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2021-22 Annual Report
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Acknowledgement of Country Momentum Collective acknowledges all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as Australia’s First Nations peoples. As the Traditional Custodians of the lands, we recognise their culture, history and connection to the land, sea and sky on which we live and work. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging and extend that respect to all our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients, staff, partners and stakeholders.
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Contents
Chairman’s Report
4 5 6 8
CEO Report
Messages of Support
Who We Are
Vision, Purpose, Values Our Board Our Leadership Team Our Impact
12 14
Community Housing & Property Community Housing Boost Asset Improvements New Disability Centre in Grafton
New Affordable Housing New Cadetship Program Youth Accommodation and Support Program Community & Client Services
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Specialist Homelessness Services Alliance Partners Child, Youth and Family Programs Disability & Mental Health Services
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Empower Team Supported Employment Supported Living Residential Rehabilitation Our People
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Navigating Our Way Through The Floods Outcomes Framework Employee Recognition Awards Community Organisation Award Reconciliation Action Plan 2021 – 2023 Our Community & Partners Reconciliation and NAIDOC Week 2022 Our Partnership with Titans Together Donations & Supporters Governance
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40 42
Financial Summary
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Chairman’s Report
Andrew Weil Chairman
A stand-out achievement for me this year was receiving the “Casino Award for Recognition of Reconciliation in a Community Organisation” nominated and voted by the Casino community for our organisation’s Reconciliation Action Plan initiatives. Momentum Collective has experienced many significant changes over the course of 2021-22, and the ongoing commitment of staff, volunteers, donors and leadership team remains strong. To my fellow directors, thank you for your continued support and dedication to the good governance of Momentum Collective so we can continue to improve our clients’ quality of life. The board would like to thank our staff for their ongoing contribution and enthusiasm.
Reflecting on the past year, I am heartened by the resilience demonstrated by our clients, staff and communities. Together we overcame the disruptions of the pandemic and weathered the severe weather events and catastrophic floods. I applaud all the efforts in responding to the immediate crisis, supporting each other to relocate where possible and rallying again for the cleanup. We certainly lived our value of working well together. At the end of FY22, Momentum Collective is in a strong and healthy financial position with $50M in revenue and a modest, yet sustainable surplus. This surplus is essential for investing in strategic initiatives and provisions for future growth. The FY22 $50M revenue result is important to note as it evidences increased services for our clients and employment opportunities in our regional areas. There were two main contributors for this result. The first was significant growth in our Disability Services, which grew 13% to $30M and now accounts for 60% of our revenue. The second factor was receiving much-needed and welcomed government assistance. The federal government assisted with the NDIS financial support measures and the COVID-19 funding package to support our frontline services working with people experiencing domestic and family violence. Momentum Collective has come a long way, especially in the last five years, almost doubling its turnover and number of employees. It has adapted and evolved to become a major player in the regional community service sector. As Chair, I am particularly proud of how the organisation has unified over this time and continues to evolve and adapt to the external and internal environment.
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CEO Report
Tracey Mackie CEO
As part of the new organisational structure, we launched our Integrated Service Model. Conducting a review of our current services, technology and programs, we collaborated across divisions to create a company-wide plan for the future. We mapped our client journey and have developed the new Client Outcomes framework to support clients achieve their goals. Moreover, I would like to extend an enormous thank you to our partners for their ongoing contribution towards our work. It is organisations like GIVIT, who donated $30K in vouchers, that helped us to provide immediate relief to our flood-impacted staff and clients. Every partner we work with reaffirms our purpose and values and I am so proud of our new Titan’s Community Partnership. Together we have carved a pathway towards greater social and sports inclusion by collaborating with the Titan’s Leagueability team, creating opportunities for our clients to participate in activities meaningful to them. I am exceptionally grateful to all of our volunteers and employees who show up every day for our clients, living by our organisation’s values to deliver life-changing services.
I am thrilled to share our annual report with you as CEO of Momentum Collective for the last two years and what a remarkable journey it has been so far. I have witnessed that whatever challenges come our way, we can overcome absolutely anything - if we work together and do so graciously. At the very heart of our organisation is an innate willingness and desire to help people in need. During the 2022 floods, this willingness was evidenced in many heroic efforts performed by our staff. The response to these events from our staff, volunteers and partners was a true testament to Momentum Collective’s community spirit. Amongst the many wins to celebrate over the last 12 months, I am incredibly proud of our new Reconciliation Action Plan, which we will continue in 2023. As a community provider, we are committed to providing a culturally safe workplace and improving the outcomes for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.
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Messages of Support
Chris Gulaptis MP State Member for Clarence
Geoff Provest MP State Member for Tweed
The partnership between Momentum Collective and the NSW Government has never been more critical. Examples of that partnership include Momentum’s Oak Centre Community Accessibility Project and eight new affordable homes in Casino. If anything good came of the awful early 2022 floods, it is that the importance of having a roof over your head has become much more prominent in people’s minds, as we discover a safe, comfortable home for our family is something that can literally be lost overnight. An investment of $750M dollars from the NSW Government will be attributed towards housing across regional and rural communities, where the funding is needed most. We choose to make these investments because we know that by ensuring that every person in New South Wales has a place to call home, which will make it a better home for us all. This investment reinforces the NSW Government’s commitment to working with non-government partners like Momentum Collective to address some of our most complex social issues. Nobody is claiming victory and with funding, energy and goodwill all on the table, we are making progress. Thank you to everyone at Momentum Collective for another year of great service to our local community.
