The Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement...Graduate Certificate in Bereavement Counselling and Intervention accredited with the Victorian Registrations and Qualifications Authority

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Mission StatementThe Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement has a mission to build the capacity of individuals, organisations and communities in order to enhance well-being following adverse life events.

The Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement

The Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement (ACGB) is an independent, not-for-profit organisation which was established in 1996 to provide a range of education, training, research and professional service options for those working in the area of grief and bereavement. Opportunities are available for those working with grieving people and for members of the community to attend seminars, workshops and courses, to undertake clinical work placements and receive supervision. Customised training, consultation and advice are also available to organisations on issues of grief and bereavement.

The ACGB is funded by the Department of Human Services to provide a statewide specialist bereavement service for individuals, children and families who need assistance following the death of someone close to them. A range of specialist services and programs are provided including office based bereavement counselling, outreach counselling, regional specialist bereavement counsellors, a range of support groups, written resource material and newsletters, an annual ceremony of remembrance, a bereavement information and referral service for the general public and an advice and consultation service for workers in other settings. Volunteers are integral to the delivery of the wide range of services provided by the ACGB.

Statement of Purpose | The Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement will:a| Develop and provide a range of specialist interventions and

innovative education services, informed by evidence based practice, for grieving people who are at risk of adverse outcomes.

b| Provide grief education and a range of consultancy services to develop and enhance the capacity of individuals, organisations and communities to deal effectively with loss.

c| Provide grief and bereavement counselling training and supervision through the placement of practitioners at the Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement Counselling and Support Service and other settings as deemed appropriate.

d| Build the capacity of the universal health services to provide bereavement supports and responses.

e| Provide advocacy and representation on grief and bereavement issues in order to inform policy development, raise community awareness and support universal access to mainstream grief and bereavement services.

f| Undertake research, program evaluation, public policy development and the production of evidence based publications and resources to enhance grief and bereavement knowledge and practice.

g| Maintain cooperative links with relevant state, national and international groups and organisations in relation to grief and bereavement.

h| Provide a national clearinghouse of grief and bereavement resources and literature to inform policy, practice and research into grief and bereavement and to enhance the activities of the Association, other practitioners, support agencies and self-help groups.

Annual Report 2008 | 2009

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Acknowledgements

Committee of ManagementPresidentAdele Hulse, BA, DipEd

Deputy PresidentDr June Allan, PhD, BA, DipSocSt, SpecCertBerCounsPrac

SecretaryGlynnis Hearn, AssocDipArts(SocWelf), AdvDipFamTherapy, SpecCertBerCouns, CertIVWrkplcAssess&Trng, CertClinSuperv, AdvCertCriticalIncidentStressMgmt

TreasurerJohn Patton, BEc, ACA

General MembersDr Geoff White, PhD, MEdSt, BAppSc, DipEdTwanny Farrugia, AssocDipWelfSt, CertSmallBus, CertApplAspLoss&Grief, CertGrief&BerSt, CertIVAssess&WrkplcTrngAndrea Murphy, BA, GradDipHealthCounsRussell EdwardsDeirdra da George, BA, DipEd, AdvCertBusAdmin, CertIVTAA

PatronsWalter Mikac, BPharmProfessor David Pennington, AC, MA, DM(Oxon), LLD(Hons), BCh, FRCP, FRCAP, FRCAAWendy Wilmoth, BA, LLM

StaffDirectorChristopher Hall, MA, GradDipAdol&ChildPsych, BEd, MAPS, MACE, FAIM

Manager – Business OperationsJulie Frowe, BA(Hons) (BusSt)

Manager – Bereavement Counselling and Support ServicesAnne Giljohann, BA, DipSocSt, MSW, MAASW

Manager – Health Promotion and EducationSally Robert, BTeach(Sec), BA, DipPrjctMngt, CertIV Assess&WkplcTrng (until October 2008)

Acting Manager – Health Promotion and EducationDanielle Ricato (from October 2008)

Education Programs CoordinatorDanielle Ricato

Office AdministratorChristine Whalley, (until April 2009)Bronwyn Thurling, (casual appointment from April to June 2009)Janelle Brennan, BPsych, PostGradDipPsych (from June 2009)

LibrarianDebbie Hedger, BSc, GradDipInfoServ

Victorian Bereavement Services Database AdministratorHermanus Hulsen, MA(Couns), BTheol, DipPastMin

Courses CoordinatorLinda Bennett, BSc(Hons), DipHlthSc, CertIVArmTherapy, CertIVBus(SmllBusMngt), CertIVAssess&WkplcTrng (until January 2009)Julie-Anne Sheppard, BScDip(Teach), Cert IVTAA (from January 2009)

Journal Production EditorNatalie Coish, BA(Double Hons)(English&CinSt), Dip(ProfWrtg&Edit) (from August 2008)

Education Program AdministratorBronwyn Thurling (from June 2009)

Senior Bereavement Counsellor – SupervisionWendy Thurling, BEd(Arts), GradDipCouns&HumServ, ASIST, SpecCertBerCouns, AdvCertGestaltTherapyMaria Smart, DipCommServ(WelfSt), SpecCertBerCounsMethods, SpecCertBerCounsPrac

Community Outreach Service CoordinatorAnnie Norrish, RN, BEd, GradDipCouns&HumServ, MCouples&FamTherapy, SpecCertBerCounsPrac, CMVAFT

Administrative CoordinatorClaire Ewart, BA (Hons)Rae Silverstein, TPTC, GradDipSpecEd, adDipMentalHealthforTeachProfs, SpecCertBerCounsMethods, SpecCertBerCounsPrac

Senior Bereavement Counsellor & Support Groups CoordinatorColin Charles, BSW, DipFamTherapy, SpecPostGradProgramBerCouns, BerCounsPracCourse

Regional Specialist Bereavement Counsellor – GippslandSally Cody, AdvDipGestaltPsychotherapy, SpecPostGradProgramBerCouns

Regional Specialist Bereavement Counsellor – Barwon South WestShane Brabazon, DipHlthClinHypn, CertIVAssess&WrkplcTrng, SpecCertBerCounsMethods, SpecCertBerCounsPrac, MCCH (on leave from June 2009)Tina Rowley, BSocWelf, BSW (in progress), CMVAFT (temporary appointment from June 2009)

Regional Specialist Bereavement Counsellor – GrampiansJennifer Wilson, BSW, MSW

Regional Specialist Bereavement Counsellor – HumeRosie Petschack, MCouns&HumServ, SpecCertBerCounsMethod, TPTC, TSpTC

The Centre would like to acknowledge the exceptional efforts and dedication of our committee of management, staff, practitioner associates, professional educators and many volunteers.

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Regional Specialist Bereavement Counsellor – Loddon MalleeEvelyn Chittleborough, BA(HumServ), DipWelfSt, DipCounsPsych, DipSolutionOrientedHypn, SpecCertBerCounsMethods, ASOCHA

Practitioner Associates and VolunteersPractitioner associates are bereavement counsellors who have completed their placement and wish to continue to work voluntarily in different locations and roles. Volunteers are both professionals and non-professionals who have received training to work with bereaved people in a range of roles and capacities.They play a vital role in the delivery of services. Without them we would not be able to provide the range of programs that are offered to bereaved children, adults and families. The following is a list of practitioner associates and volunteers for the 2008/2009 year.

