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Centacare Catholic Diocese of Ballarat | Annual Report 2015-2016

Empowering people to live with choice & opportunity

I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the

waters to create many ripples

Mother Teresa

2 | Centacare Annual Report | 2015/16

32015/16 I Centacare Annual Report I

A Message from the Bishop of Ballarat

Chairperson & Cheif Executive Officer Report

Year in Review Highlights & Achievements New Funding

Family & Community Services Overview Snapshots Pastoral Care Delivers for Schools Bringing Up Great Kids BADAC Parenting Partnership Clients by Location

Employment Services Overview Age No Barrier to Employment Supporting Business with Recruitment Needs

Centacare Financial Report

Housing Services Overview Jessica’s Story: Affordable Housing for All Centacare Housing Services Financial Report

Our Partners & Thankyou

Governance & Structure

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12 14 16 18 19 19 22

24 26 28 29

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35 36 37 38

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Contents

52015/16 | Centacare Annual Report |

Centacare’s staff as they have expanded their services to respond to the ongoing needs in our community. On behalf of all who have benefited from David’s dedication, I offer him our thanks and I pray for blessings upon him in his imminent retirement.

The new year will see a new director of Centacare but the spirit of service will continue. May God bless the whole Centacare team and all those they will serve in the year ahead.

The services of Centacare all have a common aim. They are offered to help people meet the challenges of life. They seek to empower people to live their lives to the full. Centacare is inspired by the teaching and example of Christ who came that we might have life and have it in abundance.

I offer my thanks to the Centacare board and all the Centacare staff who have contributed to Centacare’s services over these past twelve months.

I offer a special thanks to David Beaver who has served as director of Centacare for the past 23 years. David’s commitment to helping people in need has been unwavering. He has guided

This Annual Report gives an outline of the services provided by Centacare over the past year. Day after day, week after week, month after month, the staff of Centacare have been there as counsellors in times of grief and loss. They have helped people with issues in personal relationships. They have supported parents as they care for their children. They have provided personal assistance to staff and students in schools.

Paul Bird CSsR - Bishop Ballarat

A message from the Bishop of Ballarat


to us for assistance. Will we see them as human beings with an innate dignity or will we see them as a means to a financial outcome? Or, in the words of Pope Francis “how do you help? From a distance or with tenderness, with closeness”. Increasingly service contract demands could result in our not seeing the innate dignity of our clients or in forgetting the privilege that we have been given to assist them.

This Report is a snapshot of Centacare’s achievements in the past year but a few need to be highlighted to show how Centacare has sought to achieve our mission of bringing about change to benefit the marginalised and disadvantaged in our community.

These achievements are the result of the work of many; Bishop Paul Bird, the Board of Governance members, our dedicated General Managers, staff and volunteers whose excellent work in day to day tasks demonstrates their commitment to the community and our purpose of providing services which empower people to live with choice and opportunity.

The environment in which organisations such as Centacare operates is one of continual flux. This is epitomized by the introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme, changed contract requirements for the jobActive program, possible changes to welfare delivery as outlined by the Productivity Commission, all of which require organisations to develop new operating models. While most of this is welcome it also brings challenges. One of the most challenging for Centacare is how we will see those who come

Governance:

Much work has been done to strengthen the governance of Centacare. This has been done in order to clarify the relationship between Centacare and the Diocese of Ballarat and the relationship between Centacare and Centacare Housing. Consequently both organisations have been incorporated as companies limited by guarantee. The Bishop of Ballarat has become the Member of Centacare, and Centacare the Member of Centacare Housing Services. The Boards of both organisations are to be thanked for their assistance in achieving this important change.

JobActive:

As reported last year Centacare was successful in being awarded a jobActive contract to assist unemployed people. It is pleasing to report that this program is now operating smoothly. It has been very challenging to implement and staff and

As Centacare moves forward in a complex and changing environment it is pleasing to reflect on the year that has been and on Centacare’s progress and achievements.

program management are to be thanked for their professionalism and commitment to ensuring its success. Other highlights, among many, which are discussed later in the Report are:

- The expansion to the Victims Assistance Program

- The Wimmera Drought Counselling

- The extension of the Youth Diversion Pilot

It is pleasing to report that Centacare has not stood still during the past year. In a challenging and changing environment Centacare has continued to provide innovative and quality services to those who seek our assistance. This is the case due to the leadership and advice of the Board, the Executive Team and the staff whose excellent services are a practical, tangible and ongoing evidence of our living mission.

David Beaver Cheif Executive Officer

Liam Davison Chairperson

Chairperson & Cheif Executive Officer Report


“Thank you so much for everything you have done for us. You have always been there when I needed

someone or even just a shoulder to cry on. You have always helped me through the tough times when

people I needed were not around.”

