Annual Report - Spinal Life Australia · Insurance Scheme (NDIS) we hosted 12 Information Sessions in November and December 2015, and following the success of these sessions a further

1Spinal Life Australia Annual Report 2015 – 2016

Annual Report 2015 – 2016

Specialist Disability Solutions

spinal.com.au

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On behalf of the Board, I am delighted to present the 2016 annual report of Spinal Life Australia.

When reflecting on the year that was, I am immensely proud of the steps our organisation has taken to grow and mature when faced with significant changes across our sector.

Last year, members voted through our new name, Spinal Life Australia, which was positively received across the community and represents our mission and values as an organisation.

This is not the first time we have changed our name in 56 years but it reflects the next exciting chapter for our organisation as we continue to grow and evolve to meet the needs of members and clients.

MembersOur organisation was built by members and as such, this year we have looked towards a renewed focus on membership that will continue into 2017.

Following a vote at the 2014-15 Annual General Meeting, our Constitution has been updated with a new definition for Ordinary members.

This category is now open to parents, spouses, siblings or children of a person whose primary disability is due to an acquired spinal cord injury, either by accident or disease.

This is important as it gives family members the opportunity to have a voice and be part of guiding the future of our organisation, which is important to them and their loved ones.

Our membership base is key to our advocacy services, giving us added strength in numbers in lobbying government on all levels for change.

We are continuing to reflect on our membership program and review how we can grow the support and services we offer for members in the future.

Leadership renewalDuring the year we farewelled Board Director David Riley, who retired from his position. I would like to thank David for his contributions over nine years, which included as Chairman for seven. David was a vocal figure in calling for the implementation of the NDIS and was instrumental in the development of our widely respected personal support worker training program.

Chairman’s message

We welcomed new Board Director Gyl Stacey who brings with her many years’ experience in corporate governance and managing stakeholder relationships.

The year also saw the commencement of our new Chief Executive Officer Michael Powell, who joined us in August. In leading our organisation, Michael has embraced our vision to ensure we remain financially viable and sustainable in the future.

Strategic directionDuring the year the Board endorsed Spinal Life Australia’s Strategic Direction Vision 2026+. This refreshed strategic vision will guide us as we look to the future, particularly with the introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme and the National Injury Insurance Scheme Queensland.

The vision will be activated through the Strategic Business Plan for the period 2016-19. The plan provides a clear blueprint for action, identifies challenges and opportunities presented through member and staff engagement, and focuses on meeting commitments and expectations now and into the future.

It will be used to guide future targeted growth and development opportunities that will ensure we deliver a specialist range of disability services for many years to come while growing our member and client base.

AcknowledgementsOn behalf of the Board, I would like to thank our many corporate partners and supporters who remain so committed to our organisation and in particular wish to acknowledge our dedicated volunteers who provide administration support, facilitate our Member Networks and deliver injury prevention through the SEAT program.

In closing, thank you to our management team and staff for their tireless work in supporting our members and clients. You are the heart of our business and we value the energy you bring to your roles each and every day.

Alan Ashford Chairman

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Alan Ashford - ChairmanCommenced: November 2009 Meeting attendance: 9 of 9

Business background: More than 40 years in the electricity supply industry with roles ranging from computer programmer to business analyst.

Richard Boys – Deputy ChairmanCommenced: April 2009 Meeting attendance: 8 of 9

Business background: Management consultant and former Chief Financial Officer of CS Energy Limited, with more than 30 years’ experience in senior management roles in the energy, mining and resources sectors.

Peter HallCommenced: November 2007 Meeting attendance: 9 of 9

Business background: More than 30 years’ experience in senior executive positions in finance, operations and marketing in the public and private sectors. Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Des Ryan OAM Commenced: October 1995 Meeting attendance: 9 of 9Responsibilities: Chair, Nomination and Review Sub-Committee

Business background: Community Solutions Client Relations Ambassador; owns and operates his own database business, Abled Disabled.

Our board of directors


Mark DillmanCommenced: April 2008 Meeting attendance: 7 of 9

Business background: Managing Principal at M+K Lawyers, with the focus of his role on commercial litigation and commercial advisory work.

Dr Amanda OlssonCommenced: May 2014 Meeting attendance: 9 of 9

Business background: A marketing and communications experts specialising in the political and corporate sectors across Australia, Hong Kong and Jersey.

Gyl StaceyCommenced: January 2016 Meeting attendance: 3 of 4

Business background: Chief Information Officer and Senior IT Executive with many years of experience in Australia and the UK working across government and the private sector. Strong track record of innovation and using IT to drive business transformation and modernise public services.

David RileyCommenced: October 2006 Resigned: March 2016 Meeting attendance: 5 of 5

Business background: Human movement TAFE teacher; founded and ran his own fitness, health and personal training program design business.

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Members are the reason Spinal Life Australia exists. We began as an organisation when a group of people came together to advocate for their needs and today, 56 years later, we represent 1,223 members from across Australia.

