A VINNIES VISION - St Vincent de Paul Society
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A VINNIES VISION ANNUAL REPORT 2016-17
SPIRITUALITY SUSTAINABILITY SERVICE St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland is an entity incorporated by “Letters Patent” under the Religious, Educational and Charitable Institutions Act 1861 (Amended 1895) (Qld). This Annual Report was produced by the Communications team of the St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland, October 2017. Written and edited by: Hayden Calderwood, State Communications Manager. Assisted by Lisa Cronqvist, Marketing and Communications Coordinator. Responsibility for this document rests with the St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland. Privacy statement: St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland respects the privacy and dignity of the people it assists, our members, volunteers and employees. For more information about how the Society manages privacy information please refer to our Privacy Policy on our website: www.vinnies.org.au/page/Privacy/State_Policies/Privacy_Policy_in_QLD/ St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland ABN: 14 211 506 904 Auditor: BDO Audit Pty Ltd
ANNUAL REPORT 2016-17
2 About this report
31 OUR YOUTH
3 WHO WE ARE
32 SOURCES OF FUNDING
4 Our history
6 HOW WE HELP 45 COMMUNICATIONS
10 YEAR IN REVIEW 47 OUR GOVERNANCE
50 Diocesan Central Council map
13 State President’s report
52 Diocesan Central Council reports
15 Chief Executive Officer’s report
56 State Council
17 Message from the Archbishop
59 State Executive
18 Spiritual Advisor’s message
61 Executive Officers
63 State Committee reports
19 OUR PEOPLE
71 FINANCIAL SUMMARY
25 OUR PERFORMANCE 71 Treasurer’s report
Financial Summary
74
30 OUR HOUSING 78
79
Index
Contact us
80 Glossary
ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY QUEENSLAND 1
ANNUAL REPORT 2016-17
THIS REPORT
The St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland provides this document as a summary of our
operational and financial performance during 2016-17.
We wish to tell the story of what we do, why we do it, and how • communities in which we operate, including
our good works provide support to the people in need that local government
we serve (our companions).
• sponsors, donors and corporate supporters who provide
This year’s report outlines some of the achievements of the much-needed funds and in-kind support
St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland and Ozcare, including
• support partners who provide services to the people
a consolidation of financial results for both organisations.
we serve.
To assess how well we are performing, our outcomes for
2016-17 are measured against the targets set in our Strategic The theme of this report
Plan 2013-17 (see page 25), which was extended by one
A Vibrant Vision is our theme for this report, and touches on
year to allow the development of our new Strategic Plan.
the essence of who we are and what we do. The hopefulness
encapsulated by our vision of offering a hand up imagines a
Our audience
brighter future for all and is at the heart of what we do.
The report is primarily aimed at the following stakeholders:
Acknowledgement
• the people in need whom we serve
The St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland would like to
• Vincentians, volunteer members and employees of the
acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of this country upon
Society who deliver our good works
which we live and work, and their continuing connection to
• Federal and State Government partners who provide land and community. We pay our respect to them and their
funding and regulate the environment in which the cultures, and to the Elders of all cultures, past and present.
Society operates
2 ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY QUEENSLAND
ANNUAL REPORT 2016-17 | WHO WE ARE
WE
ARE
The St Vincent de Paul Society is an international, voluntary, PRINCIPAL FOUNDER,
lay Catholic organisation dedicated to tackling poverty and BLESSED FREDERIC OZANAM
The young student was moved by the
disadvantage by providing assistance to anyone in need. hopeless state of families left poor
after a cholera epidemic.
The Society was founded in France Our Mission
by a group of young men in 1833, To meet these three themes, 13 target
The Society is a lay Catholic
the principal founder being Blessed performance measures were developed.
organisation that aspires to live the
Frederic Ozanam. The Society became These are reviewed annually with
Gospel message by serving Christ in
known as the Society of St Vincent updates on progress provided to our
the poor with love, respect, justice,
de Paul in deference and reverence State Council (see page 25). This
hope and joy, and by working to shape
to St Vincent de Paul and had a key financial year, the Society made positive
a more just and compassionate society.
purpose of serving the poor in Paris. progress in relation to each of the
Today the Society has more than themes. The list of goals and the full
Our Vision
950,000 members in 150 countries. progress report can be found in the
The St Vincent de Paul Society aspires
The first Australian Conference performance section of the report.
to be recognised as a caring Catholic
was formed in 1854 in Victoria,
charity offering a hand up to people Our stakeholders
21 years after the founding of the first
in need. We do this by respecting
Conference in Paris. By 1949 every At the core of the Society’s work are
their dignity, sharing our hope, and
Australian State and Territory had the people we assist, our Vincentians,
encouraging them to take control of
founded a Conference. The first in volunteer members and donors. These
their own destiny.
