plan is an exciting opportunity for RIDBC, we are

Sean P WareingRIDBC President

Chris RehnRIDBC Chief Executive

mindful that 2018 will be a financially challenging year. Steps are being taken to implement strategies to recalibrate the organisation to bring us back into a break even position at an operating level by the year 2020.

THANK YOUCommunity support, corporate partnership and philanthropy remain key sources of RIDBC fundraising, essential to RIDBC continuing to provide specialist services to children, adults and families across Australia who are impacted by vision or hearing loss.

In this annual report we again pay tribute to our valued donors, celebrating their ongoing enthusiasm, interest in and support of RIDBC. The generosity of these individuals and organisations helps us to in turn help thousands of Australians with vision impairment, or who are deaf or hard of hearing.

I would also like to thank our corporate supporters, partner organisations, staff and volunteers – including our valued RIDBC Board members. Now, as always, it is the community of RIDBC supporters which significantly impacts on the positive work RIDBC is able to undertake across Australia.

LOOKING AHEADMoving forward we recognise the need for continued investment in our people, our infrastructure and our organisational capability, in order to provide more accessible, community based services nationwide.

This is a time of change, development and expansion for RIDBC. As we forge ahead we look forward to updating you on our important work, ensuring the ongoing provision of high-quality vision and hearing services for the children, adults, families and professionals that we serve.

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ABOUT RIDBC

Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children (RIDBC) is Australia’s largest non-government provider of education, therapy and cochlear implant services for children and adults with vision or hearing loss, their families, and the professionals who support them.

Our range of specialist services are unique in Australia and are delivered by a broad group of highly qualified professionals including: teachers; speech pathologists; occupational therapists; audiologists; orthoptists; psychologists; social workers; technology consultants; physiotherapists; ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgeons; and more. Using in-person sessions combined with modern technology, RIDBC connects children, adults and families across Australia to the expert education, therapy, cochlear implant, and vision or hearing support services they need.

As a charity, RIDBC relies significantly on fundraising and community support to continue to make a difference in the lives of people with vision or hearing loss.

Our Services RIDBC provides specialist vision and hearing services for children, adults, families and professionals, including: • Assessment and diagnostics;• Specialist audiological services;• Early intervention and early learning programs;• Specialist preschools, schools and school

support services;• Telepractice services; • Allied health services; • Cochlear implant services; and • Research, postgraduate and continuing

professional education programs.

Striving for quality

Child, adult and family focused

Respectful to all people

Sharingknowledge

OUR VALUES

Innovative

Ethical

Our History RIDBC was established in 1860, 20 years before education became compulsory for sighted and hearing children, and more than 80 years before school attendance became compulsory for children who were deaf or blind.

Originally located at Liverpool Street in Sydney, in the early 1960s RIDBC relocated to North Rocks, where its main site remains today. Over the past decade, RIDBC’s footprint has continued to expand, with services now being provided from 20 sites across Australia. We also support people in regional and remote areas of Australia using high-quality videoconferencing technology.

In 2014, RIDBC acquired Sydney Cochlear Implant Centre (SCIC), to provide Australia’s largest and most comprehensive cochlear implant program for people of all ages. This acquisition represented a major milestone in RIDBC’s evolution, resulting in the provision of cochlear implant, therapy and rehabilitation services to both children and adults for the first time in our 157 year history.

We are currently undertaking a substantial evolution as we implement the RIDBC 2016-2020 Strategic Plan. In 2018 RIDBC merged with Early Education Program (EEP), and with Taralye, strengthening essential early intervention services for children with hearing loss, and their families, across Victoria. We remain focused on continuously improving our outcomes and service accessibility to achieve sustainability and growth for RIDBC.

(l-r) Makuei, Koko, Benjamin and Mary are just some of the many children and adults with vision or hearing loss supported by RIDBC

Our Mission and Objectives To provide quality and innovative services to achieve the best outcomes for current and future generations of Australians with vision and/or hearing loss.

To engage in research, information dissemination, professional preparation and continuing staff development, for teachers and associated professionals in the field of sensory disability.

To recruit the best people we can, engage them in challenging work, and continually develop their skills and knowledge so that they can perform to the best of their ability.

To provide sufficient funding from diverse sources to have maximum impact on the mission of RIDBC.

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RIDBC sites RIDBC Teleschool services RIDBC Renwick Centre students Continuing professional education graduates

Postgraduate students from NZ and Asia

$52.9Mtotal revenue in 2017

4,000+person days of continuing professional education delivered

26,700+hours contributed by volunteers

500K+people reached via website and digital campaigns

2,680 people received assessment and diagnostic services

1,330 children supported in early intervention services and schools

1,000+ children with vision impairment supported by RIDBC

22% of people in services from culturally and linguistically diverse communities

425cochlear implant surgeries performed2017

AT A GLANCE

8,000+people supported by RIDBC in 2017

3,300+ people received ongoing support from SCIC Cochlear Implant Program

261 people over 16 received their first implant

57 people under 16 received their first implant

17 partner hospitals

165 students enrolled in postgraduate courses

54 graduates through RIDBC Renwick Centre

1,000+ continuing professional education course attendees

26 online seminars streamed

62,000+ downloads of RIDBC’s suite of language learning apps

25% increase in social media subscribers

1,060 people volunteered their time for RIDBC

26 people presented with RIDBC Volunteer Service and Recognition Awards

20 Sites across Australia

42% operating revenue derived from fundraising and bequests

78.6% of expenditure spent on student and client services

$22.4M raised through charitable fundraising activities and bequests

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2017 HIGHLIGHTSOUR COMMUNITY - CHILDREN, ADULTS, FAMILIES & PROFESSIONALS

PIP AND GEM’S FUTURES ARE LOOKING BRIGHT RIDBC has been providing specialist vision and hearing loss services to sisters, Pip and Gem.

“When Gem was diagnosed with vision loss, we were already accessing RIDBC’s services for our eldest daughter, Pip, who has hearing loss. Pip was connected to RIDBC School Support Service as well as RIDBC’s cochlear implant program, so I knew that RIDBC would be the place to turn to for support,” said mum, Dee.

Gem was diagnosed with Peters anomaly and iris coloboma.

“We could see that both of her eyes were white, that she had cataracts,” said Dee. “I had concerns about how I was best going to be able to support her in a predominantly visual world - but having watched Pip grow into a wonderfully independent and creative person, I knew that with hard work and the right support everything would be okay.”

Gem has been receiving support from RIDBC Early Learning Program (Vision Impairment), accessing individual support as well as a playgroup.

“Being able to meet other parents and regularly receive support from a team of professionals is invaluable,” said Dee. “Gem is now two years old and has started requesting her favourite book and even telling us what is on each page!”

JACK IS READY FOR ‘BIG SCHOOL’ Diagnosed with hearing loss at two weeks of age, Jack received hearing aids at four months and started receiving support from RIDBC Teleschool.

“When we were told our first born baby had hearing loss, I felt stunned,” said mum, Lesley. “I didn’t have any complications during my pregnancy and my husband and I had no history of hearing loss in our families.

“Living in a remote region in Western Australia, we were so pleased when we were told of the services available to us. RIDBC Telechool’s use of videoconferencing technology allowed RIDBC to bring listening, speech and language programs to Jack on a weekly basis.”

When the family moved to Sydney, Jack began attending RIDBC Nepean Preschool, before transitioning to ‘big school’ - where he is thriving.

“Through RIDBC we have been able to access all the specialist support that Jack needs,” said Lesley.

PIA’S 30TH COCHLEAR IMPLANT ANNIVERSARYIn 1987, Pia’s parents made the decision to pursue a cochlear implant for their six year old daughter – a time at which the technology was new and the decision was somewhat controversial.

“In the 1980s, there were very limited options for children with profound deafness,” said Pia. “My vocabulary was extremely limited before my switch-on, but after the switch-on my vocabulary started to expand at a rapid pace.”

Pia was the first congenitally deaf child to be implanted by Professor Bill Gibson, the founding Medical Director of SCIC (now RIDBC's SCIC Cochlear Implant Program).

“During my switch-on, my mum’s first words were, “Pia, I love you” - and I understood her! She cried,” said Pia. “My mum and dad watched me enter a world of new perspectives - I was so enthralled and fascinated at the new sounds I could hear. Ripping paper, sausages sizzling, birds singing; an endless magnitude of sounds.”

Pia’s life was changed forever. She has excelled since receiving her first cochlear implant 30 years ago and, has now graduated with a double major in climate science and spatial information science at Macquarie University.

INNOVATIVE RESEARCH TEAM AT RIDBCRIDBC is home to a diverse research community, providing cutting-edge insights in the fields of vision and hearing loss across a range of research projects.

One of the many highlights of 2017 saw SCIC Cochlear Implant Program welcome WaiKong Lai as a senior research engineer.

WaiKong has been involved in an array of deafness and cochlear implant research studies, including the important development of the Neural Response Telemetry system and software, which is now used routinely for cochlear implant fitting and management.

Research also continues on the Australian Childhood Vision Impairment Register, which is working to determine the prevalence of vision impairment in children in Australia.

“We now have over 1,300 children on the register,” said Sue Silveira, senior research fellow at RIDBC Renwick Centre.

“From the available data we continue to develop a clearer image of the effect vision impairment has on Australia’s children, giving us a much better way to predict their service requirements.”

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Associate Professor Catherine Birman Wins NSW Woman of the Year In March 2017, A/Prof Catherine Birman, Medical Director of RIDBC's SCIC Cochlear Implant Program, won the 2017 New South Wales Premier’s Award for Woman of the Year.

A/Prof Birman is one of the most experienced cochlear implant surgeons in the world, having performed over 1,000 cochlear implant procedures for children and adults from three months to 94 years.

"I am honoured to win the NSW Premier's Award for Woman of the Year. This award provides a great opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of treating hearing loss," said A/Prof Birman.(Photo credit: Salty Dingo)

Life-changing Cochlear Implants for More Territorians In a first for the Northern Territory (NT), in 2017, NT Health announced their commitment to provide public funding for six cochlear implant surgeries and specialist support services each year for Territorians, through RIDBC.

Bart Cavalletto, Director of Services at RIDBC, said, “RIDBC supports many people with hearing loss living in the NT. This funding ensures that more Territorians have an opportunity to receive these life-changing services, close to home."

50th Anniversary of Pathfinders Auxiliary In 2017, we celebrated the 50th anniversary of Pathfinders Auxiliary – a team that comprises past and present Qantas employees and associates who have raised much needed funds in support of RIDBC.

Pathfinders events such as the Qantas Pathfinders Charity Flight and Qantas Pathfinders Revue, have raised over $8M for RIDBC since the team's inception in 1967. We are extremely grateful for all that this incredibly dedicated team of supporters has done for RIDBC.

RIDBC Renwick Centre Welcomes Macquarie University Students In 2017, RIDBC Renwick Centre welcomed the first intake of students into our new Macquarie University Master of Disability Studies program.

Thirty-six students commenced their studies in three different specialisations, leading to qualifications as teachers of the deaf, teachers of students with vision impairment and as orientation and mobility instructors. These students will go on to provide essential specialist support to children and adults with vision or hearing loss.

RIDBC Jim Patrick Audiology Centre Celebrates 20,000 Clients RIDBC Jim Patrick Audiology Centre (JPAC) celebrated a significant milestone in March 2017, serving over 20,000 clients since its inception in 2002. Genelle Cook, head of JPAC, said, “I feel extremely proud that the JPAC team have been able to contribute to the local and broader community by providing high quality, diagnostic hearing assessment services for so many children - particularly those with additional needs."

2017 HIGHLIGHTSKEY CELEBRATIONS, EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

RIDBC Clive Berghofer Centre Opened in Toowoomba In November 2017, RIDBC officially launched its new, purpose-built centre in Toowoomba. Philanthropist and local iconic hero from the region, Clive Berghofer, as well as RIDBC Ambassador and Paralympian, Katie Kelly, were special guests at the launch event. The launch was attended by service professionals and some of the many families accessing RIDBC's services in the area. This centre houses a multi-purpose room that includes a play area for children, a teleconference room, office space, and a purpose-built sound booth for audiological testing.

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FINANCIAL SUMMARY

2017 Financial Summary In 2017, RIDBC achieved total revenue (from both operating and non-operating activities) of $52.9M which was a decrease of $1.6M or 2.9% from 2016. In 2017, the revenue was almost entirely from operating activities (non-operating revenue was negligible) and was an increase of $0.8M or 1.6% from the prior year's operating revenue.

We are most grateful for the generosity of our donors and supporters who have contributed to 42% of the operating revenue in 2017. This includes bequests and other fundraising activities.

Total expenditure on operating activities

2017 Income and Expenditure Summary2017

($,000)2016

($,000)Change

%

Total operating revenue 52,940 52,093 1.6%

Total operating expenditure 44,380 42,238 5.1%

Operating surplus 8,560 9,855

Non-operating items* 1 2,401

SURPLUS AFTER NON-OPERATING ITEMS 8,561 12,256

*2016 includes a $2.4M gain on sale of property at North Parramatta, following the relocation of RIDBC Garfield Barwick School to North Rocks.

increased by $2.1M or 5% to $44.4M in 2017. This included $1.3M of strategic initiatives and $1.3M of NSW Department of Health funded cochlear implant upgrades. Excluding these two elements, the increase in operating expenditure is negligible at 0.1% compared to the prior year.

General administration and management costs were contained to 7.3% of operating expenditure in 2017. This represents a 0.2% improvement against 2016, reflecting RIDBC's ongoing vigilance around headcount and the operating costs associated with these functions.

Emily is receiving specialist hearing services through RIDBC Garfield Barwick School, as she learns to listen and speak with her hearing aids

2017 Expenditure

7.3% Administration

0.3% Investment management

1.8% Marketing & communications

9.0% Charitable fundraising 78.6%

Student & client services

3.0% Strategic initiatives

2017 Expenditure: Student and Client Services

13.7% School children who are

deaf or hard of hearing

11.2% School children who have

sensory and additional disabilities

24.8% Preschool and early childhood

11.3% Community support services including allied health and teleservices

1.9% RIDBC Jim Patrick Audiology Centre

7.5% Professional education and research at RIDBC Renwick Centre

20.8% SCIC Cochlear Implant Program

8.8% School children who are blind or have low vision

2017 Revenue

11.2% SCIC Cochlear Implant Program

5.1% Other sales, fees, income

25.2% Government funding

16.2% Investment income

13.6% Charitable fundraising

28.7% Bequests

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STRATEGICINTENT

2016-2020

Our mission is to provide quality and innovative services to achieve the best outcomes for current and future generations of Australians with vision or hearing loss. This mission remains unchanged and unwavering.

We are designing a future to do more for those who need us. We’ll reach more people through expansion and partnerships. We’ll develop, deliver and demonstrate best practice in everything we do. We’ll secure our future, continuing to strengthen our identity and operations whilst remaining relevant and responsive to the needs of the children, adults, families and professionals who need us.

OUR COMMITMENT TO OUR MISSION IS UNWAVERING

WE ARE DESIGNING A FUTURE TO DO MORE FOR THOSE WHO NEED US

REACH MORE PEOPLE

Meet nationwide demand for our

services

Expand services & partner with organisations

SECURE OUR FUTURE

Build organisational performance,

efficiency & viability

Grow recognition, awareness & engagement

DELIVER BEST PRACTICE

Relocate RIDBC within Macquarie

University precinct

Found Centres of Excellence in vision & hearing

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We are reaching more people by positioning ourselves to meet nationwide demand for our services

REACH MORE PEOPLE

MEET NATIONWIDE DEMAND FOR OUR SERVICES:• Ensure community relevant,

responsive and embedded services• Continue footprint expansion

EXPAND SERVICES & PARTNER WITH ORGANISATIONS: • Explore industry partnerships,

merger and acquisition opportunities, synergistic alliances, and new program and service developments

We are committed to reaching more people across Australia who need our services.

Over the past decade, RIDBC has actively expanded its footprint to meet the needs of Australians with vision or hearing loss. We are currently supporting thousands of clients across Australia from 20 sites, a network of visiting sites, and via telepractice.

There are still areas of unmet need across the country and we are committed to reaching these. Opportunity exists to better connect people to the expert vision and hearing services they need. Expanding our services and partnering with other organisations that are aligned with our mission will help us achieve this.

SEP2016

RIDBC's new purpose-built site in Canberra officially opened

APR2017

RIDBC officially launched Auslan Storytime App

MAR2017

Cochlear implant surgery funding secured for the Northern Territory

NOV2017

RIDBC Clive Berghofer Centre officially opened in Toowoomba

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REACH MORE PEOPLE

Service ExpansionIn 2017, RIDBC engaged in merger negotiations with Taralye, an early intervention service for children who are deaf located in Victoria. There was considerable work undertaken to progress the merger in 2017 – with discussions leading to a formal agreement being put in place in 2018. This builds on our merger with Early Education Program for Hearing Impaired Children (EEP) – also a Victorian early intervention provider for children with hearing loss. With all three organisations joined together, RIDBC’s focus is on strengthening essential early intervention services for children with hearing loss, and their families, across Victoria. Together we will work to ensure more people receive the support they need, no matter their location.

In November we officially opened RIDBC’s first, purpose-built site in Toowoomba, Queensland, following a $2.8M donation from local philanthropist, Clive Berghofer. This site is significant, acting as a hub for the expansion of RIDBC’s regional and remote services, focusing on early intervention, therapy and telepractice.

Braille Literacy RIDBC is currently engaged in a project to measure literacy rates for braille users across Australia and New Zealand. Funded by the International Order of Oddfellows, the 2016 NSW Premier’s Teacher Scholarship was awarded to RIDBC Vision Consultant, Tricia d’Apice, to undertake this research. The data collection phase of this important research project was completed in 2017, with 73 children and 39 teachers of vision impairment around Australia and New Zealand involved in the initial assessment. This research will ultimately allow RIDBC to determine whether students with vision impairment are reading at the same rate as their sighted peers, with results intended to inform and improve the methodologies and resources used to teach braille.