In recent years, our community withstood bushfires, then survived border closures and the pandemic, only to be confronted with record- breaking floods in February and March this year. The sheer number of people affected by this disaster is difficult to quantify and the ongoing displacement and hardship, particularly for those already marginalised and requiring support, has highlighted the importance of Momentum Collective in this region. It is not only during times of crisis that we need to acknowledge the value of Momentum Collective’s programs and services. We must continue to facilitate an environment where their staff and volunteers can empower clients to make good life decisions every single day. This sets the foundation for building a stronger, more inclusive community for all. Thank you, Momentum Collective, for those
every day support services and for the extraordinary efforts made during times of crisis.
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Janelle Saffin MP State Member for Lismore
Tamara Smith MP State Member for Ballina
Our Northern Rivers communities have faced a devastating year. Before the 2022 floods, I had been working with Momentum Collective and other peak bodies to tackle the social and affordable housing crisis gripping our region. Consequently, the COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped property markets leading to skyrocketing rents and house prices. Prior to this, I wrote to the Premier calling for intervention to address housing affordability, supply and the homelessness crisis affecting Lismore. The floods escalated the pre-existing housing crisis with more than 14,500 internally displaced persons living in temporary housing, caravans or tents – many denied financial assistance. An estimated 4000+ Northern Rivers homes were deemed uninhabitable. I lobbied the NSW Government relentlessly for temporary and long-term housing solutions, having secured the establishment of a Northern Rivers Reconstruction Corporation to build back better. I commend Momentum Collective for their efforts, supporting residents through the flood recovery and particularly welcome the commitment of $2.2M from the NSW Government for community housing. Building affordable and social housing is my priority and I will continue to support Momentum Collective towards developing housing solutions for our community.
This year has been another challenging one and the most vulnerable people in our community have been severely impacted. Momentum Collective has continued to thrive and provide exceptional services to the residents of the Ballina electorate. I took great pleasure in reading all about Momentum Collective’s incredible work conducted by their courageous staff during the 2022 floods. To have employees step outside of their roles and provide vulnerable people living in our community with the support they need is remarkable and should be commended. Our community is very grateful for your ongoing support and dedication to social change. As always, a big thank you to the management, staff and volunteers at Momentum Collective for their outstanding service to our community and on behalf of the electorate we wish you a successful year ahead.
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Who We Are
Vision, Purpose, Values
Vision Our vision is to connect and empower people in their communities to achieve positive outcomes.
Working Well Together
Wellbeing
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Purpose Momentum Collective is a for-purpose community organisation. We enable people to access the support and services they need, when they need it the most.
Being Gracious
Innovation
• Working Well Together • Wellbeing • Being Gracious • Trust & Respect • Innovation Values
Trust & Respect
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Our Board
Current as at December 2022.
Mark Formaggin Non-Executive Director, Chair & Member of Property Committee, Member of Finance Committee, Member of Risk Committee
Andrew Weil Chairman of the Board, Member of Finance Committee, Member of Risk Committee, Member of Strategy Committee
Tony Corcoran Non-Executive Director, Chair & Member of Risk Committee, Member of People & Culture Committee
Annette Fale, MNZM Non-Executive Director, Member of People & Culture Committee
Beth Barratt-Browne Non-Executive Director, Chair & Member of People & Culture Committee
Dr John Sturgeon Non-Executive Director, Member of Property Committee
Angela Stavropoulos Non-Executive Director,
Chair & Member of Finance Committee
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Our Leadership Team
Current as at December 2022.
Mark Edwards Director, Property & Housing
Laura Kennedy Executive Manager, Assisted Living
Dr Tracey Mackie Chief Executive Officer
Brendan Frawley Director, Marketing & Digital Solutions
Maryann Groth Director, People, Culture & Change
Simone Smith Executive Manager, Community & Client Services
Scott Loffler Director, Finance
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Our Impact
4,150 Community Programs
694 C ommunity Housing
People Supported 5,564
Mental Health 223
N DIS 692
4,150
40%
Community Program Clients
Under 25 y/o
315 Properties 1,107
85%
Women & Children
47%
After Hours Support Calls
Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
646
4,500
Employees
Community Connections
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• New Independent Living Home (Pallara)
Highlights
Brisbane
• New Independent Living Homes (Nerang, Robina, Ashmore and Coomera)
• Community Housing
Gold Coast
Capital Work upgrades (Mullumbimby and Tweed)
Tweed Heads
Lismore
Byron Bay
• Women’s Refuge Upgrades
• Office Refit • Women’s Refuge Upgrades
Ballina
Casino
• 8 New Affordable Housing Units • Start of Community Day Events • Oak Centre Aircon Upgrade
Evans Head
Grafton
• New NDIS Short Term Accommodation Renovation • New Disability Centre Opened
Coffs Harbour
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Community Housing & Property
Community Housing Boost The demand for social and affordable housing is at an all-time high across our footprint. Over 3,495 applicants have registered for social housing, according to the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ). In October 2021, Momentum Collective secured $2.2M in funding to deliver more social and affordable housing in the Northern Rivers Region . The grant was awarded as part of the $52.5M NSW Community Housing Innovation Fund . With the wait list exceeding ten years in many areas, this initiative was desperately needed and acknowledges the housing crisis that we are currently facing.