Queensland was in Red Hill in 1894. are the people who have enabled the
The Society is volunteer based and Our strategic objectives Society’s good works to continue for the
they are at the heart of what the Society past 123 years. The commitment and
The Society has three strategic themes
does. Those who belong to Conferences compassion of our people empowers
that drive its response to the plight of
and visit the poor in their homes or them to gain insight into local
disadvantaged Queenslanders:
welcome them in our support centres are community needs and issues. Without
called Vincentians. the generosity of our loyal donors the
Spirituality: nurturing
resources to provide required levels of
St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland faith and the spiritual life
SPIRITUALITY assistance to Queenslanders in need
is made up of 2,962 Vincentians in of the Society.
would not be available.
210 Conferences, who offer people in
Sustainability: growing
SPIRITUALITY
crisis a hand up, not just a hand out
a committed, active
SUSTAINABILITY
(see page 19).
and skilled Society
In addition to our Vincentians, we supported by improved
SUSTAINABILITY
also have volunteer members and work, leadership and
employees who dedicate their time communication.
SERVICE
to serving Queensland communities,
Service: ensuring the
enabling the Society to carry out its
best use of our resources
SERVICE
good works.
in serving those in need.
ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY QUEENSLAND 3
OUR HISTORY | ANNUAL REPORT 2016-17
OUR HISTORY
1581
Vincent de Paul
1853 1885
Saint Vincent de Paul
is born in France Frederic Ozanam is named the Patron
passes away Saint of Charity
1660
Vincent de Paul
1854 1894
Queensland’s first St Vincent
First Australian de Paul Society Conference
passes away
Conference
in Paris formed at St Brigid’s, Red
founded in
Victoria Hill in February
1550 1650 1750 1850
1600 1700 1800 1900
1600
Vincent de Paul
1737
Vincent de Paul
1813
Frederic Ozanam
1905
First Special Work of
ordained as a Priest is canonised is born in Milan
the Society established
with the founding of the
Mission to Seaman
1906
1833
The Society of St Vincent de Paul
Queensland’s first regional
Conference is established in
Rockhampton. The second
regional Conference is
founded by Frederic Ozanam in Paris established in Townsville
1907
The first Central Council
of Brisbane is formed
4 ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY QUEENSLAND
ANNUAL REPORT 2016-17 | OUR HISTORY
100
YEARS
1994
The Society
celebrates 100
1981 years helping
Queenslanders
Name changed
to Society of Saint
Vincent de Paul
State Council of
2016
Queensland
1962 2005
HIGHLIGHTS
The Society
Name changed exercised full
Name changed to to St Vincent
The Metropolitan control of
Central Council of de Paul Society Ozcare
Queensland, Society Queensland
of St Vincent de Paul
2017
1950 2000
400 years of
Vincentian St Vincent de Paul Society
charism Queensland 2017 highlights
• Assisted 306,831 Queenslanders
• Provided $191 million in services
and support to people in need
• Reached a total of 210
Conferences with 9,297 Members
and volunteers
1922 1937 1970 • 144 Centres of Charity
The Metropolitan Ozanam House, Diocesan (Vinnies Shops)
2011
Central Council the Society’s Central
of Brisbane first permanent Councils of
• Raised more than $3.7 million
forms and takes administrative South Coast thanks to public appeal donations
charge of the centre in and Northern The Society and bequests
Queensland Australia, is formed
became • Raised nearly $1 million at Vinnies
Society established
sole member
in Brisbane
1977 CEO Sleepout and Community
1930 of Ozcare Sleepout events
Particular Council
1940 Diocesan
Central • Provided safe, secure and
of Townsville Diocesan Council affordable accommodation for
formed Central Council of Western 1,040 people
of Rockhampton formed
1931 formed • Won a prestigious gold award
at the Australasian Reporting
Diocesan
Central Council
1963 Awards for the Society’s 2015-16
Annual Report.
of Townsville Diocesan Central
formed Council of FNQ
formed
ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY QUEENSLAND 5
HOW WE HELP | ANNUAL REPORT 2016-17
HOW
WE
The St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland helps people in need, giving them a hand up to
make life changing decisions. The type of support delivered differs from region to region, but
our Conferences remain central to the good works undertaken by the Society. They are the
driving force that connects people in need to our support services and programs.