Our ordinary members are individuals with a spinal cord injury, post polio or transverse myelitis or their family members.

There are also 93 associate members where anyone is eligible.

Members

Most used services:

• Personal support and home care services

• Aids and equipment prescription

• Advocacy and access support.

Highest performing aspects

of our business: • Quality of services

provided• Professionalism • Courtesy of staff.

91% would recommend

Spinal Life to a friend or family

member.

9 in 10 members

and clients are very satisfied or satisfied.

GENDER:▶ FEMALE: 468

▶ MALE: 749

AGE GROUP: ▶ 0-20: 16▶ 21-40: 155▶ 41-64: 554▶ 65+: 445

WHERE MEMBERS LIVE: ▶ DARLING DOWNS AND SOUTH WEST: 76▶ MACKAY/WHITSUNDAYS: 26▶ INTERSTATE: 47▶ FNQ: 72▶ NORTH QLD: 70▶ CENTRAL WEST: 38▶ GOLD COAST: 113▶ BRISBANE: 439▶ MORETON: 122▶ WIDE BAY: 87

Profiling our members

Member and Client Satisfaction SurveyIn December we asked members and clients to rate their satisfaction with our overall and specific services and this is what we heard.

We will use the survey outcomes to inform the future development of our services to members.


Member NetworksWe have 16 Member Networks across Queensland supported by a team of volunteer facilitators. Within Member Networks, there are three distinct groups:

• Spinal Injuries Networks

• Post Polio Networks

• Transverse Myelitis Networks.

Member Networks provide an avenue so people with a spinal cord injury, post polio or transverse myelitis can meet peers, seek advocacy and support, and discuss issues that impact their daily lives.

In 2015-16 the Networks held 103 meetings.We are enormously grateful to our Network facilitators who volunteered 2,757 hours of their own time during the year and we acknowledge and thank them all for their commitment.

This year we welcomed two new Network facilitators, Eric Collins and Eric Rushton, and Gold Coast Post Polio Network facilitator Lyn Glover who was named a finalist in the Community Spirit category for Queensland’s Pride of Australia Medals.

Facilitator Member Network

Alan Elliot (deceased) Mackay Spinal Injuries Network

Anne Guthrie Rockhampton Post Polio Network

Brian Willcox Fraser Coast Spinal Injuries Network

Cathy Newman Sunshine Coast Post Polio Network

Delma Childs FNQ Cairns Spinal Injuries Network

Des Ryan Rockhampton Spinal Injuries Network

Eric Collins Townsville Post Polio Network

Eric Rushton Brisbane Post Polio Network

George Dougherty Brisbane Spinal Injuries Network

Jim Carseldine Sunshine Coast Post Polio Network

Joan Radanovic Gold Coast Post Polio Network

John Smith Mackay Spinal Injuries Network

Joy Hay FNQ Cairns Post Polio Network

Louise Remilton Transverse Myelitis Network

Lyn Glover Gold Coast Post Polio Network

Lynn Barnes FNQ Cairns Spinal Injuries Network

Pat Allison Bundaberg Spinal Injuries Network

Robert Montocchio Brisbane Spinal Injuries Network

Robin Meredith-Bramwell

Toowoomba Spinal Injuries Network

Robynne Clifton Rockhampton Post Polio Network

Scott Stidston Burdekin/Bowen Spinal Injuries Network

Wendy Adams Toowoomba Spinal Injuries Network

Wendy McCarthy Bundaberg Spinal Injuries Network

Sessions were held in:

Ayr Brisbane (North & South)

Bundaberg Cairns

Charters Towers Gold Coast

Ipswich Logan

Mackay Pine Rivers

Proserpine Rockhampton

Stanthorpe Sunshine Coast

Toowoomba (x2) Townsville (x3)

NDIS roadshows – sharing valuable informationTo inform members about the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) we hosted 12 Information Sessions in November and December 2015, and following the success of these sessions a further eight in May and June 2016.

The content tailored presentations were a first for our organisation and feedback from those who attended was very positive. As the NDIS is implemented, we will continue to host more sessions in line with the roll out schedule.

Our aim is to support every member and client in their NDIS planning meeting.

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We are honoured by the support of our Patron and Ambassadors.

Our Patron His Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC, Governor of Queensland is our Patron and will support our mission for the duration of his term.

Our AmbassadorsBill Ross OAM Bill has lent his profile to our organisation since 2002. He is the main organiser of the Classic Wallabies Rugby Lunch which has raised close to $1 million since it began in 2006.

Greg Cornelsen OAM For more than a decade, Greg has attended countless SEAT Community Safety Program presentations where he speaks to students about how important the SEAT message is to carry with you throughout life. During the year Greg was awarded an Order of Australia Medal in recognition of his dedicated support.