At Momentum Collective, we know that creating a great home is more than just providing a building. This is why we are committed to providing secure and affordable housing catering to the needs of our tenants. This year has been a testing and often traumatic time for many of us residing in Northern NSW. Sadly, some tenants lost their homes and belongings in the floods. We commend the resilience displayed by our tenants who have been placed in temporary housing whilst we rebuild their homes as quickly as possible.
694 Total Tenants 22.3% Receive 2 or more Momentum Collective services 186 Transitional Tenants
27% Over 55
Affordable Rental Housing
57% Women
Market Rental Housing
Social Housing
43% Male
27% Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
Market Home Ownership
Transitional Housing
Emergency Shelters
Homeless
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Asset Improvements Momentum Collective secured $325K via Land and Housing Corporation for upgrades to 15 of our older properties across Lismore, Tweed Heads and Mullumbimby. The Connections Centre also received $108K towards upgrades to increase community participation and engagement. The upgrades included: roof restoration, interior and exterior painting, new flooring, a greenhouse and an all-access bathroom and laundry. As part of the Stronger Country Communities Fund , Momentum Collective was awarded $250K in funding for the Oak Centre’s Accessibility Project to upgrade the community centre. The upgrades will include an outdoor amenity space, a yarning circle, vegetable gardens and trestle tables for group work. We were also fortunate to win a small grant of $16K to develop a new ‘Meeting Place’ at the Casino Neighbourhood Centre. The Meeting Place will be used as a group work space, a play area and a place to sit and chat. Our Community Garden in Casino also received a small grant of $4K from the Richmond Valley Council. It will be allocated towards building raised garden beds, new outdoor furniture and an improved pathway.
New Disability Centre in Grafton Our new Grafton Disability Centre opened its doors in February 2022, marking a new era for the Clarence Valley region. More than 50 guests (including families, clients, local MP Chris Gulaptis and Councillors: Karen Toms, Allison Whaites, Peter Johnstone and Jeff Smith) took the opportunity to tour our spacious new centre and meet our fantastic team of Community Support Workers. The open day brought the local community together to experience the facility first-hand and learn about our Momentum Collective services. Activities included Loving Life onsite radio broadcasting, face painting, gelato and live music. Momentum Collective services in Grafton now include Centre-Based Activities, In-home and Community Support and Short Term Accommodation.
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New Affordable Housing In March 2022, Momentum Collective opened eight new affordable housing units in Casino. The building was opened by the Minister for Families and Communities and Disability Services, Natasha Maclaren-Jones (pictured above) and Richmond Valley’s Mayor, Robert Mustow. The $2M property delivered eight sustainable units, including one accessible property . Momentum Collective has partnered with REA Solar to build for the future by integrating sustainable solar panels and battery storage to further reduce energy costs and consumption.
New Cadetship Program Momentum Collective participated in a Cadetship Program offered by the Community Housing Industry Association. This program supported the employment of local people via community housing providers, targeting both younger people and social housing tenants. Cadets received a 12-month employment placement whilst completing their formal studies in Certificate IV in Social Housing . One of our most recent cadets secured full-time employment working for a large community housing provider.
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Imagine living in a town where it’s impossible to find a suitable home to live? You are bright, young, looking for a sense of belonging, yet struggling to plan for the future. Meet Chloe! A young essential worker at Casino Memorial Hospital (pictured below). Chloe is heavily involved in her local community. She considers herself a familiar face within her hometown, describing Casino as a place where ‘everyone knows each other’. Before securing her home at Momentum Collective’s Affordable Housing in Casino, Chloe was experiencing housing stress. Chloe said that being unable to find a suitable home affected her mental health and she struggled to accomplish her goals. “It’s almost impossible to find a home without a rental history and I’ve never rented before. When I decided to apply to the Centre Street units, I was looking for a miracle, not knowing if I would be successful or not.”
Chloe now feels extremely lucky to have found a sustainable new home that speaks to her, particularly after living in an extreme housing crisis. “The affordability of this home gives me more freedom and independence. I can take care of myself and look after my well-being. This opportunity has completely changed my life.” In Chloe’s ideal world, she would like to see more affordable housing available so that young people like herself can afford to live the lifestyle they deserve.