Cradle to Kinder client



In February 2016 Centacare established a Strengthening Diversity Working Group in support of the organisation’s commitment to embrace diversity.

Members of the group represent the organisation to inform, develop and implement the Centacare Strengthening Diversity Plan. The plan details organisation wide strategies to address issues regarding service access and provision for key populations accessing services and aims to ensure responsive and culturally safe practices within our organisation.

A cross program initiative, the working group meet bi-monthly with staff representation from a number of programs and all office locations.

Key achievements of the group during 2015-2016 include the development of an online Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Awareness Module and a Cultural Diversity morning tea in our Mildura office where staff were introduced to Nepalese Culture and traditional Nepalese dance.

Start Broadband generously donated twenty internet connections and data for families that require assistance to connect to the web under their Life Changing Connections pilot program.

The Life Changing Connections pilot was established to give everyone in the community regardless of income access to the internet and the social and economic benefits it can bring.

Andrew Whelan, Start Broadband Owner and Chief Executive Officer said, “the project will help to connect those currently living in the community who do not have the means to access the internet.”

“We believe that one simple internet connection can open up a world of opportunity. The internet has become an integral part of everyday life and having access to an internet connection and data can impact on employment, social interactions, access to services, information and education and digital literacy.”

Centacare and WRISC signed a memorandum of understanding on the 15 June 2016 to formalise the cooperative nature of our work together.

The agreement formalised the collaboration between Centacare and WRISC benefiting mutual clients and both agencies. It is anticipated that this agreement will allow further exploration of opportunities between the agencies for shared work, projects, co-facilitation of programs, student placements, research and general service coordination.

A particular focus of the agreement is on therapeutic work with children and programs for women and children. Centacare currently facilitates a bi-monthly group supervision for professionals working therapeutically with children where WRISC staff are actively involved.

“Our Life Changing Connections pilot is tackling these barriers by providing families with a free connection and monthly data allowance,” said Andrew.

David Beaver, Chief Executive Officer Centacare Ballarat, said the generous donation by Start Broadband to offer these services to a group of Centacare clients has meant barriers to inclusion in community and schooling have been broken down.

“Of the five families who have already received their connection the impacts are tangible. We have children who can now fully participate in their education with access to the internet meaning they can use the additional school resources and programs from home when previously they missed out.”

“For another family it has meant that their daughter who is studying year twelve can now access the internet at home instead of having to stay back late at school or attend the public library to complete her assessment tasks,” said David.

Highlights Achievements

Start Broadband Pilot Life Changing Connections

WRISC Memorandum of Understanding Strengthening Diversity


The Victims Assistance Program (VAP) received additional funding from the Department of Justice and Regulation. The funding provides for additional staffing and increased brokerage funds to support victims of crime in accessing support services and items to assist victims re-establish safety and initiate recovery.

The Victims Assistance Program provides information and practical supports for those in our communities that have been affected by a violent crime against a person. A Case Manager helps victims manage the effects of the crime by providing practical supports including emergency security, transport, medical, information about the criminal justice system, advocacy, support making statements to police, information and support regarding Victim Impact Statements and the Victims Register, submissions to the Adult Parole Board, preparation for Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT) and facilitation of referrals to other services.

Centacare Ballarat currently provides the Victims Assistance Service in both the Grampians and Barwon South West regions of the state with workers based in Horsham, Ballarat, Geelong and Warrnambool. The additional funding has enabled us to recruit two additional case managers in Ballarat and a new Coordinator in Geelong. Having a Coordinator based in Geelong will result in increased local presence and allow for greater networking and support for growing demand in this area. It has also enabled a stronger regional focus for our staff in Warrnambool, Mortlake and the far South West areas of Victoria.

A significant focus this year has been on building our presence in police stations across the regions. Staff are increasingly co-located at police stations to encourage referrals, build relationships and provide greater continuity of service for victims. We have staff presence in Ararat, Stawell, Horsham, Colac, Corio and Warrnambool police stations.

Expansion to Victims Assistance Program Wimmera Drought Counselling

Centacare’s Family and Community Services received twelve months funding from the Department of Social Services (DSS) to deliver counselling and support to individuals, families and community groups living in drought declared areas of Victoria’s West Wimmera.

Accessible to all in the community and delivered in ways to ensure ease of access every member of drought affected communities were eligible and could present with any issue.

“The impact of seasonal issues run deep in our rural communities and can create stress in a variety of ways. We wanted to ensure our criteria for support was general and welcomed conversations with everyone in the community,” said Jacinta Cook, Manager Family Relationship Services.

“The drought funding enabled us to establish a presence in some of the most remote and isolated parts of our diocese. The cooperation from the community and the flexibility from DSS meant

we could provide support to all in the community around any issue they felt was creating stress for them,” Jacinta said.