Universal Access to Cochlear Implant SurgeryDuring 2017, we successfully lobbied for, and achieved, universal access to cochlear implant surgery for public clients across NSW, as well as publicly funded cochlear implant surgery in the Northern Territory. In addition, we started offering local cochlear implant surgery in Port Macquarie, NSW, and we were the first organisation to

secure government funding for sound processor upgrades. Our commitment to growing our services in regional centres is critical to securing future access to services for people with vision or hearing loss in regional communities.

New Auslan CurriculumIn 2017, members of the RIDBC community were involved in developing and writing the first school curriculum in Australian Sign Language (Auslan) that has been published by the Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA).

NDIS ProgressThe NDIS roll out is continuing and remains a key impact point for our operations. Preparing families for their meetings with NDIA planners remains a significant priority for RIDBC, and we continue to work hard with the NDIS to push for better processes, plans and outcomes for children and adults with vision or hearing loss across Australia. RIDBC is strongly advocating for a more holistic and seamless journey for children who are identified as deaf or hard of hearing, with more significant support under the NDIS for early intervention services, which could then taper off as children achieve their speech and language goals — ramping up again at times of transition, such as; commencement of school, progress to high school and ultimately technical/tertiary education.

In addition, there has been significant work done in preparing parliamentary submissions and appearing in person at inquiry hearings, as well as face to face meetings with individual ministers and members of parliament.

Services for Clients from Indigenous or Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) CommunitiesIn 2017, the RIDBC Indigenous Outreach Program provided hearing screening for 587 children, 119 (20.2%) of whom were referred for further medical treatment. The program focused on communities in Dubbo, Lightning Ridge and Nambucca Heads. The number of children from CALD backgrounds receiving services from RIDBC continued to grow in 2017, comprising over 22% of all children enrolled in RIDBC services. Within the SCIC Cochlear Implant Program, 314 clients were known to be from CALD backgrounds.

HENRY RECEIVES THE SUPPORT HE NEEDS FROM REGIONAL AUSTRALIAMoving from Newcastle to the NSW Mid North Coast, Henry was able to continue receiving specialist hearing loss services due to RIDBC's innovative use of technology

RIDBC is using telepractice to deliver expert, early intervention services for children with vision or hearing loss living in rural and regional areas of Australia.

“Using technology to innovate allows us to overcome the challenges of distance,” said Marianne Kraszewski, head of RIDBC Early Childhood Services.

One of those children is Henry, who was five months old when he started receiving support from the team at RIDBC Hunter, in regional NSW. At seven months of age, Henry received bilateral cochlear implants through RIDBC’s cochlear implant program. When the family moved to the NSW Mid North Coast, he continued to receive services through RIDBC Teleschool. His family were amazed that RIDBC’s specialist services were able to continue to support them despite their regional location.

“We feel incredibly lucky to continue to access RIDBC’s services,” explained Henry’s mum, Michelle.

“We hope that Henry will be able to access every opportunity that life brings and feel proud of what makes him special.”

Henry is one of hundreds of children around Australia connected to RIDBC through our specialist telepractice services

(l-r) RIDBC Chief Executive, Chris Rehn; RIDBC major donor, Clive Berghofer; RIDBC Ambassador, Katie Kelly; and RIDBC President, Sean Wareing; officially open RIDBC Clive Berghofer Centre in Toowoomba

In 2017, we continued to evolve our comprehensive range of services to meet the changing needs of the people we serve. RIDBC offers a range of vision and hearing services from 20 sites, with two new permanent sites added in 2017. In this we are delivering on our commitment to provide nationwide services and to explore opportunities to expand our services, including partnerships with other organisations that are aligned with RIDBC’s vision and mission.

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We are developing, delivering and demonstrating best practice by continuing our commitment to achieving excellence in everything we do

DELIVER BEST PRACTICE

In order to provide more people across Australia with best practice vision and hearing services and support, we are founding Centres of Excellence in vision and hearing.

The core purpose of the Centres of Excellence is to deliver best practice for our clients, not only through outcomes, but through evidence-based practice and our unwavering commitment to help children, adults, and their families achieve their goals.

We will also relocate RIDBC’s head offices and RIDBC Renwick Centre programs within the Macquarie University precinct, ensuring we continue to develop, deliver and demonstrate best practice services.

FOUND CENTRES OF EXCELLENCE IN VISION & HEARING:• Build Centres of Excellence to develop,

deliver and demonstrate best practice services and support for people with vision or hearing loss

RELOCATE TO THE MACQUARIE UNIVERSITY PRECINCT: • Relocate RIDBC & SCIC Cochlear Implant

Program head offices, services and support functions within the Macquarie University precinct

• Develop a new affiliation agreement and new RIDBC Renwick Centre programs within the Macquarie University academic structure

MAY2016

JUN2016

FEB2017

MAR2017

The UEBOnline Accessible program launched - providing braille eLearning for children and adults with vision loss

NSW Health partnered with RIDBC to support a Bone Conduction Implantable Devices pilot program in NSW

RIDBC Renwick Centre welcomed the first intake of Macquarie University students into our new postgraduate program

RIDBC Jim Patrick Audiology Centre celebrated 20,000 clients

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DELIVER BEST PRACTICEOUTSTANDING STUDENT WINS AWARD RIDBC recognised Kayla's outstanding academic achievement in the Higher School Certificate (HSC)

Kayla, who is 18 years old and has vision impairment, completed her HSC in 2017 and was accepted into her dream course at university.

Kayla received in-school support from RIDBC School Support Service, which brings RIDBC specialist teachers into schools to provide students with vision or hearing loss with the in-class assistance and strategies they need to access the curriculum.

“I was diagnosed with congenital motor nystagmus when I was born, which is a condition that causes involuntary eye movements,” said Kayla.

RIDBC worked with Kayla to ensure she had full access to the curriculum.

“Since kindergarten and throughout my schooling I’ve had the support of RIDBC,” said Kayla. “I’ve always benefitted from their support – I was provided with visual aids such as binoculars and monoculars to assist me to read text, and was always given guidance from professional experts at RIDBC when I needed it.”

Kayla is now enrolled in a communications degree at the University of Technology Sydney.

“I have always wanted to be involved in media events, so studying a communications degree seemed like the best way to achieve my dream,” said Kayla.

Kayla was awarded a medal of excellence by RIDBC in 2017 for her academic achievement

Australian Hearing HubIn 2017, we continued to progress our move to Macquarie University. During the year we reached an agreement with the university to occupy space in the Australian Hearing Hub building, where we will house our ‘head office’ functions. The timeline for this aligns with our ambition to move to the university grounds by end 2020, helping us to achieve the RIDBC 2016-2020 Strategic Plan.

Having made our commitment to the lease at Macquarie University, in 2017 we moved to appoint an agent for the sale of our North Rocks site. Three agents were engaged to showcase their capability and experience, with Colliers being chosen to manage the sale.

Upon completion of this important move, RIDBC’s new, fit-for-purpose site at Macquarie University will allow us to forge new partnerships with world-leading organisations in the sensory field who are co-located on university grounds.

RIDBC TeleschoolThrough our use of technology, RIDBC is able to reach more people - delivering services to those living in regional and remote areas through telepractice. Using videoconferencing and other technologies, RIDBC Teleschool provided education and therapy services to 260 children with vision or hearing loss living across Australia in 2017. These services included: individual sessions, group classes, parent networking and education programs, support to develop a range of communication options, braille tuition and vision loss support.

Telepractice ResearchThe benefit of professionals and families working as equal partners to support the learning and development of children with vision or hearing loss has a strong evidence base. This ‘family-centred’ approach is at the core of RIDBC’s programs and services. Delivering family-centred, early intervention through telepractice has been a key component of RIDBC’s push to alleviate inequality for families living in remote and regional areas. Since 2007, RIDBC Teleschool has been at the forefront of supporting families via telepractice. As part of our commitment to deliver best practice to our clients, RIDBC is now undertaking a significant research project to investigate the efficacy of telepractice as a mode of delivery against a traditional, ‘in-person’ approach. There were 179 RIDBC families and practitioners that took part in the research project, led by key researcher and RIDBC Renwick Centre PhD candidate, Melissa McCarthy. Preliminary results from our 2017 investigations indicate that families do not perceive that there is a significant difference in effectiveness between tele-delivered and in-person practices in early intervention.

Specialist Audiological ServicesIn March 2017, RIDBC Jim Patrick Audiology Centre celebrated a significant milestone — serving over 20,000 clients since its inception in 2002. This dedicated paediatric audiology centre incorporates the latest technology for hearing assessment of children from birth onwards, and routinely deploys two audiologists during testing. The centre is also the only audiological assessment centre dedicated to paediatric services outside of the children’s hospitals. It

Throughout 2017, we began recalibrating and realigning our programs and services – developing, delivering and demonstrating the total service offering that will ultimately define the world-class experience delivered at all RIDBC sites across Australia.

ensures that children as young as three weeks of age can receive diagnostic audiology testing, including infants referred as part of the NSW State Wide Infant Screening – Hearing (SWISH) program. In 2017, the centre conducted 2,680 audiology consultations, including audiological assessments for children across all RIDBC programs, and diagnostic assessments that formed part of the NSW SWISH program. Detecting a hearing loss at birth ensures children are able to access quality early intervention from just a few weeks of age, greatly improving their outcomes.

SCIC Cochlear Implant ProgramRIDBC’s SCIC Cochlear Implant Program continued to achieve world-class outcomes for people with severe to profound hearing loss in 2017. The program provided ongoing support to more than 3,300 children and adults living with hearing loss and performed 425 cochlear implant surgeries, with 261 adults and 57 children receiving their very first implant.

RIDBC Renwick CentreIn 2017, RIDBC Renwick Centre had its first intake of students into the Macquarie University Master of Disability Studies program. This new degree program has been offered initially with three specialisations: • Education: Deaf and Hard of Hearing • Education: Vision Impairment • Sensory Disability

Over the next few years, new RIDBC Renwick Centre courses will be developed under the auspices of Macquarie University. These will potentially include new courses to provide professional preparation for allied health and other professionals seeking to work with children with vision impairment or who are deaf or hard of hearing within the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

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RESEARCHThe early communicative environment prior to and following cochlear implants: Impact on children’s early communicative and cognitive development (Prof. Edith Bavin, Dr  Julia Sarant, Prof. Candy Petersen, Dr Peter Busby, & Prof. Greg Leigh). Research supported by ARC Linkage Grant LP 110100070.

Association between Intra-Operative Cochlear Response Telemetry (CREST) and hearing preservation (A/Prof. Catherine Birman & Dr WaiKong Lai). Research supported by Cochlear Ltd.

e-IMP Online: Development of the Infant Monitor of vocal Production (IMP) as an online assessment instrument (Dr Robyn Cantle Moore). Research supported by the HEARing Cooperative Research Centre.

Examining the effect of unilateral hearing loss on infant vocal development (Dr Robyn Cantle Moore).

Exploring data trends: IMP and MacArthur-Bates CDI at 2 years (Dr Robyn Cantle Moore & PACE students). In affiliation with Macquarie University, Professional and Community Engagement initiative.

Proof of Concept evaluation: The role of Language Environment Analysis (LENA) in qualifying rehabilitation support for elderly CI recipients (Dr Robyn Cantle Moore, & Colleen Psarros).

Deaf people in colonial Australia: Access to justice, education and employment (Dr Breda Carty & Darlene Thornton).

Longitudinal outcomes of hearing-impaired children: Early vs later intervention (Dr Teresa Ching, Prof. Harvey Dillon, Prof. Linda Cupples, Prof. Greg Leigh, & Dr  Malin Waas). National Acoustic Laboratories-led project supported by US National Institutes of Health Grant Number: 2R01DC008080-06

Accessible UEB Online: Developing an on-line training program in the Unified English Braille Code for learners who are blind or have low vision (including family members and professionals with vision impairment) (Dr Frances Gentle) Research and development supported by the JSDJS Foundation and the James N. Kirby Foundation.

Optimisation of Hybrid Fittings for Newly Implanted Cochlear Implant Recipients (Lynsey Gillies). Research supported by Hearing CRC.

Retrospective historical study of outcomes for Canberra cochlear implant surgeries for SCIC (Janet Kenyon, Alireza Moghadam, & Dr Valerie Looi).

Music training for hearing impaired children and its effect on speech perception and social development – PhD project (Chi Yhun Lo – Supervisor/s: A/Prof. Catherine McMahon, Dr Valerie Looi, & Prof. Bill Thompson).

The effectiveness of telepractice in delivering specialist early intervention services to deaf and hard of hearing children and their families—PhD project (Melissa McCarthy—Supervisor/s: Prof. Greg Leigh, & Prof Michael Arthur-Kelly). Supported by the HEARing Cooperative Research Centre.

Assessment of patterns of teacher-student interactions in sign language-inclusive classrooms (Prof. Jemina Napier, Prof. Greg Leigh, Della Goswell, & Dr Breda Carty). Supported by Macquarie University/RIDBC Enterprise partnership Grant/Deafness Foundation Project Grant.

A review of oral support services for people of working age with a hearing loss—MPhil project (Michele Nealon—Supervisor/s: Prof. Philip Newall, & Prof. Greg Leigh).

A review of the Low Cost Hearing Aid project in the Philippines (Prof. Philip Newall).

Auditory processing  in  older persons - implications for hearing aid fitting (Prof. Philip Newall & Prof. Paul Mitchell).

Intraoperative Remote Assistant Testing (Colleen Psarros, Dr Halit Sanli, & Philip Chu).

The delivery of cochlear implantation related services in a remote access environment—PhD project—Macquarie University (Colleen Psarros—Supervisor/s: A/Prof Catherine McMahon, Prof. Greg Leigh, & Prof. Robert Cowan).

Field testing  and further development of two paediatric  audiological  speech  tests  in the Indonesian language (INDO-SPRITT AND INDO-SPASP) (Dr Dahlia Sartika  & Prof. Philip Newall).

Profiling children with vision impairment in Australia - The Australian Childhood Vision Impairment Register (Sue Silveira). Research supported by the Japan Australia Friendship Fund (JAFF).

Shifting the focus from cause to impact: A study into childhood vision impairment—PhD Project—University of Newcastle (Sue Silveira—Supervisor/s: Dr Mike Steer, Dr Robyn Cantle Moore, & Prof. Michael Arthur-Kelly).

Orthoptics Australia Workforce Survey 2017 (Sue Silveira, Neryla Jolly, Julia Kelly, & Mara Giribaldi). Research supported by Orthoptics Australia.

PUBLICATIONSChing, T.Y.C., Dillon, H., Leigh, G., & Cupples, L. (2017). Learning from the Longitudinal Outcomes of Children with Hearing Impairment (LOCHI) study: Summary of 5-year findings and implications. International Journal of Audiology, (electronic pre-print version on-line) doi:10.1080/14992027.2017.1385865

Ching, T Y. C., Dillon, H., Button, L., Seeto, M., Van Buynder, P., Marnane, V., Cupples, L., & Leigh, G. (2017). Age at intervention for permanent hearing loss and 5-year language outcomes. Pediatrics, 140(3), (electronic pre-print version on-line: e20164274) doi: 10.1542/peds.2016-4274.

D’Apice, T., Knight, M., & Gentle, F. (2017, March). Learning Media Profile (Version  1). Available from the SPEVI website, http://www.spevi.net/.

Gentle, F. (2017, March). President’s message; Editorial. Journal of the South Pacific Educators in Vision Impairment, 9(1), 7-8.

Gibson, W. P. (2017). The clinical uses of electrocochleography. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 11, 274. doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2017.00274

Matthijs, L., Hardonk, S., Sermijn, J., Van Puyvelde, M., Leigh, G., Van Herreweghe, M., & Loots, G. (2017). Mothers of deaf children in the 21st century: Dynamic positioning between the medical and cultural-linguistic discourses. Journal of Deaf Studies and Deaf Education, 22(4), 365-377.

McAlpine, D., McMahon, C., Dillon, H., Leigh, G., Hungerford, J., Patrick, J., Cowan, R., & Dodds, L. (2017). Introducing the Australian Hearing Hub. Trends in Hearing, 21(3) (electronic pre-print version on-line:233121651772292) doi:10.1177/2331216517722920.

Silveira, S. (2017) Vision impairment and disability support, the road travelled. Journal of the South Pacific Educators in Vision Impairment, 10(1), 51-59.

Silveira, S. Disparity between the Australian National Disability Insurance Scheme access requirements and the needs of people with vision impairment. Australian Orthoptic Journal,49, 18-22.

Wong, C., Ching, T.Y.C., Cupples, L., Button, L., Leigh, G., Marnane, V., & Gunnourie, M. (2017). Psychosocial development in 5-year-old children with hearing loss using hearing aids or cochlear implants. Trends in Hearing, 21(3). doi: 10.1177/2331216517710373.

PRESENTATIONSBavin, E. L., Sarant, J., & Leigh, G. (2017, July). Impact of parent interaction and language input on the communicative development of infants with cochlear implants. Presented at 14th International Congress for the Study of Child Language, Lyon, France.

Bavin, E. L., Sarant, J., Prendergast, L, & Leigh, G. (2017, July). Variability in early vocabulary of children with CIs: The impact of child abilities on outcomes. Presented at 14th International Congress for the Study of Child Language, Lyon, France.

Birman, C. (2017, June). Unusual causes of progressive paediatric sensorineural hearing loss: ANSD, mitochondrial abnormalities and autoimmune disease. Presented at IFOS World Congress, Paris, France.

Birman, C. (2017, June). Fixed conductive hearing loss with normal tympanic membrane-moderator presenting. Presented at IFOS World Congress, Paris, France.

Birman, C. (2017, June). Changing demographics over 30 years of the Sydney Cochlear Implant Centre. Presented at IFOS World Congress, Paris, France.

Birman, C. (2017, July). Chair, Panel Discussion—Cochlear implantation evolving indications. Presented at South Pacific ORL Conference 2017 and ANZSPO, Hawaii, USA.

Birman, C. (2017, July). Cochlear implant outcomes in cochlear nerve aplasia and hypoplasia. Presented at South Pacific ORL Conference and ANZSPO, Hawaii, USA.