Youth Accommodation and Support Program In 2021, Momentum Collective obtained funding from the NSW State Government to provide additional accommodation for younger people. The Youth Accommodation and Support Program funded 13 dwellings to be leased to clients under 25. The properties were sourced from the private rental market, creating new social housing opportunities for our clients. In this challenging rental market, Momentum Collective was fortunate to have received the support of local real estate agents and property owners. We are incredibly grateful to these people for giving younger generations affordable housing opportunities.
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Community & Client Services
Specialist Homelessness Services (SHS) The Aboriginal Homeless and Prevention Service (AHPS) team, servicing Tweed Heads, Ballina and Murwillumbah, led from the front during the floods. The AHPS team responded and adapted quickly, establishing new working relationships with Services NSW’s Resilience Program for flood-affected clients to access emergency assistance and priority housing. While our clients waited for social housing or to be put forward for a transitional property, our staff advocated for Temporary Accommodation (for up to 12 months). Alliance Partners Momentum Collective is proud to be a part of the Specialist Homelessness Service Alliance that operates across many communities in the Clarence Valley, Richmond and Northern Rivers regions. The partnership is vital to our regions because it offers culturally appropriate and safe services for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people and their families . Our Alliance partners include: Women Up North Housing, Clarence River Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Services Inc., Northern Rivers Community Gateway, Boolangle and Gurehlgam Corporation.
Family and domestic violence is the leading cause of homelessness for women and children in Australia and constituted 42% of Specialist Homelessness Services (SHS) clients according to Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute. Women experiencing domestic and family violence (DFV) are often forced to flee their homes, fearing for their own physical and mental wellbeing and that of their children. The facts are: Currently, one woman is killed every nine days in Australia by a current or former partner. 1 in 6 women and 1 in 16 men have experienced physical and/or sexual violence from a current or ex-partner. 1 in 4 women have experienced emotional abuse from a current or ex-partner. Momentum Collective services include after hours support and crisis accommodation to help with immediate relocation, community housing or support to stay safe at home. Our specialist staff support housing, wellbeing and safety needs within an integrated and holistic framework. Our case workers facilitate connections with health professionals, counselling, police, court advocacy services, victims’ financial supports, social support, family law and legal aid. We also assist with education and employment support. 1,107 Domestic Violence Recovery Emergency (DVRE) 24/7 Calls 778 DVRE Clients 87% Women & Children 58% Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
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Meet Michael! Meet Michael, our courageous client from Momentum Collective’s Aboriginal Homelessness Prevention Service. At 43 years of age, Michael went from being homeless to securing his first residence in the Northern Rivers region with the assistance of Momentum Collective. “One time, it was pouring rain, a big storm hit. Within an hour of speaking on the phone to me, two Momentum Collective workers arrived with a tent and a sleeping bag to keep me warm. They gave me things that meant a lot to me, like a pillow and a mattress.” With the proper support, Michael navigated his way out of homelessness.
“It’s life-changing! You really have no idea how much my life has changed. To anyone in the same situation, I would say make a plan and follow it through, don’t take on too much at once and definitely link up with Momentum Collective. They have helped me in so many ways! It is like a dream. I am not scared anymore. I’m not living on the streets or in the bush. I am safe. Here, I don’t have to worry and I have a home”.
It’s like a dream... I was on the streets since I was seven and now I have a home.”
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Child, Youth and Family Programs
At Momentum Collective, we understand the importance of connecting to your loved ones and your community. We have a variety of programs available dedicated to families and local residents to nurture that sense of belonging while building friendship, interest and hope. Clear Minds Our Clear Minds program in Grafton held a small get-together to promote Mental Health Month. Attendees enjoyed a lovely afternoon of basketball and creativity in the garden. Casino Neighbourhood Centre The Casino Neighbourhood Centre team delivered two holiday programs in June and July in collaboration with other local service providers. Participants enjoyed various planned activities, including bowling at the Commercial Hotel Kyogle and playing Nurf Wars at Casino’s Civic Hall. Family Preservation (formally Brighter Futures) hosted the Tabulam Playtime monthly to engage with families and connect within the Tabulam Community.
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Partnering with OzHarvest Momentum Collective supports women and Children who have experienced DFV and are grateful for all the help we received from other charities. The food we collected from OzHarvest means that our clients don’t have to go to the shops and can remain safe with their families. We also acknowledge and value the pamper packs gifted from various local Country Women’s Association branches and support from local clubs and charities like RizeUp.
16 Days of Activism In collaboration with the North Coast Domestic and Family Violence Forum, Momentum Collective created a digital campaign to promote ‘16 Days of Activism’. The campaign aimed to raise awareness about gender-based violence, challenging discriminatory attitudes and call for improved laws and services to end violence against women for good. Sadly, DFV escalated across Australia and around the world this financial year in the wake of COVID-19. After restrictions eased and people were allowed to travel again, Momentum Collective and other service providers experienced a 20% increase in DFV-related calls from July to September 2021.
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The theme for Homelessness Week was “Everybody needs a home”. Momentum Collective united with other organisations and TAFE Students from
Grafton to raise awareness around the impact of homelessness in the Northern Rivers.