Tim Horan AM Tim has been actively involved with our Community Safety and Awareness Program for many years and generously gives his time to attend a range of events to raise our profile.

Erin Brockovich A global consumer advocate, Erin is the ambassador of our Peer Support team and when in Brisbane visits the Spinal Injuries Unit at the Princess Alexandra Hospital.

Committees We actively share our expertise on the following committees:

• Airport Accessibility Reference Group• Australian Network for Universal

Housing Design (ANUHD) • Australian Spinal Injury Alliance • Brisbane Regional Disability

Advisory Council • Department Transport & Main Roads

Access Reference Group• Disability Support Organisation Capacity

Building Project Advisory Group • G8: Queensland Disability Service Providers • Inclusive Brisbane Board• Livable Housing Design Stakeholder

Reference Group• NIISQ Stakeholder Group• Polio Australia Board

Robert Jones OrationWith the support of Queensland Premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk, we held the annual Robert Jones Oration in partnership with the Anti - Discrimination Commission Queensland, and Council on the Ageing.

Delivered by Maha Sinnathamby, Chairman of the Springfield Land

Corporation, the 2015 oration was titled Walking backwards into the future. It highlighted the need for Queensland to become an inclusive community through housing developments and precincts that offer equitable access.

Mr Sinnathamby called for State and Local governments to join with developers and builders to ensure the installation of visitability into residential dwellings in Queensland. As a result, the Livable Housing Design Stakeholder Reference Group was established.

People


We believe the power of partnerships enables us to have a greater positive impact on our community. We are grateful to all supporters and partners whose contributions enhanced our work during the year.

Our Partners and Supporters

Allianz Global AssistanceApollos’s Day SpaAustralia ZooAustralian Rugby UnionBarbara DungavellBrisbane Racing ClubBunningsCarelink+ Icon GlobalCricket AustraliaCurrumbin Wildlife SanctuaryDavid OvertonDe Bortoli WinesDepartment of Communities, Child Safety and Disability ServicesDepartment of Social ServicesDepartment of Transport and Main RoadsDraculas Gold CoastDreamweaversDr Felice ZaccariFelice OvertonGold Coast Turf ClubHoppy’s Handwash Café

Hilton Hotel BrisbaneIl CentroInside Sport MagazineInvacareJoan UrquhartJ.J. Richards & Sons Pty LtdLady Elliott Island Eco ResortLeisuretime Craft and Friendship Libertine ParfumerieLinks Hope IslandLion Co.Lions Club of Townsville (Castle Hill)Lynette BarnettMajor League MarketingMetro FordMichael BrownMitchell OgilvieMorgans Morgans Foundation LimitedMotor Accident Insurance CommissionPerpetual Trustees Australia Ltd on behalf of the Late Ms Doris L WarakerPeter Hall

Petricia BirdQT HotelQueensland RedsQueensland Rugby UnionQuest WoolloongabbaRussell MaxwellSchweppesShark Motorcycle LeathersShine LawyersSlater & Gordon LawyersStefanThe Caxton HotelThe Girls’ Ball AssociationTreasury Hotel and CasinoThe TriffidTunstall HealthcareVictoria Park Gold ComplexVRC PrintingW HaywardWicked WheelchairsYellow Cabs

Anti-Discrimination Commission Of QueenslandAustralian Spinal Injury AllianceDepartment Of Communities, Child Safety And Disability ServicesDepartment Of Social ServicesDepartment Of Transport And Main Roads (Including Access Reference Group)Disability Conference Reference GroupDisability Employment AustraliaDisability Services Brisbane Regional Disability Advisory CouncilDisability Services Partnership ForumDisability Support Organisation Capacity Building Project Advisory GroupDisability Works Australia Steering Committee

Griffith UniversityInclusive Brisbane Board, Brisbane City CouncilJames Cook UniversityMetro South HealthMotor Accident Insurance CommissionNDIS Campaign State CommitteeNDIS Queensland Committee Of Management Perry Cross Spinal Research FoundationPolio AustraliaQueensland Action For Universal Housing DesignRick Hansen FoundationSpinal Cord Injury Response Reference Group Sporting Wheelies And Disabled Association Queensland Townsville Hospital And Health Service Rehabilitation Unit

Our supporters

Our partners

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Chief Executive Officer’s Message

Another key change was the introduction of the Executive Manager Business Development & Strategic Partnerships and the consolidation of corporate activity under the Executive Manager Corporate Strategy & Marketing. This helped align the team of 726 Personal Support Workers (PSW) and 132 non-PSWs located in towns and cities across Queensland and strengthened our direct support commitment to 94% of staff.

Our reinvigorated structure allowed us to launch several initiatives during the year including the Life Physio (specialist disability physiotherapy), Back2Work (vocational rehabilitation), Assistive Solutions Expo and an inaugural Emerging Leaders Program, where 21 individuals from across our business selected to participate in a Diploma with the Australian Institute of Management.