Nancy Allet, BSocSc, MEdCarleigh Anderson, BPsychSue AspinallMarg Bailey, GradDipAdvNursing(CommHlth), SpecCertBerCouns, GradDipChild &AdolGriefCounsJulia Bay Madeleine Berry, GradDipHumServ(Couns), DipSW, BA(Hons)(ModernEuropeanSt), SpecCertBerCouns

Elizabeth Beyer, DipTranspCouns

Rosa Bourke, DipEd, DipRelEd

Shane Brabazon, DipHlthClinHypn, CertIVAssess&WrkplcTrng, SpecCertBerCounsMethods, SpecCertBerCounsPrac, MCCH

Janelle Brennan, BPsych, PostGradDipPsych

Nicole Brogden

Maree Burns, BSW, DipClinHypnTherapy, BA(Soc), DipYouthWork

Anne Burr, MEd, SpEd (in progress)

Yvette Cabral

Gillian Carmichael, BTheol, MA, SpecCertBerCouns

Anne Carr

Yvette Carr

Adrienne Cavini, BA, BSW, GradDipBerCounsMethods, SpecCertBerCounsPractice

Liz Chapman, BA, GradDipCouns, MCouns&HumServ, SpecCertBerCounsMethods

Susan Christiansz, BA, GradDipCareersEd, SpecCertBerCounsMethods, GradCertPsycho-oncology, GradDipPsycho-oncology

Sally Cody, AdvDipGestaltPsychotherapy

Jessica Cormick

Jillian Cox

Sally Church, RN, RM, BA, BSW

Marie Craw

Mireille Davidson, BA, MSW

Joanne Debrincat, BSSc,

BSW, CertCouns&Comm, SpecCertBerCouns

Victoria Dell’Aquila

Tina Diciccio, Med, BECS, PostGradDipEarlyIntervention

Tess Dinale

Sue Earley, BA, DipEd, CertTactileTherapies, SpecCertBerCouns

Pam Ebbott

Russell Edwards

Twanny Farrugia, AssocDipWelfStud, CertSmallBus, CertApplAspLoss&Grief, CertGrief&BerSt, CertIVAssess&WrkplcTrng

Mimma Fedele

Kas Fergus

Raizel Fogel

Annie Forster

Jana Fugaro, BSW

Deb Galavodas

Geraldine Gartland

Vicky Gekas

Elwyn Gonsalvez

Jade Grant, BFA(Hons), DipEd

Kaye Griffin, GradDipAdvCouns, MPsych&Couns, CertIVHypn, SpecCourseBerCouns, DipClinicalHypn

Shirley Grove-Klebaner, DipKTC, TESL, GradDipSpecEd, BEd, MEd, GradDipBerCouns

Lesley Hannigan, ProfDipHRMgt, GradDipBerCouns

Sandra Hatton, AssocDipCreativeArts, DipTranspArtTherapy, DipTranspCouns,

PostGradCertAdolCouns, SpecCertBerCouns

Glynnis Hearn, AssocDipArts(SocWelf), AdvDipFamTherapy, GradDipBerCouns, CertIVAssess&WrkplcTrng, CertClinSuperv, AdvCertCriticalIncidentStressMgt

Wendy Holden, MACA, MAIPC, DipProfCounsAssoc

Hermanus Hulsen, BTheol, DipPastMin, MA(Couns)

Patricia Hutchinson, TSTCDipDomArts, GradDipChild&AdolGriefCouns, GradDipCouns

Lynne Irving, BSc, GradDipHumSc, SpecCertBerCounsMethods, SpecCertBerCounsPrac

Suzie Irving

Helen James, BComm

Juli Jose

Valerie Judd, BA, SpecCertBerCouns

Ivanka Juric

Despina Kavnoudias, BA(Hons)(Psych), GradDipChildDev, BSW, GradCertBerCouns

Shirley Klebaner, DipKTC, TESL, GradDipSpecEd, BEd, MEd, GradDipBerCouns

Michelle Kornberg, BEd, GradDipSocSc(HumServCouns), SpecCertBerCouns

Di Krygger, DipCounsHlth, DipCouns&Comm

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Evanna Lake, SRN, DistrictNursingCert, CertPersCouns, SpecCertBerCouns

Helen Lucas

Annie McDonald, MSc

Robyn McDonald

Catherine McDonell

Sarah Meageen, DipProfCouns

Judy Michaelangeli, BEd, GradCertTrauma&Grief, CertTraumaCouns&Therapy, AdvCertTrauma&Therapy, AdvCertFamTherapy, IntCertBerIntervention

Helen Moorfoot

Janet Nixon, BBus, BSW, GradDipGrief&LossCouns, SpecCertBerCounsPrac

Annie Norrish, RN, BEd, GradDipCouns&HumServ, MCouple&FamTherapy, SpecCertBerCounsPrac, CM VAFT

Denis Nyaguy, PhD, BSc(Hons), GradDipPsych

Eddie Oakley

Irene O’Keefe

Derarca O’Mahony, BSc(Hons)(Psych)

John O’Shea, BBSc, BSW, GradCertBerCounsPrac

Geraldine Paine, GradDipClinFamTherapy

Connie Pannuzzo, CertArmTherapy, CertBodyworks

Jenny Peake, AdvDipGestaltTherapy, GradDipGrief&LossCouns&Ed

Rosie Petschack, TPTC, TSpTC, MCouns&HumServ, SpecCertBerCouns

Laraine Philp, BA, BSW, GradDipLoss&Grief

Kerry Purdie

Tahlia Purdie

Carole Quayle

Dianne Rees

Annette Reid

Carmel Richardson, BSocSc&PastoralCare

Noela Rhodes, TPTC, DipEd, GradDipGraphicCommEd, DipArtTherapy, SpecCertBerCouns, SpecCertBerCounsPrac

Bobbie Rooks

Marisha Rothman, GradCertLoss&GriefEd, GradDipLoss&GriefCouns, CertIIDrug&Alc

Deb Routley BSW

Jean Russell, BA, GradDipCouns, SpecCertBerCouns, SpecCertBerCounsPrac

Martin Ryan, PhD, MSW, BBSc, BSW, SpecCertBerCounsPrac,

Vicki Scott Murphy, GradDipLoss&GriefCouns&Ed

Chris Sheldon

Jeanette Shepherd, MAASW, RN, MRN, BSW, MSW, DipPsychTherapy, AdCertRelCouns

Rae Silverstein, TPTC, GradDipSpecEd, GradDipMentalHlthforTeachProfs, SpecCertBerCouns, SpecCertBerCounsPrac

Maria Smart, DipCommServ(WelfSt), SpecCertBerCouns, SpecCertBerCounsPrac

Sharon Smith

Shirley Smith, BAHum&SocSc, SpecCertBerCouns

Jo-ann Stenton

Enna Szmulewicz, BA, ND, SpecCertBerCouns

Neville Taylor, BTh, GradDipEd, GradCertPastoralSt, SpecCertBerCouns

Annie Thomas

Wendy Thurling, BEd(Arts), GradDipCouns&HumServ, ASIST, SpecCertBerCouns, AdvCertGestaltTherapy

Ann Tregea

Alina Urbanczyk

Tamsyn Van Rheenen

Birgit Vogel, BEd, MCouns, SpecCertBerCouns

Dennis Walsh, MACE, BA, BSpEd., MEdST, DipCrim, DipTeach, GradDipChild&AdolGriefCouns, CertIVAssess&WrkplcTrng

Margaret Walsh, BS, BSocSc(PastoralCouns)

Brian Warnock, AdvDipAppSc

Faye West, DipTeach(Primary), BAChristianCouns, GradDipCouns, CertChildrensActionCouns, SpecCertBerCounsMethods, SpecCertBerCounsPrac

Margaret Wickham

Kristy Wiese

Jane Wilson, BA, GradDipIndRel, GradDipCareerEd&Devel, SpecCertBerCouns

Practitioner Associates & Volunteers cont.

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Associate EducatorsIn order to meet demand for the Centre’s training services, the Centre works with a pool of highly experienced loss and grief educators who are contracted, as required, to deliver education programs throughout metropolitan Melbourne, regional areas of Victoria, and interstate. These educators are Associate Educators of the Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement.Associate Educators have become ambassadors of the Centre, and play a large part in maintaining and enhancing the Centre’s reputation in delivering quality training programs. We thank each of them for their commitment and look forward to continued relationships. The following is a list of Associate Educators of the Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement during the period 2008/2009.