Sophie Russell (Momentum Community Support Worker) hit the streets during ‘Homelessness Week 21’ with the Australian Bureau of Statistics census team to ensure people experiencing homelessness were counted in the 2021 Census. The purpose was to appropriately plan services and support programs to aid those living rough in our community. It’s dedicated workers like Sophie that make a real difference for people facing hardship.
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Disability & Mental Health Services
54% Male 42% Female 9% Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander 78% Receive integrated Momentum Collective services 725,295 Service Hours
Meet Gavin – An Aspiring Musician
Gavin’s journey started with Momentum Collective after connecting him with our Day-to-Day Living Program . The beginning of Gavin’s mental health diagnosis was challenging as he used to feel an overwhelming sense of sadness and didn’t know why. Gavin has found a new purpose after attending Momentum Collective’s personalised program, bringing him an immeasurable amount of happiness and contentment which he carries with him every day. Each week, Gavin looks forward to participating in music related activities, whether it’s music group on Mondays or karaoke on Tuesdays - Gavin is always keen to try something new. Music has been Gavin’s biggest outlet, as this is where he can get into the zone and feel the melody. He is incredibly proud of how much he has learnt, since committing to his weekly music groups
2021-22 has been a year of remarkable growth for our mental health and disability services across Northern NSW and Southeast QLD. During this financial year, we supported 915 people with an increase of 9% from the previous year. Momentum Collective has researched and developed a client outcomes framework within an integrated approach. The integrated service model includes a ‘no wrong door’ intake, strength-based or recovery focused service support, ‘step up/step down’ case management, and a holistic combination of services
and feels most relaxed when he is playing the keyboard or listening to his favourite songs.
focusing on the client’s journey. Achieving positive client outcomes is the centre of our practice.
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Respite Short Term Accommodation Robin planned and utilised short term respite for her 60th birthday in Mt Tamborine. With the assistance of our support team, Robin was able to book suitable accommodation and upon her arrival, was greeted with a special surprise cake and balloons! Venturing into the heart of the mountains, Robin took in the spectacular sights as she strolled across Mt Tambourine’s famous Sky Walk. On her way back from the walk, she ventured into the Fudge Shop for a few delicious treats before retiring to her retreat. Robin said this was the perfect day and she enjoyed her 60th immensely.
Empower Team Our Empower team makes life fun.
Whether it’s hosting art exhibitions, attending expos, fun days or free info days, the Empower program is all about achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients and having some fun along the way. The information sessions held in Grafton, Robina and Coffs Harbour earlier in the year were an excellent opportunity to understand our community needs and build their knowledge in relation to their funds and rights.
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Meet Freddy – Our Momentum Aspiring Chef!
Wednesday is Freddy’s favourite day of the week. He revels in the opportunity to cook for his mum and the whole family with the support of Joanne, his Momentum Collective Community Support Worker. Freddy lives with his mum, older sister, and brother in Casino and has been receiving the support of Momentum Collective for the past three years. After his mother developed dementia, Fred wanted to help contribute to the running of the house with his sister. Joanne was delighted to hear when Fred asked if he could start cooking dinners for his mum every week. Since then, the pair have been rolling with their weekly cooking class. Freddie is mastering the art of making delicious, authentic food ready for the table . Fred’s tailored cooking program follows a four-week food plan curated by Joanne. Fred has learned to produce a range of take-home meals, including Moroccan lemon chicken, lasagna and an old-time favourite bangers ‘n’ mash. “Fred’s confidence has blossomed since he started cooking lessons . He has increased his skills and calls himself a chef. Fred goes grocery shopping more independently and likes to tick each food item off the list. He uses the self-checkout too!” – Jo
Lindsay and Marcia recycle at their local Return and Earn depot. Empower participants Lindsay and Marcia decided to cash in the cans from their annual Christmas disco party, putting the funds towards resources for their Empower Tweed Heads Hub. By working together to reduce waste, Lindsay and Marcia also learnt about budgeting by estimating how many cans they would need to buy the supplies. Who knew recycling could be so educational?
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Supported Employment With every challenge comes the opportunity to innovate, which is why we went online in 2022! Digital sales generated around $140 per month in transactions and helped to keep the Op Shop ticking over while borders closed and foot traffic slowed due to COVID-19. Several Australian Disability Enterprises (ADE) workers were provided e-commerce training to check and respond to online listings. The online activity brought new shoppers into the store who may not have shopped with us. Our Momentum Collective delivery truck (pictured below) was also given a new wrap to help promote the Recyclers Op Shop. While the Salvage Shed was closed under COVID-19 restrictions, Adrian and the crew gave it a well-needed makeover to be more customer friendly and logical for people to find things. Our Grounds Crew also began work on a newly acquired large maintenance contract for several government properties in Tweed Heads. One silver lining to this year’s heavy rain was that Our Grounds Crew have been
The most significant achievement for the Salvage Shed was the new makeover it received whilst the shed was closed due to COVID-19 restrictions. We saw this as an opportunity to make it more user-friendly and safe for people to visit once restrictions eased and we were ready to let people in again. Thank you to all of our ADE employees for their dedication and commitment to the Salvage Shed and Recyclers Op Shop.
extra busy keeping up with the extraordinary growth in vegetation.