Centres of Charity Aged and disability services Disaster relief
In Queensland the 144 retail Centres We help people stay in their homes for The Society’s role in a disaster is to
of Charity – widely known as ‘Vinnies as long as possible with our range of provide those affected, particularly
Shops’ – sell quality donated furniture, home care, home support, community evacuated people with essential
clothing, and household goods at care, and Home Assist Secure material items, such as blankets,
affordable prices. programs. These services improve toiletries, mattresses, essential new
the quality of life and independence clothing, food, and water. We continue
of elderly people and others living to work with disaster victims when the
with a disability. Additionally, Ozcare initial crisis response is over to ensure
operates eleven residential aged care they have support to rebuild their lives.
Family support centres facilities and eight day respite centres
Family support centres facilitate the throughout Queensland. Ozcare
provision of in-kind goods and services also operates a number of specialist
to people in need. Approximately half dementia services to support people
Drug and alcohol support
are linked to a Centre of Charity living through all stages of dementia, as
(Vinnies Shop). well as their families and carers. A live-in detox service, and seven
residential services are provided in
We are a registered National Disability
Brisbane, Ipswich, Cairns, Mackay and
Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provider,
Townsville to help individuals recover
delivering services to the regions in
from the effects of addiction to drugs
Queensland where the Scheme has
and alcohol.
Child and family support services been introduced. We also provide
services to people living with a disability
Our government funded programs in their home and in the community who
deliver services, focused on are not eligible for the NDIS.
intervention, to families to improve Financial wellbeing services
the safety and wellbeing of children We provide financial and material aid to
in their home and reduce the need people in immediate need, or a referral
for children to enter, or re-enter, the to link people with specialist community
statutory system. Services are located services. Budgeting advice and no
in Toowoomba, Gympie, Maryborough, interest or low interest loans are also
Bundaberg, and throughout South offered to those experiencing financial
East Queensland. stress. Our microfinance loans help
people buy essential household items,
pay medical bills or repair their cars.
6 ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY QUEENSLAND
ANNUAL REPORT 2016-17 | HOW WE HELP
Food distribution Overseas Youth services
Across the State, quality food at low Our work extends beyond Australia’s
We offer a range of services assisting
or no cost is made available to people shores through our Twinning Program,
young people and developing
struggling to feed themselves and in which Queensland Conferences
Vincentians starting from school age.
their families. assist Twinned Conferences throughout
Our team oversees the formation of
the Asia Pacific Region to help their
Youth Conferences and events to
communities. Through our
start participants on the journey into
Assist-A-Student Program we provide
Youth programs, spirituality, and social
education support to overseas students
Housing and awareness. See page 31. The mission
nominated by our twinned countries.
homelessness support of the Society is introduced at this
stage to provide a strong grounding for
We provide a range of housing future works.
solutions including homeless
intervention and prevention services,
Social justice
crisis accommodation, transitional
housing, accessible housing for people We are constantly looking for ways to
Education services
living with disabilities, and community assist people who are struggling as a
housing. See page 30. result of inequity and social injustices. Transforming lives through education,
We advocate regularly for those who our education services provide
are not able to speak for themselves or people who have experienced
have their voices heard. homelessness or hardship the chance
to complete vocational and tertiary
Migrant and refugee services certificates in a supported environment,
We offer newly arrived migrants and empowering them to break the cycle
refugees support in adjusting to of disadvantage.
Queensland life. Services include case
management, social engagement
activities and English language tutoring.
More recently, the Society has offered Special Works
assistance to migrants and refugees
In addition to these programs and
coming out of detention as they
services, our Conferences also create
make the transition to independent
projects in their areas, which are called
living within local communities. A free
‘Special Works’. These Special Works
migration and visa legal advice service
respond to a local or specialised need.
is also provided by appropriately
qualified volunteers.
Mental health services
A range of services supporting people
over 16 years of age living with a mental
health condition are provided from
Mackay down to the south east corner
of Queensland.
ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY QUEENSLAND 7
HOW WE HELP | ANNUAL REPORT 2016-17
WHY WE HELP WHO WE HELP
In 2016-17 we helped
19,838 HOMELESS
Queenslanders are
27%
ARE UNDER
18 YEARS OLD
306,831
1 in 8 1 in 5 QUEENSLANDERS
Queenslanders live below the experience
POVERTY LINE MENTAL ILLNESS
HOW WE HELP HOW WE PROVIDE HELP
12,582
Centres of Family support Food Aged and
PEOPLE
= $191 MILLION
Charity (Vinnies centres distribution disability
shops) services
3,285
STAFF
SERVICE AND SUPPORT
2,962 to peope in need
MEMBERS
Mental health Child and Drug and Youth
services family support alcohol services
6,335
VOLUNTEERS
services support
Disaster
relief
Overseas
services
Special
works
Housing and
homelessness
ACCESS TO
support
SERVICES Phone Home
visits
Overseas
services
Online
Social Financial Migrant Education Churches or Centres Hospitals Family Special
justice wellbeing and refugee services Presbytery of Charity or community support works
services services locations (Vinnies service centres
shops) providers
8 ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY QUEENSLANDANNUAL REPORT 2016-17 | HOW WE HELP
A SMALL GESTURE
CAN BE ALL IT
TAKES TO
CHANGE
For Cossette Thompson, StepUP Loan Officer for the
Society, a cup of tea was the small gesture that changed
her life many years ago.