Deli Baker, MA, MA(CounsPsych), BA, GradDipCounsPsych, CertIvAssess&WrkplcTrngMadeleine Berry, GradDipHumServ(Couns), DipSW, BA(Hons)(ModernEuropeanSt), SpecCertBerCounsRev. John Bottomley, MMinistry, BA(Hons), DipSocShane Brabazon, DipHlthClinHypn, CertIVAssess&WrkplcTrng, SpecCertBerCounsMethods, SpecCertBerCounsPrac, MCCHAnnie Cantwell-Bartl, MCouns&HumServ, GradDipCouns, BA, RN, MAPSRosslyn Chandler, GradVAP, DipSocSt, MVAPP, MAASWDr Margaret Donnelly, PhDTwanny Farrugia, AssocDipWelfStud, CertSmallBus, CertApplAspLoss&Grief, CertGrief&BerSt, CertIVAssess&WrkplcTrngAnne Giljohann, MSW, BA, DipSocStMichelle Grimshaw, BSW, DipEdChristopher Hall, MA, GradDipAdol&ChildPsych, BEd, MAPS, MACE, FAIMMichelle KornbergWayne Lynch, MHumServ, GradDipCouns, BAppSc, BEd, DipGestaltTherapy, EdD(in progress), RN, MANFJohn Merrick, BSWRosalie Pattenden, MAPSGreg Roberts, MAASW, BSW(Hons)Michelle Roberts, BEd, GDACPRuth Schmit-Neven, BA(Psych), DipSocWorkStPaulina Sculli, BSW, AdvDipGestaltTherapy, MAASW

RTO Steering CommitteeThe Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement embarked on a project to become a Registered Training Organisation and to have a Vocational Graduate Certificate in Bereavement Counselling and Intervention accredited with the Victorian Registrations and Qualifications Authority. Throughout the 2008/2009 financial year, a steering committee was established to guide the development of the curriculum of the course. The Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement would like to acknowledge the following members of the RTO Project Steering Committee.

Damien NashSally RobertChristopher HallAnne GiljohannDr Jon StebbinsJoan Hamilton-RobertsDorothy FordWayne LynchDr Geoffrey GlassockLinda BennettJulie-Anne Sheppard

Office Administration VolunteersThe Centre wishes to acknowledge the support of the following volunteers, who have been invaluable in maintaining administrative duties in a timely and efficient manner.

Eddie OakleyJuli Triana Jose

Sponsorship and Major ContributionsDepartment of Heath and Ageing, CanberraDepartment of Human Services, VictoriaMicrosoft Pty Ltd

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President’s Report

In July 2008 the Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement hosted the 8th International Conference on Grief and Bereavement in Contemporary Society

in Melbourne. Our staff worked tirelessly to make the Conference the unmitigated success it was. It also saw our Director, Christopher Hall, acknowledged by peers for his important contribution to grief and bereavement education internationally. Chris also holds the membership portfolio on the board of the International Work Group on Death, Dying and Bereavement. The far-sightedness of the Victorian State Government and the expertise of the Director have provided a profoundly valuable service to the community.

Since the Centre’s creation in 1996, the field of grief and bereavement has been brought to new and unprecedented prominence, and calls upon it for advice, training and expertise have only increased. While we are honoured to be a part of such a vital service to those in need, the fact remains that we are increasingly squeezed between providing reliable and professional service and the pressures of insufficient office space and funding. Unfortunately this is the lot of many not-for-profit organisations. We continue to explore new funding areas and develop our business of providing education and training.

The Committee of Management is very proud of Christopher Hall. He continues to oversee new initiatives and improved service provision while maintaining a steady hand on the organisation’s finances. The time is drawing near when the Director will take long service leave. The Committee is confident that the systems he has put in place and the staff to execute them will see the organisation through

that period. The position of Deputy-Director is clearly crying out for funding, and has been for some time.

This year saw the ACGB complete the third year of the tender awarded by the Department of Human Service to operate the Statewide Specialist Bereavement Service, and enter the two-year option period. The work was new, the funding limited and there were difficult times for us. I must acknowledge the exceptional work done by Danielle Ricato in developing the growth and quality of the education program, and meticulous attention to budgeting by Julie Frowe.

We would like to express our respect and gratitude to Anne Giljohann, Manager of the Bereavement Counselling and Support Service. Following the tender, the counselling and bereavement support arm of the ACGB expanded rapidly and widely. For the first time in Victoria’s history, professional and free grief and bereavement services are now available in regional areas. The feedback clearly indicates that there has long been a desperate need for such services. Anne Giljohann’s expertise was recognised by her secondment to the Victorian Bushfire Reconstruction Authority where she undertook initial planning work in the development of bereavement support programs for those bereaved. The dedication shown every day by all BCSS staff is unwavering and heartfelt.

The members of the Committee of Management are all volunteers who give freely their time and expertise. Deputy President Dr June Allan, senior lecturer in the School of Global Studies, Social Science and Planning at RMIT, and Committee member Dr Geoff White, senior lecturer in the Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences at Monash University, have been with the Centre for some years now. Both Treasurer John

Patton, senior partner in Ernst and Young, and I joined in 1996. Our shared history of the organisation is of immeasurable benefit and provides stability.

Secretary Glynnis Hearn brought a wealth of experience from years at Very Special Kids, and generously stepped into the (volunteer) role of volunteer coordinator of the BCSS when things got too busy. Glynnis was also instrumental in the founding of the ACGB Choir.

Andrea Murphy, currently Executive Manager of Family Services at Very Special Kids, is another valuable member. Her warmth, professionalism and wide experience contributes enormously to many complex discussions. Twanny Farrugia, ACGB graduate, specialist in disability services and occasional educator at the Centre, has devoted years to volunteer committees and we are grateful for his input. Russell Edwards is well-known to the BCSS as the leader of the Younger Bereaved Partners support group. His decision to join the Committee reflects his on-going commitment to the work. Our newest member, Deirdra da George, has long experience in adult education and executive management. We feel very lucky to have her with us.

Every year our staff are asked to work harder. The February bushfires saw us respond rapidly and comprehensively to the urgent need for support, and provided a reminder that crises arise suddenly and without warning. The Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement was recently acknowledged in an international professional journal as a model for such organisations worldwide. I speak for all of us when I say we are privileged to continue to serve the Centre.

Adele Hulse

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Director’s Report

This reporting period commenced with the organisation hosting the 8th International Conference on Grief and Bereavement in Contemporary Society in Melbourne.

This conference brought together over 650 delegates from 17 countries under the banner of ‘Consequences of Loss: Resiliency and Complications in the Grief Experience’. The conference provided a unique opportunity for delegates to hear from leading researchers and practitioners in a program of workshops, world-class keynote lectures, symposia, and cutting-edge research papers. A central feature of the conference was the inclusion of the bereaved, through presentations, contributions of poetry and prose, and an exhibition of artistic works. An international scientific committee and local organising committee worked to deliver a first-class event, which was very warmly received by delegates. The Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement is now assisting the Association for Death Education and Counseling as they prepare for the 9th International Conference, to be held in Miami in 2011.The work of the organisation took a significant shift in focus following the devastating fires that struck Victoria on Saturday 7th February 2009. With as many as 400 fires recorded on this day we saw Australia’s highest ever loss of life from bushfire. A total of 173 people were confirmed to have died with around 500 injured, and of those who died, 20% were less than 24 years of age. The fires affected 78 individual townships in total and left an estimated 7,500 people homeless. ACGB staff have been actively involved in a wide range of activities including consultation, education, the provision of media comment, the writing of resource material and the development of a range of bereavement support initiatives. This will continue to be an important focus of

our work in the foreseeable future.The Centre has now successfully completed its first three-year contract with the Department of Health to operate a Statewide Specialist Bereavement Service. With activity in the areas of Leadership, Policy, Quality, Health Promotion, Capacity Building and Specialist Interventions, this has seen the development of many new programs and initiatives, which are outlined in this report. The organisation recently accepted an invitation from the Department of Health to renew its contract for an additional two years.The Centre continues to work closely with communities, organisations and practitioners throughout Victoria, and increasingly throughout Australia. Each month over 6,000 individuals receive The Grief Brief e-newsletter, which provides details of new initiatives, resources and local, national and international information. Our peer-reviewed journal Grief Matters: The Australian Journal of Grief and Bereavement, and our extensive education program also provide opportunities for professional development and growth. All of these and many other activities are all aimed at furthering our mission ‘to build the capacity of communities and individuals to enhance well-being following adverse life events’.I would like to acknowledge the financial support of the Department of Human Services, and in particular the invaluable support and encouragement of Amanda Bolleter, Ellen Sheridan and Jackie Kearney (Cancer Services and Palliative Care Unit).The committee of management continues to provide strong governance and leadership. I wish to particularly acknowledge the work of the president of that committee, Adele Hulse. Adele has provided skilled leadership and continuity over many years and is a passionate advocate for the staff and work of the organisation. The committee’s work in providing strong and stable governance and their support is highly valued.