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Supported Living Momentum Collective is actively growing in the Gold Coast region. Last year, in collaboration with Vera Living, we opened four new Supported Independent Living (SIL) sites on the Gold Coast . We also commenced services for the National Injury Insurance Scheme to care for and support people who have sustained severe personal injuries in a motor vehicle accident in Queensland. Unfortunately, two of our Mental Health SIL properties were flooded and four clients were directly impacted. Thankfully, our teams worked hard to relocate clients to other areas and or homes, keeping them safe and sound . We have witnessed and heard of many heroic acts of strength, resilience and compassion displayed by our employees and volunteers. The responsive leadership demonstrated by these individuals ensured our clients, families and communities received essential support services. Momentum Collective‘s Lismore team worked hard to reopen and the clean-up was heartbreaking. A special note of appreciation goes to Wellways and Open Minds for their flexibility and support, enabling us to keep our services open during the floods.
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Love With a Disability – The Dreamy Date. Like the change of seasons, relationships can take all sorts of forms. Take Emma (40) and Heath (43), who have been in love for almost two years now. These Momentum Collective NDIS participants met at a day program and have been determined to make their relationship work ever since. At the time, the couple faced a range of barriers that prevented them from seeing each other. So one day they decided to move closer to one another by taking up residence in our houses across the Gold Coast. Momentum Collective Community Support Worker Jessica Grosskreutz says that “love is love and shouldn’t be different when living with a disability. Having a physical or intellectual disability doesn’t change the need for a loving relationship with another person or the desire to express it. When people living with disability form intimate relationships, they often experience cultural stereotypes and prejudices that can be hurtful and damaging”. “I’m here to support Emma and Heath, giving them back the choice and control on what they want to do”. With a smile on her face, Emma still remembers the day Heath popped the question asking her to be his girlfriend. “It was on the bus coming back from the day program. I was so happy and was in tears. When I told my family, they were all excited for me. He is a great man and I can feel the love in my heart. To be seen by your partner for who you are and be accepted and celebrated... it’s a good thing” - Emma.
The couple are now inseparable and they make plans in advance to organise special dates such as visiting the Botanical Gardens, going out for dinner or stopping by each other’s SIL houses. Heath would like to see everyone who is looking for love to find their soul mate and get the best support they can. “My Support Worker listens to me and helps me see Emma. They know what I like to do and help me plan activities with my girlfriend. Without Momentum Collective’s support, I would probably still be living at home with my parents” - Heath. Emma and Heath’s plans are to live together and maybe marry one day. Until then, they intend to continue going on dates together much like their Valentine’s Day experience
this year, sailing into the sunset with their favourite snacks and drinks.
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Meet Joshua! Life for Joshua was challenging at times. He was sleeping rough in the dunes whilst trying to navigate a newly diagnosed schizoaffective disorder . Feeling unwell and vulnerable, Josh spent six months in a mental health unit and was referred to Momentum Collective’s Psychosocial Rehabilitation Program . Josh lived in one of our 24/7 assisted living accommodations, receiving quality residential support from our specialised staff. Joshua’s well-being improved as he regained independence and self-care. Josh also enrolled and completed a Certificate IV in Community Services and has found work supporting others in similar situations. With integrative support from Assisted Living , Mental Health and Community Housing teams, Joshua thrived and is currently looking for a rental property. “Momentum Collective saved my life. Your staff and programs gave me stability and the right support. I would still be homeless if it wasn’t for Momentum.”
Residential Rehabilitation According to the Productivity Commission, 354,000 Australians may require a wide range of recovery supports for their physical health and wellbeing, psychosocial, housing, community inclusion recovery and reintegration into education or the workforce. Momentum Collective’s stepped care ensures access to the most appropriate services at any given time, including the ability to ‘step up and down ’ to different levels of care as their needs vary. Last year, our Community Recovery and Residential Rehabilitation programs successfully supported 223 clients. We assisted and transitioned 125 clients with independent living outcomes .
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Our People
646 Employees 64% Female 8% Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
Outcomes Framework During the first six months of 2022 we worked towards implementing the new Service Delivery Model to improve client outcomes and further strengthen our organisation. Ensuring its success, the organisation has integrated the way in which we operate. The change is designed to provide customers with a better experience, embed our outcomes framework by providing stronger organisational support to our service teams. Employee Recognition Awards In July 2021, we launched our organisation’s recognition program called BRAVO . The award program was a nominated project initiated from the 2020 Employee Engagement Survey . Through external consultation with Deloitte and key members of our internal team, our recognition program BRAVO was born. The purpose of BRAVO is to recognise employees who apply the organisation’s values through demonstrated behaviours; to celebrate our achievements and to reward exceptional performance . During the 21-22 financial year, we have had four rounds of the CEO employee awards with 169 employees being nominated. In addition, 34 employees were nominated for the 2021 BRAVO Employee of the year and the celebrations of our employees were shared at the regional events.