Themes in our work focused on parenting, supporting children through family separation and providing adults with skills to manage their emotions and take control over situations they felt were beyond their capacity.

Whilst the drought funding has now finished Centacare is committed to maintaining the connections we have made in the West Wimmera community and will continue our Family Relationship Services presence in the region.

New Funding


Parenting Support ProgramYouth Diversion Pilot Program Funding Extension

Grampians Partners In Recovery (GPIR) Innovation Fund have granted Centacare Mental Health Team twelve months funding to deliver a new Parent Support Program.

The Parent Support Program assists parents who have a diagnosed mental illness with children under the age of 2 years in their care. The program provides parents and families with support to navigate relevant services, help identify goals and develop skills and knowledge about resources available in their community.

Centacare Mental Health Services Coordinator Sue Grant said “The program focuses on meeting both the parent’s and child’s needs to build resilience and coping strategies and support the parent child relationship.”

“Assistance is offered to identify existing groups such as play groups, parenting groups and other community groups that may provide a network of support to parents and children” said Sue.

Building on the success of the previous Mother Support Program it is hoped that funding for the new Parent Support Program can continue beyond the initial twelve months.

The Youth Diversion Pilot program delivered by Centacare on behalf of Jesuit Social Services Victoria has been granted a six month funding extension until its review in December 2016.

The Youth Diversion pilot program began in 2015 as a twelve month project funded by Courts Victoria. The program offers young people an opportunity to address the underlying causes of their offending behaviour to minimise and divert them from further interaction with the criminal justice system.

Family and Community Services Program Manager Adrian Jones said “A key objective of the program is to enable support and intervention for young people. By providing support and early intervention to those young people who may be starting out on a path of offending we are able to divert them away from the criminal justice system at a critical point.”

“In providing this service the benefits to the greater community are endless including overall improvement to community safety and a cut in the cost of prolonged involvement in the criminal justice system,” said Adrian.

The effective implementation of diversion is seen as a response that can change offending behaviours and attitudes, promote pro social behaviour, assist rehabilitation and reduce crime.


“A great word of thanks to your parenting support worker for the fantastic group programs she ran here in Edenhope. She was so knowledgeable, warm and natural in her presenting and I know it was well received by all participants.”

Edenhope Hospital

“Thank you for your patience with my mother during her illness. My mother has appreciated support from your organisation many times when she has most needed it.”

Family of Mildura client

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Family and Community Services Working with Our Communities


Overview

with accurate and timely digital client records and the ability to analyse our data to identify gaps in our service areas.

We acknowledge all of our staff for their commitment to our clients and community to provide an excellent level of service. We thank the Managers and Coordinators for their leadership, guidance and advice. To all staff within the teams, we commend you for aspiring to excellence and living the values of Centacare to ensure that everyone we work with has the best opportunity to be a respected contributing member of society.

During the year, we appointed a second General Manager in the Family and Community Services area, to recognise the growth in our programs, as well as help Centacare to navigate the many changes in the sector.

We have further strengthened our collaboration with CatholicCare Victoria Tasmania (CCVT), to assist us in sharing and developing best practice in service delivery, as well as working on joint projects and funding submissions. The relationships we maintain within CCVT and many other networks, all serve in helping us achieve positive outcomes for our clients and the communities in which we work.

This year we have undertaken extensive work and investment into the development of our client management system Penelope. The introduction of this software will allow us to service clients better

The following pages highlight the many programs and services that the Family and Community Services teams have delivered throughout the year, showcasing particular snapshots, innovation and case studies.


When the Family Mental Health Support (FMHSS) team identified a need to engage with school children who had experienced trauma in their life, the concept of providing children with emotional tools and strategies to manage their stressors through Art Therapy emerged.

In collaboration with Art Therapist Monica Finch the FMHSS team built a pilot art therapy program named “Creative Ways: An Art First Aid Kit” to help when facing problems and worries.

Delivered to ten children from Phoenix Primary School the eight week program worked with children to identify their personal strengths, show them that they were not alone with worries and that other people have difficulties too. The program provided a safe place for children to express and explore their emotions and concerns, improve social inclusion and show the children how feelings can be expressed safely.

Centacare Mildura delivers a Family and Carer Mental Health Program on behalf of Centacare Wilcannia Forbes in the South West of New South Wales.

The program addresses the needs of families and carers who are supporting a person (16 and over) living with a mental illness. The program aims to improve family/carer well-being, increase family and carer knowledge of mental illness and increase the carer’s ability to manage the caring role.

The team have provided support to over eight families assisting many who reside in remote and isolated areas.

New initiatives and supports have involved carers attendance at workshops, excursions to cafes, shopping centres, parks and outdoor venues as well as arranging respite and professional supports.

Each child at the end of the eight week program had a personal “Art First Aid Kit” to assist them with managing future situations of anxiety, stress and worry.