Birman, C. (2017, July 22). Cochlear implant outcomes in cochlear nerve aplasia and hypoplasia. Presented at 10th Seoul National University Hospital International Symposium on Cochlear Implantation, Seoul, Korea.

Birman, C. (2017, July 22). Bilateral atresia and bone conduction implantable devices. Presented at 10th Seoul National University Hospital International Symposium on Cochlear Implantation, Seoul, Korea.

Birman, C. (2017, July 22). Atresia clinic and bonebridge experience. Presented at 10th Seoul National University Hospital International Symposium on Cochlear Implantation, Seoul, Korea.

Birman, C. (2017, August 18). Cochlear implants. Presented at Zurich Women’s Innovation Network Meeting, Zurich, Switzerland.

Birman, C. (2017, September). Bilateral cochlear implants. Presented at Asia Pacific Symposium of Cochlear Implants and Related Sciences, Famagusta, Northern Cyprus.

Birman, C. (2017, September). Cochlear implant outcomes in cochlear nerve aplasia and hypoplasia; and internal auditory canal stenosis. Presented at Asia Pacific Symposium of Cochlear Implants and Related Sciences, Famagusta, Northern Cyprus.

Birman, C. (2017, September). Surgical problems in auditory implants. Presented at Asia Pacific Symposium of Cochlear Implants and Related Sciences, Famagusta, Northern Cyprus.

Birman, C. (2017, November). Round table discussion and presentation – SCIC cochlear implant selection criteria, assessment and surgical considerations. Presented at the 27th Annual Meeting of the Japan Otological Society, Yokohama, Japan.

Birman, C. (2017, November). Expanding criteria for cochlear implant surgery: Experience at SCIC, Australia’s largest

cochlear implant program. Presented at the 27th Annual Meeting of the Japan Otological Society, Yokohama, Japan.

Cantle Moore, R. (2017, May 29). The infant monitor of vocal production: Project update. Presented at Hearing CRC National Research Symposium, Melbourne.

Carty, B. (2017, February 16). A tour of the Auslan curriculum: Including culture in Auslan teaching. Presented at Planning and programming for the National Auslan Curriculum, Sydney.

Carty, B. (2017, August). The future of the Deaf community. Presented at the Catholic Deaf Conference, Melbourne.

Carty, B., & de Beuzeville, L. (2017, August). The new national Auslan curriculum: What does it mean for itinerant teachers? Presented at the Itinerant Teachers of the Deaf Conference, Sydney.

Cook, G., & Burdon, A. (2017, October). Unilateral hearing loss: An RIDBC perspective. Presented at Annual Conference of the Audiometry Nurses Association of Australia, Wollongong.

Costa, I.M., Silva, P.B., Cantle Moore, R., & Jesus, L.M.T. (2017, May). Assessing the vocal productions of infant cochlear implant candidates: Validating the Infant Monitor of Vocal Production (IMP)—Versao Portuguesa. Presented at European Symposium of Paediatric Cochlear Implantation (ESPCI) 2017, Lisbon, Portugal.

d’Apice, T. (2017, September). Braille literacy research: Results to date. Presented at VISCON 2017 Conference, Sydney.

Gentle, F. (2017, January). Shining the light on principles, best practice, and professional standards for learners with vision impairment in Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific Island Countries (Keynote Address). Presented at Biennial Conference of South Pacific Educators in Vision Impairment, Brisbane.

Gentle, F. (2017, February). Including children with visual impairment. Presented at the Inclusive Education South Africa Seminar, Cape Town, South Africa.

Gentle, F. (2017, May). Education service provision for students with vision impairment. Presented at Parent Advocates for Visually Impaired Children: 5th Parents’ Congress, Manila, Philippines.

Gentle, F. (2017, May). Connecting parents towards equity and access in education. Invited opening address at Parent Advocates for Visually Impaired Children: 5th Parents’ Congress, Manila, Philippines.

Gentle, F. (2017, June). Learning media assessment for iGeneration students with low vision. Presented at Vision 2017 Congress, The Hague, Netherlands.

Gentle, F. (2017, August). Access and engagement for people with blindness and visual impairment (Keynote Address). Presented at International Conference on Special Education, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.

Gentle, F. (2017, October). The work of the International Council for Education of People with Visual Impairment. Presented at Blind Citizens Australia National Convention, Melbourne.

Gentle, F. (2017, December). Inclusive practices in India (Keynote Address) Presented at ICEVI India and Sense International India National Conference, Ahmedabad, India.

Leigh, G. (2017, February). Developmental and educational outcomes of deaf and hard of hearing children: Looking beyond early identification (Keynote Address). Presented

at Hearing and Deafness in Children: Identity, Trust and Technology—Annual Conference of Independent Audiologists Australia. Port Macquarie.

Leigh, G. (2017, June). Issues in access, assessment, and intervention. Presented at Outcomes for children who are deaf or hearing impaired: Understanding language and literacy challenges, Scottish Sensory Centre, Edinburgh, Scotland.

Leigh, G. (2017, June).Changing educational outcomes for deaf and hard of hearing children: Building on early identification (Keynote Address). Presented at Association of Deaf Education Professionals (ADEPT) Annual Conference 2017, Edinburgh, Scotland.

McCarthy, M., Leigh, G., & Arthur-Kelly, M. (2017, May). Widening horizons: A study on the use of telepractice to deliver family-centred early intervention. Presented at 9th Australasian Newborn Hearing Screening Conference, Melbourne.

McCarthy, M., Leigh, G., & Arthur-Kelly, M. (2017, May). The effectiveness of telepractice in delivering specialist early intervention services to deaf and hard of hearing children and their families: Project update. Presented at Hearing CRC National Research Symposium, Melbourne.

McCarthy, M., Leigh, G., & Arthur-Kelly, M. (2017,  October).Family-centred practices in a telehealth model. Presented at Successes and Failures in Telehealth 2017, Brisbane.

Psarros, C., Hill, M., Chisholm, K., & McTaggart, M. (2017, July). Trajectories of performance in children implanted under 18 months age: What is normal? Presented at the 15th International Conference on Cochlear Implants and Other Implantable Technologies, San Francisco, USA.

Nealon, M., Newall, P., & Leigh, G. (2017, October 8). Survey on challenges for persons with hearing impairment in the workplace. Presented at Attune Conference, Surfers Paradise.

Newall, P., Newall, C. M. and Cook, G. (2017, October). Helping out in Samoa. Presented at Attune Conference, Surfers Paradise, Queensland.

Newall, P. (2017, January). 8th Annual Newall Lecture Series on Audiology, University of the Philippines, Department of Otolaryngology, Manila, The Philippines.

Silveira, S. (2017, June). The dilemma down under: Ophthalmic technicians. Presented at the 2017 International Orthoptic Association 50th Anniversary meeting, Lisbon, Portugal.

Silveira, S. (2017, September). Childhood vision impairment in Australia in 2017: The findings from the Australian Childhood Vision Impairment Register. Presented at VISCON 2017, Sydney.

Silveira, S. (2017, September). Is there another way to assess a child’s visual function? Presented at VISCON 2017 Conference, Sydney.

Silveira, S. (2017, October). Exploring methodology that reveals the functional impact of childhood vision impairment: The outcome of an e-Delphi study. Presented at the 74th Orthoptics Australia Annual Scientific Conference, Perth.

Wong, C., Leigh, G., Ching, T. Y. C., Cupples, L., Button, L., & Marnane, V. (2017, May). Psychosocial development hinges on good language and functional performance: Update on the LOCHI study. Paper presented at Firm Foundations, Wide Horizons: 9th Australasian Newborn Hearing Screening Conference, Melbourne.

DELIVER BEST PRACTICERESEARCH, PUBLICATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS

The following details the research, publications and presentations undertaken by RIDBC during 2017

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We are securing our future by ensuring the long-term sustainability, vitality and vibrancy of RIDBC

SECURE OUR FUTURE

RIDBC’s continued focus on outcomes and service accessibility, driven through our community, our services and our people will ensure we remain relevant and responsive to the evolving landscape that we operate in, positioning us for sustainable growth into the future.

We will continue to strengthen our identity in the market by increasing awareness and recognition, improving how we operate and focusing on providing services to those who need us.

BUILD PERFORMANCE, EFFICIENCY & VIABILITY:• Build organisational design and

geographical management models• Develop systems and infrastructure for

optimum organisational efficiency • Diversify investment, revenue and

funding streams• Leverage assets and investments for

maximum return and re-investment

GROW RECOGNITION, AWARENESS & ENGAGEMENT: • Undertake a brand review and increase

services marketing to build RIDBC’s profile• Increase effectiveness of internal and

external communications channels to maximise engagement

2016 DEC2017

RIDBC rolled out a geographical management pilot project in Western Sydney

RIDBC was chosen to host the NSW Government's official launch of the NDIS

RIDBC launched its Transformation Management Office (TMO)

RIDBC Allied Health staff were consolidated into a single team

JUN2016

JUN2017

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SECURE OUR FUTURE

Transformation Management Office (TMO)In 2017, we determined the need for additional support to manage major organisational change, and established the RIDBC Transformation Management Office (TMO) to support us on our transformation journey. In phase one the TMO team worked with the RIDBC Senior Leadership Team to advance key priority projects, including our organisational restructure, relocation to Macquarie University, and the consolidation of our allied health services.

As part of the second phase of the TMO we appointed an additional role within the RIDBC Senior Leadership Team with Steve Vanges taking on the role of RIDBC Director, Business Transformation. This position holds accountability for execution of the transformation projects that will help us achieve our 2020 ambition.

Allied Health RIDBC Allied Health Services continue to provide a range of quality assessment and therapy services to children and adults with vision or hearing loss. In 2017, the experienced team of speech pathologists, occupational therapists, psychologists, orthoptists and physiotherapists, delivered 723 assessments and 3,733 therapy sessions.

In order to ensure that allied health staff are able to be more responsive to the clinical needs of clients across the organisation, in 2017 our allied health employees were consolidated into a single team. While this is a significant change to the organisation and its culture, the team are working to deliver integrated services to RIDBC clients. This change provides us with the opportunity to

ramp up the provision of purely therapy based services being demanded by children, adults and families as a result of the NDIS.

Preschools ReviewIn keeping with the recommendations of the 2016 preschools review, a preschool support service model was designed in 2017 to allow children in community preschools to be supported by RIDBC staff with expertise in working with children with vision impairment, or who are deaf or hard of hearing. It is expected that the preschool support model will be further piloted in 2018.

Brand ReviewThe RIDBC Marketing and Communications Directorate prioritised strategic development, tactical implementation and cross-functional integration of marketing campaigns and communications activity throughout 2017. This included completing the quantitative research stage of RIDBC's brand review project, surveying over 2,700 internal and external stakeholders. We now have a significant evidence base to draw on as we define the new architecture and positioning of our brand moving forward.

RegionalisationRIDBC is committed to providing consistent, high quality, evidence-based service across all sites – ensuring more people in more areas of Australia are able to access the specialist vision or hearing services they need. A critical element of this in 2017 has been preparing for a regionalised model of service delivery that will be highly relevant for our expansion across Australia.

RIDBC Renwick Centre is a strong contributor to this process, providing evidence-

In 2017 we began implementing a new approach to RIDBC’s management model to create an agile organisation and workforce. We are achieving this by realigning our organisation structure with a geographical service delivery focus.

JOSH MEETS THE PRIME MINISTER RIDBC Teleschool student, Joshua, who has vision impairment, was ‘over the moon’ to meet the Prime Minister of Australia

For nine year old Joshua, meeting Australian Prime Minister, Malcolm Turnbull, was a truly amazing experience.

“A couple of years ago Josh received a letter of congratulations from the Federal Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta, after Mr Vasta read an article in the local paper about Josh’s achievements in the 2014 Braille Literacy Challenge,” said Joshua’s mum, Jenny. “The letter of congratulations was written in braille, which was so special.”

Last year, Joshua asked Mr Vasta if he and his brother, Ben, could meet the Prime Minister – and his wish came true.

“Josh was so excited, he even got to take a selfie with Mr Turnbull,” said Jenny.

“Josh gave the Prime Minister a gift he had made in braille - and this is now displayed in the Prime Minister’s office!”

Joshua and his older brother, Ben, enjoy public speaking and are both interested in politics and parliament.

“Ben learned braille to support Josh and attends the RIDBC Teleschool residential camps with him every year,” said Jenny. “Josh just loves his sessions with RIDBC. His consultant, Tricia, is the most amazing teacher who goes above and beyond for her students.”

Joshua, with his mum, Jenny, and - in photo insert - with Australian Prime Minister, Malcolm Turnbull; Federal Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta; and his family

based standards for service definition, service delivery and service performance benchmarks. We are appointing regional business managers who will be accountable for local service delivery against performance benchmarks, quality standards and financial sustainability.

Financing Our FutureIn 2017, RIDBC continued to invest broadly. This, along with the generosity of our donors, has enabled us to continue to achieve year on year operating surpluses.

In 2017, the NDIS continued to have a significant impact on RIDBC revenue streams. The NSW Government's block funding of services is nearing an end and the NDIS imposes considerable demands on individuals, parents and carers to apply for individualised funding. Once again, in 2017 we observed inconsistencies in NDIS funding packages for our clients — despite many of them requiring a similar range of services to achieve their goals.

NDIS funds are also outcome specific, time constrained and significantly lower in value than traditional block funding, which places additional challenges on RIDBC staff to continue to provide the high-quality services and support for which RIDBC is known. Revenue from our cochlear implant program has also been impacted by the government freeze on the indexation of Medicare income.

The diverse sources of funding and philanthropic support RIDBC receives has enabled us to maintain revenue levels in 2017 despite a challenging external environment. Charitable income generation is a major challenge throughout the sector, with increased competition and lower household discretionary expenditure. RIDBC was fortunate to be in a position to offset this downward trend due to the receipt of significant bequests in 2017.

The financial implications of implementing RIDBC’s 2016-2020 Strategic Plan will continue to be managed carefully as we move from an ‘owned' to 'leased’ strategy for most RIDBC sites. This includes the activities and costs associated with the sale of our North Rocks site, which will occur as part of our planned move to the Macquarie University precinct.

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Everyday we continue to deliver our range of comprehensive services and organisational priorities in a professional, effective and agile way

OUR PEOPLE

OUR PEOPLESTAFF AND VOLUNTEERS

RIDBC is proud to employ a diverse group of highly skilled and experienced professionals who work collaboratively across the organisation’s many programs. RIDBC’s workforce of highly committed staff work together to continually deliver best outcomes to clients.

With more than 400 staff, and 1,060 volunteers supporting the organisation through fundraising activities and service delivery, RIDBC is committed to engaging the very best people in the industry who have a genuine passion for working with children and adults with disabilities.

The ongoing development of our staff is something we continue to be committed to. Our staff have access to industry leading professional development, which allows them to directly contribute to RIDBC’s development.

Volunteering is crucial to RIDBC – it is central to our culture and to our ability to provide services. In 2017 we were pleased to welcome 40 new volunteers to RIDBC. We were also delighted to have 26 volunteers awarded service and recognition awards – including three volunteers acknowledged for their 20 year commitment to RIDBC, and two volunteers for their 15 year commitment. These incredible individuals continue to make a direct and positive impact to their community and to the work of RIDBC.

RIDBC hosted 117 students from 33 schools and universities in 2017. We also hosted 10 corporate volunteer days with 160 corporate volunteers joining us to participate in school open days; assist with the annual RIDBC Book, Toy and Music Fair; help with a variety of fundraising events; and provide maintenance support at our North Rocks site.

Average Age

20+

30+

40+

50+

60+

70+

8%

20%

31%

27%

12%

2%

Gender Split

13% Male

87% Female

<1yr 1yr+ 3yrs+ 5yrs+ 10yrs+ 15yrs+ 25yrs+

Length of Service

4%

15%16%19%

14%9%

23%

Employment Status

41% Perm

part-time

38% Perm full-time

6% Temp part-time

12% Casual

3% Temp full-time

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OUR PEOPLESTAFF IN THE COMMUNITY

Tricia d’ApiceSecretary, Pacific Region, International Council for the Education of People with Visual Impairment (ICEVI)Life Member, South Pacific Educators in Vision Impairment (SPEVI)

Breda CartyMember, Inclusion Advisory Committee, State Library of NSWConsultant Expert on Education and Deaf Community and Culture, Deaf AustraliaMember, Editorial Board, Journal of Deaf Studies and Deaf EducationNewsletter Editor, Deaf History International

Jacqui CashmoreDeputy Chair, National Independent Special Schools AssociationCommittee Member, Independent Schools Consultative Committee

Brian ConwayExecutive Member, South Pacific Educators in Vision Impairment (SPEVI)Treasurer and Public Officer, Round Table on Information Access for People with Print DisabilitiesBoard Member, Flintwood Disability Services

Jacqui DonnellyMember, Accessible Assessment Working Party, Round Table on Information Access for People with Print Disabilities

Frances GentlePresident, International Council for the Education of People with Visual Impairment (ICEVI) Immediate Past President and Committee of Management Member, South Pacific Educators in Vision Impairment (SPEVI)

Convening Editor, Journal of the South Pacific Educators in Vision Impairment Executive Committee Member, World Blind UnionMember, Teacher Preparation Working Group, UNICEF Global Partnership for Children with Disabilities Member, Inclusive Education Task Group, International Disability and Development Consortium

Harzita HashimDirector and Treasurer, Australian Blindness Forum

Marianne Kraszewski Member, Early Childhood Intervention Australia (ECIA)

Michelle KnightMember, E-text Guidelines Working Party, Round Table on Information Access for People with Print Disabilities

Greg LeighChair, Australasian Newborn Hearing Screening CommitteeCo-Chair, International Committee, International Congress on Education of the DeafChair, International Steering Committee, Asia Pacific Congress on DeafnessConsultant Expert on Education, Deaf AustraliaMember, Key Scientist Group, HEARing Cooperative Research CentreMember, Department of Educational Studies Advisory Board, Macquarie UniversityMember, Advisory Board, Centre for Implementation of Hearing Research, Macquarie UniversityMember, Editorial Board, Deafness and Education International

Member, Editorial Board, Phonetics and Speech SciencesMember, Editorial Board, Journal of Deaf Studies and Deaf Education

Sonali MaratheVice President, Round Table on InformationAccess for People with Print DisabilitiesMember, E-text Guidelines Working Party,Round Table on Information Access for People with Print DisabilitiesMember, Working Party Books Plain English Guide for Producing Accessible BooksAustralian Inclusive Publishing InitiativeMember, UNICEF Workshop on Principles for the Production of Accessible Digital Textbooks

Pranitha MoodleyVice President, South Pacific Educators in Vision Impairment (SPEVI)

Philip NewallEditorial Associate, Journal of the American Academy of AudiologyExpert Committee Member, Chinese Scientific Journal of Hearing and Speech RehabilitationBoard Member, Hearing InternationalAdvisory Board Member, ARC Centre of Excellence in Cognition and its DisordersSenior Consultant, China Research and Rehabilitation Centre for Deaf ChildrenVisiting Professor, University of Santo Tomas and University of the Philippines, ManilaEmeritus Professor in Audiology, Macquarie University International Director, Rotary Club of Carlingford

Sue SilveiraDirector, Australian Orthoptic Board Director, Cataract Kids AustraliaAustralian Representative, International Orthoptic AssociationCouncil Member, NSW Branch, Orthoptics AustraliaConvenor of Awards and Grants Standing Committee, Orthoptics Australia Member, Orthoptics Australia Council Advisory Committee Member, Editorial Board, Journal of South Pacific Educators in Vision ImpairmentPublic Officer, South Pacific Educators in Vision Impairment Member, State-wide Eyesight Preschool Screening (StEPS) Implementation and Review Committee, NSW Ministry of Health

VOLUNTEERING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE 72 year old, Leo, has been volunteering at RIDBC for 10 years

Semi-retired secondary school teacher, Leo, has been volunteering at RIDBC for 10 years.