Extending our influenceNationally, Spinal Life continued to have a strong voice with representation on the Australian Spinal Injury Alliance and coordinating regional Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Week activities.

We were an influential advisor to government on matters relating to advocacy. To show our support for the National Injury Insurance Scheme Queensland, which we so strongly lobbied for, key staff participated in community announcements explaining the Scheme.

AcknowledgementsTo our members and clients, thank you for choosing Spinal Life and for your support of our organisation.

To the Board, led by Alan Ashford, I extend my thanks for your leadership and guidance in my first year as CEO.

Finally, I would also like to sincerely thank Spinal Life’s staff for warmly welcoming me and for their enthusiasm, dedication and adaptability.

There is an appetite to thrive, not just survive under the NDIS, and to achieve our vision for accessible, equitable and empowered lives. The coming year will be both challenging and exciting.

Michael Powell Chief Executive Officer

I am proud to report on Spinal Life’s achievements during 2015-16.

It was a momentous year for many members and clients with the full roll out of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) across Australia.

I am fortunate to have commenced as Chief Executive Officer during such a dynamic chapter in our history.

NDIS preparationsAfter years of campaigning for its introduction, we are excited to see the benefits that will be created for our members and clients, through ideals which have been part of our vision and mission ever since a group of members formed our organisation 56 years ago – choice and control.

We have committed to supporting our members and clients at every stage of their transition to the NDIS, including assistance in the planning process.

As part of this commitment, we held 20 NDIS information sessions across Queensland. I was fortunate to attend several sessions, meeting with members and clients to hear firsthand their personal stories, and learn how we can better meet their needs for supports and information.

With people wanting information on the equipment, aids and technology available under the NDIS, March was the perfect time to host our largest ever Assistive Solutions Expo with more than 400 attendees and 35 exhibitors.

Building on our strong foundationsThe NDIS sees us operating in an increasingly competitive environment. So we can realise our vision and remain viable, we commenced implementation of a new Strategic Business Plan to help us achieve our goals.

A key aspect of this Plan was a commitment to renewal in member engagement. Facilitating this, a new senior management position was approved to lead our membership activities, and is set to commence late 2016.

The Plan also influenced the realignment of our signature key service areas of Personal Support and Home Care Services, Allied Health Services and Employment Options under the newly formed Client Services Division, led by the General Manager Client Services under the stewardship of the Executive Manager Strategic Service Development.

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Highlights

2,757 HOURS

volunteered by our Member Network facilitators across

Queensland.

391 VETERANS

received support thanks to our role

as a provider of Veterans’ Home

Care.

726 PERSONAL SUPPORT WORKERS

delivered more than 200,000 shifts

to clients.

EMPLOYMENT OPTIONS

supported 190 PARTICIPANTS

to find or sustain a job.

Volunteer seat presenters

visited more than 200 SCHOOLS ACROSS

QUEENSLAND to speak with more than

44,000 STUDENTS about staying

safe.

544,196 HOURS

of personal support were provided to 694 clients

with a spinal cord injury and other physical

conditions.

94 PERCENT

OF STAFF IN DIRECT CLIENT

SERVICE ROLES.

1,151 MEMBERS

and clients were assisted with everything from

equipment prescriptions to funding applications

through our Allied Health Services.

INAUGURAL EMERGING

LEADERS PROGRAM COMMENCED IN MAY WITH 21 INDIVIDUALS

FROM ACROSS OUR BUSINESS.


94 PERCENT

OF STAFF IN DIRECT CLIENT

SERVICE ROLES.

1,151 MEMBERS

and clients were assisted with everything from

equipment prescriptions to funding applications

through our Allied Health Services.

Wheelchairs, aids and equipment

to the value of $14,240

were distributed to clients through our Equipment

Fund, which is supported by our fundraising

programs. 232 CLIENTS AND

THEIR FAMILIES were supported during

their rehabilitation by our Peer Support team who delivered 3853 HOURS

of service through 2276 VISITS.

8,500 HOURS

of specialist allied health services

to clients.

9 IN 10 MEMBERS and clients were very satisfied or

satisfied with our service.

400 PEOPLE AND 35

EXHIBITORSattended the

largest ever Assistive Solutions Expo.New

name, new look and new 1300 SPINAL

number.

Classic Wallabies

Lunch raised more than $117,000.

20 NDIS INFORMATION

SESSIONSheld across

Queensland.

45 EVENTSheld across

Queensland.

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Peer SupportOur Peer Support team shared their lived experience providing practical one-on-one support to 232 people who have sustained spinal cord injuries, and their family members. The team undertook 2,276 visits and supported people in their transition from hospital to home. ‘Check-in’ days were held in Sandgate, Redlands, Toowoomba, Brisbane and Cairns to connect with past clients. The team maintained an active private Facebook page with 744 members from all over the world including USA, UK, Pakistan, Switzerland, Canada, Australia, South East Asia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.