It is hoped that with the success of this program it can be expanded into additional schools.

Snapshots

Art Therapy in SchoolsMildura Supports Carers of Mental Illness


Supported Residential Services (SRS) from across Ballarat came together in May to compete in the SRS ten pin bowling cup.

Centacare’s Advocacy and Support team host the event each year as an activity that enables clients who live in supported accommodation an opportunity to participate in a regular social and sporting activity. The winning team received the perpetual trophy and winners medallions.

Cradle to Kinder staff in Warrnambool have participated in a Monash University research study: ‘Let’s Talk’. The research explored developing an Australian-first recovery model for parents in Victorian mental health and family services. The study aims to identify changes in families affected by parental mental illness after their participation in an intervention to improve family relationships.

The benefits to the team in participating in this research have included learning a new tool, training opportunities and collaboration with peers across organisations.

Bowling Cup for Supported Residential Services Clients

‘Let’s Talk’ Monash Research Project


Jacinta Cook, Manager Family Relationship Services, received feedback during June from one of the local schools in relation to the willingness of the Pastoral Care Services staff to go “above and beyond for the kids.” Over the many years that the Pastoral Care service has been in operation, staff are often overwhelmed by the personal tragedies children suffer and the “behind the scenes” support schools put in place. The Pastoral Care staff have become an integral part of the support teams in schools, sustaining not only the children and their families, but also school staff who themselves go beyond the call of duty.

An example of this work was highlighted in the lead up to Mother’s Day when schools celebrate in many different ways. They may hold a Mother’s Day Liturgy, morning tea, a concert or a school assembly and Mums are encouraged to spend time at school relishing in their children’s world.

Our team is aware of the build up to this day each year as there are many children who won’t have their Mums at school for a variety of reasons. Work is done to make it a special time for every child regardless of their personal circumstances.

This year a staff member was working with four children who lost their Mum last year.

The Principal of the school wanted Centacare to know that these children were, and continue to be, cared for by the Pastoral Care Worker regardless of whether it is her work day or not. To ensure the best possible day for these children, she worked extra time, provided encouragement to staff and even spent time with family members who were coming to the Mother’s Day Liturgy in Mums place.

“You can’t put a price tag on the value this adds to our school at a time when we all feel really sad,” School Principal of Pastoral Care Services

The Pastoral care team’s work continues to highlight the partnership between the educative and welfare sections of our diocese. Children present at school with all of their home life in tow – being able to offer added support to school communities gives children the opportunity to make the most of their time at school.

Pastoral Care Delivers for Schools


As part of the Ballarat Secondary Colleges “Link Up” program for young parents, the school approached Centacare Family Relationship Centre to facilitate a parenting program for mothers. The school wanted a program that could enhance parents’ understanding of their children’s development and the different parenting challenges they may face.

The Centacare team proposed the five week Bringing Up Great Kids program, an accessible and reflective parenting program, designed to recognise parent strengths and foster connections for parents at all stages of their journey. Facilitated in conjunction with the “Link Up” program, the sessions were held at Delacombe’s Education and Learning Centre, a home-like setting offering learning areas, kitchen, child care space and an outdoor area.

Through the Bringing Up Great Kids program the young parents experienced a variety of activities, including written reflection, videos, discussion, and practical tasks.

A particular focus of the program was introducing the concept of mindfulness, and encouraging parents to practice this as a way of managing their own emotions, as well as those of their child.

Centacare Family Relationship Services Practitioner and Facilitator of the Link Up Bringing Up Great Kids program Jessy said, “Running the program at the Centre where the parents usually attended meant that they felt more comfortable, less anxious, and were able to attend to their children if needed.”

Attended by between 6-10 parents each week the program was well received. “Even several months after the conclusion of the program, we are receiving positive feedback. One of the Link Up teachers said that the mums still make reference to the things they learned in the Bringing Up Great Kids workshops, including the discussions about how you don’t need to be a great parent, just a good enough parent,” said Jessy.

Bringing Up Great Kids

Centacare were approached by Ballarat and District Aboriginal Co-op (BADAC) to deliver a group based program for young aboriginal mums to focus on building confidence, caring for themselves and recognising and responding to stress – all with the intention of encouraging these women to build positive relationships with their children.

Fifteen young women were identified, they all felt comfortable accessing the BADAC building, and BADAC staff took care of all the logistics including lunch and childcare for the children by qualified staff who they knew.

Feedback from the participants in the program included a young mum who commented on the positive nature of her experience. “There are heaps of parenting experts out there and heaps you can read but the Centacare ladies told us they weren’t experts. They told me I am the expert on my own kids. They had advice for us and that everyone has their own opinion. I liked hearing that I can make decisions about me

and my kids and they are happy to help me,” participant in BADAC program.