“My wife, Maureen, was already volunteering at RIDBC Alice Betteridge School, so I was aware of the nature and scope of work done by RIDBC and wanted to contribute,” said Leo.

“I like volunteering as it gives me an opportunity to make a contribution to an aspect of society which is intrinsically worthwhile.” Leo has been a committed volunteer ever since.

“As a volunteer driver, I’m involved in picking up children and their parents and transporting them to RIDBC. I’m also involved with transporting supporters or fundraisers to various activities," said Leo.

“My favourite part of the role is the interaction with the parents and their children. They are the most wonderful people and their love of, and dedication to, their children is truly inspirational."

“I really enjoy volunteering and would definitely encourage others to give it a go,” said Leo. “In a world saturated with media reporting what is going wrong in society, volunteering offers an opportunity to make meaningful contributions to what is going right.”

Leo is a volunteer driver at RIDBC

Many RIDBC staff take on additional, important leadership roles within the industry each year.

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OUR PEOPLESENIOR LEADERSHIP TEAM

Chris Rehn JP, BBus, DipAppScChief ExecutiveJoined RIDBC in 2010. Previously Chris was general manager of Sydney Cochlear Implant Centre (SCIC) which merged with RIDBC in 2014. His early career was in health management within the public and private sectors. He is a Harvard Club of Australia Non-Profit Fellow.

Susan Alleyn BA, CEMDDirector, Development & FundraisingJoined RIDBC in 2016. Susan has a breadth of management experience, most recently at Australian Graduate School of Management (AGSM) at UNSW Business School. Susan has a strong business acumen with extensive experience in developing and executing strategy.

Michelle Barletta MCom (HR & IR), DipHRM Director, People & Culture Joined RIDBC in 2014. Previously Michelle has held human resource management roles in computing, healthcare and professional services organisations. Michelle has a pragmatic approach to people-related strategy and extensive experience partnering within organisations.

Shy Bastianpillai FCPA, FCMA (UK), CGMAChief Financial OfficerJoined RIDBC in 2016. Shy has a strong financial background having recently held a number of senior financial management roles in multinational organisations. Prior to this, Shy held a number of financial controller and financial management roles within a range of industries, having started her career with one of the big four professional service firms.

Linda Berrigan BCom (Mktg) Director, Marketing & CommunicationsJoined RIDBC in 2014. Linda is a marketing communications specialist with experience across a range of professional services, corporate, government and not for profit organisations in both the UK and Australia. A skilled strategic thinker and strong tactical marketer, Linda has a collaborative, person-centred approach.

Robyn Bridgwood JPExecutive OfficerJoined RIDBC in 2005 as executive assistant to the chief executive and was appointed as executive officer in July 2014. Robyn has

Professor Greg Leigh AO, DipTeach, BEd, MSc, PhD, FACEDirector, RIDBC Renwick CentreJoined RIDBC as head of Renwick College (now RIDBC Renwick Centre) in 1993, and was appointed assistant chief executive (educational services) in 1999. In 2006, Greg was appointed to his current role, and assigned the responsibility of expanding and developing RIDBC’s research and professional development programs and facilities.

Steve Vanges BScDirector, Business TransformationSteve who recently joined RIDBC, brings strategy, transformation and project delivery capability to the organisation. His background includes national and international roles across energy and utilities, FMCG, telecommunications, banking, insurance, logistics, engineering, services, construction and technology.

significant experience providing high level support, guidance and administrative assistance to chief executives, senior leadership teams, board members and members of special committees.

Bart Cavalletto RN, GradDipNMgt (Paed)Director, ServicesJoined RIDBC in 2013. Bart has significant experience in service delivery, planning and implementation. With over 10 years’ experience in large government agencies, Bart has substantial knowledge of the workings of government, strategy and policy, including complex state-wide services and cochlear implant services.

Hockman Chang BConstMgt, MRE, DipAppSc, CertRiskMgtDirector, Technology, Operations & PropertyJoined RIDBC in 2013. Hockman has a background in property, construction, operations, risk, and work, health and safety, with experience working in senior management roles for ASX top 50 multinational and international corporations in Australia. Hockman brings a depth of project and program management disciplines to RIDBC.

(l-r) Susan Alleyn, Bart Cavalletto, Greg Leigh, Linda Berrigan, Chris Rehn, Hockman Chang, Shy Bastianpillai, Michelle Barletta Steve Vanges, Robyn Bridgwood

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OUR PEOPLEPATRONS AND BOARD MEMBERS

BOARD MEMBERS President of the Board

Mr Sean P Wareing FCPA, ACIS Mr Wareing has had extensive experience both as an executive in, and chairman or director of, public and private companies. He is a graduate of the senior management program of the Harvard Business School, an honorary fellow of the University of Western Sydney and a former vice president of the NSW Division of CPA Australia. Mr Wareing was appointed to the RIDBC Board in 2000, elected a vice president in 2003 and president in 2009. Mr Wareing is an RIDBC Life Member. Meetings: Board 6 of 7 | Committee 2 of 2

PATRONS

Joint Vice Regal PatronsHis Excellency General, The Hon. David Hurley AC DSC (Ret’d), Governor of NSW, and Mrs Linda Hurley.

Vice PatronMr Norman B Rydge AM OBE, was a director from 1977-2009 and president from 1995-2009. He is an RIDBC Life Governor.

Directors of the BoardAssociate Professor Catherine Birman MBBS, FRACS, GAICD, PhD is an ear, nose and throat surgeon at the Children’s Hospital at Westmead and at a number of other public and private hospitals. A/Prof Birman is the Medical Director of SCIC Cochlear Implant Program, an RIDBC service. A/Prof Birman has been a past chairman of the NSW division of the Australian Society of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, and past secretary of the Australian and New Zealand Paediatric Otolaryngology Society. She was awarded the 2017 New South Wales Premier’s Award for Woman of the Year. A/Prof Birman joined the RIDBC Board in 2011. Meetings: Board 3 of 7 | Committee 2 of 4

Mr Charles M Cowper BA, LLB, FAICD A solicitor and former partner of national commercial law firms, Corrs Chambers Westgarth and Gadens Lawyers. He is currently a consultant to global law firm Dentons. He is an acknowledged expert in mergers and acquisitions, corporate law and governance. Mr Cowper has held board positions in a range of for profit and for purpose organisations including in education, on the Council of Shore School and in disability, as a Director of Royal Blind Society of New South Wales. He is a fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Mr Cowper joined the RIDBC Board in May 2017.Meetings: Board 4 of 4 | Committee 4 of 4

Mr Roger GeeRetired in 2006 from Qantas after a 41 year career with the airline. Mr Gee retired as a 747-400 senior check captain. He has been an active member of RIDBC's Qantas Pathfinders Auxiliary for more than 30 years. Mr Gee instigated the Qantas Pathfinders Charity Flight, a very successful fundraising event, and piloted the Qantas Jumbo Joy Flight for many years. Mr Gee joined the RIDBC Board in 2008 and is an RIDBC Life Member. Meetings: Board 7 of 7 | Committee 3 of 3

Ms Michele Phillips BBus, MBA, GAICD Ms Phillips is a partner at Johnson Advisory and leads the health and consumer practice. Formerly a vice president for Electrolux Australia and Asia Pacific, she has extensive marketing, digital and customer management experience. She led innovation on health and wellbeing products for children and older adults. She has held board positions in a range of for purpose organisations including disability, social enterprise and the arts. Ms Phillips joined the RIDBC Board in May 2017. Meetings: Board 4 of 4 | Committee 2 of 2

Mr Greg Sedgwick BComm, MComm, FAICD Previously the managing director of Crane Group Limited and was instrumental in fostering the corporate relationship between RIDBC and Crane. He was vice president of the Australian Industry Group of NSW and a member of the Business Council of Australia. He is chairman of NextGen Clubs. Mr Sedgwick has had extensive international experience and has held board positions with listed companies in Japan, India and South Africa. Mr Sedgwick joined the RIDBC Board in 2011. Meetings: Board 5 of 7 | Committee 3 of 4

Mr Peter van Dongen BComm (Acc), FCA, F Fin, GAICD. PwC Managing Partner - Board Relationships and a member of the PwC Australia and PwC Asia Pacific Governance Boards. Previously, Mr van Dongen was the national managing partner of PwC Australia's assurance practice and a member of PwC Australia's Executive Board. He has over 30 years' experience in delivering assurance and related services to many of Australia's largest ASX-listed companies, predominantly in the financial services sector. Mr van Dongen is also the Independent Auditor of the Australian National Audit Office, having been appointed by the Governor-General to a fixed term to 1 January 2019. Mr van Dongen joined the RIDBC Board in November 2013. Meetings: Board 6 of 7 | Committee 5 of 5

Vice Presidents of the Board

Mr David Dinte BEc, LLB, MAICD A property developer with extensive experience in commercial, retail, industrial and residential development, acquisition and management in both Australia and the United States of America. Mr Dinte is a member of the International Council of Shopping Centres and a director of Souths Cares. Mr Dinte joined the RIDBC Board in 2000, was appointed a vice president in 2009 and is an RIDBC Life Member. Meetings: Board 6 of 7 | Committee 4 of 4

Mrs Barbara Stone AM, BA, DipEd, MEd, MAICD, FACE, FACEL Retired as Principal of MLC School in 2011. Mrs Stone is a former national chair of the Association of Heads of Independent Schools of Australia (AHISA); past State Chair, AHISA NSW/ACT; former President, Alliance of Girls’ Schools of Australasia. Current other board directorships: Association of Independent Schools, NSW; Newington College, Stanmore. Mrs Stone joined the RIDBC Board in 2002, was appointed a vice president in 2012 and is an RIDBC Life Member.Meetings: Board 6 of 7 | Committee 6 of 6

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OUR PEOPLECORPORATE GOVERNANCE

The Board of DirectorsThe RIDBC Board of Directors has responsibilities and duties defined under the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children Act 1998, and the by-laws. These define broadly the processes of control by which the board and management ensure that RIDBC is achieving its objectives effectively and efficiently, that its financial reporting is properly informative and reliable, that it is setting and reviewing organisational strategy, and that it acts in compliance with all laws and regulations.

The RIDBC Board of Directors selects and appoints the chief executive, who is accountable to the board for the performance of RIDBC.

RIDBC Board of Directors and GovernanceThe RIDBC Board of Directors has implemented a number of formal steps in corporate governance. These include an ‘integrity statement’, guidelines for the selection of persons to fill casual vacancies on the board, and a process of performance self-appraisal by board members.

Integrity StatementGood governance is essential to maintaining trust between RIDBC and its supporters, funding authorities and the families of students.

RIDBC is a charitable human service organisation. Accordingly, its board will aim to promote appropriate values and attitudes of service, integrity, financial prudence, consideration of individuals, accountability and personal responsibility.

Criteria for board membership are determined by eligibility guidelines, largely derived from relevant clauses in the

Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children Act 1998 and the by-laws.

Members of the RIDBC Board of Directors agree to be bound by this integrity statement. New appointees to the board will be required to agree to be bound by the integrity statement. Any member of the board finding herself/himself unable to meet or to continue to meet the requirements of the integrity statement must offer to resign from the board.

Members of the RIDBC Board• Shall be non-executive and unpaid and take

no benefit whatsoever from their office. No member of RIDBC staff may be appointed to the board;

• Shall act at all times and in all matters in the best interests of RIDBC in conformity with its act and the by-laws;

• Have a duty to ensure that the management of RIDBC is competent, ethical and prudent and that it acts in the best interests of RIDBC;

• Shall at all times act honestly and in good faith in the exercise of their powers and the discharge of their duties of office;

• Have a duty to use due care and diligence in fulfilling the functions of office and in exercising the powers attached to that office;

• Should not engage in conduct likely to bring discredit upon RIDBC;

• Shall not take improper advantage of their position nor allow personal, family or business interests to conflict with the interests of RIDBC; and

• Require the prior approval of the board and subsequent disclosure to the members for the performance of any service or the supply of any article for which compensation may be received.

Under the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children Act, RIDBC’s Board of Directors is elected by the members of RIDBC from amongst their own number

Guidelines – Appointments to the BoardProspective appointees to the RIDBC Board of Directors must:• Be, or be prepared to become, members of

RIDBC in accord with the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children Act;

• Have sympathy with, and be prepared to contribute to, RIDBC’s purpose and objectives;

• Have abilities and skills which would be of use to RIDBC;

• Be compatible with and prepared to work harmoniously with existing members of the board;

• Have a range of personal and/or professional contacts from various fields of endeavour who would be of potential benefit to RIDBC; and

• Have an understanding of the duties and responsibilities of a board member.

Performance Appraisal by Self-AnalysisIn order to ensure that the RIDBC Board is constituted so as to properly discharge its duties to the members, staff and clients of RIDBC, board members agree that periodically they will undertake a performance appraisal by self-analysis.

This requires the completion and signing of a questionnaire, signifying continued agreement to be bound by the requirements of the Integrity Statement. A copy of the questionnaire can be found on RIDBC’s website at ridbc.org.au/board-directors

Standing Committees of the BoardUnder the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children Act, the board is empowered to establish such committees as the board thinks will assist it to exercise its functions. Currently, there are seven standing committees as detailed below. Committee membership is reviewed on an annual basis.

Capital Projects CommitteeOversees all but minor capital projects, receiving proposals from the chief executive and making recommendations to the board in relation to proposed projects. Members: David Dinte (chairperson), Greg Sedgwick, Peter van Dongen.

Cochlear Implant CommitteeAssists the Operational Governance Committee in its governance responsibilities. The committee will review and endorse the SCIC Cochlear Implant Program strategic plan. Members: A/Prof Catherine Birman (chairperson), Roger Gee, Michele Phillips.

Finance, Audit & Risk CommitteeReviews the accounting policies of RIDBC, the provision of financial information, and the policy on risk management. The committee receives and reviews the annual budgets and financial statements prior to their consideration by the RIDBC Board. Members: Peter van Dongen (chairperson), Charles Cowper, Greg Sedgwick.

Fundraising CommitteeReceives and considers plans and progress reports in relation to RIDBC’s community relations and fundraising activities. The committee reviews the annual RIDBC Operational Plan for Community Relations and Fundraising. Members: David Dinte (chairperson), Charles Cowper, Michele Phillips, Barbara Stone.

Investment CommitteeReviews RIDBC’s investment policies and practices to ensure they are and remain appropriate to RIDBC’s needs. Members: Sean Wareing (chairperson), David Dinte, Greg Sedgwick, Peter van Dongen.

Nominations & Governance CommitteeDevelops and maintains guidelines to apprise prospective board members of the board’s expectations of its members, and advises the RIDBC Board on the selection and recruitment of persons to fill vacancies on the board. Members: Sean Wareing (chairperson), David Dinte, Barbara Stone.

Operational Governance CommitteeReceives and considers proposals that relate to the establishment of new programs or services, or to significant changes or the discontinuation of existing programs or services. The committee reviews the annual RIDBC Operational Plan for Services. Members: Barbara Stone (chairperson), A/Prof Catherine Birman, Roger Gee.

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The support RIDBC receives from its community, corporate, and philanthropic partners underpins the critical services RIDBC provides to thousands of Australians with vision or hearing loss

THANK YOU TO OUR SUPPORTERS

THANK YOU TO OUR SUPPORTERSCOMMUNITY FUNDRAISING

Rachel with Emma, who has hearing loss and is supported by RIDBC

Austin (third from left), ready to run for RIDBC in the 2017 Sun-Herald City2Surf, alongside his parents and friends

Community Fundraising In 2017, over $160,000 was raised for RIDBC through community fundraising. We would like to thank everyone who fundraised on behalf of RIDBC throughout the year, supporting the wide range of education and therapy programs RIDBC provides to children and adults with vision or hearing loss.

RIDBC is very fortunate to have a dedicated, enthusiastic and loyal community of individual supporters, community clubs and schools who fundraise for RIDBC all year round.

City2Surf In 2017, 16 year old Austin completed the Sun-Herald City2Surf, running 14km in support of RIDBC. Completing the race with his brother and some of his cricket club members, Austin aimed to raise $3,000 for RIDBC. He smashed this fundraising target, raising almost $4,000. Diagnosed with hearing loss when he was just two years of age, Austin started receiving support from RIDBC. “This was the beginning of a new journey. In the midst of the unknown and the anxieties, we were fortunate to be surrounded by a group of professionals at RIDBC who not only supported me, but also supported and encouraged my family,” said Austin. RIDBC would like to thank Austin and his supporters and all those who joined TeamRIDBC in the 2017 Sun-Herald City2Surf.