Cossette was experiencing Her passion is providing a hand up so
homelessness, but a cup of tea with a people can get back on their feet, in the
local housing organisation changed all same way she did many years ago.
that. It helped her get back on her feet.
“A small loan can be a big step up for
Now, Cossette is employing the same
someone in need. All it can take is a
approach with the people she supports
conversation to help people identify
through the StepUP program.
what they need to get them set on a
Cossette helps families and individuals path for success. A little help goes a
with loans of up to $3,000 for essentials long way,” said Cossette.
like white goods, furniture, medical
To this day, the power of a cup of tea
expenses, educational expenses,
carries on in Cossette’s work. As
second hand cars or repairs.
she sits with people and gets to
“If people are going to benefit in the know them and their needs
long run, if it will help them improve over a warm cuppa, change
their circumstances or get out of a is inspired and brighter
disenfranchised situation, they can lives imagined.
apply,” says Cossette.
ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY QUEENSLAND 9YEAR IN REVIEW | ANNUAL REPORT 2016-17
YEAR IN
A number of significant milestones and achievements were accomplished during the 2016-17
financial year for the St Vincent de Paul Society. Some of these were influenced by external
system changes, whilst others highlight the Society’s ambition to offer exemplary services that
enrich the lives of the people we assist and the communities in which we contribute.
improve peoples’s quality of life through Towers, Burdekin, west to Mount Isa,
OZCARE the delivery of personalised health and Toowoomba, and west to the border
The St Vincent de Paul Society human services in the spirit of the St are now eligible to request access to
Queensland established St Vincent’s Vincent de Paul Society Queensland. the NDIS.
Community Services in 1995, with
The NDIS is a new way of providing
the organisation later taking the
name Ozcare. FINANCIAL WELLBEING people living with a disability across
AND CAPABILITY the country with support to meet their
Over the intervening years, Ozcare needs and link with their community.
became distanced from the Society In February 2017, the Society The Scheme supports people with a
and on 1 September 2011, pursuant responded to an Australian Government permanent and significant disability to
to a legal settlement, the Society Department of Social Services take part in everyday activities. This
became entitled to exercise its right Discussion Paper that described a includes people whose disability is
as sole member of Ozcare. As part of proposal for redesigning the Financial an intellectual, sensory or physical
the Ozcare settlement, the Society had Wellbeing and Capability (FWC) impairment, or a psychiatric condition.
undertaken to the Supreme Court of Activity. Many of the recommendations
within the paper had a significant A number of services are provided by
Queensland not to exercise any rights
link to key Society services such as the Society to people with a disability in
as the sole member of Ozcare during
Emergency Relief, budgeting support their home and in the community. The
a five year structured transition period.
and micro-finance. Society will continue to position itself in
At the conclusion of that period on 1
the remaining areas of the State so it
September 2016, the St Vincent de Paul It is hoped that the Society’s can provide quality advice and support
Society resolved to adopt a new Ozcare submission, which drew from Vincentian for those who are accessing services.
constitution and governance structure feedback and evidence based research
as outlined on page 49. from University of Queensland, will help
This year’s report outlines some of the inform the Australian Government’s MENTAL HEALTH, ALCOHOL AND
achievements of both St Vincent de policy options for the FWC activities that OTHER DRUG SERVICES
Paul Society and Ozcare’s operations are under consideration.
In October 2016, Queensland Health
and also includes a consolidation of released Connecting care to recovery
financial results for both organisations.
For further information on the
DISABILITY 2016–2021: A plan for Queensland’s
State-funded mental health, alcohol and
consolidated financials see page 71. The National Disability Insurance
other drug services. In Queensland,
Scheme (NDIS) commenced a three-
Twenty years on, Ozcare proudly one in five adults experience a mental
year roll out across Queensland in
delivers more than 320 services to disorder each year and approximately
July 2016 with completion due in June
15,000 clients, with the support of half of all adults experiencing a mental
2019. People living with disability in
almost 3,000 staff, and 375 volunteers. disorder at some time in their lives.