Personal Support and Home Care ServicesOur trained support workers provided services to assist clients to live independently at home and in the community. During the year:

• 726 personal support workers delivered more than 200,000 shifts to clients

• 544,196 hours of personal support were provided to 694 clients with a spinal cord injury and other physical conditions

• 20 clients were supported to have greater choice and control over their services by transitioning to Your Life Your Choice.

• 391 veterans received support thanks to our role as a provider of Veterans’ Home Care

• Specialist personal support and nursing services were provided 24 hours a day to six clients through Queensland Health High Support Services.

Individual ServicesAllied Health ServiceOur physiotherapists, occupational therapists and registered nurses delivered services to 1,151 members and clients across Queensland in three key areas:

• Access to expertise and funding

• Mobility, seating and equipment solutions

• Specialist personal advice and assessments.

Our team undertook 36 regional visits to clients in towns and communities stretching from the Torres Strait, to the Central West and south to the Darling Downs and Gold Coast.

One regional visit had special significance. Occupational Therapist Joanne Ede travelled to Port Moresby to assess applicants with a disability for humanitarian scholarships under the Australian Awards Program funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Joanne conducted 22 assessments in five days.

As a result of this visit the Allied Health Service is providing case management for a student with Cerebral Palsy studying at Central Queensland University.


Life Physio (new initiative)Demand for our specialised Allied Health service led to a partnership with Sporting Wheelies and Disabled Association for a new Brisbane-based physiotherapy service within their inclusive fitness and rehabilitation centre known as ‘The Gym’.

Life Physio at ‘The Gym’ is an integrated approach of musculoskeletal and neurological treatment and rehabilitation to support the health and wellbeing of people with spinal cord injuries and other disabilities. The service opened in April and in its first months and provided 72 hours of service to 48 clients.

Equipment hire The ever popular Equipment Hire service provided a range of equipment to 129 Queensland clients, businesses and interstate visitors needing equipment for short or long-term hire. Equipment was hired from Spinal Life centres in Brisbane, Townsville and Cairns.

Employment OptionsEmployment for people with a physical disability has been a key priority for our organisation since our Employment Options program began in 1994. Our Triple P program involves Preparation support to find a paid Placement and assistance Post Placement.

Employment Options supported 72 participants to find a job, five participants at risk of losing their job, 67 participants to sustain employment for 13 weeks, and 46 participants to sustain employment for 26 weeks.

Employment Options operates in North Brisbane, South Brisbane, Logan and Ipswich.

Back2Work (new initiative)To support people with newly acquired spinal cord injuries to return to work, we commenced a new project within the PA Hospital’s Spinal Injuries Unit (SIU) in February. Back2Work is an early intervention Vocational Rehabilitation program and is the first of its kind in Queensland. It assists people to return to work, or consider alternative work roles if they are unable to return to their pre-injury job and also provides support to employers.

The project is an extension of the role Employment Options has been conducting to support inpatients of the SIU with their work-related needs. The Back2Work project is a partnership with Griffith University, the Queensland Spinal Cord Injury Service and Motor Accident Insurance Commission.

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AdvocacyThrough our advocacy, we have a respected and credible voice. As an advisor on accessible and inclusive communities, we sit on government advisory groups and contribute to partnerships concerned with equitable access to buildings, infrastructure, precincts, transport and services.

As part of our role advocating on behalf of our members we contribute submissions to enquiries, and respond to discussion papers and research projects.

During the year we contributed a submission to the Queensland Human Rights Act Parliamentary Inquiry where we supported the implementation of a Human Rights Act for Queensland.

We also advocated on behalf of members on issues including:

• Access to the Disability Support Pension

• Access to the allocated space for bus passengers with mobility impairments.

Community Linking The Community Linking program has influenced accessibility in various services ranging from public swimming pool and maxi taxi services in addition to representing members in disaster management safety, Local government and Transport & Main Roads reference groups. Regional Development Coordinator, Jodie Lord won the International Day of People with a Disability Beryl Dowling Award in Livingstone for a person with a disability who goes above and beyond for people with disabilities in the community.

Community ServicesBusiness Services

Access Solutions AustraliaAccess Solutions Australia provides expertise on equitable access and acts as project consultants to government agencies and businesses to meet functional and legislative requirements. In the past year our primary work was on compliance certification of Brisbane’s newest City Cat ferries, refurbishing access at Brisbane ferry terminals to meet Disability Discrimination Act requirements and the NSW electronic ticketing system for all public transport modes and infrastructure in Greater Sydney.

Specialised staff training Our quality non-accredited training services enable companies to up-skill their workforce and develop team members.

Our insightful workshops are delivered by qualified clinical educators with specialised expertise in areas including personal care, manual tasks, workplace health and safety, and accredited first aid and CPR. This year 25 external organisations mostly from the disability and education sectors experienced our training and for the fourth year we won a tender for the Department of Communities Child Safety and Disability Services.