Another participant commented on how beneficial attending a group session was. “Everyone thinks I need counselling. I’d much rather come to something like this and have fun, meet nice people, talk about my kids behaviours and know I’m not the only one trying to get better at parenting,” said the participant.

Over the ten sessions all fifteen women attended each week. “That in itself speaks volumes about how this outreach to communities is an engaging service delivery model that connects with people and could be adapted in future,” said Jacinta Cook, Manager Family Relationship Services.

BADAC Parenting Partnership


The Planned Respite team have established a Community Activity Group to provide respite options and social interaction for people who suffer a mental illness and have a carer. The activity group participate in social outings, ten pin bowling days and social drives to give carers a break.

Participants are able to relax, meet new people, develop communication skills, and identify what future activities they wish to participate in.

The Planned Respite team were successful in obtaining a $5000 funding grant from United Way to provide a camp for clients in the coming months.

Apple Tree Haven respite is a property provided by the Department of Health and Human Services and managed by Centacare. The property provides short term planned respite accommodation for carers of people with a mental illness and their families allowing them time to relax and recharge.

The Planned Respite and Mental Health Respite workers participated in a revitalisation of the property improving home comforts and creating a more welcoming, accessible and comfortable respite option.

The revitalisation of the property, along with new promotional materials has seen an increase in individuals and agencies utilising this respite facility

Respite Community Activities Group

Respite House “Apple Tree Haven” Revitalised

The fastest growing component of Victoria’s Out of Home Care System is Kinship Care. In Mildura Centacare deliver this program providing information and advice, intensive support and a placement and support program to carers of children who are unable to remain living independently with their parents.

This year the program supported over ten families through the permanent care system with children being reunited with parents. A highlight for the team was a collaboration with the Centre for Excellence and Kinship Carers Victoria to examine improvements to the Kinship Care model and the participation in their longitudinal study on how best to support carers, children and young people in care.

The Kinship Care team also hosted a Carer Forum on better educational outcomes for children in or leaving care.

Centacare Warrnambool have collaborated with the Regional Parenting Service and South West Child and Family Services Alliance to deliver a Regional Parenting Forum and Expo on 15th June 2016. The Forum focused on anxiety in children and included a presentation from renowned child psychologist Andrew Fuller which gave community members an opportunity to hear from a highly regarded expert about current research, thinking, and treatment options for children with anxiety and the parenting strategies to support them.

The expo provided an opportunity for local service providers, organisations and businesses to share with the community information about services and products available to support families. The forum and expo were both fully booked and feedback from attendees indicated that it was a great success.

Kinship Care Building Children’s Support

Regional Parenting Forum for Warrnambool Families


Clients by Location

Local Government Areas included in chart*:Barwon: City of Greater Geelong, Colac Otway Shire, Surf Coast Shire.

South West: Corangamite Shire, Glenelg Shire, Moyne Shire, Southern Grampians Shire, Warrnambool City.

Central: Ararat Rural City, City of Ballarat, Golden Plains Shire, Hepburn Shire, Moorabool Shire, Pyrenees Shire.

Metro / North East: Including cities of Brimbank, Darebin, Frankston, Greater Shepparton, Maroondah, Melbourne, Monash, Mooney Valley, Moreland, Stonnington, Whitehorse, Whittlesea, Whyndam, and Yarra.

North Western: Buloke Shire, Campaspe Shire, Central Goldfields, City of Greater Bendigo, Gannawarra Shire, Hindmarsh Shire, Horsham Rural City, Mildura Rural City, Nothern Grampians Shire, Swan Hill Rural City, West Wimmera Shire, Yarriambiack Shire.

* Including VAP clients who have either relocated or returned to place of origin during support period.

39 Victorian Local Government areas serviced

6,193 Individual & Group sessions completed

777 Principal / Teacher support consultations

18 Catholic schools supported

9,410 Clients supported


22%

24%

2%

1%

1%

6%

Drought Assistance

Specialist Family Violence

Family Dispute Resolution

Family Law Counselling

Pastoral Care

Family and Relationship Services

44%Family Relationship Centres

Family Relationship Services Sessions

Family & Community Services Clients

70%Family Relationship Services

1%

1%

2%

9%

17%

Youth and Justice Services

Homelessness Support Services

Mental Health Services

Advocacy Services

Family Services and Victims Assistance


Employment Services Creating Positive Futures


439

490

68

63

156

161

222

244

1,843 supported jobseekers

Disability

Non Year 12

CALD

Homeless

Ex Offender

Tertiary Education

Indigenous

Mental Health

In the first year of the program, we have seen many challenges as our Employment staff adapted to the new contract and contract guidelines. New staff commenced in Maryborough and our Job Advisors and Employment Liaison staff began working with employers in the Ballarat, Daylesford and Maryborough areas.