I wish to particularly note the important contribution of the management team of Anne Giljohann (Manager – Bereavement Counselling and Support Service), Julie Frowe (Manager – Business Operations) and Danielle Ricato (Manager – Health Promotion and Education). Their energy, creativity and dedication play a central role in the operational success of the organisation.Also to be congratulated is the staff of the Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement, for their continuing and enthusiasm in delivering high quality and effective programs and services. Their dedication and belief in the importance of the work is considerable.Finally I would like to acknowledge the many bereavement support group facilitators, practitioner associates and administrative volunteers who undertake a range of important roles within the organisation. Their unrelenting commitment and compassionate support is invaluable. This report highlights many of the achievements of the Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement and describes an energetic, creative and effective organisation. Many challenges lay ahead, most notably our capacity to continue to provide viable, high quality and necessary services in the context of diminishing financial capacity. We also have challenges with appropriate accommodation and an increasingly ageing infrastructure.I look forward to working with government, committee of management, staff, volunteers and members in working collaboratively towards the vision of building the capacity of individuals, organisations and communities in order to enhance their well-being following bereavement and other adverse life events.

Christopher Hall

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Education

As the largest national provider of grief and bereavement education, the Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement offers a broad range of programs for professionals and the wider community.The planned Education calendar offers professional development sessions throughout metropolitan Melbourne, regional Victoria and interstate in Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide and Hobart. Education and training programs are offered as workshops, seminars, short and long courses and customised training.

Education programDuring 2008/2009, the Centre provided 701.5 hours of education and training to 4,027 participants nationally (excluding attendance at the 8th International Conference on Grief and Bereavement in Contemporary Society). Within metropolitan Melbourne, 113 hours of education were offered across 17 sessions, and were delivered to 483 participants. As in 2007/2008, strategy-based workshops featured within the program, and continued to be well attended. This year saw the return of some of the Centre’s most popular workshops and the introduction of some new topics to the training calendar. New programs include ‘Grief @ Work: Fresh Perspectives on Personal and Organisational Barriers and Opportunities for Workplace Grief’, ‘Exploring the Multiple Facets of Perinatal Death’, ‘Strategies for Working with Grief and Loss in Adults’ and ‘Working with Families and Grief’. Feedback for these new sessions has been positive. Programs within regional Victoria were delivered in various locations. This year, 64 hours of education, including community seminars, were attended by 198 participants within the five key regions. In addition to

the sessions offered within the Centre’s Education calendar, partnerships were formed with Support After Suicide and the Road Trauma Authority to deliver a series of cost-free ‘Responding to Trauma and Grief’ sessions in each region. These were well attended and also provided participants with vital networking opportunities.For the third consecutive year the Centre offered a range of training interstate as part of the Education calendar. These workshops continue to be successful with 91 hours of training being delivered to 292 participants. With the majority of sessions filled to capacity, this indicates the necessity to increase sessions being offered outside Victoria. There has been a noticeable increase in enquiries and requests for training from organisations and individuals from the west coast of Australia. We are aware of occasions when participants have travelled to other states to attend sessions offered by the Centre. The hope is to address this in forthcoming programs.

Courses At present the ACGB offers three bereavement education courses:1. Foundations in Bereavement Support (FBS) – an introductory

level course2. Vocational Graduate Certificate in Bereavement Counselling and

Intervention (VGCBCI) – an intermediate level course3. Intensive Certificate in Bereavement Counselling and Intervention

(ICBCI) – an advanced level course.In Semester Two 2008 there were 6 enrolments and 6 deferrals in the VGCBCI course, and 6 enrolments and 2 deferrals in the ICBCI course. The FBS course was not run in Semester Two 2008. Due to insufficient

Metropolitan Melbourne 57%Regional Victoria 23%Interstate 20%

Delivery Mode: Location Hours

Metropolitan Melbourne 58%Regional Victoria 23%Interstate 19%

Delivery Mode: Location Participants

Workshops 34%Community Seminars 3%Courses 25%Customised training 20%Guest Speaking 17%Specialist Educator 1%

Delivery Mode: Training Hours

Workshops 14%Community Seminars 4%Courses 0%Customised training 37%Guest Speaking 39%Specialist Educator 6%

Delivery Mode: Training Participants

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applications the FBS and ICBCI courses were cancelled in Semester One 2009. To date, 35 application forms have been sent out in the 2008/2009 year to prospective students for the VGCBCI 2010 course.In response to course cancellations and low student enrolments, a marketing strategy was developed early in 2009 to: a) establish a niche selling point, b) identify reasons for low student enquiries, applications and subsequent enrolments, and c) analyse more effective methods of marketing and course promotion. As a consequence, all three courses are now collectively marketed, labelled as introductory, intermediate and advanced level units of study, and are regularly promoted through the ACGB website, the Grief Brief, and inserts in Grief Matters: The Australian Journal of Grief and Bereavement. The marketing strategy has been effective, causing an increase in enrolments for Semester Two 2009. The new website is expected to have further impact, as this is the most common mode of first contact for seekers of course information. The ICBCI course has undergone considerable modification in Semester One 2009 and is now taught from four holistic perspectives (historical, sociological and cultural; clinical; developmental and practitioner), with fewer educators responsible for more sessions, resulting in a more conducive learning environment. The redesign of the ICBI course more closely reflects the course content and assessment requirements of the VGCBCI qualification.In anticipation of accreditation’s compliance procedures, a direct supervision strategy has been introduced to enhance the learning outcomes of students. This has included the production of guides providing advice on session planning, learning outcomes, adult learning principles, learning styles, questioning techniques and presentation skills. This direct supervision strategy forms part of the re-audit action plan recently submitted to the Victorian Qualification and Regulatory Authority.

Customised training The Centre offers a customised training service, providing high quality, specialised professional development sessions to organisations and groups. As in previous years, this service continues to play an important role within the Centre’s education program.In the 2008/2009 financial year, the Centre delivered 141.5 hours to 1,486 participants at 40 customised training sessions throughout metropolitan Melbourne, regional Victoria and interstate. There has been a significant growth in the demand for these sessions, with a substantial increase from the previous financial year. Some of the organisations that we have worked with this year include The Townsville Hospital, Barwon Health, Korowa Girls school, The

Dust Diseases Board, The Salvation Army Support Services, Vision Australia and Darwin Hospice.

PodcastsThe Centre aims to increase the accessibility of special presentations offered, by making them available as podcasts through the iTunes store. In the past year, podcasts of keynote presentations delivered at the 8th International Conference on Grief and Bereavement in Contemporary Society have been added. This has proven to be very popular with an increase in subscribers to this service.

8th International Conference on Grief and Bereavement in Contemporary Society The Centre was pleased to host the 8th International Conference on Grief and Bereavement in Contemporary Society in July 2008. With the theme of ‘Consequence of Loss: Resiliency and Complications in the Grief Experience’, the four day conference was attended by over 650 delegates from 17 countries. It provided a unique opportunity for local and international delegates to hear from leading researchers and practitioners in a program of interactive workshops, world-class keynote lectures, exciting symposia and research papers. Keynote speakers included Professor George Bonanno, Professor Grace Christ, Professor Mario Mikulincer, Professor Robert Neimeyer, Assoc. Professor Holly Prigerson, Emeritus Professor Beverley Raphael and Professor Margaret Stroebe. A trade exhibition was held in conjunction with the Conference, featuring the latest products and services providing delegates the most current information on grief and bereavement theory and practice. Cultural exhibits also featured at the Conference, including the art exhibition Beravement Reflections, and readings from the Rememberings book of poetry and prose.A highlight of the week’s events was the Conference dinner, attended by 112 delegates. It gave attendees the opportunity to enjoy themselves in an entertaining and relaxed setting.Professor Robert Neimeyer conducted a preconference workshop entitled ‘Meaning-Breaking, Meaning-Making: Grief Therapy as Narrative Reconstruction’. The workshop examined adaptation to bereavement through attachment theory and meaning reconstruction models, and addressed new evidence around the variety of pathways that people follow through bereavement. Attended by 235 participants, it proved a welcome addition and complimented the conference program. The conference was an extreme success and provided delegates with the unique opportunity to network with fellow social workers, psychologists and psychotherapists from around Australia and internationally.