Connection and resilience have been pivotal to our service delivery across our footprint, providing our employees with a great sense of purpose. Positive client outcome is a focus for our organisation and 2021 saw the launch of our internal recognition program. In 2022, the adoption of the new Integrated Service Model focused on providing stronger organisational support to our service teams while putting our clients at the centre of everything we do. As our commitment to reconciliation continues, we launched our new 2021-2023 Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). We want to thank everyone involved in bringing our RAP to life. Navigating Our Way Through The Floods We want to acknowledge our Lismore and Ballina staff for their outstanding efforts in managing and supporting flood affected clients. By putting patron’s and peers’ safety first, orchestrating food deliveries and distributing supplies independently to their locations, the teams worked well together. The teams at Uralba St, Lismore and Tamar Street, Ballina went without electricity for a week in 2022. This did not stop them from getting through each day and ensuring people received appropriate food, shelter and other necessities. If there is one thing that we learned throughout the floods, it is that we can rely on the power of people and the wider community to look after each other. If it takes a village to raise a child, it will take a region to rebuild communities. From all of the team here at Momentum Collective,
we thank each and every one of you who volunteered, donated, or contributed towards helping our communities in need.
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Community Organisation Award At Momentum Collective, we celebrate the dedication and commitment of our employees, enabling clients to live a better life. We are open to and invite external feedback, suggestions and recognition for our service to improve. When our work is recognised externally, it validates our purpose and evidences our impact on the broader community. Our Casino Neighbourhood Centre team were asked to don their finest attire and attend The Richmond Valley Black and White Ball. They graciously accepted the Regional Award for Recognition of Reconciliation in a Community Organisation . On top of this honour, Momentum Collective Case Workers Stacey and Aunty Irene (pictured left to right) were also nominated for ‘Individuals Making a Difference’ . Reconciliation Action Plan 2021 – 2023 Momentum Collective is turning good intentions into positive actions. We are committed to positively contributing to Australia’s reconciliation journey and to building strong, trusting relationships with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities we support. Last year we officially launched our third RAP to progress our reconciliation initiatives. One significant achievement includes developing and delivering Cultural Awareness training to over 90 of our staff . This training is also available to external organisations. A special thanks to our RAP working group of employees, partners, advisory committee and those involved in developing our 2021- 2023 plan.
Annual Report 2021-22 | 33
Our Communities & Partners
“
Momentum Collective celebrated National Reconciliation Week and Casino Beef Week together with a small event to launch our 43-year timeline in the Casino Neighbourhood Centre. The feature wall to life showcases
the long and proud 43-year history of our very own Neighbourhood Centre.
This year’s National Reconciliation Week in 2022 is ‘Be Brave, Make Change’. I think it’s an opportunity for all of us to brave and work together to enable the future in the services we provide and how we link together to service the vulnerable people in our community. – Tracey Mackie Momentum Collective CEO
Strong communities are critical as they offer an important source of social connection and a sense of belonging . Inspiring us to work collaboratively with our partners to deliver events that resonate with our local and regional communities. Reconciliation and NAIDOC Week 2022 During National Reconciliation Week, we had the privilege of holding several community events across our footprint in Casino, Tweed Heads, and Lismore. Each event was an opportunity to share our commitment towards reconciling with our Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community to embrace this journey with openness , courage and mindfulness . Growing from the challenges and building on our successes.
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Our Partnership with Titans Together June 2022, marked the beginning of a great partnership between Momentum Collective and Gold Coast Titans . Both organisations will work together to achieve sports inclusion and social opportunities within the community. Jessie and Emma (SIL clients) already play in Titan’s Leagueability team and absolutely love it. Emma is making new friends and Jessie is literally kicking goals. Apart from playing, the partnership also offers the opportunity to attend and experience the atmosphere of home games.
Annual Report 2021-22 | 35
Supporters • Alstonville Rotary • Baby Give Back • Ballina On Richmond Rotary • Ballina RSL • Country & Coast Magazine • Country Women’s Association • CS91 Active • GIVIT • Gold Coast Titans • Grace Communion Bible Study • Gypsy & Headroom Hair • Little Wise One • OzHarvest • Richmond Rotary • RizeUp • Seaton Foundation • Soroptimist International Gold Coast Inc. • Sparrow Coffee Co • The Cove • Tweed Unlimited Arts • Tweed Seagulls
Donations & Supporters We provide life-changing services to thousands of people thanks to the ongoing support of our partners, providers, employees and volunteers. All of us look forward to continuing to collaborate
and innovate with supporters like these who share our vision for a strong , fair and inclusive community .
Government Funding • NSW Department of Communities and Justice • D epartment of Seniors, Disability Services and Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander Partnerships • Commonwealth Department of Health • Commonwealth Department of Social Services.