DEAFinitely Heard When Rachel contacted RIDBC saying she was going to fundraise for RIDBC, she had planned a simple event where she hoped to raise $2,000. Working in childcare, Rachel supported Emma, who was diagnosed with severe hearing loss at birth, receiving a cochlear implant and therapy services through RIDBC. There were 120 people at Rachel’s event, ‘DEAFinitely Heard', who enjoyed a DJ, raffle, lolly buffet, photo booth, goodie bags and more. To her absolute delight, Rachel fundraised over $5,000 thanks to the generous attendees and sponsors. We thank Rachel for her extraordinary efforts!

Community Supporters Abou Hussein Mixed Business

Rachel Campbell

CICADA Australia Inc

Peter and Liddy Harrold

Lodge Warragamba 541

Maddison Cerebral Palsy Inc.

Naval Association of Australia

Philatelic Association of NSW

Austin Philip

Rotary Club Of Springwood

Rotary Club of Turramurra

San Francesco Italian Association Incorporated

St John Sydney Xewkija Association

Waverley Community Out of School Care Committee

Wealth Trend Australia Pty Ltd t/a Capital Land Global Group

Travis Zimmer

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THANK YOU TO OUR SUPPORTERSCLUBS AND COMMITTEES

RIDBC Abstract CommitteeThe Abstract Committee is RIDBC’s longest serving committee, formed in 1965. The Committee’s major fundraising event is the annual RIDBC Book, Toy & Music Fair, which raised over $42,000 for RIDBC in 2017.

This major event is highly reliant on the generosity of the general public who donate items, also attending and supporting the event over three days in April. It relies greatly on a dedicated team of volunteers who commit many hours sorting, cleaning and pricing the donations. Thanks to their energy, commitment and hard work, the fair never fails to be a success year on year.

The sale of the Entertainment™ Book is another of the committee’s very successful major fundraising initiatives, together with an annual trivia night which attracts great interest.

These initiatives, together with donations from generous supporters, raised $76,000 in 2017.

PresidentCharles Loxton

PatronGraeme Skarratt OAM

RIDBC Horizon CommitteeThe Horizon Committee, formed in 1984, is a dedicated fundraising committee that held two major fundraising events in 2017. The annual RIDBC Horizon Committee Authors’ Lunch was held in May in the Strangers’ Dining Room of NSW Parliament House, Sydney. Authors Kimberly Freeman and Maggie Groff were entertaining and insightful as they shared the background to their stories and the journey they undertook in writing their novels.

The RIDBC Horizon Committee’s Oaks Day Lunch and Fashion Parade was also held in 2017, at the newly renovated Hyatt Regency. Fashions for the day were presented by Moss & Spy of Woollahra. In total, in 2017 the committee raised $22,000 for RIDBC.

PresidentColleen Keys OAM

RIDBC Lantern ClubsIt was another successful year for RIDBC Lantern Clubs thanks to their hardworking and dedicated volunteers. For 53 years, RIDBC Lantern Clubs have fundraised for RIDBC through a variety of fun and creative activities including: morning teas, raffles, fashion shows, guest speaker events, market stalls and much more. To thank our dedicated club members, in 2017 RIDBC hosted an overnight trip to the Hunter Valley which included a beautiful Christmas lunch followed by a visit to the famous Hunter Valley Christmas Lights.

Sadly, 2017 saw the closure of the RIDBC Opportunity Shop in Ryde, NSW, as well as five RIDBC Lantern Clubs. RIDBC would like to thank these clubs and op shop volunteers for their many years of loyal service: Southern Highlands (21 years of service), Hills District (22 years of service), Port Stephens (22 years of service), Ku-ring-gai (31 years of service) and St George (44 years of service). RIDBC is extremely grateful for the awareness raising and fundraising undertaken by all RIDBC Lantern Clubs.

Goulburn Lantern Club celebrated its 40th anniversary with RIDBC Chief Executive, Chris Rehn, and RIDBC Lantern Club Life Member, Betty Rose, who received her 40th service star

Members of the Far South Coast Lantern Club celebrated another successful year in 2017, working hard to fundraise in support of the children and adults accessing RIDBC's services

Lantern Club Presidents

Central Council Robert Anderson

Avoca Beach Marie Fuller

Blacktown City Maureen Fry

Blue Mountains Diane Marris

Camden Haven Glenys Webster

Cronulla Patricia Woodford

Far South Coast Mary Backhouse

Forster-Tuncurry Margaret Stephens

Goulburn Rona Hope

Hills District Robyn Shaw

Hornsby & District Joanne Gracie

Ku-ring-gai Margaret Kent

Maitland Pauline Hogg

Mosman Elaine Cox

Parramatta Elaine Brock

Port Stephens Heather Dennis

Ryde Rosemary Costar

Southern Highlands Jennifer Grey

St George Barbara Yates

Warringah Judith Sunnex

Some of our incredible volunteers setting up the 2017 RIDBC Book, Toy and Music Fair

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Pathfinders Auxiliary

THANK YOU TO OUR SUPPORTERSAUXILIARY

Guests on the 2017 Charity Flight enjoyed the opportunity to experience Uluru

50 years has made Pathfinders one of RIDBC’s oldest and largest fundraising auxiliaries. RIDBC sincerely thanks the team at Pathfinders Auxiliary for its ongoing support - it has truly made a difference in the lives of thousands of children and adults with vision or hearing loss.

Here are some of the long-standing Pathfinders Auxiliary events that continued in 2017:

Qantas Pathfinders Trivia ChallengeSince 1987, former Qantas cabin crew members, Peter Owens and Col Burgess, have been the masters of ceremonies for the Qantas Pathfinders Trivia Challenge at various locations around Sydney. This is one of the fun events on the Pathfinders fundraising calendar, raising much needed funds for RIDBC.

Qantas Jumbo Joy FlightIn 1970, the Qantas Jumbo Joy Flight began as a scenic flight over Sydney on a Boeing 707 for the children at RIDBC. In 1980, when the Rotary Club of Turramurra began supporting the flight, the event expanded to support a range of charities supporting children with disabilities or from disadvantaged backgrounds. Over the years, many famous faces have participated in the event including: Humphrey B Bear; members of the Sydney Swans; Olympian, Ian Thorpe, OAM; and tennis champion, Pat Rafter.

Qantas Pathfinders RevueThe first Qantas Pathfinders Revue, 'My Fair Hostie', was held at the Illawarra Catholic Club in 1975. The revue was the brainchild of flight attendants, Peter Owens and Vic Allen. In 2017, the show 'Captain's Choice', raised over $150,000. For 43 years, more than 600 Qantas staff and friends have donated their time and talents as cast and crew - providing a hilarious night of singing and dancing that has raised over $2M for RIDBC.

Qantas Pathfinders Charity FlightThe Qantas Pathfinders Charity Flight began in 2002, originating from a conversation between John Singleton and then Qantas Captain, Roger Gee. The first flight was to the birthplace of Qantas in Longreach. Over the years, there have been flights to incredible destinations such as Norfolk Island, Hamilton Island, Hobart, Daylesford/Ballarat and Fraser Island. Special guests on past flights have included: Cathy Freeman, OAM; Adam Spencer; Jane Rutter; Tara Moss; and Ray Martin.

In 2017, the event raised $130,000, with guests enjoying a spectacular flight to Uluru, taking in breathtaking views and amazing photo opportunities of Uluru and Kata Tjuta (the Olgas). The flight also included learning about the culture of the local Anangu people, visiting Mutitjulu Waterhole, and a delicious three-course lunch at Sails in the Desert, featuring locally inspired cuisine. Since taking to the skies in 2002, this event has raised nearly $1.5M for RIDBC.

Principal SponsorQantas Airways Limited

Pathfinders PresidentLouise Flitcroft Paisley

PatronAlan Joyce

Pathfinders AmbassadorSimon Marnie

Major SponsorsAAT Kings

AirServices Australia

Captain Cook Cruises

NORTHS

Qudos Bank

Q CateringRotary Club of Turramurra

The Lane Vineyard, Hahndorf, South Australia

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

VIVA Energy Australia

Sydney Airport

50th Anniversary2017 marked the 50th anniversary of the Pathfinders Auxiliary – a team of volunteers that comprises past and present Qantas employees and associates who have raised funds in support of RIDBC.

The impetus for Pathfinders began on a flight to Hawaii in 1967, when Qantas Chief Steward, Pat McGann OAM, read a newspaper article about a boy dying of leukaemia. Pat was incredibly moved by the story, organising donations of toys from the Qantas crew. Sadly, by the time they returned home, the young boy had passed away. Pat then heard about the great work undertaken by RIDBC and decided to donate the toys to us. He then formed a fundraising auxiliary named ‘Pathfinders’ after the famous squadron that dropped flares to light the way during World War II.

The generosity, talent and dedication of more than a thousand volunteer Qantas cabin crew, pilots and ground staff over the past

Representatives from Pathfinders present RIDBC Chief Executive, Chris Rehn, with a cheque for nearly $340,000 from fundraising activities in 2017

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THANK YOU TO OUR SUPPORTERSRIDBC HONOUREES

Abigroup Limited

Robert Albert AO

Richard Bonynge AO CBE

Broadspectrum (Australia) Pty Limited

Bruce & Joy Reid Trust

Kenny Cheng

Cochlear Limited

Crane Group Limited

Charles P Curran AC

Emeritus Professor Christine E Deer AM

Gwynvill Group

Ian Holmes

Merry Howie

James N Kirby Foundation

Kathleen Breen Children's Charity Trust

Kumagai Australia Pty Ltd

Dorothy Malouf OAM

Dr Pat Mutton

Myer Community Fund

National Australia Bank

Network Ten

Lysia O'Keefe

Opera Australia

Richard Owens AM

Sir Michael Parkinson CBE

Andrew Pethebridge

Qantas Airways Ltd

John Race

Vera Rado

Rotary Club of Carlingford

Rotary International District 9680

Rotary International District 9690

Rotary International District 9750

Royal New South Wales Bowling Association Inc

Norman Rydge AM OBE

Lynda Rydge Guyton

St Andrew's Cathedral School

Graeme Skarratt OAM

Suttons Motors

Patricia Tang

Terrace Tower Pty Ltd

The Profield Foundation Trust

The R A Gale Foundation

Tasia Varvaressos

Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation

RIDBC wishes to acknowledge the contributions of the professionals, organisations and community members that are critical to the work RIDBC does supporting children and adults with vision or hearing loss, around Australia.

Life Members Appointed 2017F L Adamson

Ken Balmer

Arthur Bayley

Christine Bishop

Norman J Brady

Eric Collings

Hugh Condon

Jonathan Denovan

Gordon Douglas

Jennifer Dunn

Helen Hamilton

Dennis Hill & Family

Ian & Pam Hilliar

Fay Hudson

Frank Isaacs

Rani Joseph

Peter Kinkade

Anne Lee

Jan & Danny Luke

Kevin & Robyn McGrath

Judith McKernan

Herbert Menka

Anna Morse

Richard Oliver

Richard & Maroulla Plummer

Hugh Ralston AM & Jan Ralston

David Rea

Jennifer Reid

Frank Robertson

Peter Robson

Ken Russell

Greg & Miriam Shalit

David Shillington

Yael Shohat & Jonathon Kelly

Guy Silberstein

Judy Smith

Peter & Diane Watt

Visiting and Honorary Professional Staff and Organisations

Consulting OtologistProfessor William Gibson, AO, AM, MD, FRACS, FRCS

Associate Professor Catherine Birman, MBBS, FRACS, GAICD, PhD

Consulting PaediatricianPhillip Emder, FRACP

AuditorGrant Thornton Australia Limited

Banker

St George Bank

SolicitorBartier Perry

Matt Crouch Legal

Meyer Vandenberg Lawyers

Sparke Helmore Lawyers

Insurance BrokerAon Risk Services Australia

Investment AdvisorJANA Investment Advisors

THANK YOU TO OUR SUPPORTERSLEGACIES

A LASTING LEGACYDavid, who is an author, has decided to leave a lasting legacy with a gift to RIDBC in his will

Bequests Received in 2017 Colin Archer

Stephen Bartlett

Jack Beale

Esther Bernie

Cynthia Birrer

Jacqueline Blom

Ella Boyd

Norma Boyle

Norman Bradford

Jacqueline Brooks

Edna Brown

Harriet Brown

Henry Brown

Evelyn Burns

Pam Cohen

Beatrice Cordingley

Doris Cox

Joan De Hamel

Ericsson Dean

Lionel Dege

Harry Dews

Konstantin Doku

Ruth Edwards

Jessie Fishburn

Lindsay Foote

John Fraser

Joyce Garland

Jack Gornall

Sylvia Gronvald

Albert Haley

May Hall

Norman Heaton

Judith Hodge

Gladys Humphreys

J & C Kennedy Trust

Johan Van Galen

Antica Jokic

K & G Gluck Trust

Eva Kaye

Marion Kingston

Henryk Kitaszewski

Joyce Knott

Svetko Krismancic

Nathalie Kulakowski

Valerie Lee

Adell Littlejohn

Jack Logan

Maria Long

Paul Lucas

Patricia McLagan

Barry Mellor

Joyce Melville

Scott Mitchell

Marjorie Nolan

Michael Port

Barbara Powell

Peter Powell

Lorna Power

Joyce Price

John Radovic

Shirley Rae

Margaret Ralston

David Ratner

Edmund Resch

Alberta Richardson

Suzanne Rowley

Janis Salisbury

William Small

Rex Smart

John Smith

Joyce Sproat

Enid Stead

Joyce Steenbhom

David Thomas

Basil Vincent

Sir William Walkley

Warren Watkins

Colin Webb

Lucie Weller

George Whittaker

Harvey Wicht

Sidney Williams

Christopher Wood

Vera Wood

Raymond Young

Anna Ziegler

Married to Lynda in 1962, the couple realised that they were not going to have children of their own.

“It was then that we decided to make donations to charities which supported children - Lyn loved children,” said David.

David and Lynda experienced first-hand the challenges of living with vision impairment – with Lynda losing her eyesight to macular degeneration. “She was having difficulty finding a talking book that she had not read. I jokingly said ‘I will write you one’ – and I did,” says David.

“Before Lyn passed away we decided to leave the majority of our estate to organisations that support children and their families. I know RIDBC will continue to support future generations to come and it makes me happy to know that I’m able to leave a lasting legacy.”

Through his bequest, David, and others like him, will help to ensure the continuation of RIDBC’s vital services.

David has also generously donated the electronic version of his book to RIDBC to be available for download as a thank you to supporters: ridbc.org.au/rainbow-gold

David, author of historical novel The rainbow gold, dedicated his book to the memory of his much-loved wife, Lynda

Life Governors as at 31 December 2017

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i’m limited only by light, but I’m a star shining brightAt birth Gem was diagnosed with Peters Anomaly and iris coloboma. Gem has minimal light perception, but uses her other senses to understand her world. For children with hearing or vision loss, quality early intervention is crucial. RIDBC works in collaboration with families, to ensure all children can live a life unlimited.

Find out more about Gem’s story at

www.givelifeunlimited.org.auRoyal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children

Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children www.givelifeunlimited.org.au

i’m soaring to new heights and reaching for the sky Pip was diagnosed at birth with profound (left) and severe (right) hearing loss. From six weeks old she used hearing aids and by three, had a cochlear implant. With the support of RIDBC, Pip is interpreting sound and speech in a whole new way. Early intervention is crucial to support families and enable children like Pip to live a life unlimited.

THANK YOU TO OUR SUPPORTERSMAJOR AND INDIVIDUAL DONORS

THANK YOU TO OUR SUPPORTERSFUNDRAISING APPEALS, LOTTERIES AND TELEMARKETING

Fundraising Appeals, Lotteries and Telemarketing In 2017, we celebrated the 30th anniversary of the RIDBC Rainbow Lottery and acknowledged the hard work and immense effort put in by the wonderful, dedicated staff over many years. The lottery and call centre have combined to raise in excess of $75M for RIDBC since commencement in 1987.

However, over the past 10 years and despite our best efforts, call centre revenue has been in decline - so the decision was made to transform the call centre into a donor engagement centre,

In 2017, RIDBC was excited to launch our 'I'm unlimited' campaign, showcasing the ways in which RIDBC is supporting children and adults with vision or hearing loss to reach their full potential

requiring a significant restructure. The new RIDBC Donor Engagement Centre team will continue to sell subscriptions to the RIDBC Rainbow Lottery whilst also increasing their focus on developing stronger engagement and relationships with our valued donors.

RIDBC had our strongest year for many years with our 2017 tax appeal. We piloted a new digital platform, ‘Funraisin’, enhanced digital capability for the Christmas appeal, and will continue to grow our capability in the digital arena. The theme ‘I’m unlimited’ was introduced and will carry across all fundraising activities in 2018.

In 2017, the RIDBC Donor Services team processed over 87,600 gifts from more than 40,000 donors across all Australian states and territories, as well as some international gifts.

i’m a star

i’m a star

We are very grateful for the ongoing philanthropic support we receive at RIDBC. Our major donors are instrumental in helping us continue to provide a comprehensive range of services to children and adults with vision or hearing loss - ensuring a long-term community benefit for years to come.

We have sadly farewelled philanthropist, Janis Salisbury, who was a long-time patron of RIDBC. For more than 35 years, Janis generously supported a range of RIDBC programs and was appointed an RIDBC Life Governor in 2012.

“There wasn’t a service of RIDBC, particularly at North Rocks, that Janis hadn’t personally been involved in. Her commitment went from everything at a local grass roots level, all the way through to

Janis with RIDBC Alice Betteridge School student, Anna, during one of her many visits to RIDBC

big projects like the RIDBC Renwick Centre,” said RIDBC Chief Executive, Chris Rehn. “Janis will be greatly missed but not forgotten.”