L-R: Christopher Hall, Prof. Mario Mikulincer & Prof. Robert Neimeyer after the final plenary at the Conference

10

The ACGB Bereavement Counselling and Support Service operates a statewide specialist bereavement service for Victoria.The service aims to be responsive to the varying needs of bereaved individuals, children and families who need assistance following the death of someone close to them, offering a range of services and programs and recognises that different things help different people. We aim to ensure that services are accessible by offering free or low cost services, by having flexibility in the delivery of the services and by having services in a range of locations, as well as an outreach service visiting house-bound people in their homes.In addition, bereavement advice and consultation is available for professionals and non-professionals, and opportunities are provided for training and gaining experience to work in the field of bereavement. The major issue for the BCSS until February 2009 was the need for additional resources for the work in rural Victoria. The five regional workers are under serious pressure to find a workable way to provide a meaningful service in the regions with half time positions. However, in February, Black Saturday and the widespread and catastrophic bushfires changed the focus for the organisation.

Bushfire responseImmediately following the bushfires many people contacted ACGB to volunteer their assistance. Over the ensuing weeks BCSS staff screened these offers of assistance, and responded to enquiries from the public and bereaved people. Several new Practitioner Associates were recruited to provide outreach bereavement counselling to people bereaved through the bushfires, and some people were seen for office-based counselling. In June 2009 we were notified of additional funding for five half-time Bushfire Specialist Bereavement Counsellors to be located in Broadford, Eltham, Kyneton and Traralgon. Also in June 2009 the Manager of BCSS was seconded to work on a project in partnership with the Victorian Bushfire Reconstruction and Recovery Authority and the DHS, funded by the Bushfire Appeal Fund. The project will develop a plan for twelve support groups for people bereaved through the bushfires, which will be run in bushfire-affected and metropolitan locations.The DHS also requested ACGB provide training in responding to grief and bereavement for Bushfire Case Managers. Some Centre staff will be involved in the development and delivery of this training.

Who provides the services?At the end of June 2009 the BCSS has 13 paid staff (7.3 EFT), 11 intern bereavement counsellors (experienced counsellors undertaking advanced training in bereavement counselling), 47 Practitioner Associates (qualified bereavement counsellors working voluntarily), and 62 other active volunteers – including a voluntary volunteer coordinator, support group facilitators, administrative assistants, newsletter and other committee members, speakers, massage therapist, and bereavement support companions. Wherever possible, past clients are encouraged to become involved in the planning and delivery of services, which keeps the programs fresh and responsive.

Bereavement CounsellingDuring 2008/2009, 525 people across Victoria requested bereavement counselling, compared with 436 in 2007/2008, an increase of 20%. Many of these people also received other services, including: literature about grief, The Rosemary Branch newsletter, attended the Ceremony of Remembrance, received massage, contributed to art and poetry collections, attended Information Evenings, Meditation Groups, and bereavement support groups. 534 people registered for bereavement support groups, compared with 288 in 2008/2009. We are also reaching more people who are marginalised and disadvantaged.

Bereavement Counselling & Support Service

0

50

100

150

200

250

BacchusMarsh

BarwonSW

Clayton Darebin Epping Gippsland Grampians Hume LoddonMallee

Outreach Ringwood

12

36

311

40 3545 39

74

3

227

Number of clients at each location 2008/2009

Total = 525

11

Regional Specialist Bereavement ServiceFive regional specialist bereavement counsellors are employed half-time and are located at Geelong, Bendigo, Ballarat, Mooroopna and Moe. 70% of their time is allocated for direct service – counselling, support groups etc. – and 30% for capacity building – providing advice and consultation to workers in regional specialist and mainstream services, and developing or supporting local networks of practitioners. Each worker has an Advisory Group comprised of key local professionals, which provide support and guidance in the development of regional services. The regional workers are also establishing bereavement support groups in response to need.Working in rural areas brings special challenges, which are exacerbated by many years of drought, climate change, economic constraints and scarce services and resources.

The five Department of Human Services rural regions – Barwon South West, Grampians, Loddon Mallee, Hume and Gippsland and location of Statewide Specialist Service Bereavement counsellors

Gippsland

Barwon South Western

Grampians

Loddon Mallee

Hume

0 50

Kilometres

100

Metropolitan

including Department of Human Services regional boundaries

Department of Human Services regional boundariesbased on Local Government Areas

Australian Standard Geographical Classification 1 July 2004

Regional Victoria

Bendigo •

• Mooroopna

• Moe

• Ballarat

• Geelong

Child - adult Child - friend Friend Other Parent Sibling Spouse/partner

48

2816

69

176

46

142

0

50

100

150

200

Accident Bushfire Cancer ChronicIllness

Homicide Other Sudden Suicide

65

157

42

57

4

18

63

0

50

100

150

200

119

Relationship to Deceased 2008/2009Causes of death 2008/2009

Total = 525Total = 525

12

Outreach bereavement counsellor with a family group

Free Regional Seminars As part of the Regional Program, a series of free seminars hosted by ACGB regional workers have been held across Victoria. The seminars, ‘Responding to Grief and Trauma’, were jointly presented by the ACGB, the Road Trauma Support Team, and Support After Suicide, and funded by Support After Suicide.

Community Outreach ServiceThis service complements the office-based counselling by offering bereavement counselling and the more informal support of a Bereavement Support Companion to people who are housebound and/or isolated because of physical, mental or emotional disability.

Telephone counsellingWhen unable to provide a counsellor to undertake an outreach visit, telephone counselling by practitioner associates provides an important role and links people into the service. As the population ages this service will continue to grow. Feedback received for this service continues to be positive.

BCSS FundThis small discretionary fund has been established for the exclusive use of clients of the BCSS who are experiencing financial hardship as a direct result of bereavement. It provides one-off payments of up to $500. BCSS runs fundraising activities from time to time to maintain the fund.

ACGB ChoirA small occasional choir formed of clients, staff, and volunteers from other organisations. The choir met for five rehearsals and then performed at BCSS’ annual December Forum. The inspiring choir leader is a key member of the ACGB community.

Toll free telephone servicesThese two toll free telephone services are answered by BCSS staff on weekdays during office hours: 1) Bereavement Information and Referral Service: available to the general public and health professionals seeking information about bereavement services across Victoria. 2) Practitioner Consultancy Service: available to health practitioners for advice and consultation regarding complex bereavement situations.

Bereavement Practice News e-newsletterThis e-newsletter complements the Practitioner Consultancy Service, and brings up-to-date information and resource material to practitioners who are working with bereaved people, particularly those in agencies where loss, grief and bereavement is only one of a range of areas of work.

The Rosemary BranchA working group comprised of staff, volunteers and past clients produces this newsletter for our clients four times a year. Many contributions are received for the newsletter, and feedback indicates it is a valuable service.

Resource materialsA collection of literature is available for bereaved people, as well as a collection of articles of interest for bereavement counsellors. These can now be emailed upon request.

8th International Conference on Grief and Bereavement in Contemporary Society.

RememberingsA booklet of poetry and prose entitled Rememberings was compiled with 60 entries from bereaved people. Entries are being collected for a second volume.

13

Bereavement Reflections art exhibition

Bereavement Reflections art exhibitionAn art exhibition entitled Bereavement Reflections was held at the Conference with 43 entries from bereaved people, sharing reflections of grief and bereavement.

Information EveningsThe BCSS holds Information Evenings every second month. These evenings support people who are bereaved and who are on the waiting list for counselling, and the general public, and is advertised through the ACGB website and community radio announcements.

Other servicesMassage therapy: a qualified massage therapist volunteers her services half-a-day each week for bereaved people, volunteers and staff. ‘A Time to Remember’: an annual non-religious, non-denominational ceremony of remembrance for those involved with the BCSS programs during the past three years. A committee of staff, volunteers and past clients plan and run the ceremony.

Bereavement Support GroupsIn 2008/2009, 534 people registered for 22 bereavement support groups across Victoria. Of these groups, 15 were located in metropolitan Melbourne, while 7 were based in regional Victoria (2 each in Barwon-South West, Hume, Grampians and 1 in Loddon Mallee). At the same time the previous year there were 9 groups. Many of these groups are run in partnership with other organisations across the state. This is a rapidly expanding program, and many volunteers work under the supervision and guidance of staff to make these groups available.