Over the last 12 months, more than 2000 jobseekers have engaged in the program and participated in case management, referrals to training, skills development, Work for the Dole activities and placements into employment.

Job seekers who have participated in the program have come from a variety of backgrounds, have faced different challenges and have a range of education and work histories.

In July 2015, Centacare commenced the delivery of the jobactive Employment program from our Ballarat head office and new offices in Maryborough and Daylesford.

OverviewCentacare Employment

The new contract has brought with it some challenges and opportunities to create best practices and innovative service delivery options. In July 2016, Centacare achieved accreditation against the Department of Employment’s Quality Accreditation Framework, in addition to the accreditation against the ISO Quality Standards achieved for the whole of Centacare in December 2015.

We have seen some changes in staffing, with a number of staff moving to new career opportunities, many outside the Employment Services industry. These changes included the appointment of a new Ballarat Regional Manager.

The Work for the Dole program, a new service strategy of the jobactive program, has presented many challenges but also many opportunities to provide work like experiences, build job seekers’ skills, and exposure to work teams and workplace cultures.

Since July 2015, Centacare has managed a number of Work for the Dole projects, including the development of the Birdsong Walk at the Ballaarat New Cemetery; the restoration of historic grave sites at the Ballaarat Old Cemetery; beautification of the entrance to the Maryborough Harness Club; the production of the Ballarat Neighbourhood Centre Community Magazine; and the development of the Ballan Caravan Park.

Many job seekers have also gained invaluable experience from placements with the Salvation Army and Vinnies Op shops and warehouses; local schools in administration and teacher aide support roles, and in school grounds development; and in many other roles with not for profit organisations. A number of jobseekers have also gone on to part time and full time employment.

New ChallengesNew Opportunities


In the period July 2015 - June 2016, Centacare achieved more than 800 placements of job seekers into employment in industries including retail, hospitality, construction, administration and manufacturing.

The majority of participants are in the 25-54 years age group, but Centacare also assists young people, some of whom are early school leavers. The chart below is a snap shot of the job placements for the 2015-2016 participants.

Successes

60%

6%

14%

55+ years

15 - 20 years

25 - 54 years

20%21 - 24 years

job placements by job seeker

age group


At sixty, Genevieve Bradman found herself in the position of relying on Centrelink payments for the first time. The process of navigating the service system and new employment options was daunting. Genevieve previously worked as a Mental Health Nurse. However she felt powerless and started to develop a mild depression as an older person seeking employment.

Upon engaging with Centacare’s Maryborough Employment Services team, Genevieve explained that she had a strong idea about what work environment would suit her. Centacare Job Advisor, Sue, commenced searching for opportunities in the limited labour market.

In discussion with another local jobactive provider Sue discovered that a vacancy that may be appropriate for Genevieve. The Centacare Employment team were then able to broker an employment agreement for a 15 hour per week position for Genevieve. Sue was also able to provide a Wage Subsidy for Genevieve to the employer.

Genevieve also gained certificates in Responsible Service of Alcohol and Food Handling. Centacare were also able to assist Genevieve with her work uniforms and footwear.

Gaining employment at sixty has given Genevieve increased confidence and stable employment. “I would recommend using Centacare Employment, they are very helpful and helped me get my foot in the door for employment,” said Genevieve.

“I know that I can contact them at any time, with any problems, questions or general information and I’m able to talk to them and know that I’m being listened to,” said Genevieve.

Through gaining stable employment Genevieve has regained her independence, has her own income. Genevieve is meeting all her Centrelink requirements with a positive and happier disposition

Client Stories

Age No Barrier to Employment

* Client name has been changed to protect privacy.


Over the last five years Centacare Employment has built a strong relationship with the Village Eatery Café in Stockland Wendouree, as their primary recruitment provider Centacare has assisted the business with all of their recruitment needs.

Adam, our Employer Consultant has fostered the relationship with the small business owner and identified particular skill sets jobseekers require to work in the hospitality area. “The Village Eatery is a busy cafe, providing a variety of sit down meals, take away snacks and coffee. We asked the business owner what he required in an employee and identified that prospective employees would require food handling certificates and barista skills.”

“Centacare then supported a number of jobseekers through the appropriate training certificates, who have gone on to gain ongoing stable employment in that business” said Adam.

The manager and owner of the Eatery is delighted with the quality of applicants he receives from Centacare Employment and is looking to explore future traineeship opportunities for eligible employees.

Supporting Business with Recruitment Needs


Financial ReportCentacare Catholic Diocese of Ballarat Inc.