the local government areas of Mackay,
To this day, Ozcare’s purpose is to The Society identified a number of
Isaac, Whitsunday, Townsville, Charters
10 ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY QUEENSLANDANNUAL REPORT 2016-17 | YEAR IN REVIEW
DISTRIBUTED MORE THAN
provided safe,
6
3.7
MORE THAN
$
191
secure and
$
Held six
affordable expanded Youth successful
accommodation services to Community and
for assist more than Vinnies CEO
1,040 594
ASSISTED MILLION
Sleepout® events
306,831
MILLION
raised thanks held to raise
of service and to public appeal awareness and
support to those donations and funds to combat
in need QUEENSLANDERS bequests PEOPLE YOUNG PEOPLE homelessness
ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY QUEENSLAND 11YEAR IN REVIEW | ANNUAL REPORT 2016-17
priorities for action within the plan to construction of a new 154-bed aged workshops, allowing all within the
more effectively respond to individuals care facility in Hervey Bay. This highly Society to reflect on their core work with
with the most severe mental illness or anticipated facility that is due to open the aim to improve the quality of our
problematic substance misuse, either in October 2017 sets a new benchmark ministry across all levels.
episodic or persistent. for aged care, providing a range of
Further to this, through the hard work
facilities for residents. It also creates
of the established Membership and
relaxed, home-like accommodation and
VINNIES GIFT CARDS private areas that can be utilised by
Development team, all Conferences
have had access to the child protection
The Centres of Charity (Vinnies visiting family and friends.
training video, to further enhance the
Shops) play a key support role to our
Child Protection Framework which was
Conferences, who refer people in need
for free clothing and other household
ESTABLISHMENT OF implemented throughout the year.
goods and furniture. In order to improve ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY Our membership has also had access
the process for both the people we QUEENSLAND HOUSING to Mental Health Awareness training,
assist and Conferences, a Vinnies Gift and other training initiatives being
In January 2014, the Queensland State
Card was implemented in 2017. implemented and rolled out across
Government adopted the national
the State.
The gift card enables the people we registration system for community
assist to shop with dignity and choose the housing. As part of this approach,
items most suitable to their needs from it is a legislative requirement for all DISASTERS
any Vinnies Shop in the network. Early organisations providing community
housing in Queensland to become Queensland experienced Tropical
next financial year the gift cards will be
registered as a housing provider Cyclone Debbie throughout the
offered for sale through the Vinnies Shops
under the National Regulatory System 2016-17 financial year, which brought
to the general public, allowing friends and
for Community Housing by 30 June destructive weather and flooding
family to give the gift of an op shopping
2017. As a result of registration to much of the State. The Society
spree to a loved one.
requirements, the St Vincent de Paul responded to support communities
Society Queensland State Council following this devastating storm, and
COMMITMENT TO decided to establish St Vincent de continues to provide assistance for
THE HOMELESS Paul Society Queensland Housing as families and individuals whose lives
a special works of the Society which and livelihoods have been adversely
The St Vincent de Paul Society is affected. The damage brought by
will hold registration under the National
steadfast in its desire to address the Tropical Cyclone Debbie impacted
Regulatory System for Community
homelessness crisis in our community. many Queenslanders, and was
Housing. St Vincent de Paul Society
As a demonstration of our commitment, particularly felt across our South Coast,
Queensland Housing will be wholly
in 2016-17 the Society allocated Townsville, Rockhampton, Northern
owned by the Society with the State
$6.5 million to purchase housing and Western Brisbane Diocese. A
Council holding reserve powers.
properties across Queensland to total of $266,278 in claims were paid
increase capacity to support those St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland to people requiring assistance after
experiencing homelessness. As at Housing, trading as Vinnies Housing, Cyclone Debbie.
the 30 June 2017, the Society had has achieved registration as a Tier 2
purchased properties in Brisbane and Provider under the National Regulatory
Cairns to a value of $2.17 million, with System for Community Housing and AWARDS
additional properties being acquired in officially commenced operations from The Society received its first Gold Award
the new financial year. 1 July 2017. in the esteemed Australasian Reporting
These actions align closely to the Awards for its 2015/16 Annual Report
priorities outlined in the Queensland MISSION AND MEMBERSHIP and Financial Report. The awards
Housing Strategy 2017-20 by the benchmark and measure reports
Queensland Government’s Department This year saw the introduction of a against criteria based on world best
of Housing and Public Works. The new staff position with a focus on practice. The report is a transparent
Society will continue to work with Mission Integration. Working closely and integral review of the financial
government and non-government with the State Spiritual Advisor, the year, the good works across the state
housing, homelessness, and other local Mission and Membership Executive and the breadth of programs, services
support services to enable integrated Officer is responsible for the strategic and support that Vinnies provides to
service delivery and avoid the need for implementation of initiatives that embed Queenslanders in need. The financial
people to retell their story many times. our mission in the organisation and for report is reviewed by an independent
Vincentian formation. auditor and clearly highlights to our
The Membership and Development donors, volunteers, government
INVESTING IN CARE team has been focussed on providing supporters and wider community how
One of the biggest investments in members, volunteers, and staff the generous funds we receive make a
our aged care services was the with access to Mission Integration difference in the community.