• Westower Tavern • You Have A Friend • Mandy Nolan • Michelle Tredoux • Lynne Avery
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From the bottom of our hearts, we would like to personally thank GIVIT for supporting us and making a difference in our communities. During the February and March floods in 2022, Momentum Collective received a generous donation of gift cards worth $30K from the exceptional not-for-profit organisation GIVIT . This generous donation provided relief and support to our clients directly impacted by the floods, enabling them to get back on their feet in the face of adversity. The $100 vouchers were used at Kmart, White Goods, The Good Guys, Coles and numerous petrol stations across Australia.
Mandy Nolan Raises Fund for Women’s Refuge
Some of Australia’s funniest women gathered at The Cove restaurant to laugh it up and raised over $10K for Momentum Collective’s Ballina Women and Children’s Refuge. The Women with Heart Comedy special featured Steph Tisdell, one of Australia’s brightest comedy stars and Mandy Nolan, a performer, comedian and author, as well as being a domestic violence (DV) survivor. “I have lived through DV and come out the other side. I know how important it is to have good support and a space where you can find yourself again and work out how you will go forward. The Ballina Women and Children’s Refuge is extremely important for women and children who are escaping violence and reclaiming their lives!” – Mandy Nolan
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Helping Communities In Need This year has been challenging but rewarding. In February 2022, heavy flooding significantly impacted our teams, clients and services. Many of our courageous staff volunteered at the recovery centres, whilst others checked in with clients over the phone. Countless numbers of team members were personally impacted by the floods and despite the challenges presented to us at both an organisational level and as individuals, our team continued to put their client’s needs first.
Casino Neighbourhood Centre At the peak of the floods, our Casino
Neighbourhood Centre opened up as a donation drop-off centre - offering support to displaced community members. Post floods, we partnered with other service providers to assess and support displaced community members where possible.
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Annual Report 2021-22 | 39
Governance
More Improvements: • Improvement of the internal audit framework and the adoption of a new system called iAuditor to streamline audits and trend information • Investigations have improved using an evidence based model of Root Cause Analysis. • Use of Microsoft Power Bi reporting tool has supported the team in creating financial and analysis dashboards and further drill down on key trends across the organisation • Design of the Outcomes Measurement Framework with For Purpose Evaluations. • The new intranet (The Hub) was rolled out for improved communication and document management.
Momentum Collective operates in an environment of complete accountability and transparency . Our services are built around a rigorous and professional framework, following best industry practices and continual improvements. October 2021 The improvement of our complaints procedure to adopt an evidence based tiered model for efficient escalation. January 2022 Refreshed COVID-19 Business Partner model to respond to the rapidly changing pandemic requirements for clients, staff and community. June 2022
Medication practices were improved with the use of enhanced charting and education. External audits completed and compliance
achieved for: – June 2021 NDIS Practice Standards – March 2022 Annual Compliance Review
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Annual Report 2021-22 | 41
Financial Summary
Momentum Collective’s 2022 financial result reflects a resilient financial position reporting a Net Operating Surplus of $1.9M (2021: $824K) despite several significant external environmental challenges. The COVID-19 strain continued to impact our service delivery operations, affecting client participation and putting pressure on workforce availability. In late February 2022, South East Queensland and Northern New South Wales were severely impacted by a damaging rain event and subsequent flooding, inundating multiple properties and restricting accessibility across the region. Our organisation sustained flood damage to multiple properties, which displaced clients and impacted the continuity of services for some weeks thereafter. We made substantial property damage insurance claims to recover some of the costs incurred. Total revenue for 2022 was $49.9M (2021: $43.6M), reflecting a 14% increase year on year. Community programs grant funding remained sturdy and NDIS services were buoyed by the NDIS one-off provider reimbursement payment. One-off property flood damage insurance recoveries also contributed to the positive result.
This result will enable the organisation to continue to grow its geographical footprint with the provision of services and to reinvest in infrastructure projects to deliver better client outcomes and operational efficiency. A significant accomplishment for 2022 was the completion of a $2.7M Community Housing development project of eight affordable housing dwellings in Casino, concluding our 10-year contractual obligation to increase the supply of Affordable Housing by an additional 34 dwellings. Momentum Collective was successful in securing $1.8M from The Community Housing Innovation Fund Northern Rivers program to deliver more social and affordable housing in our region over the next 12 months. The strong balance sheet with Net Assets of $40.6M (2021: $38.7M) supports the overall positive financial result and reflects a position of good financial health.
Revenue By Source (2017-2022)
Revenue By Source 2022
$60,000
NDIS 60%
49.9M YoY +15%
$50,000
43.5M
$40,000
35.9M
30.9M
28.8M
$30,000
Other Funding 3% Dept. Social Services 1%
$20,000
NSW FACS/DCJ 20%
$10,000
NDIS +20%
Commonwealth Dept. of Health and Aged Care 2%
$0
17/18
18/19
19/20
20/21
21/22
NSW Health 6%
Community Housing 8%
n NDIS n Community Housing n NSW FACS/DCJ n NSW Health n Dept Social Services
n QLD Disability Services n Dept. Prime Minister & Cabinet n Commonwealth Dept. of Health and Aged Care
n Other Funding n ATO
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