‘Creative Journey Through Bereavement’ WorkshopsBCSS and Road Trauma Support Services Victoria partnered to provide a series of workshops, which aimed to acknowledge that sometimes the spoken word fails to express our grief. Each workshop incorporated a different creative style that encouraged an expression of emotion. The four workshops offered were art, writing, music and self-care. At the time of writing, all but the self-care workshops have taken place.

Dabble in the Arts workshop

Support for CounsellorsSupervision and professional development: all paid and volunteer staff receive support and supervision relevant to the tasks they undertake. Counsellors’ supervision: supervision, case presentation and professional development opportunities are provided. Supervision supports counsellors to integrate loss and grief theory into their practice. A discussion group for counsellors: an experienced practitioner associate facilitates a small informal discussion group for practitioner associates to provide support and encouragement for the potentially emotionally demanding and isolating nature of the work.

14

Membership, Information & Resources

Memberships & Journal SubscriptionsThe Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement offers memberships and subscriptions to individuals and organisations, on both national and international levels. Members are offered a variety of benefits and exclusive opportunities to access resources and information. These include:• ReceiptofGrief Matters: The Australian Journal of Grief and

Bereavement three times per year• Discountedmemberratesforseminarsandworkshopsofferedby

the Centre• Receiptofthemembers’newsletterConnections and email newsletter

the Grief Brief• ExclusiveopportunitytosubscribetotheJournalTableofContents

Update Service• DiscountsonmostbookspurchasedatOpenLeavesbookshop• AccesstotheAustralianCentreforGriefandBereavement

Reference Library• VotingrightsattheAnnualGeneralMeeting,scheduledfor

Monday 19th October, 2009.

Free member functionsNot only can membership to the Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement be taken out for individuals and organisations, the Centre also offers a discounted rate for students and concession cardholders. Individuals and organisations based outside Victoria or overseas may choose to only subscribe to the journal Grief Matters: The Australian Journal of Grief and Bereavement, rather than taking out a membership. In the last financial year, the Centre has been proud to provide services to approximately 347 members, 70 journal subscribers, and 71 subscribers to the Journal Table of Contents Update Service. The success of the 8th International Conference on Grief and Bereavement in Contemporary Society in July 2008, and the forthcoming International Educator Tour of 2009, have raised public awareness of the Centre and led to a steady increase in memberships.

Resources GuideThe Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement now has an extensive number of resources available pertaining to grief, loss and bereavement. These resources are available for purchase by professionals working the field of grief and loss, and members of the public who are bereaved or offering support to others. The publication of our comprehensive Resource Guide enables clients to review the resources available, assess their suitability, and purchase as required. The Centre has maintained relationships with several well-known international authors and organisations including Prof. Robert

Neimeyer, Tom Golden, Cruse Bereavement Care UK, The Dougy Center for Grieving Children and Families in the USA, and the Skylight Foundation in New Zealand, in order to provide a wide variety of resources. In addition to this, a June 2009 revision of the Resource Guide included a book on suicide loss which was co-authored by our International Specialist Educator for 2009, Dr John Jordan. Resources can be purchased from the Centre by completing a resource order form, or by contacting the Centre directly.

Grief Matters: The Australian Journal of Grief and BereavementGrief Matters: The Australian Journal of Grief and Bereavement is produced three times annually, and informs health professionals and those working with bereaved people of current research and practice in loss and grief.Each issue of Grief Matters focuses on a particular theme. During 2008/2009, the issues published had the following themes: ‘Grief and intellectual disability’, ‘Rural and regional grief’ and ‘Suicide’.Contributors included: Charlene Luchterhand, Vivenne Riches, Sue Read, Louise Harms, Bridie Keating, Nella Charles, and Franca Butera-Prinzi; Victoria R. Jones, Elizabeth A. Yuile, Anne Giljohann, Shane Brabazon, Evelyn Chittleborough, Sally Cody, Rosie Petschack, Jennifer Wilson, Susan W. Gray, and Herb Wilker; John R. Jordan, Diana Sands, and Louise Flynn.Individuals and organisations outside of Victoria can subscribe to the journal. In addition, people can also purchase individual copies of back-issues at full price, or at discounted prices for bulk orders of older editions, or the complete set of back-issues. This has become a very popular practice for those people wishing to purchase copies focusing on particular themes. In June 2009, a Grief Matters’ special of three issues for $30.00 offered in the Grief Brief received such a phenomenal response from members and subscribers that it has been extended to meet this interest.

Grief Matters Summer 2008 77

GriefMattersThe Australian Journal of Grief and Bereavement

Summer 2008Volume 11 / Number 3

Contents EditorialChristopher Hall 79Bridging the Great Divide: Everyday Conversations about GriefVictoria R. Jones, Elizabeth A. Yuile 80Emerging Challenges for Rural Specialist Bereavement CounsellorsAnne Giljohann, Shane Brabazon, Evelyn Chittleborough, Sally Cody, Rosie Petschack, Jennifer Wilson 84

Another Look at Bereavement Groups in Rural Communities: Using Solution-Focussed Brief Therapy to Foster ResiliencySusan W. Gray, Herb Wilker 88 Book Reviews 98 Abstracts 100

GriefMatters08Summer11-3PRESS.indd 77 12/1/09 1:49:45 PM

Grief Matters Autumn 2009 1


Autumn 2009Volume 12 / Number 1

Contents EditorialChristopher Hall 3After Suicide: Clinical Work With SurvivorsJohn R. Jordan 4A Tripartite Model of Suicide Grief: Meaning-Making and the Relationship With the Deceased Diana Sands 10

Is Suicide Bereavement Different? The Experience of Support After SuicideLouise Flynn 18Book Reviews 26

Abstracts 28

GriefMatters09Autumn12-1 PRESS.indd 1 27/05/09 4:30 PM

Grief Matters Winter 2008 41


Winter 2008Volume 11 / Number 2

Contents EditorialChristopher Hall 43Death Education and Grief Support for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities: A Hidden NeedCharlene Luchterhand 44Unrecognised and Unsupported: Grief Among People with Intellectual DisabilityDr Vivienne Riches 48Loss, Bereavement, Counselling and Support: An Intellectual Disability PerspectiveDr Sue Read 54

Traumatic Loss and Growth: The Unique Challenges of Living with Acquired Brain InjuryDr Louise Harms, Ms Bridie Keating 60Acquired Brain Injury: Reconstructing Meaning Following Traumatic GriefNella Charles, Franca Butera-Prinzi 64 Book Reviews 70 Abstracts 72

GriefMatters08Winter11-COVER.indd 41 29/09/09 12:40 PM

Grief Matters: The Australian Journal of Grief and Bereavement, 2008/2009 editions

15

Reference LibraryThe Library at the Centre provides a valuable reference service to staff, counsellors, educators, members, students and the general public. Although not a lending library, members and interested parties can visit and photocopy required material. The Library offers a range of books, journals, newsletters, videos, audio, CDs and DVDs. The collection has been expanded during the 2008/2009 year. In August 2008, computerised library management software – ‘Athenaeum Pro’, was purchased. The Centre also joined the National Library of Australia’s ‘Libraries Australia’ service. This has helped in starting the project of converting the out-of-date card catalogue into a computerised catalogue. About half of the book collection has now been catalogued. A document listing the library’s collection is also available on the Centre’s website. When the conversion project is completed, it is planned to replace this document with the computerised catalogue.

Journal Table of Contents Update ServiceFirst offered to members in 2002, this service is available to members of the Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement. Members have the opportunity to subscribe to this service at a nominal fee, which enables subscribers to receive, three times a year, the tables of contents of the journals received by the Library. Subscribers may then request up to four articles from each issue. This continues to be a popular service and the number of subscribers has increased over the past year.

Sympathy PinIntroduced in 2001, the Sympathy Pin continues to be a strong symbolic representation of the experience of loss. Members of the general public, as well as organisations and agencies dealing with grieving people, can purchase the pin for themselves, to give to a loved one, or to present to clients. The Sympathy Pin is

distributed through the Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement and all proceeds go towards enhancing services and programs offered by the Centre.