12 ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY QUEENSLANDANNUAL REPORT 2016-17 | YEAR IN REVIEW
STATE
PRESIDENT’S
REPORT
It is with pride and a sense giving them the tools and courage to is not impersonal or transactional.
make worthwhile decisions and opening The distinguishing feature of the
of satisfaction that I am their minds up to life’s choices. Society’s genesis is the strength of
pleased to present our the relationship with our marginalised
To this end we have broadened our
annual report for 2016-17. range of resources, training and
brothers and sisters.
services to better equip our members There is a role for material support, but
This year the Society has faced an to respond more effectively and what sits behind the request for help
increasing number of challenges deliver assistance more efficiently. may be far greater and more significant.
particularly in the mental health arena Also in line with our Strategic Plan we The Society is currently partnering
as it continued its important role serving have intensified spirituality throughout with the University of Queensland to
people in need in our communities. the organisation. undertake research of our database
of people assisted over the last 10
As demands on our services grow in Membership and development staff
years. The initial research findings have
need and complexity we have been have been employed statewide to
suggested that personal engagement
driven to do more, to be more relevant support Conference members and
and relationships based on mutual trust
to the needs and aspirations of those we are most fortunate to now have
and respect led to better outcomes
at the margins of our communities. a well-qualified, courageous and
than material aid alone. Help has to be
Pleasingly the breadth and depth of most capable religious sister as our
personal as well as practical.
the Society engagement with those in Spiritual Advisor.
our communities who are in distress, Our response to cries for help would
Of course for the many who are
are marginalised or disadvantaged has not have been possible without the
isolated in the community through
meant that the Society continues to be dedication and commitment of our
loneliness, lack of family support or the
consulted by government and other members and volunteers, supported
support of a friend, the giving of our
organisations in the not for profit sector. by capable and willing staff and aided
companionship is the most important
by the unique structure of the Society.
Vincentian members serve in hope gift we can give. We have continued
Our grassroots structure has facilitated
and endeavour to help people help to maintain focus on our Mission and
the provision of help to people in a
themselves, to make them aware that underlying values to ensure that our
responsive and individual way. We
they can forge and change their own response to the cry for help is not
have broadened our Educational
destiny and that of those around them. just routine, preconceived or aimed
Services, which morphed from our
This requires capacity building, helping at dealing only with the symptoms,
very successful Clemente program,
people to take control of their lives, not the cause. That our response
ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY QUEENSLAND 13YEAR IN REVIEW | ANNUAL REPORT 2016-17
as an early intervention measure and children, families and individuals to for the benefit of, the community. The
have been delighted at the volunteer live stable, independent lives. Those services and supports they provide
numbers wanting to join programs, experiencing homelessness, or at risk in communities all around our State
particularly our VoRTCS program. of homelessness, are feeling these wouldn’t be possible without their
challenges most acutely. The support tireless efforts, and I am proud of
More than 306,831 Queenslanders
we receive through the Vinnies CEO the work we have accomplished
were assisted by the Society in the
Sleepout and Community Sleepouts this year. From supporting people in
2016-17 financial year. Our members
has meant we have been able to invest disaster-affected areas, to providing
continue to be central to our response
in real housing solutions for people a listening ear to someone in need,
to the poverty and disadvantage facing
facing homelessness. Vinnies Housing to sorting donations, together we
the most vulnerable in our community.
Queensland has been established are able to make a vital impact in
Driven and shaped by Mission our
as a wholly owned subsidiary of the our community. Together, we have
Conferences and Councils have
Society with the aim of better serving achieved so much. Our work is not
allowed us to respond to those who
the homelessness challenge, focusing always easy. Confronting disadvantage
reach out to us for support in the most
resources and targeting outcomes and unthinkable injustice on a daily
tailored and personal way possible
so that we can provide safe and basis can be overwhelming, but it is a
and serve as the face and heart of
secure accommodation for people privilege to be able to serve those in
the Society.
to call their own each night. There is need. And the vibrancy, commitment
As I eluded to earlier we have more to be done but I’m confident our and dedication of all who are part of
faced challenges, as have our most bricks and mortar initiatives, and the the Society community is testament to
vulnerable companions faced growing wrap-around support we provide to the focus on our Mission which is at the
challenges across the spectrum. From people, will continue to make a real heart of everything we do.
housing, to employment, living costs, difference to those most vulnerable in
With the development of the Strategic
access to education, family situations our community.