In the following list, we would like to acknowledge just some of our wonderful individual supporters F Adamson

Robert Albert AO

Ross Anderson

Rita Andre

John Aston

Diana Bampton

John Barnes

L R Barnett

Jan Bell

Eileen Birch

Jill Boorne

Joseph Brender AO

Pauline Bridge

Elaine Butler

Laurence Cable

John Cameron

Peter Campbell

Evelyn Chan

Justin Cherrington

Allyn Colgan

Hugh Condon

Charles Curran AC

Nellie Davies

Anna Dickson

Margaret Dobbin

Ralph Dyer

Janelle Ellwood

Sharon Ewing

Rachel Fitzhardinge

Gwen Frazer

Sidney French

James Goldman

Frank Goudge

Neville Grace

Maureen Graham

Paul Grant

Matthew and Catherine Gwynne

Geoff Hartnett

Betty Hatch

Bernadette Hauk

John Hoey

Jessica Hore

Barbara Humphrey

A Hung

Ian Huntley

Robin Hutcheon 

Pieter Huveneers, dec.

Gordon Ingate

Frank Isaacs

Charles Jones

Steven Kalmin

Lawrence Kupkee

Ivy Kwan

Pam Litten

Fiona MacGregor

Rocco Mangano

Gladys and Ken Mann

Nancy McFarlane

Anita McKenzie

Colin Mercer

Sue Metzmacher

Ian and Nerida Miller

Roslynne Milne

Jeanette Milston

M and M Monaghan

Catherine Moroney

Patricia New

Philip Newall

W H Nicholas QC

G O'Brien

Richard Oliver

Norm O'Neill

Mary O'Sullevan

Maria O'Sullivan

Douglas Paisley

Linda Park

Andrew Pethebridge

Thomas and Robyn Pinzone

Anthony Ponti

Jill Pratten

Vera Rado

Rosemary Rajola

Barry Rath

Michael and Karen Rich

William Roberts

Winsome Robertson

P Robson

Sandra Rollo

Alison Rosenberg

Sophie Rothery

Norman Rydge AM OBE

Richard Rydge

Charles Shuetrim AM and Sandy Shuetrim

Guy Silberstein

Nikolas Skibsted

Anthony Skinner

Ronald Smith

Peter Spencer

Peter Stephens

Wayne and Julie Stone

Barbara Stone AM

Frank Swan

Eleanor Sydney-Jones

Patricia Tang

Marie Thomas

Graham Timmins

Graham Todd

Millie Tong

Wilton Trembath

Margaret Vesperman

Janko and Marica Vukovic

Annette Waight

Anthony and Gai Wales

Gwenyth Wallis and Stewart Wallis AO

Anabel Westwood

Brian Winter

Ruth Wood

J Wright-Smith

Jason Yeo

Ya Hei Yu

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THANK YOU TO OUR SUPPORTERSCORPORATE SUPPORTERS AND VOLUNTEERS

At RIDBC we value collaborating with like-minded organisations from the corporate sector, working strategically and purposefully together towards shared objectives. For companies that we work with, a strategic partnership with RIDBC helps to enable their business goals and engage their staff and customers, helping businesses to make a valuable impact in the community.

RIDBC works with corporate partners in a number of different ways, including: through grants and donations of goods and services; expertise, skills and people via our corporate volunteering program; workplace giving; sponsorship; and events that are held to raise funds and awareness for RIDBC.

We would like to thank our corporate supporters and their staff who have very generously donated their money, time, skills, goods and services to support our programs and services in 2017.

De LorenzoFor the past 22 years, the De Lorenzo Hair Care Cosmetics Company has generously supported RIDBC by donating gift baskets of its beautiful products. Valued at more than $350,000, this incredible contribution has meant De Lorenzo products have made an appearance at almost every RIDBC fundraising event over that time. Each year, product gift baskets have been donated by the company for raffle and lucky door prizes, and as thank you presentations for guest speakers and event compères.

The company commenced their support of RIDBC in 1995, for the silver anniversary year of the RIDBC Motherhood Quest. After the quest events were discontinued, De Lorenzo’s generosity continued. The company is an RIDBC Life Member and their long-term contribution is truly valued.

VTech AustraliaIn 2017, RIDBC launched a three-year partnership with VTech Australia across their CareLine™ range, which provides phones and devices aimed at helping those with vision or hearing loss stay connected and live independent lives.

Every purchase from the VTech CareLine™ range will contribute funds to RIDBC for the development of cutting-edge technologies, apps, and classroom resources for children and adults with vision or hearing loss.

Corporate partnerships such as this enable RIDBC to design and produce much-needed technologies and specialist resources for both the community and the classroom.

The co-branded packaging of the VTech Careline™ products also provides a great opportunity for us to continue to raise awareness of RIDBC in the community.

Coleman Greig Challenge Businesses came together on Friday 20 October, 2017, in Parramatta Park in Sydney to run, ride or walk in the Coleman Greig Challenge. This gave participants the opportunity to get fit, have fun and give back - all in one morning.

Australian athlete and RIDBC Ambassador, Matthew Cameron, came on board for the event, competing in the challenge himself and participating in media opportunities as a representative of RIDBC.

A record $213,000 was raised for the three charity partners: RIDBC, My Westmead and St Gabriel’s School.

Hyundai Help for KidsHyundai Help for Kids continued to support RIDBC during 2017. Sponsoring our RIDBC Teleschool Residential Camps for children with vision or hearing loss, they provided vital funding and resources, including braille and tactile playmats, chauffeur driven car rides and more.

In 2017, 81 students and 183 family members participated in the residential camps. These camps form part of the RIDBC Teleschool program, which supports children and families living in regional and remote areas of Australia using high quality, videoconferencing technology. The residential camps give families an intensive, interactive educational experience as well as the opportunity to socialise and interact with other families on a similar journey. For families in remote areas, where there might be no other children with vision or hearing loss in the community, this opportunity to meet and connect is essential.

RIDBC was proud to continue as one of the three charity partners in the 2017 Coleman Greig Challenge: Corporate for Community

Volunteers from Officeworks and St George Parramatta Branch were on hand at the RIDBC Alice Betteridge School Open Day to lend their support with the activities

RIDBC partnered with VTech Australia on our stand at the Deaf Festival in Sydney in October, in celebration of the diversity of people who are deaf or hard of hearing

Corporate Volunteer Groups Abacus Property Group

Commonwealth Bank Australia

Colonial First State Asset Management

Dexus Property Group

Johnson & Johnson

Lendlease

Mood Media Australia Pty Ltd

Officeworks

Scentre Group

St George Bank Parramatta

The Hills Sports High School

Corporate Supporters Abacus Property Group

Coleman Greig Lawyers

De Lorenzo Hair and Cosmetic Research Pty Ltd

Endes Pty Ltd

F B Rice

Gantiel Vensott EPS Pty Ltd

Glencore International AG

Guardian Interlock Systems Australasia Pty Ltd

Hyundai Motor Company Australia Pty Ltd

J J Richards & Sons Pty Ltd

Jeteld Pty Ltd

Lee & Sons (Aust) Pty Ltd

Mitsubishi Electric Australia Pty Ltd

National Australia Bank

RBA Group

Security Portman Pty Ltd

Tiketi Pty Ltd

Vinta Investment Management Pty Ltd

Vivienne Court Trading Pty Ltd

Wandglow Pty Limited

Workplace Giving BT Financial Group

DXC Technology Australia

Ernst & Young

Fletcher Building Group

FoxtelNational Australia Bank LimitedParramatta City CouncilPricewaterhouseCoopersQANTAS

Railcorp

Scentre Group (Head Office)

Sparke Helmore Lawyers

Stocklick Trading (Mt Garnett Office)

Suncorp Group Limited

Sydney Water

Telstra Corporation

UBS

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THANK YOU TO OUR SUPPORTERSRIDBC HUNTER

The support RIDBC receives from the Hunter community, clubs and corporates enables us to continue to provide innovative programs and services from a number of locations across the Hunter region, as well as to regional families through RIDBC Teleschool.

There were many successful events held in 2017 in the region, confirming the immense support RIDBC receives from the local community and Hunter businesses.

RIDBC AmbassadorIn 2017, Matthew Cameron became an RIDBC Ambassador. Based in Newcastle, he is a 20 year old with Usher syndrome - a genetic disorder characterised by partial or total hearing loss and a gradual loss of vision. This has not stopped Matthew from making great strides in the sporting world, representing Australia in

Dubai in blind cricket. He is also looking to start a blind football team in the Hunter Region.

Matthew represented RIDBC in the Coleman Greig Challenge in September, running 10km and coming second in a field of over 420 people. He is a great example to our RIDBC students and families of the achievements that can be made by young people who face challenges but do not let them hinder their passion. We are delighted to welcome him as an RIDBC Ambassador.

Lions Club Golf Day In 2017, Lions Clubs continued to be strong supporters of RIDBC. This year, it was great to see the continued support of RIDBC Hunter with a $3,750 donation from the annual Warner Bay Lions Club Golf Day conducted at Charlestown Golf Club.

Nickie, Claire and Neale circumnavigated 170km around Lake Macquarie in their stand up paddle board challenge to support RIDBC

Stand Up Paddleboard ChallengeIn 2017, three Hunter residents; Nickie, Claire and Neale, decided to use their passion for stand up paddle boarding to support a worthy cause. When the idea to circumnavigate the 170 kilometres around Lake Macquarie came up, the trio decided to use the challenge to raise funds for RIDBC.

With firsthand experience of growing up in a family with hearing loss, Nickie approached RIDBC Hunter about completing this amazing challenge over three days in aid of the families accessing RIDBC's services in the region.

The team faced a number of challenges right from the start, with strong winds and the breakdown of their houseboat, but undeterred they set off for an amazing three day event. Raising over $4,000 by way of GoFundraise and local donations, we congratulate the team on this tremendous effort.

Community Supporters Lions Club of Adamstown

Lions Club of Warners Bay

Corporate Volunteer Groups CityServe

Sight and Sound Committee Members Richard Owens AM, Chair

Garry Hardie

Lorren Kenny

Ross Melville

Kirsty Porteous

Meg Purser

Tony Rhodes

Gary Sheppard

We are proud to welcome Australian athlete Matthew Cameron as an RIDBC Ambassador

District 44 Masonic Charities In 2017, a special presentation was made by local freemasons, donating $9,800 to RIDBC Hunter to enable the purchase of a tympanometer. This portable diagnostic hearing machine allows the operator to accurately assess the hearing status of a patient, also making it possible to assess patients in their home or school - eliminating their need to travel to a special clinic at a centre such as Newcastle. The machine will be used in the area to support children and adults from Port Macquarie to Gloucester.

The funds were raised by five local lodges: Gloucester, Wingham, Taree, Forster and Laurieton. Lodges and members made donations, and MasoniCare supplied $3,000 for the equipment through their community grants scheme.

Sight and Sound for Kids CommitteeIn its sixth year, the RIDBC Hunter Sight and Sound for Kids Committee continued its great support of RIDBC in 2017.

Taking a break from their annual corporate luncheon in 2017, the committee members continued advocating for the RIDBC brand locally and are looking forward to an exciting 2018.

The committee is members of the local business community, helping to position RIDBC Hunter to continue to reach and assist even more children, families and health professionals across our region.

Corporate Supporters Bass Floor Company

Forsythes Advisors

Maxim Accounting

The Vintage Hunter Valley

Toshiba

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THANK YOU TO OUR SUPPORTERSPERMANENT FUNDS, GRANTS AND SCIC COCHLEAR IMPLANT PROGRAM

Ausgrid Employees' Children's Appeal

Australian Chinese Charity Foundation

Australian First Foundation

Birchall Family Foundation Trust

Brian M Davis Charitable Foundation

Bridgewater Foundation

Bruce & Joy Reid Trust

Club Jervis Bay (ClubGRANT)

Commonwealth Bank Foundation

Datt Family Foundation

Dee Why RSL Club (ClubGRANT)

Duchen Family Foundation

Gladys Stone Foundation

IOOF Foundation

James N Kirby Foundation

JLDJS Foundation

Kathleen Breen Children's Charity Trust

Kool Nominees

Lazberger Family Fund

Liangrove Foundation

Macquarie Group Foundation

Maple-Brown Family Foundation

Marich Foundation

Mutual Assistance Society

Nell & Hermon Slade Trust

Neumann Benevolent Foundation

Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation

Olsson Property Group Trust

Parramore Family Foundation

GrantsGrant funding is often the catalyst for the development of innovative programs that have great outcomes for Australians with vision or hearing loss. Grants awarded in 2017 by private trusts, foundations, and funds supported many important programs and services across RIDBC.

Preschool Review In keeping with the recommendations of the 2016 preschools review, a preschool support service model was designed in 2017 to allow children in community preschools to be supported by RIDBC staff with expertise in working with children with vision impairment, or who are deaf or hard of hearing.

The ‘PREP Project’, co-funded by The Hildanna Foundation, the JLDJS Foundation and The Shaw Foundation, enabled RIDBC to collaborate with community preschools in order to reach and support children with vision

Permanent FundsWe would like to acknowledge and sincerely thank our supporters who established permanent funds to support RIDBC’s work.

Permanent funds list18th Australian Infantry Brigade Association of NSW Fund

Ann Ratcliffe Fund

Dora & George Garland Memorial Fund

Elsie McLachlan Bursary Fund

Frederick Gregory-Roberts Prize Fund

Ian Paul Fund

Ivan Rado Memorial Fund

Jack and Gwen Freeman Fund

Jane Vickery Memorial Fund

Japan Australia Friendship Fund

John B Bedwell Fund

Joseph Tyrrell Fund

Neville McWilliam Prize Fund

Robert Simpson & Amy Caroline Brown & Family Fund

Stan and Betty Graham Bursary Fund for GBS

Stan Graham Bursary Fund for TPS

The Estate of Joan Isabel Craven Fund

Vera Rado Fund

William & Gladys Judd Memorial Fund

William H Boydell Fund

SCIC Cochlear Implant Program DonationsSupport for the program comes from many individuals, corporate organisations and the wider community. We extend a sincere thank you to all our supporters who helped us raise nearly $328,000 in 2017.

Donations to SCIC Cochlear Implant ProgramF Adamson

CICADA Australia Inc

Dallas and Margaret Finney

Peter Gibson

Ahmed and Biyana Khoder

Marich Foundation

Therese McGee

F B Rice

Bernard Royle

The Dick and Pip Smith Foundation

The Donald Boden Memorial Trust

Thanks to The ‘PREP Project’, co-funded by The Hildanna Foundation, the JLDJS Foundation and The Shaw Foundation, children with vision impairment, like Feby, will have greater access to specialist vision support

impairment across all areas of Sydney. A dedicated team of RIDBC specialists:

speech pathologists, physiotherapists, orthoptists, access technology specialists, and psychologists, developed an intensive program that can be individualised and tailored to meet the needs of mainstream preschools as well as individual children, and their families. This program will ensure children with vision loss are able to be successfully included alongside their peers in a community setting.

The grants also funded the purchase of resources to establish a pool of loan equipment for mainstream preschools.

As a direct result of the PREP program, many mainstream preschools have expanded the scope of their service provision to children with disabilities.

Auslan Tutor The Auslan Tutor app was developed by RIDBC technology and education specialists to help anyone aiming to learn Australian Sign Language (Auslan) and wanting to communicate with someone who is deaf.

This highly successful app was launched seven years ago and continues to be updated with new features. In 2017, RIDBC’s developers focused on adding features to assist users to understand and tailor the app to suit their own learning needs, also increasing the number of signs available.

The redevelopment, co-funded by the James N Kirby Foundation and the Thyne Reid Foundation, is being undertaken by Auslan and deaf education specialists in consultation with the Australian Deaf community.

Parent Mentoring ProgramChildren who are deaf or hard of hearing who cannot simply ‘listen in’ to everyday conversations, need to be immersed in a rich language environment to develop their speech and language. With the support of the Olsson Property Group Trust, RIDBC developed a parent mentoring program to ensure that families of children enrolled with RIDBC Early Learning Program (Hearing Impairment) have the skills to provide the rich and directed language environment their children need.

The program offers short-term, intensive, and targeted mentoring for parents aimed at boosting their confidence and engagement with their child. It has been designed to upskill

Payne Family Charitable Fund

Perpetual Foundation - Sibley Endowment

Ronwynne Foundation

Rotary Club of Carlingford Scholarship Fund

Skipper-Jacobs Charitable Trust

Suncorp Brighter Futures Foundation

The Amelia Eliza Holland Trust

The Belalberi Foundation

The Denton Family Trust

The Dick and Pip Smith Foundation

The Donald Boden Memorial Trust

The F M Bradford Endowment

The George Lewin Foundation

The Hargrove Foundation

The Hildanna Foundation

The J & G Bedwell Endowment

The John Bedwell Endowment

The Johnson Family Foundation

The Lady Fairfax Charitable Trust

The Perpetual Foundation

The R A Gale Foundation

The Rydge Foundation

The Shaw Foundation

The UBS Australia Foundation

Thomas Hare Investments Trust

Thyne Reid Foundation

U & A Foundation

parents in specific strategies that are known to support parent-child attachment and stimulate language, leading to stronger parent-child relationships and optimal language learning for each child.

RIDBC is grateful to all the trustees for their consideration of our funding submissions in 2017

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ANNUAL CONCISE FINANCIAL REPORTFor the year ended 31 December 2017

DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Information on RIDBC Concise Financial ReportThe financial statements and disclosures in the concise financial report have been derived from the 2017 annual financial report of the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children (RIDBC). A copy of the full annual financial report and the accompanying auditor’s report will be sent to any member, free of charge, upon request.

The discussion and analysis is provided to assist members in understanding the concise financial report. It is based on RIDBC’s financial statements, the information contained in the concise financial report and in the 2017 RIDBC Annual Report.

Statement of Income & ExpenditureIn 2017 RIDBC recorded total revenue of $52.9M which was a decrease against 2016 of $1.6M or 2.9%.

Total revenue comprises operating and non-operating activities.