WebsiteThe Centre’s website, http://www.grief.org.au, continues to attract both local and international interest, and serves as an important point of contact for both grieving people and those who care for them. There were also many visitors to the dedicated website for the 8th International Conference of Grief and Bereavement in Contemporary Society’s. At present, grief.org.au is being redesigned, and the new site will be launched in October 2009.

The ACGB’s redesigned website

Grief and Bereavement Journal ClubThe Centre enjoys offering the Grief and Bereavement Journal Club, which meets quarterly. The journal club provides an opportunity for the informal and relaxed discussion of recent research findings in the grief and bereavement field. Upon registering to attend a journal club meeting, participants are then emailed a copy of the article that will be discussed at that particular meeting. In 2008/2009, the Centre was proud to host the journal club at three sites across metropolitan Melbourne.

The Grief BriefFebruary 2009 saw the reinvention of The Grief Brief as an e-newsletter, which provides details of new initiatives, resources and local, national and international information in the field of loss, grief and bereavement. This is an extremely popular service, and is received each month by over 6,000 subscribers.

16

Financial Report

The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.

Statement By The Committee of Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement Inc. for the Financial Year Ended 30 June 2009

In the opinion of the members of the Committee the financial report as set out on pages 1 to 11

a| Presents fairly the financial position of the Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement Inc. as at 30 June 2009 and its performance for the year ended on that date in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards, mandatory professional reporting requirements and other authoritative pronouncements of the

Australian Accounting Standards Board.

b| At the date of this statement there are reasonable grounds to believe that the Centre will be able to pay its debts as and when they fall due.

This statement is made in accordance with a resolution of the Committee and is signed for and on behalf of the Committee by :

President

Adele Hulse

Treasurer

John Patton

Clayton, 19 October, 2009

Operating Statement for the Year Ended 30 June 2009

Note2009

$2008

$

Revenues from ordinary activities 2 1,607,170 1,088,854

Employee expenses (921,822) (897,183)

Depreciation and amortisation expenses

(19,822) (19,095)

Other expenses from ordinary activities

(783,897) (472,751)

Loss from ordinary activities before income tax expense

3 (118,371) (300,175)

17


Balance Sheet as at 30 June 2009

Note2009

$2008

$

Current Assets

Cash & Cash Equivalents 4 404,063 573,811

Other 5 37,292 239,374

Total Current Assets 441,355 813,185

Non Current Assets

Property, Plant and Equipment 6 62,767 79,670

Total Non Current Assets 62,767 79,670

Total Assets 504,122 892,855

Current Liabilities

Payables 7 248,619 534,376

Provisions 8 117,980 102,585

Total Current Liabilities 366,599 636,961

Total Liabilities 366,599 636,961

Net Assets 137,523 255,894

Equity

Retained Profits 9 137,523 255,894

Total Equity 137,523 255,894

Statement of Recognised Income and Expense for the Year Ended 30 June 2009

Net Loss for the year (118,371) (300,175)

Other items taken directly to equity in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards

- -

Total recognised income and expense for the year

(118,371) (300,175)

Cash Flow Statement for the Year Ended 30 June 2009

Notes2009

$2008

$

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

Receipts from

- Government Grants 877,976 825,000

- Subscriptions (Memberships & Journals)

44,209 44,123

- Seminars, Workshops, Courses & Other Income

547,584 715,392

Interest Received 6,596 19,198

Payments to suppliers and employees

(1,643,194) (1,658,957)

Net cash used by operating activities

13b (166,829) (55,244)

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES

Proceeds of Sale of Assets - -

Fixed asset purchases (2,919) (20,511)

Net Cash used by investing activities

(2,919) (20,511)

NET DECREASE IN CASH HELD

(169,748) (75,755)

Cash at the beginning of the financial year

573,811 649,566

Cash at the end of the financial year 13a 404,063 573,811

18


Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 30 June 2008

Note 1: Statement of Significant Accounting PoliciesThis financial report is a general purpose financial report that has been prepared in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards, other authoritative pronouncements of the Accounting Standards Board and the requirements of the Association Incorporations Act Victoria. The financial report has been prepared on an accruals basis and is based on historical costs and does not take into account changing money values or, except where stated, Current valuations of non-Current assets. Cost is based on the fair values of the consideration given in exchange for assets.The following is a summary of the material accounting policies adopted by the Centre in the preparation of the financial report. The accounting policies have been consistently applied, unless otherwise stated.

a| DepreciationThe depreciable amounts of all fixed assets are depreciated on a straight line basis over the useful lives of the assets to the Centre commencing from the time the asset is held ready for use.

b| RevenueSubscription and membership income is recognised on a pro-rata basis over the term of the membership. Income from seminars and workshops is recognised on delivery of the service.

c| Income Tax The Centre is exempt from income tax.

d| Property Plant & EquipmentEach class of property, plant & equipment are carried at cost less, where applicable, any accumulated depreciation.The carrying amount of office furniture & equipment and vehicles is reviewed annually by the Board to ensure it is not in excess of the recoverable amount from those assets. The recoverable amount is assessed on the basis of the expected net cash flow which will be received from the assets’ employment and subsequent disposal. The expected net cash flows have not been discounted to present values in determining recoverable amounts.

The depreciable amount of all fixed assets are depreciated on a straight line basis over the useful lives of the assets to the centre commencing from the time of the asset is held ready for use.

The depreciation rates used for each class of depreciable asset are:

Class of Fixed Asset Depreciation Rate

Office Furniture & Equipment 5-20%

Motor Vehicles 12.5%

e| Employee EntitlementsProvision is made for the Centre’s liability for employee entitlements arising from services rendered by employees at balance date. Employee entitlements to annual leave have been measured at their nominal amount. Provision has been made for Long Service Leave for employees with service in excess of seven years on the basis of the probability of reaching legal entitlement. That part of the liability that represents entitlements of employees who have unconditional right to access their entitlement is classified as a Current liability.

Contributions are made by the Centre to an employee superannuation fund and are charged as expenses when incurred.

f| CashFor the purpose of the Statement of Cash Flows, cash includes cash on hand, at banks and on deposit.

g| RevenueInterest receivable is recognised on a proportional basis taking into account the interest rates applicable to the financial assets.

All revenue is stated net of the amount of goods and services tax (GST).

19


h| International Financial Reporting Standards

Following the adoption of Australian equivalents to International Financial Reporting Standards (AIFRS), the Centre has prepared and presented its financial report and other accountability statements in compliance with AIFRS framework for the financial year ended 30 June 2009.Under AIFRS, there are requirements that apply specifically to not-for-profit entities that are not consistent with IFRS requirements. The Centre has analysed its purpose, objectives, and operating philosophy and determined that it does not have profit generation as a prime objective. Consequently, where appropriate, the Centre has elected to apply options and exemptions within the AIFRS that are applicable to not-for-profit entities.

i| Accounting Standards not yet operativeThe Board has reviewed Australian Standards issued and not yet operative and determined, that whilst a number will apply to the Centre in subsequent years, none will have a material effect on the reported results of the Centre.

2009 2008

Note 2: Revenue from Ordinary Activities $ $

Operating Activities

- Subscriptions (Memberships & Journals)

43,336 41,881

- Seminars, Workshops & Certificate Courses

149,921 250,175

- Consulting & Projects 39,662 -

- Government Grants 798,160 750,000

- International Conference 520,284 -

- Other 49,211 27,600

- Interest received 6,596 19,198

Total Revenue from Operating Activities

1,607,170 1,088,854

2009 2008

Note 3: Loss from Ordinary Activities $ $

Loss from ordinary activities before income tax expense has been determined after deduction of all appropriate expenses including:

a) Expenses

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment

19,822 19,095

Remuneration of auditor

- Audit or review services 5,420 3,350

- Other Services - -

Total Remuneration 5,420 3,350

b) Other Significant expenses

The following expense items are relevant in explaining the financial performance.