Income

Government Funding – Federal & State

Fee for Service & Shared Programs

Donations & Fundraising

Dividends Received

Interests Received

Rental Income

Sundry Income

Profits from Sale of Assets

Total Income

Expenditure

Salaries & Related Costs

Operating Costs

Motor Vehicle & Travel

Occupancy & Related

Direct Client Costs

Staff Training

Depreciation

Interest Paid

Total Expenditure

Operating Surplus

Non-Operating Revenue Capital Donations

Net Annual Surplus/DeficitAccumulated Surplus B.Fwd

Revaluations Reserve

Accumulated Surplus C.Fwd

Note: The figures contained in the above graphs are consistent with and derived from the full audited Financial Statements which are available from the CEO upon request.

Note: 2016 Operating Surplus includes the amount of $388,680 attributable to the job network contract which ceased 30th June 2015.

2016($)

12,470,555

3,338,665

10,818

33,911

43,326

387,634

153,000

1,986

16,439,894

2016($)

9,657,085

1,574,671

432,900

828,200

1,861,586

253,426

575,990

297,836

15,481,696

2015($)

10,526,260

1,500,852

433,449

1,055,504

1,446,003

232,105

766,729

322,942

16,283,8442015($)

11,439,594

3,805,597

26,760

39,850

52,723

318,545

200,781

788

15,884,638

958,199

-

958,199

4,468,061

(9,281)

5,416,979

(399,206)

-

(399,206)

4,867,266

36,092

4,504,152

ABN: 51 857 084 361 Summary statement of financial performance for the year ended 30 June 2016.


Revenue

Expenditure

Profit

0

-2,000,000

2,000,000

4,000,000

6,000,000

2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

8,000,000

10,000,000

12,000,000

14,000,000

16,000,000

18,000,000

2016


Liabilities

Payables

Provisions

Total Liabilities

Net Assets

Equity

Accumulated Surplus

Total Equity

Assets

Cash & Bank Balances

Investments

Property, Plant & Equipment

Receivables

Total Assets

2016($)

1,559,330

596,546

11,539,908

1,005,908

14,701,693

2015($)

886,600

568,779

11,740,729

935,562

14,131,669

7,808,922

1,475,792

9,284,714

5,416,979

2016($)

5,416,979

5,416,979

8,004,747

1,622,770

9,627,517

4,504,152

2015($)

4,504,152

4,504,152

Financial Report

ABN: 51 857 084 361 Summary statement of financial performance for the year ended 30 June 2016.

Note: The figures contained in the above graphs are consistent with and derived from the full audited Financial Statements which are available from the Director upon request.

Centacare Catholic Diocese of Ballarat Inc.

“You run a great group conferencing program. I have seen first hand how much effort you put in and how

much can be gained from these conferences. It is a great platform for young problematic offenders to

get on to and take a different direction.”

Police Officer



Housing Services Providing Affordable Community Housing


the properties to assist in the reduction of homelessness and its impact on families.

In planning for the future, this year Centacare Housing altered its legal structure to a Company Limited by Guarantee. Accompanying this has been the appointment of an independent Board with extensive experience and knowledge in the community housing sector.

In its Strategic Plan the Board identified the following strategic directions:

- Complete the organisational restructure

- Further strengthen governance

- Develop and implement a robust risk management approach

- Implement a viable and sustainable business plan

- Identify realistic opportunities for growth

During the past year Centacare Housing Services most important task has been to provide secure social and affordable housing to many in the Ballarat area. In so doing it has assisted them to take greater control of their lives. Secure housing is central for a person to live a fulfilling life.

Centacare Housing Services properties are made up of Department of Housing stock, Centacare NRAS stock and two properties leased to it by the Sisters of Mercy. At the same time a great deal of effort has been made to position and strengthen Centacare Housing for the future.

A highlight for Centacare Housing has been the strengthening of our relationship with the Sisters of Mercy and the agreement for Centacare Housing to manage two of their properties in central Ballarat. The Sisters of Mercy provided

It is pleasing to report that much progress has been made in all of these areas. The most major has been the change in organisational structure.

In conclusion I wish to acknowledge the great work of the Centacare Housing Services board and the Centacare, Catholic Diocese of Ballarat board for the time and effort they contributed to the establishment of the new company.

Centacare Housing Services, an agency of the Catholic Church operating according to the principles of Catholic Social Teaching, is a small registered Housing Provider. Despite its lack of size it has had a life changing effect on many people’s lives.

Overview

David Beaver Cheif Executive Officer

After completing her University degree in Occupational Therapy, Jessica was seeking affordable accommodation so she could establish herself in her new career. Searching online Jessica found information about the National Rental Affordability Scheme (NRAS) and Centacare Housing Services Mitchell Park Apartments. “Affordability was a big key for me and the low rental cost of NRAS was manageable,” said Jessica.

Jessica found living at Mitchell Park provided opportunities that private rentals didn’t often offer. “I liked the fact I could have a vegetable garden and grow my own food. Being able to have a pet was great too as in private rentals it is not always an option. NRAS gave me the opportunity to save more money and live in a place that had been refurbished,” said Jessica.