Revenue from operating activities closed the year at $52.9M which was an increase against 2016 of $0.8M or 1.6%. Strong revenues in 2017 were driven by a number of factors, notably bequests and investment income. Bequest income of $15.2M was at an all-time historical high, $0.8M or 5% higher than 2016 which was also a record year. In 2017 it was primarily due to the estates of the late Janis Salisbury ($3.0M), Jack Gornall ($2.2M), Gladys Humpreys ($1.8M) and Jack Logan ($1.7M), amongst many other generous bequests in the year. Investment income was $0.3M or 3.9% higher than last year. Government funding was $0.4M or 3.2% higher than 2016 with a decrease in the Ageing, Disability & Home Care (ADHC) funding ($1.6M) being offset by an increase in National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) fees ($1.0M) and NSW Department of Health funded sound processor upgrades ($1.3M). Cochlear implant program revenue increased by $1.0M or 20.2% compared to last year due to higher Medicare revenue

ABN 53 443 272 865

and an increase in cochlear device fittings. Fundraising was $1.6M lower than 2016 mainly attributable to the challenges in the internal and external environment. RIDBC is very grateful for the generosity and foresight of those who have made provision for RIDBC through their wills.

RIDBC continued to benefit from the ongoing support of the NSW, QLD and Commonwealth Governments for which we are most appreciative.

Investment income of $8.6M was an increase of $0.3M or 3.9% over 2016. In 2017, global markets across all mainstream asset classes posted strong returns for 2017 with emerging markets and overseas hedged equities outperforming other asset classes. In Australia, the pace of growth has picked up to just under 3%. This, combined with the $17.2M increase in the investment portfolio in 2017, has contributed to the increase in investment income.

Total expenditure on operating activities increased in 2017 by $2.1M or 5.1% to $44.4M, the increases being in cochlear implant programs ($2.2M) and strategic initiatives ($0.8M) offset by reductions across many of the operational and support areas.

The increase in cochlear implant program expenditure ($2.2M) is primarily due to the cost of the sound processors ($1.5M) associated with the NSW Department of Health funded program, which commenced in 2017. In addition, there was an increase in employment and property costs ($0.7M).

Strategic initiative expenditure of $1.3M was $0.8M higher than 2016. A considerable portion of this related to Transformation Management Office (TMO) which was established during the year to support the organisation in a successful execution of strategy.

RIDBC spent 79% of its outgoings on the cochlear implant program and student and client services.

Finance, administration and general management costs were contained to 7.3% of operational expenditure. This represents a 0.2%

decrease against 2016 which reflects the ongoing vigilance around the headcount and operating costs associated with these functions.

Statement of Other Comprehensive IncomeThe gain of $3.9M (2016: gain of $3.0M) represented an increase in the year end market values of the long term investments held by RIDBC.

Statement of Financial PositionThe value of RIDBC’s net assets has increased by 7.5% to $178.1M.

Of particular note is the increase in financial assets (+$17.2M), consisting of RIDBC’s investment portfolio, which reflects the additional investment of funds as a result of the extraordinary year of bequests received. RIDBC’s investment portfolio is diverse, being invested broadly across a range of managers and asset classes including cash, bonds, equities, infrastructure and property trusts. RIDBC is a long term investor and operates its investment portfolio with the advice of an independent asset consultant and with a special purpose subcommittee of the RIDBC Board.

During 2017, RIDBC’s property, plant and equipment reduced by almost $1.0M. Additions of $1.6M were offset by depreciation of ($2.5M). The most notable area of additions was the fit out of the RIDBC Clive Berghofer Centre in Toowoomba ($0.5M) and information technology related assets ($0.7M).

Statement of Cash FlowsNet cash inflows from operating activities decreased 16% compared with 2016 primarily due to a decrease in income from donations and fundraising activities excluding bequests.

The increase in payments to suppliers and employees is in the areas of cochlear implant services and strategic expenditure as previously discussed which has been offset by an increase in government funds.

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STATEMENT OF INCOME & EXPENDITURE FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2017

STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2017

Note 2017 2016

Revenue from operating activities

Bequest income 2 15,201,911 14,439,317

Fundraising income 2 7,205,067 8,830,293

Government funding 2 13,330,195 12,915,816

Other income 2 17,203,182 15,908,058

Revenue from operating activities 2 52,940,355 52,093,484

Income from non operating activities 2 1,000 2,400,962

Total revenue and income 2 $52,941,355 $54,494,446

Expenditure from operating activities

Bequests 3 167,271 166,905

Fundraising 3 3,807,393 4,540,765

Marketing and communications 3 813,185 1,102,819

Administration 3 3,243,232 3,167,922

Investment management 3 132,044 125,176

Student and client services 3 34,885,387 32,581,779

Strategic initiatives 3 1,331,728 553,146

Total expenditure from operating activities 3 $44,380,240 $42,238,512

SURPLUS FOR THE YEAR $8,561,115 $12,255,934

These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

Note 2017 2016

SURPLUS FOR THE YEAR $8,561,115 $12,255,934

Other comprehensive incomeNet unrealised gain on revaluation of long term investments held at fair value and net realised gain on disposal of investments

3,852,602 3,035,257

Gain / (loss) on revaluation of defined superannuation funds

60,267 (16,399)

3,912,869 3,018,858

TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME/ (LOSS) FOR THE YEAR $12,473,984 $15,274,792

These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

64 65

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2017

Note 2017 2016Current assetsCash and cash equivalents 4,812,911 7,521,524

Trade and other receivables 1,851,085 1,520,162

Other current assets 598,619 464,064

Total Current Assets $7,262,615 $9,505,750

Non-current assetsFinancial assets 135,584,245 118,415,752

Investment property 1,530,000 1,530,000

Retirement benefit surplus 272,669 281,000

Property, plant and equipment 43,023,239 43,993,516

Other Intangible assets 26,335 65,356

Total Non-Current Assets $180,436,488 $164,285,624

TOTAL ASSETS $187,699,103 $173,791,374

Current liabilitiesTrade and other payables 1,965,859 1,726,981

Other current liabilities 1,750,683 764,085

Short-term provisions 5,053,249 4,770,350

Total Current Liabilities $8,769,791 $7,261,416

Non-current liabilitiesLong-term provisions 818,147 824,179

Retirement benefit deficit - 68,598

Total Non-Current Liabilities $818,147 $892,777

TOTAL LIABILITIES $9,587,938 $8,154,193

NET ASSETS $178,111,165 $165,637,181

FundsReserves

Defined benefit reserve 272,669 212,402

Capital projects account 1,009,552 1,009,552

Cochlear implant program permanent funds 1,708,580 1,722,598

Prescribed purpose funds 6,682,648 6,609,232

Asset revaluation / realisation reserve 64,757,172 60,904,570

Designated investment fund 80,305,148 80,305,148

Total Reserves $154,735,769 $150,763,502

Retained Earnings $23,375,396 $14,873,679

TOTAL FUNDS $178,111,165 $165,637,181

These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2017

Retained Earnings

Defined Benefit

Reserve

Capital Projects Account

CIP Permanent

Funds

Prescribed Purpose

Funds

Asset Revaluation/

Realisation Reserve

Designated Investment

FundTOTAL

Balance at 1 January 2016

2,784,711 228,801 1,009,552 1,652,510 6,038,262 58,343,405 80,305,148 150,362,389

Total comprehensive income for the year

12,255,934 (16,399) - - - 3,035,257 - 15,274,792

Subtotal 15,040,645 212,402 1,009,552 1,652,510 6,038,262 61,378,662 80,305,148 165,637,181

Transfers to and from reserve

Realised investments 474,092 - - - - (474,092) - -

Prescribed purpose funds

(641,058) - - 70,088 570,970 - - -

Balance at 31 December 2016

14,873,679 212,402 1,009,552 1,722,598 6,609,232 60,904,570 80,305,148 165,637,181

Total comprehensive income for the year

8,561,115 60,267 - - - 3,852,602 - 12,473,984

Subtotal 23,434,794 272,669 1,009,552 1,722,598 6,609,232 64,757,172 80,305,148 178,111,165

Transfers to and from reserve

Prescribed purpose funds

(59,398) - - (14,018) 73,416 - - -

Balance at 31 December 2017

23,375,396 272,669 1,009,552 1,708,580 6,682,648 64,757,172 80,305,148 178,111,165

These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

66 67

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2017

Note 2017 2016

Cash flow from operating activitiesReceipts from fundraising, bequests, fees and sundry sources

28,801,788 31,016,928

Government grants & subsidies received 14,230,815 12,267,362

Interest received 320,472 303,569

Receipts from investments 8,146,185 7,854,533

Payments to suppliers and employees (41,130,247) (39,055,736)

Net cash inflows from operating activities $10,369,013 $12,386,656

Cash flows from investing activities

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment 1,773 5,300,121

Payments for property, plant and equipment (1,558,012) (1,522,330)

Receipts from sale of investment securities 12,800 5,171,929

Payments for investment securities (11,534,187) (18,277,846)

Net cash (outflows) from investing activities $(13,077,626) $(9,328,126)

Net (decrease)/increase in cash held (2,708,613) 3,058,530

Cash at the beginning of the financial year 7,521,524 4,462,994

CASH AT THE END OF THE FINANCIAL YEAR $4,812,911 $7,521,524

These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2017

Note 1 – Basis of Preparation of the Concise Financial ReportThe concise financial report is an extract from the full financial report for the year 31 December 2017. The concise financial report has been prepared in accordance with the principles of Accounting Standard AASB 1039: Concise Financial Reports, and the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991.

The financial report covers the entity of the RIDBC domiciled in Australia, incorporated in 1905 by Act No. 10 of the New South Wales Parliament, and replaced by the provisions of the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children Act No. 6 from 26 June 1998.

The financial statements, specific disclosures and other information included in the concise financial report are derived from and are consistent with the 2017 RIDBC Annual Financial Report. The concise financial report cannot be expected to provide as detailed an understanding of the financial performance, financial position and financing and investing

activities of RIDBC as the annual financial report. A copy of the annual financial report and auditor’s report will be sent to any member, free of charge, upon request.

The 2017 RIDBC Annual Financial Report and this 2017 RIDBC Annual Concise Financial Report comply with Australian Accounting Standards. A statement of compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards cannot be made due to RIDBC applying the not for profit sector specific requirements contained in the Australian Accounting Standards.

RIDBC was automatically registered as a charity with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) when its registration details transferred across from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) having been previously endorsed by the ATO as a charity.

The annual information statement and an annual financial statement for 2016 was duly submitted on 1st June 2017.

68 69

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2017

Note 2 – Revenue 2017 2016(a) Revenue from operating activitiesBequest income *

*Bequests include non-cash donations (shares) of $1,781,704 (2016: $71,875) $15,201,911 $14,439,317

Charitable fundraising income (See Note 4) $7,205,067 $8,830,293

GOVERNMENT FUNDINGCommonwealth Department of EducationBasic per capita 2,491,287 2,354,645

AIS funding 39,758 68,609

Commonwealth Department of Social ServicesBetter Start 596,880 660,528

National Disability Insurance Scheme 1,473,940 498,955

Print disability services 131,500 131,500

Remote hearing & vision services 469,000 832,000

NSW Ageing, Disability & Home CareEarly childhood intervention 1,289,228 1,502,128

Print disability/alternative formats 128,902 124,056

Therapy, low vision and other service grants 2,710,238 4,131,565

NSW Department of EducationIntervention support 971,235 777,809

Teaching supervisors' subsidy 312,849 311,609

Early childhood funding 254,159 173,862

State per capita grants 263,272 267,505

Preschool per capita grants 691,322 383,218

NSW Department of HealthPort Macquarie site development - 240,000

Cochlear upgrades 1,254,189 152,955

Queensland Department of HealthSupport for students at Teleschool 252,436 304,872

Total Government Funding $13,330,195 $12,915,816

Other incomeInvestment income $8,561,192 $8,238,111

Student and other fees $1,773,512 $1,800,611

Cochlear implant programMedicare receipts 3,832,505 3,318,021

Cochlear devices and fitting fees 1,937,861 1,349,285

Other income 151,731 257,918

Total Cochlear Implant Program excluding Government Funding $5,922,097 $4,925,224

Professional development $243,257 $307,962

Miscellaneous income $703,124 $636,150

Total Other Income $17,203,182 $15,908,058

TOTAL REVENUE FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES $52,940,355 $52,093,484

(b) Income from non-operating activitiesGain on sale of property, plant and equipment** 1,000 2,400,962

TOTAL REVENUE $52,941,355 $ 54,494,446

*Bequests in 2016 include a substantial bequest from a long term RIDBC donor, the late Mr Ian Paul, to the value of $8.7M. An additional $2.2M was received in March 2018 which was the final distribution from the Ian Paul estate. ** Gain on sale relates to the disposing of property at North Parramatta, previously the residence of the Garfield Barwick School which has now been relocated to North Rocks.

Note 3 – Surplus from Ordinary Activities 2017 2016Surplus from ordinary activities has been determined after:(a) Expenditure from operating activitiesBequests 167,271 166,905

Fundraising (See Note 4) 3,807,393 4,540,765

Marketing and communications $813,185 $1,102,819

AdministrationGeneral and financial management 2,395,830 2,221,447

Human resources management 847,402 946,475

Total Administration Expenditure $3,243,232 $3,167,922

Investment management $132,044 $125,176

Strategic initiatives $1,331,728 $553,146

Student and client servicesPreschool services 2,635,403 2,571,657

Schools services Alice Betteridge School 3,907,098 3,802,411

Thomas Pattison School 1,906,744 1,855,370

Garfield Barwick School 1,682,945 1,498,066

Schools support services 3,539,626 3,876,675

Jim Patrick Audiology services 647,552 684,274

Renwick Centre 2,623,759 2,879,448

Teleschool services 3,306,514 2,953,066

Early learning program and other client services 7,386,041 7,417,410

Cochlear implant program services 7,249,705 5,043,402

Total Student and Client Services Expenditure $34,885,387 $32,581,779

TOTAL EXPENDITURE FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES $44,380,240 $42,238,512

The expenditure from operating activities include the following specific expendituresAmortisation of non-current assets $39,021 $57,873

Depreciation on non-current assets $2,514,714 $2,497,496

Remuneration of auditorAudit services 80,000 80,000

Other assurance services 5,000 -

Taxation advice 3,000 -

Total Remuneration of auditor $88,000 $80,000

Bad and doubtful debts $27,673 $20,691

Total employee benefits expense $31,161,274 $30,131,502

70 71

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2017

Note 4 – Fundraising Activities Conducted

Information & Declarations to be furnished under the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991Under this Act, Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children holds multiple authorities to fundraise for RIDBC centres.a. Details of income and aggregate expenditure of appeals conducted jointly with traders

RIDBC conducts all our appeals in-house. We do not use third party traders. b. Forms of fundraising appeals conducted in 2017

Details of aggregate income and expenditure from fundraising are as follows:

2017 Total Income

$

2017 Direct Expenses

$

2017 Net Income

$

2016 Net Income

$

Community partnerships 163,746 122,227 41,519 25,632

Committees & events 425,271 175,369 249,902 239,462

Lantern Clubs 315,793 177,742 138,051 209,861

Corporate partnerships 302,779 151,884 150,895 309,737

Regional 54,255 115,449 (61,194) (23,703)

Individual giving 1,934,514 1,260,247 674,267 446,398

Lottery and telemarketing 1,741,716 1,387,639 354,077 166,275

Major donors 953,988 150,241 803,747 1,870,721

Grants from trusts and foundations 1,313,005 159,202 1,153,803 1,051,720

Alumni program - 107,393 (107,393) (6,575)

Total 7,205,067 3,807,393 3,397,674 4,289,528

NET INCOME 3,397,674 4,289,528

Note 5 – Other Commitments a. On 10 November 2015 RIDBC agreed to

acquire the assets and assume the liabilities of Early Education Program for Hearing Impaired Children (EEP), in Victoria, at a date in the future up to 1 November 2018 for NIL consideration. At 31 December 2017 RIDBC did not control EEP. Accordingly this transaction has not been recognised in the 31 December 2017 financial statements. RIDBC formally acquired EEP on 16th February, 2018. (Refer note 6 Events After the Balance Date)

b. On 14 September 2017 RIDBC agreed to acquire the assets and assume the liabilities of The Advisory Council for Children with Impaired Hearing (Victoria) (ACCIH), trading as Taralye. At 31 December 2017, RIDBC had not assumed control of Taralye as the conditions precedent had not been met. Accordingly this transaction has not been recognised in the 31 December 2017 financial statements. RIDBC formally acquired Taralye on 1st February, 2018. (Refer note 6 Events After The Balance Date)

Note 6 – Events After the Balance DateMatters or circumstances that have arisen since the end of the financial year which significantly affect or may significantly affect the operations of RIDBC, the results of those operations, or the state of affairs of RIDBC in future financial years are provided below.Subsequent to balance date,a. the acquisition of the Advisory Council for

Children with Impaired Hearing (Victoria), trading as Taralye, was formalised on 1 February, 2018 for NIL consideration. The historic book value of the Taralye net assets at the point of acquisition was $1.499M.

b. the acquisition of the Early Education Program (EEP) was formalised on 16 February, 2018 for NIL consideration. The historic book value of the EEP net assets at the point of acquisition was $1.048M.

c. RIDBC have received the final distribution from the Ian Paul estate of $2.2M in March 2018. This has not been recognised as revenue in 2017.

d. RIDBC have called for expressions of interest for the property at North Rocks which is the main facility out of which the operations are carried out. This is a key step in executing the five year strategy and in particular the relocation to Macquarie University premises. At this stage we cannot measure the financial impact of this event hence the property remains at book value in property, plant and equipment.

72 73

In accordance with the requirements of section 60-40 of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012, as lead auditor for the audit of the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children for the year ended 31 December 2017, I declare that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, there have been:

a. no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012 in relation to the audit; and

b. no contraventions of any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to the audit.