Workplace support Employment Options supported over 100 employers from sectors ranging across retail, security, education, IT, real estate and horticulture, with services including:

• information and advice on supporting your employee, including workplace modifications

• pre-screening and identification of suitable applicants for your vacancy

• links into other programs such as Apprenticeships and Traineeships

• ongoing advice and support.


Expert forums Our Member Networks recognised the seventh annual Transverse Myelitis Awareness Day in May and World Polio Day in October and brought world experts together with the community for these key events.

Network members from Queensland, South Australia and New South Wales attended a presentation by Professor Benjamin Greenberg, Director of the Transverse Myelitis and Neuromyelitis Optica Programme at the University of Texas Southwestern on the latest research and treatment options for people with transverse myelitis.

One of Queensland’s most referenced polio specialists, Dr Peter Nolan, gave a special presentation about the mental and physical impacts of polio to mark World Polio Day. Our Post Polio Networks offer people dealing with the late effects of post polio a forum in which to share experiences and provide support.

Health forums Our Allied Health service hosted a program of free Health Seminars in late 2015 and covered topics such as pressure and wound management and also bladder, bowel and nutrition. The seminars featured guest speakers from a range of professions, including Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists and Nurses and were well attended by members and clients in South East Queensland.

SEAT Community Safety ProgramOver the last 29 years our SEAT Community Safety Program has educated more than 1.7 million Queensland school students about the risk of a traumatic spinal cord injury and raised awareness about how they can stay safe, for life.

In 2015-16 more than 44,800 Queensland school students saw a SEAT presentation. Our 18 volunteer presenters, all of whom have a spinal cord injury, visited 203 schools including the Mungallala State School, 600km west of Brisbane.

SEAT presenters also targeted their visits to coincide with graduating Year 12s and the students’ final week at school and ahead of Schoolies.

SEAT would not be possible without the generous support of its sponsors, the Queensland Government and the Motor Accident Insurance Commission.

Safe Work MonthAs part of Safe Work Month in October, our SEAT volunteers participated in a community breakfast in King George Square to take the message of staying safe at work, around the home and at school to a wider audience.

Road Safety Award winnerSEAT volunteer Nathan Handley won the Young Person category of the 2015 Queensland Road Safety Awards.

Nathan’s inspiring journey began when the then apprentice cabinetmaker, who was about to enter the world of professional motocross racing, went on a casual BMX ride with a mate. He fell from his bike and sustained quadriplegia.

Nathan regards his injury as a second shot at life and spent many years focusing his energy on reinforcing safety messages to children across Queensland as a volunteer SEAT presenter before returning to full-time employment.

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Inclusive Community Champions AwardsThe Inclusive Community Champions Awards returned for the sixth year to recognise the outstanding achievements made by individuals, organisations and businesses who make significant contributions to building inclusive communities in their local region.

Eighty-five regional winners were recognised in nine ceremonies held to coincide with Disability Action Week in Cairns, Brisbane, Bundaberg, Fraser Coast, Gold Coast, Livingstone Shire, Mackay, Noosa and Toowoomba.

The campaign culminated with the State Final at Government House, hosted by His Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC on Friday, 13 November 2015 during Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Week.

Four State Finalists were recognised for their achievements with North Burnett Transport Service being crowned overall State Champion for 2015. The other State Finalists were:

• Noosa Shire Council’s Library Service

• Bec Nicol, founder of All Abilities Mackay

• Brisbane City Council for the Braille Trail Awareness Campaign.

Campaigns and Events

2015 winner

North Burnett Regional Council recognised that residents and visitors often needed to travel long distances to access vital services and connect with loved ones – so they developed a transport service that was affordable and inclusive for everyone. With round trips of up to 500 kilometres in one day, and fully accessible vehicles, the service now provides an important link to hospitals, train stations, local shopping centres and more.

Classic Wallabies LunchNow in its eleventh year the popular Classic Wallabies Lunch played host to more than 430 corporate executives from South East Queensland and showcased some of Australia and New Zealand’s most renowned sporting legends. The afternoon was hosted by Classic Wallaby Bill Ross OAM and guests were treated to a rousing Q&A session with Australian radio personality and former Wallaby’s coach Alan Jones AO.

Australian cricket legend Greg Chappell MBE, Wallaby Great and CEO of the Queensland Investment Corporation (QIC) Damien Frawley and former Brisbane Bronco and Rugby World Cup winning All Black Brad Thorn gave their insight into the state of rugby and the sporting world in general.

Comedy ventriloquist Darren Carr had the crowd in fits of laughter as he entertained guests with his hilarious cast of characters.

Overall, the lunch raised more than $117,000 in total revenue, with close to $50,000 in net profit going towards providing supports and services to people living with spinal cord injury in Queensland.


Assistive Solutions Expo (new initiative) The Assistive Solutions Expo was our largest ever, with more than 400 attendees and 35 exhibitors.