Living away from family Jessica found the sense of community at Mitchell Park an important part of her experience. “When I moved in, the sense of community was a big bonus and the biggest

difference between private rentals and NRAS. It was nice to have people to say hello to when I came home from work,” said Jessica.

“A wide range of people live in the apartments, from elderly to young families with children and everybody looks out for each other. A lot of people would be eligible for NRAS housing without being aware. Mitchell Park Apartments was a place of many backgrounds and socioeconomic circumstances, it is everyday people having a safe, affordable place to live,” said Jessica.

Living at Mitchell Park Apartments for 18 months Jessica was able to establish herself in her career and save money. She has since moved closer to work in a private rental.

Jessica’s Story: Affordable Housing for All


Financial Report

Note: The figures contained in the above graphs are consistent with and derived from the full audited Financial Statements which are available from the Director upon request.

Income

Fee for Service (Rental)

Fee for Service (Amenities)

Fee for Service (Commision)

Sundry Income

Total Income

AssetsCash & Bank Balances

Receivables

Total Assets

Expenditure

Program Operating Costs

Occupancy & Related

Total Expenditure

Operating Surplus

LiabilitiesPayables

Borrowings

Total Liabilities

Net Assets

EquityAccumulated Surplus

Net Assets

ABN: 89 559 597 629 Summary statement of financial performance and position for the year ended 30 June 2016.

2016($)

218,694

39,356

27,150

81,712

366,913

2015($)

219,965

38,226

45,707

5,454

309,352

2016($)

121,279

153,477

274,755

92,158

2015($)

138,576

164,205

302,781

6,571

132,686

2,412

135,098

84,636

4,447

89,083

41,936

8,367

50,303

84,795

18,997

77,449

96,363

(7,363)

84,795

84,795

(7,363)

(7,363)

Centacare Housing Service Inc.


Centacare Board and Management thanks our funding bodies, government agencies, the Catholic Diocese of Ballarat, its parishes, our partners and our dedicated staff for their support, generosity and hard work throughout the 2015-2016 financial year.

We thank you all for your commitment to building stronger life-giving communities and making a positive difference.

- Attorney – General’s Department

- Department of Education and Early Childhood Development

- Department of Health and Human Services

- Department of Justice

- Department of Employment

- Department of Health and Ageing

- Department of Social Services

- Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs

- Catholic Diocese of Ballarat

- Centacare Wilcannia-Forbes

- Grampians Community Health Ltd

- Jesuit Social Services

- Good Shepherd Microfinance

- CatholicCare Victoria Tasmania (CCVT)

- Catholic Development Fund (CDF)

- Heinz & Partners Lawyers

- Loreto College Ballarat

- The Queen’s Fund

- Catholic Education Office

- Lord Mayor’s Charitable Fund

- Catholic Women’s League of Victoria

- Ballarat Catholic Bishop’s Charitable Fund

- Ballarat Builders Association

- Lutheran Church Warrnambool

- Linton Ladies Quilting Group

- National Australia Bank Mildura

- Mildura Police Station

- Tania Daniels The Good Guys

- BEST Start Mildura

- Bendigo Bank Langtree Avenue Mildura

- Sovereign Hill Museum

- Posture Works Chiropractic

- Curves Ballarat

- Toy World Ballarat

- WIN Broadcasting Network

Thank YouOur Partners

Funding Bodies DonorsSupporters

1 Paul Bird CSsR – Bishop2 Dr Liam Davison – Chairperson3 Maree Nolan – Vice Chairperson4 Michael Myers – Treasurer5 Carmel Hempenstall – Secretary6 Mary Darcy7 Allan McKinnon8 Maureen Waddington 9 Jane Jens 10 Fr Tom Brophy

15 David Beaver – Cheif Executive Officer16 Peta Clark – General Manager Corporate Services17 Trish Nolan – General Manager Employment18 Deanna Davis – General Manager Family & Community Services 19 Sue Hughes – General Manager Family & Community Services

11 Dan McGlade – Chairperson12 Tony Godfrey13 Hal Bisset14 John Twomey 3 Maree Nolan

Finance

Maree Nolan Michael Myers Jane Jens Mark Bromley Stephen McArdle David Beaver Peta Clark Kirsten Hall

Risk & Compliance

Liam Davison Allan McKinnon David Beaver Carli Lamb

Centacare Catholic Diocese of Ballarat Inc.Centacare Housing Services Inc.

Governance & StructureOur Team

Centacare Board

Executive Team

Housing Services BoardSub-Committees


Centacare are a member of CSSA.


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Central Office4–6 Peel Street, Ballarat 3350 P: (03) 5337 8999www.centacareballarat.org.au

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