Counselling Clinic & Support Group Expenses

39,958 41,190

Publications & Promotions 27,601 42,076

Accreditation 6,664 39,116

Education Program 153,323 164,572

International Conference Costs 425,695 -

Staffing Related 921,822 897,183

Administration 105,190 142,511

Rent 32,964 40,988

Funded Projects 19,803 -

Note 4: Cash & Cash Equivalents

Cash on hand 150 150

Cash at bank 403,913 573,661

404,063 573,811

Note 5: Other AssetsSundry Debtors 13,520 24,235

Less Provision for Doubtful Debts - -

Prepayments 23,772 215,139

37,292 239,374

20


2009 2008

Note 6: Property, Plant And Equipment $ $

a) Property, Plant & Equipment

Office Furniture & Equipment - at cost

261,431 258,512

Less accumulated depreciation 213,856 197,872

47,575 60,640

Motor Vehicle - at cost 30,702 30,702

Less accumulated depreciation 15,510 11,672

15,192 19,030

62,767 79,670

b) Movements in Carrying AmountsMovement in the carrying amounts for each class of property, plant and equipment between the beginning and the end of the current financial year.

2009 2009

Office Furniture &

Equipment

Motor Vehicle

$ $

Balance at the beginning of the year 60,640 19,030

Additions 2,919 -

Depreciation expense (15,984) (3,838)

Carrying amount at the end of the year

47,575 15,192

2008 2008

Office Furniture &

Equipment

Motor Vehicle

$ $

Balance at the beginning of the year 55,386 22,868

Additions 20,511 -

Depreciation expense (15,257) (3,838)

Carrying amount at the end of the year

60,640 19,030

2009 2008

Note 7: Payables $ $

Creditors & Accrued Expenses 39,369 77,986

Other Income in Advance 209,250 456,390

248,619 534,376

Note 8: Provisions

Provisions for Employee Entitlements

- Long Service Leave (Note 1(e)) 34,115 31,322

- Annual Leave 83,865 71,263

117,980 102,585

Note 9: Retained Profits

Retained profits at the beginning of the financial year

255,894 556,069

Net profit/(loss) attributable to the Centre

(118,371) (300,175)

Retained profits at the end of the financial year

137,523 255,894

Note 10: Financial Instruments(i) Terms, conditions and accounting policiesThe Centre’s terms, conditions and accounting policies of financial instruments (cash at bank, debtors and creditors) are those adopted by businesses in Australia generally. All financial assets and Liabilities are carried at cost or amortised cost.

(ii) Net Fair valuesThe net fair values of the Centre’s financial assets and Liabilities are not expected to be significantly different from each class of asset and liability as recognised in the balance sheet as at 30th June, 2009.

(iii) Risks and mitigationThe risks associated with our main financial instruments and the Centre’s policies for minimising these risks is detailed below.

21


Interest rate riskInterest rate risk refers to the risk that the value of a financial instrument or cash flows associated with the instrument will fluctuate due to changes in market interest rates. Interest rate risk arises from interest bearing financial assets that we use. Interest bearing assets are all short term liquid assets.Interest rate risk is managed by retaining all liquid funds in a cash account earning interest at Current rates that are varied daily in accordance with market fluctuations.

Market riskMarket risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of our financial instruments will fluctuate because of changes in market prices. The Centre’s exposures to market risk are primarily through interest rate risk with only insignificant exposure to other price risks and no exposure to foreign currency risk. Components of market risk to which we are exposed are discussed below.

Credit riskCredit risk is the risk that a contracting entity will not complete its obligations under a financial instrument and cause us to make a financial loss. We have exposure to credit risk on all financial assets included in our balance sheet. To help manage this risk the Centre maintains most of its financial assets in a recognised Australian Bank and otherwise contracts with a large number of patrons in relatively small amounts.

Liquidity riskLiquidity risk includes the risk that, as a result of our operational liquidity requirements: the Centre will not have sufficient funds to settle a transaction on the date; the Centre will be forced to sell financial assets at a value which is less than what they are worth; or the Centre may be unable to settle or recover a financial asset at all. To manage these risks the Centre maintains all of its operating funds in at call bank accounts and monitors its cash flow requirements closely.

(iv) Interest Rate SensitivityThe Centre is not exposed to material interest rate sensitivity.

(v) Composition and Maturity Analysis

2009

Interest Free Floating Interest Rate

Settlement within one

year

Financial Assets

Cash & Cash equivalents

150 403,913 404,063

Receivables 13,520 - 13,520

Financial Liabilities

Payables 39,369 - 39,369

2008

Interest Free Floating Interest Rate

Settlement within one

year

Financial Assets

Cash & Cash equivalents

150 543,661 543,811

Receivables 24,235 - 24,235

Financial Liabilities

Payables 77,986 - 77,986

Note 11: Segment ReportingThe Centre operates in the specialised educational sector providing training to professionals and non-professionals in the field of grief management. The Centre provides these services primarily in Victoria but conducts significant activities in most other states also.

Note 12: Service DetailsThe principal place of business of the Centre is:McCulloch HouseMonash Medical Centre246 Clayton Road Clayton Victoria 3168

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2008 2007

$ $

Note 13: Cash Flow

a) Reconciliation of Cash

Cash on hand 150 150

Cash at bank 403,913 573,661

404,063 573,811

b) Reconciliation of net cash provided

(Loss)/Profit from ordinary activities after income tax

(118,371) (300,175)

Non cash flows in profit from ordinary activities

Depreciation 19,822 19,095

Changes in assets and liabilities

(Increase)/Decrease in Debtors 10,715 1,706

(Increase)/Decrease in Prepayments

191,367 (210,844)

Increase/(Decrease) in Creditors & Accrued Expenses

(38,617) 25,707

Increase/(Decrease) in Income in Advance

(247,140) 387,473

Increase/(Decrease) in Provisions 15,395 21,794

Net cash used in operating activities

(166,829) (55,244)

c) The Centre has no credit standby or financing facilities in place.

Note 14: Related Party TransactionsDuring the year the following members were Members of the Committee:

Adele Hulse John PattonJune AllenGeoff WhiteGlynnis HearneRussell EdwardsTwanny FarrugiaAndrea Murphy

Deirdra da George

The key management personnel, as defined by Accounting Standard AASB 124, held during the year were: Director, Manager – Business Operations, Manager – Education Programs, Manager – Bereavement Counselling and Support Service.

The aggregate compensation for key management personnel for the year were:

2009 2008

$ $

a) Short term employee benefits 347,012 334,617

b) Post-employment benefits - -

c) Other Long term benefits - -

d) Termination benefits - -

e) Share-based payment - -

There are no other Related Party Transactions for the financial year ended 30 June 2009.

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Independent Audit Report to the Members of Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement Inc

Report on the Financial Report

We have audited the accompanying financial report of the Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement Inc. (the Centre) which comprises the Balance Sheet as at 30 June 2009 and the Income Statement, Statement of Recognised Income and Expense and Cash Flow Statement for the year ended on that date, a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory notes and the Statement by Members of the

Board of Management.

Committee’s Responsibility for the Financial Report

The Committee of the Centre is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the financial report in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations) and the Associations Incorporation Act (Vic) 1981. This responsibility includes establishing and maintaining internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of the financial report that is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error; selecting and applying appropriate accounting policies; and making accounting estimates that are reasonable in the circumstances.

Auditor’s ResponsibilityOur responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial report based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. These Auditing Standards require that we comply with relevant ethical requirements relating to audit engagements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance whether the financial report is free from material misstatement.

An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial report. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgment, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial report, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair presentation of the financial report in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by the Committee, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial report.

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

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Independent Audit Report to the Members of Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement Inc

Independence

In conducting our audit, we have complied with the independence requirements of Australian professional ethical pronouncements.

Auditor’s OpinionIn our opinion:The financial report of the Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement Inc. is in accordance with Section 30(3A) of the Associations Incorporation Act (Vic) 1981, including:

a| giving a true and fair view of the Centre’s financial position as at 30 June 2009 and of their performance for the year ended on that date; and

b| complying with Australian Accounting Standards (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations) and the Associations Incorporation Act (Vic) 1981.

UHY Haines Norton Chartered Accountants

Richard J Lindner, MelbourneDated this 19th day of October 2009Liability limited under a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation

Documents

The Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement...Graduate Certificate in Bereavement Counselling and Intervention accredited with the Victorian Registrations and Qualifications Authority