Held on Saturday, 5 March 2016 at the Royal International Convention Centre the Expo showcased the latest innovations, equipment, aids and technology. Attendees were able to see products firsthand, meet exhibitors face-to-face and most importantly, ask questions.

The Expo featured keynote speakers Christopher Hills, an Apple Accessibility Ambassador and Matthew Ames, a quadruple amputee, who discussed accessible solutions and technological interventions that have changed how they live their lives.

Information sessions were also presented by Sporting Wheelies and Disabled Association, who focused on physical activity as the pathway to an independent life; Slater and Gordon Lawyers, who covered National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) case studies; and Sexuality Consultant Shirralee Ransley who provided insight into relationships.

The Expo generated positive outcomes from attendees:

• 85% of respondents rated their experience at the Expo as ‘excellent’

• 73% said the variety of exhibitors was ‘excellent’

• 87% said it met their expectations

• 87% said they would be ‘likely’ or ‘very likely’ to recommend the event to their networks

“Can’t wait for the next one. Will definitely be there. Fun day. Loved it so much. Very, very impressed. Well done, great job. Very happy about the day.”

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Cruise for a CauseDuring the year we grew our Community Fundraising program and as part of this relaunched Cruise for a Cause. Now organisations from across the community can show their support by hosting a Cruise to promote safety awareness and raise vital funds, all the while increasing public awareness for individual organisations.

The Townsville Castle Hill Lions Club hosted the first Cruise of the program in March, to promote road safety before the Easter long weekend. Around 60 vehicles ‘cruised’ the streets of Townsville to Strand Park for a car show and family-friendly entertainment.

Campaigns and Events Australian Spinal Injury Alliance & Spinal Cord Injury Awareness WeekSpinal Cord Injury Awareness Week is a national campaign delivered through the Australian Spinal Injury Alliance, a collective of the country’s eight leading spinal cord injury support organisations.

The Alliance provides a voice for all Australians who have sustained a spinal cord injury and this was demonstrated in the 2015 campaign.

The key message ‘Think I can’t? Think again’ aimed to promote a more inclusive and accessible community. It challenged the way people think to break stereotypes.

The Voice superstar Tim McCallum, as the national ambassador, said “it’s up to everyone in the community to play their part in ensuring our society is inclusive and accessible – and that we don’t miss out on the skills people with a spinal cord injury have to offer.”

Each of the eight member organisations also nominated state-based ambassadors.

Our Summer Appeal coincided with Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Week and featured our state ambassador and SEAT Community Safety Presenter, Nathan Handley. We raised more than $20,000 thanks to our generous supporters.


Charity Bike Ride Member Matt Kuhne hosted his sixth annual charity motorcycle ride with 130 people taking part raising more than $3,000 to support people who have a spinal cord injury and raise awareness about injury prevention and road safety.

Tax CampaignThe Tax Campaign is our largest annual fundraising appeal. The message this year was to ‘Join the Team’ because it takes a team of people to support someone with a spinal cord injury – no one can do it on their own.

Launched at the Classic Wallabies Lunch through a three-minute video, the campaign saw an increased focus on digital marketing communication channels. It adopted cinema and social media marketing using adapted versions of the video, email marketing, mobile marketing, and direct mail.

In addition to raising valuable funds, the campaign was beneficial for branding and generating increased awareness of our organisation and services.

On Facebook alone the video received over 21,000 views, 200 likes and 100 shares with more than 400 people clicking through to our website.

The cinema ad was strategically delivered to an audience of 12,534 people within the target demographics of 25-to-55-year-olds in Brisbane and Townsville.

Bridge to BrisbaneBridge to Brisbane saw the birth of the Spinal Spin Stars and offered a refreshed and fun way to engage our supporters through a third-party event.

Our team of thirty-one individuals joined thousands of participants for Queensland’s largest fun run and raised valuable funds to support the work that we do.

The Spinal Spin Stars donned team singlets paired with funky leggings to walk, run or roll our way and put a positive spin on spinal cord injuries.

Thank you to everyone who took part including staff members from Allianz Global Assistance, who have supported us through a range of events and fundraising initiatives.

Girls’ Ball 2015The Girls’ Ball Association generously chose us as the beneficiary of the 2015 Girls’ Ball, held in Brisbane. This fantastic event raised $31,000 and was sponsored by Carter Capner Law and a variety of in-kind sponsors.

Thank you to the Girls’ Ball Committee, their sponsors and everyone who attended for this amazing support.

22


Financials

Where the money is spent$000

Personal Support and Home Care Services 26,011

Employment Options 961

Spinal Allied Health Service 1,207

Member Networks 547

Injury Prevention 124

Peer Support 294

Fundraising 346

Corporate Services 1,898

Community Linking 299

Information Service 88

Event Expenses 75

Equipment Hire 57

TOTAL 31,907

These are extracted from the full set of financials. Full sets of financials are available on request.