Grant Thornton Audit Pty LtdChartered Accountants

A J ArcherPartner - Audit & Assurance

Sydney, 6 April 2018

Grant Thornton Audit Pty Ltd ACN 130 913 594

a subsidiary or related entity of Grant Thornton Australia Ltd ABN 41 127 556 389

‘Grant Thornton’ refers to the brand under which the Grant Thornton member firms provide assurance, tax and advisory services to their clients and/or refers to one or more member firms, as the context requires. Grant Thornton Australia Ltd is a member firm of Grant Thornton International Ltd (GTIL). GTIL and the member firms are not a worldwide partnership. GTIL and each member firm is a separate legal entity. Services are delivered by the member firms. GTIL does not provide services to clients. GTIL and its member firms are not agents of, and do not obligate one another and are not liable for one another’s acts or omissions. In the Australian context only, the use of the term ‘Grant Thornton’ may refer to Grant Thornton Australia Limited ABN 41 127 556 389 and its Australian subsidiaries and related entities. GTIL is not an Australian related entity to Grant Thornton Australia Limited.

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.

Level 17, 383 Kent Street, Sydney NSW 2000

Correspondence to: Locked Bag Q800

QVB Post Office, Sydney NSW 1230T +61 2 8297 2400 F +61 2 9299 4445E info.nsw@au.gt.com W www.grantthornton.com.au

AUDITOR’S INDEPENDENCE DECLARATION

TO THE DIRECTORS OF RIDBC

RESPONSIBLE ENTITIES’ DECLARATION

The Responsible Entities of RIDBC declare that:1. The financial statements and notes of RIDBC

are in accordance with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012 including;a. giving a true and fair view of its financial

position as at 31 December 2017 and of its performance for the financial year ended on that date;

b. complying with Australian Accounting Standards (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations) and the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Regulation 2013; and

2. there are reasonable grounds to believe that RIDBC will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable.

This declaration is made in accordance with a resolution of the Board of Directors.

Sean P WareingPresident 6 April 2018

Peter van DongenDirector6 April 2018

Declaration by the President with Respect to Fundraising AppealsI Sean Wareing, President of the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children, declare that in my opinion:a. the accounts give a true and fair view of

all income and expenditure with respect to fundraising appeals;

b. the statement of financial position gives a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the organisation with respect to fundraising appeals;

c. the provisions of the Charitable Fundraising Act, the regulations under the Act and the conditions attached to the fundraising authority have been complied with by the organisation; and

d. the internal controls exercised by the organisation are appropriate and effective in accounting for all income received and applied by the organisation from any of its fundraising appeals.

Sean P WareingPresident 6 April 2018

74 75

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORTTO THE MEMBERS OF THE RIDBC

Level 17, 383 Kent Street, Sydney NSW 2000

Correspondence to: Locked Bag Q800

QVB Post Office, Sydney NSW 1230T +61 2 8297 2400 F +61 2 9299 4445E info.nsw@au.gt.com W www.grantthornton.com.au

Auditor’s OpinionWe have audited the concise financial report of the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children (the Company), which comprises the statement of financial position as at 31 December 2017, and the statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income, statement of changes in equity and statement of cash flows for the year then ended, derived from the audited financial report of Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children for the year ended 31 December 2017 and the discussion and analysis.

In our opinion, the accompanying concise financial report, including the discussion and analysis of Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children for the year ended 31 December 2017 complies with the principles of Accounting Standard AASB 1039 Concise Financial Reports.

Basis for Auditor’s Opinion We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Report section of our report. We are independent of the Company in accordance with the ethical requirements of the Accounting Professional and Ethical Standards Board’s APES 110 Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (the Code) that are relevant to our audit of the concise financial report in Australia. We have also fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with the Code.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.

Concise Financial ReportThe concise financial report does not contain all the disclosures required by the Australian Accounting Standards in the preparation of the financial report. Reading the concise financial

report and the auditors’ report thereon, therefore is not a substitute for reading the financial report and the auditor’s report thereon.

The Financial Report and our report thereon We expressed an unmodified audit opinion on the financial report in our report dated 6 April 2018.

Responsible Entities’ responsibility for the Concise Financial ReportThe Responsible Entities of RIDBC are responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the concise financial report in accordance with the principles of Accounting Standard AASB 1039 Concise Financial Reports, the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012. This responsibility includes such internal controls as the Responsible Entities’ determine are necessary to enable the preparation of the concise financial report.

Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Concise Financial ReportOur responsibility is to express an opinion on the concise financial report, in all material respects, complies with the principles of AASB1039 Concise Financial Reports and whether the discussion and analysis complies with the principles of AASB1039 Concise Financial Reports based on our audit procedures, which were conducted in accordance with Auditing Standard ASA 810 Engagements to Report on Summary Financial Statements.

Report on the requirements of the NSW Charitable Fundraising Act 1991 and the NSW Charitable Fundraising Regulation 2015 We have audited the compliance of the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children with the requirements of Section 24(2) of the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991 for the year ended 31 December 2017.

Our OpinionIn our opinion:a the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind

Children has properly kept the accounts and associated records during the year ended 31 December 2017 in accordance with the NSW Charitable Fund raising Act 1991and NSW Charitable Fundraising Regulations 2015 (section 24(2)(b) of the CF Act); and

b the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children, has, in all material respects, properly accounted for and applied money received as a result of fundraising appeals conducted during the year ended 31 December 2017 in accordance with section 24(2)(c) of the CF Act; and

c there are reasonable grounds to believe that the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children will be able to pay its debts as and when they fall due over the 12 month period from the date of this report (section 24(2)(d) of the CF Act).

The Responsible Entities Responsibility under the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991The Responsible Entities’ of the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children are responsible for compliance with the requirements and conditions of the NSW Charitable Fundraising Act 1991 and NSW Charitable Fundraising Regulation 2015 and for such internal control as the Directors determine is necessary for compliance with the Act and the Regulation. This responsibility includes establishing and maintaining internal control over the conduct of all fundraising appeals; ensuring all assets obtained during, or as a result of, a fundraising appeal are safeguarded and properly accounted for; and maintaining proper books of account and records.

The Directors are also responsible for ensuring the Foundation will be able to pay its debts as and when they fall due.

Auditor’s ResponsibilityOur responsibility is to form and express an opinion on the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children’s compliance, in all material respects, with the requirements of the Act and Regulations, as specified in section 24(2)(b), 24(2)(c) and 24(2)(d) of the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991.

Our audit has been conducted in accordance with the applicable Standards on Assurance Engagements (ASAE 3100 Compliance Engagements), issued by the Auditing and Assurance Standards Board. Our audit has been conducted to provide reasonable

assurance that the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children has complied with specific requirements of the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991 and Charitable Fundraising Regulation 2015, and whether there are reasonable grounds to believe the Company will be able to pay its debts as and when they fall due over the 12 month period from the date of this independent auditor’s report (future debts).

Audit procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgement. The auditor designs procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances and incorporate the audit scope requirements set out in the Act. The audit procedures have been undertaken to form an opinion on compliance of the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children with the Act and Regulations and its ability to pay future debts. Audit procedures include obtaining an understanding of the internal control structure for fundraising appeal activities and examination, on a test basis, of evidence supporting the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children’s compliance with specific requirements of the Act and Regulation, and assessing the reasonableness and appropriateness of the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children’s assessment regarding the Company’s ability to pay future debts.

Inherent LimitationsBecause of the inherent limitations of any compliance procedures, it is possible that fraud, error or noncompliance may occur and not be detected. An audit is not designed to detect all instances of noncompliance with the requirements of the Act and Principles, as the audit procedures are not performed continuously throughout the year and are undertaken on a test basis.

Whilst evidence is available to support the Company’s ability to pay future debts, such evidence is future orientated and speculative in nature. As a consequence, actual results are likely to be different from the information on which the opinion is based, since anticipated events frequently do not occur as expected or assumed and the variations between the prospective opinion and the actual outcome may be significant.

Grant Thornton Audit Pty LtdChartered Accountants

A J ArcherPartner - Audit & Assurance

Sydney, 6 April 2018

76 77

FIVE YEAR FINANCIAL HISTORY FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2017

Description % 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 %

EXPENDITURE

Student and client services

Preschool services 2,635,403 2,571,657 2,306,921 2,660,789 2,556,288

School services

Alice Betteridge School 3,907,098 3,802,411 4,163,446 4,487,680 4,309,512

Thomas Pattison School 1,906,744 1,855,370 2,092,679 2,029,620 1,931,514

Garfield Barwick School 1,682,945 1,498,066 1,647,678 1,744,498 1,651,736

Schools Support services 3,539,626 3,876,675 3,919,441 3,672,268 3,448,657

Jim Patrick Audiology services 647,552 684,274 622,160 652,003 699,518

Renwick Centre 2,623,759 2,879,448 2,835,575 2,690,015 2,771,799

Teleschool services 3,306,514 2,953,066 2,944,124 2,657,680 2,423,298

Early learning program and other client services

7,386,041 7,417,410 6,039,375 5,870,706 5,632,279

Cochlear implant program services 7,249,705 5,043,402 5,255,161 2,674,758 -

Total student and client services 79 34,885,387 32,581,779 31,826,560 29,140,017 25,424,602 75

Administration 7 3,243,232 3,167,922 3,168,082 3,096,580 2,865,239 8

Investment management 132,044 125,176 234,320 290,029 265,205 1

Charitable fundraising 6 2,781,278 3,087,291 3,402,248 2,908,779 2,545,147 8

Rainbow Lottery 3 1,193,386 1,620,379 1,633,629 2,106,406 2,334,842 7

Strategic initiatives 3 1,331,728 553,146 - - -

Marketing & communications 2 813,185 1,102,819 734,104 400,358 329,132 1

TOTAL EXPENDITURE FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES 100 44,380,240 42,238,512 40,998,943 37,942,169 33,764,167 100

Description % 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 %

REVENUE FROM ORDINARY ACTIVITIES

Charitable fundraising income

Bequests 15,201,911 14,439,317 3,549,700 7,617,257 7,217,464

Donations 4,201,507 5,145,711 5,205,994 4,066,126 4,499,246

Lantern Clubs, committees and auxiliaries

1,261,844 1,642,853 1,332,902 1,203,118 927,921

Other fundraising - - - - 194,625

Rainbow Lottery 1,741,716 2,041,729 2,321,075 2,726,055 3,321,564

Total Charitable Fundraising Income 42 22,406,978 23,269,610 12,409,671 15,612,566 16,160,820 47

Government funding

Commonwealth Department of Education

2,531,045 2,423,254 2,417,118 2,664,559 2,382,038

Commonwealth Department of Social Services

2,671,320 2,122,983 1,960,446 1,419,714 1,229,897

NSW Ageing, Disability and Home Care 4,128,368 5,757,749 6,179,028 6,027,771 5,237,319

NSW Department of Education 2,492,837 1,914,003 2,366,076 2,080,433 2,144,322

NSW Department of Health 1,254,189 392,955 - - -

QLD Department of Health 252,436 304,872 307,311 300,000 -

AusAID - - - - 1,500

Total Government funding 25 13,330,195 12,915,816 13,229,979 12,492,477 10,995,076 33

Other income

Investment income 8,561,192 8,238,111 6,775,156 5,380,112 3,924,493

Cochlear implant program 5,922,097 4,925,224 6,044,978 2,470,984 -

Sales, fees and miscellaneous income 2,719,893 2,744,723 2,847,387 2,639,394 2,695,670

Total Other Income 33 17,203,182 15,908,058 15,667,521 10,490,490 6,620,163 20

TOTAL REVENUE FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES 100 52,940,355 52,093,484 41,307,171 38,595,533 33,776,059 100

OPERATING SURPLUS 8,560,115 9,854,972 308,228 653,364 11,892

Net gain/ (loss) on disposal of property, plant & equipment

1,000 2,400,962 72,460 132,137 5,042

Gain on acquisition - - - 3,249,119 -

Gain/(loss) on defined benefit super funds 60,267 (16,399) 7,561 (51,000) 108,000

Net unrealised gain/ (loss) on revaluation of long term investments held at fair value and net realised gain on disposal of investments

3,852,602 3,035,257 (430,592) 2,235,867 10,855,813

TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME/(LOSS) 12,473,984 15,274,792 (42,343) 6,219,487 10,980,747

78 79

GOVERNMENT FUNDING SUMMARY OF APPLICABLE LEGISLATION

Source of Funds Legislation Funding Purposes

Commonwealth Department of Education

General Recurrent Grants Program General Recurrent Grants for Non-Government Schools

Australian Education Act (2013)

Assistance towards the cost of recurrent services at our schools

Commonwealth Strategic Assistance for Improving Student Outcomes Schools Support Non-Government

Australian Education Act (2013)

Assistance towards costs of education support services at and from our Special Schools.

Commonwealth Strategic Assistance for Improving Student Outcomes

Australian Education Act (2013)

Funding for special projects that provide a type of support to children’s education which may otherwise be lacking in an institutional setting.

School Language Program Community Languages Element

Australian Education Act (2013)

Assistance towards the cost of implementation of Community Languages Program in the RIDBC Thomas Pattison School.

Australian Sports Commission - Sporting Schools Program

Australian Government

Initiative program aimed to involve more children in playing sport at the RIDBC Thomas Pattison School

Education Research Project Access and utilise education research in the RIDBC Thomas Pattison School

Commonwealth Department of Social Services

Education Research Project Childcare Act (1972) To provide intensive, targeted and coordinated support for parents and children who have limited or no access to specialised professional services in their local community.

Education Research Project The Better Start for Children with Disability (Better Start) initiative aims to assist eligible children with developmental disabilities to access funding for early treatment, diagnostic and management services.

National Disability Insurance Scheme

National Disability Insurance Scheme Act (2013) No. 20, 2013

NDIS provide community linking and individualised support for people with permanent and significant disability, their families and carers.

Production of Alternate Format Print

Print Disability Service – DisabilityServices Act (1986)

Subsidy towards the production of AFP (Part II, Section 10 of the Act)

Source of Funds Legislation Funding Purposes

NSW Ageing, Disability and Home Care

Financial Assistance Grants Disability Services Act (1993)

Assistance towards the cost of providing boarding, therapy, low vision and other services, under Section 7 of the Act.

Community Services Grants Departmental policy initiative

Community services grants program funding for community support and braille production.

NSW Department of Education

Non-Government State Schools Per Capita Allowance

Education Act (1990)

Per capita allowance for primary and secondary pupils attending our special schools.

Teaching Supervisor’s Subsidy

Education Act (1990)

Subsidies for approved teaching staff of intellectually impaired children.

Intervention Support Program Early Childhood Education

The Program provides support that is supplementary to improve educational opportunities, learning outcomes and personal development of children with disabilities. The Program provides funding to non-government, not for profit incorporated services.

Early Childhood Education and Care

Early Childhood Education and Care Grants Program (2013) (Also now known as Start Strong)

Supports direct delivery of early childhood education by not-for profit preschool providers. Target audience is children in their year before school and those from CALD, ATSI and low SES backgrounds

Preschool Per Capita Grant Preschool Disability Support Program

Per capita allowance for pupils attending RIDBC’s Hunter, Nepean, Roberta Reid, Rockie Woofit and VisionEd Preschools under the Early Childhood Education and Care Program 2013

NSW Department of Health

Department of Health Support for Cochlear Implant services on the mid-north coast

Support for the coordination of replacement of redundant Cochlear Implant Sound Processors for eligible public patients

Support for coordination of bone conduction implant program for public patients clinically identified for Bone Anchored Hearing Devices (BAHD)

QLD Department of Health

Department of Health Support for students at Teleschool

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Families of children from regional and remote areas of Australia who receive RIDBC Teleschool services participated in a number of residential camps in 2017. These camps provide interactive educational experiences as well as the opportunity to socialise and interact with other families on a similar journey

OTHER SITES

NSW Floraville

Gladesville

Glenmore Park

Gosford

Lismore

Liverpool

Newcastle

North Ryde RIDBC at the Australian Hearing Hub, Macquarie University

Penrith

Port Macquarie

Rouse Hill RIDBC Hear the Children

Waverley RIDBC Matilda Rose Centre

Wollongong

ACTCanberra

NTDarwin

QLDToowoomba RIDBC Clive Berghofer Centre

VICBrighton East Early Education Program for Hearing Impaired Children

Blackburn Taralye East

Moonee Ponds Taralye West

ROYAL INSTITUTE FOR DEAF AND BLIND CHILDREN (RIDBC)

RIDBC North Rocks – Head Office & Main CampusNorth Rocks, NSW 1300 581 391

Services offered: • Early intervention & early learning programs• Specialist preschools, schools & school support

– RIDBC Rockie Woofit Preschool– RIDBC Roberta Reid Preschool– RIDBC VisionEd Preschool– RIDBC Thomas Pattison School– RIDBC Garfield Barwick School– RIDBC Alice Betteridge School – RIDBC School Support Service

• RIDBC Teleschool • Assessment, diagnostics, therapy & rehabilitation

services• Audiology services

– RIDBC Jim Patrick Audiology Centre• Cochlear implant services

– SCIC Cochlear Implant Program, an RIDBC service• Research, postgraduate & professional

education services– RIDBC Renwick Centre

General information: 02 9871 1233 (TTY/V) Service enquiries: 1300 581 391 Donations: 1800 043 411

Private Bag 29 Parramatta NSW 2124 info@ridbc.org.au www.ridbc.org.au

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/ridbc@ridbc @ridbc@ridbc

WAYS YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Every year, thousands of people help change the lives of children and adults with vision or hearing loss. Here are just a few of the many ways you can help:

Become a VolunteerVolunteers support our staff in areas as diverse as making tactile books, assisting in classrooms, gardening and professional roles

Leave a Lasting LegacyFunds donated through bequests, trusts, foundations or permanent funds continue to support future generations

Find out more about how you can make a difference:ridbc.org.au/howtohelp1800 043 411fundraising@ridbc.org.au

Make a Donation or Become a Regular GiverYour gift helps support our vital services to lift the limits for children and adults with vision or hearing loss

Become a Community FundraiserWhether you want to raise funds for RIDBC through your own fundraising event, or participate in an existing event, we can help you maximise your success

Join a Lantern ClubLantern Clubs raise funds for RIDBC through fun and social events and activities

Create a Corporate PartnershipTalk to us about becoming an RIDBC corporate partner and how your organisation and staff can make a difference