Where the money comes from$000

Grants and Subsidies - Disability Services (DS) 23,240

Grants and Subsidies - Queensland Health 1,447

Grants and Subsidies - DS Community Care 267

Grants and Subsidies - DSS HACC 63

Grants and Subsidies - Other 1,251

Fundraising 193

Trading/Operating Activities 6,032

Other Income 858

TOTAL 33,351

We enjoyed a strong financial position with total revenue of $33.4 million and net assets of $12.0 million. The surplus for the year was $1.5 million. These results reflect a strong organisation with solid foundations and one which is well positioned for growth.

▶ GRANTS AND SUBSIDIES - DISABILITY SERVICES (DS) ▶ GRANTS AND SUBSIDIES - QUEENSLAND HEALTH▶ GRANTS AND SUBSIDIES - DS COMMUNITY CARE▶ GRANTS AND SUBSIDIES - DSS HACC▶ GRANTS AND SUBSIDIES - OTHER▶ FUNDRAISING▶ TRADING/OPERATING ACTIVITIES▶ OTHER INCOME

▶ PERSONAL SUPPORT AND HOME CARE SERVICES▶ EMPLOYMENT OPTIONS▶ SPINAL ALLIED HEALTH SERVICE▶ MEMBER NETWORKS▶ INJURY PREVENTION▶ PEER SUPPORT▶ FUNDRAISING▶ CORPORATE SERVICES▶ COMMUNITY LINKING▶ INFORMATION SERVICE▶ EVENT EXPENSES▶ EQUIPMENT HIRE

GRANTS AND SUBSIDIES - DISABILITY SERVICES (DS)

PERSONAL SUPPORT AND HOME CARE SERVICES

24

2016 2015

$000 $000

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

Receipts from government and customers 36,077 34,867

Payments to suppliers and employees (32,091) (28,893)

GST paid (2,765) (3,201)

Interest received 426 392

Borrowing costs – (1)

Recovery of overpaid superannuation – 594

NET CASH INFLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES 1,647 3,758

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment 4 29

Proceeds on maturity of financial assets 100 760

Purchase of available-for-sale financial assets – (3,059)

Purchase of property, plant and equipment (248) (76)

Purchase of intangible assets (19) (7)

NET CASH OUTFLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES (163) (2,353)

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES

Repayment of borrowings - other – (17)

NET CASH OUTFLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES – (17)

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents 1,484 1,388

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year 6,077 4,689

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF YEAR 7,561 6,077

These are extracted from the Audited Annual Financial Report. The entire Audited Annual Financial Report is available upon request.

Statement of cash flows for the year ended 30 June 2016


2016 2015

$000 $000

REVENUE 33,351 28,830

EXPENSES

Salaries and on-costs 26,704 24,667

Staff related costs 890 526

Client support costs 1,209 886

Depreciation and amortisation 298 367

Finance costs – 1

IT & T expenses 742 483

Motor vehicle expenses 178 194

Occupancy costs 485 386

Other expenses 1,401 979

31,907 28,489

NET OPERATING SURPLUS 1,444 341

OTHER INCOME

Net profit on sale of assets – 12

Capital grants received 39 4

Recovery of overpaid superannuation – 594

NET SURPLUS FOR THE YEAR 1,483 951

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

Items that may be reclassified to profit or loss

Changes in the fair value of available-for-sale financial assets (26) (26)

TOTAL OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME 1,457 925


Statement of comprehensive income for the year ended 30 June 2016

26

2016 2015

$000 $000

ASSETS

CURRENT ASSETS

Cash and cash equivalents 7,561 6,077

Trade and other receivables 76 81

Financial assets 3,140 3,240

Other current assets 995 631

TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 11,772 10,029

NON-CURRENT ASSETS

Available-for-sale Financial Assets 2,986 3,025

Property, plant and equipment 5,452 5,468

Intangible assets 31 50

TOTAL NON-CURRENT ASSETS 8,469 8,543

TOTAL ASSETS 20,241 18,572

LIABILITIES

CURRENT LIABILITIES

Trade and other payables 1,887 1,403

Unexpended grant funds 4,618 4,632

Provisions 1,101 945

TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 7,606 6,980

NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES

Provisions 614 1,028

TOTAL NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES 614 1,028

TOTAL LIABILITIES 8,220 8,008

NET ASSETS 12,021 10,564

MEMBERS' FUNDS (EQUITY)

Other reserves (52) (26)

Retained earnings 12,073 10,590

MEMBERS' FUNDS (EQUITY) 12,021 10,564


Statement of financial position as at 30 June 2016


1300 SPINAL (1300 774 625) [email protected]

spinal.com.au

Therapy • Support • Employment • Advocacy

Documents

Annual Report - Spinal Life Australia · Insurance Scheme (NDIS) we hosted 12 Information Sessions in November and December 2015, and following the success of these sessions a further