Plan 2017-2022 for the Society, there
and mental health, the reasons that
This year marked the welcome return has been a strong focus on our core
people reach out to us for support are
of Ozcare to the Society as a Special Mission: “To live the gospel message
increasingly complex.
Work. A new constitution has been by serving Christ in the poor with
Funding our works has been more put in place, new Board members love, respect, justice, hope and joy,
challenging in an environment where added and a new Board Chair and to work to shape a more just and
philanthropic and government appointed. I would sincerely like to thank compassionate community.” It has been
funding is increasingly hard to source. Fr Ray Kearney for his contribution and energising to see the Mission so central
Thankfully our major appeals and spiritual guidance to State Council over to the development of the strategic
corporate and community fundraisers the past 7 years. Fr Ray has now moved plan, and the initiatives which are now
have been well supported and met from the Society’s State Council to the starting to roll out across the State.
targets. One of our major revenue Ozcare Board as Spiritual Advisor.
It has been a busy year across the
streams, our Centres of Charity (Vinnies
Ozcare is well regarded as a provider Society, and my sincere thanks goes
Shops), have performed splendidly
of high quality aged, community and to each of you, members, volunteers
with sales and margins eclipsing most
home care and while changes to the and staff for your tireless efforts and
others in the charity retail sector and are
methodology of government funding hard work over the past 12 months.
the envy of interstate colleagues. We
for these areas is proving to be I recognise our benefactors, supporters
are in a strong financial position, but the
challenging, Ozcare continues to build and friends of the Society without
statistics in this report are just numbers
on past success and acknowledges whose generosity our work would not
on a page and I ask you to take a
the need to progress its operations in have been achieved. I am indebted to
moment to consider them in context
harmony with the Society’s Mission. colleagues on State Council for their
and try to picture these numbers as the
As the rollout of the NDIS progresses wisdom, support and counsel which I
people we work with, the challenges
it may well be a point of focus as both believe has positioned the Society to
they face and the difference our
organisations seek to identify synergies better serve those in need and deliver
involvement makes.
and opportunities of mutual benefit. on our Mission.
Homelessness across Queensland
I am humbled by the dedication and
remains unacceptably high. Rising
passion of the members, volunteers
living costs, coupled with housing John Forrest
and staff who are part of the Society
affordability issues, continues State President
and the work they carry out in, and
to create significant barriers for
14 ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY QUEENSLANDANNUAL REPORT 2016-17 | YEAR IN REVIEW
CHIEF
EXECUTIVE
OFFICER’S
REPORT
The 2016-17 financial year has seen much change, renewal, and growth across the
Society. There were a number of key changes happen throughout the year which have set
the organisation up for success into the future, and the Society continues to grow in both its
level of service to the community and our size.
All this means that we can make a larger impact in the lives of Across our programs, our approach to providing services
those who need us. is based on best practice models and has produced some
fantastic outcomes for those we support. Our disability, child and
It is heartening to know that a friendly face, a warm cup of tea,
family, youth, housing and homelessness, and mental health
and a listening ear remain at the heart of what we do. Each
programs continue to be recognised by the people accessing
and every day around Queensland, people in need reach out
our services, funders, and other stakeholders as providing high
to us. It may be through a call to one of our support centres,
quality, person-centred support. We now have 19 staff working
or directly to a Conference member or volunteer, through an
in the youth space, engaging young people with social justice
email, or via Facebook, but no matter how they do our members
and the good works of the Society so our mission can thrive into
will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the most vulnerable and
future generations.
disadvantaged in our community. That fact is why we do what we
do. It’s why our 2,962 members, 6,335 volunteers, and 3,285 staff Our unique point of difference remains how we are able to
approach their work with the pride and dedication that they do. seamlessly integrate Vincentian and Conference support, to
provide a holistic ‘wrap-around’ service to give people the best
The year saw a number of new initiatives across the State,
hand up possible. A great example of this is the Families Back on
along with a strong focus on progress and our mission.
Track program on the Gold Coast, where families are provided
We opened a number of new shops and refurbished others.
with case management support as well as material goods
A key highlight was winning a prestigious Gold Award at the
through our Vincentian network.
Australasian Reporting Awards, underscoring our commitment
to transparency and professionalism. We continued to partner
Strategic plan
with government and other service providers to advocate for
people experiencing disadvantage across the State. One of A good portion of the year was dedicated to consulting with
our key areas of focus has been on Vincentian formation, and members around their vision for the Society into the future
our Membership and Development Officers have made great as the Strategic Plan 2017-2022 was developed. The aim
inroads, developing valuable relationships with members and is to better equip the organisation, and us as members of
others in local communities and providing invaluable training and the Vincentian community, to become more effective and
development opportunities for members. Our processes and capable in delivering assistance to those in need. As time
procedures for welcoming new Vincentians into our organisation has progressed, the needs of our companions have changed
have improved, and new members have had positive things to significantly. We are called on and challenged to broaden the
say about their experience joining the Society. Our shops have scope of the services we offer to meet their needs, and the
continued to perform well, in terms of volunteers, donations, strategic plan has been developed to achieve this.
and sales, a testament to our retail team and our strong brand
in the op shop space. Our fundraising efforts through appeals,
the CEO Sleepout, Community Sleepout and bequests continue
to be crucial in supporting our good works, and have been
well supported.
ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY QUEENSLAND 15YEAR IN REVIEW | ANNUAL REPORT 2016-17
The plan encompasses five key pillars for developing and In fact, at this year’s Sleepout I was thrilled to announce the
strengthening the Society moving forward: Society has committed to fund $6.5 million in housing and
accommodation around the State. From family houses in Far
1. Our spirituality
North Queensland, to townhouses in Brisbane for women
2. Our story and children escaping domestic violence, we’ve taken a
housing first approach to solving the homelessness crisis
3. Our partnerships
that exists in our State. Our bricks-and-mortar approach has
4. Our governance realised tangible results for those experiencing homelessness.
We now have over 400 properties around Queensland that
5. Our sustainability.
are housing families and individuals who might otherwise
As the strategic plan rolls out over the coming five years, be homeless. And, together with the hand up we’re able to
I encourage Vincentians, volunteers, and employees alike to give people through our Vincentians and support services,
embrace our vision for the future, which will enable us to better many are able to transition into the public or private housing
serve the vulnerable and disadvantaged in the community. market successfully.
We will be reporting on our progress in implementing the
Ozcare
Strategic Plan in the 2017-18 Annual Report. The development
of the plan was a great opportunity to reflect on the strong The Society has full ownership and control as the sole member
focus on Mission that exists within our organisation, amongst of Ozcare. The Mission of the Society is now entrenched in the
members, volunteers, and staff. The commitment to the idea Statement of Values of Ozcare, and this is the first year that we
of a hand up for people is well and truly embedded. As I am are reporting consolidated financial results as one organisation.
constantly reminding the team, I should not have to see a
Now as one organisation, Ozcare and the Society can
mission statement on the wall – I should be able to sense it
now work more closely together to serve the people of
from the moment I walk inside.
Queensland, while maintaining the Society’s great Catholic
tradition of serving those most disadvantaged in the
Northern Territory
community. Into the future, we’ll be looking at identifying ways
I was appointed Group CEO of St Vincent de Paul Society for Ozcare and Vinnies to achieve efficiencies by working
Queensland and Northern Territory from 1 July 2016. In my together, sharing resources, and developing best practice
first 12 months in the role, some large scale changes to approaches.
the operation of the Society in the Northern Territory have
been introduced stemming from an extensive review of their A heartfelt thank you
operations. This past year has been dedicated to charting
To all who have contributed to what was a successful, yet
a course toward sustainability for the Society in NT. I am
very busy year, a big thank you. Each and every one of us,
confident that the changes made have put us on the path to
in our own way, has contributed to Frederic Ozanam’s vision
carry on our good works in the NT for generations to come.
of providing a hand up to those in need. On behalf of the
Thank you to all the staff who have assisted with getting the
306,831 Queenslanders who have been supported by us
Society in the NT onto a sustainable footing.
throughout the year, you have each been a blessing in your
own way.
Vinnies CEO Sleepout
Thank you to all the staff and executive team, who show
The Vinnies CEO Sleepout was held again in 2017, on
amazing dedication to the organisation and go above and
Thursday 22 June around the country and in Brisbane, the
beyond. I am fortunate and grateful to work with such a
Gold Coast and across Australia. Not only is the CEO Sleepout
dedicated and committed team across the whole organisation.
an important opportunity for us to raise significant funds to
We are no longer delivering firewood as Frederic did as his
support those experiencing or at risk of homelessness, it also
first ‘work’ of the Society, but that same vibrant vision lives on
enables us to engage with business and community leaders
in every single one of our volunteers, members, and staff who
about this issue. Participants hear from people who have
give their heart to what they do. I look forward to another year
experienced homelessness, they are exposed to the statistics,
with the Society in Queensland, and commend this report to
they learn that homelessness can affect anyone – and that,
you as a review of the year that has been.
for many, homelessness is just two pay cheques away. The
Vinnies CEO Sleepout raised $1 million in Queensland this
year, a sum that goes a long way to helping families and Peter Maher
individuals with no place to call home. Chief Executive Officer
16 ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY QUEENSLANDANNUAL REPORT 2016-17 | YEAR IN REVIEW
MESSAGE FROM
THE ARCHBISHOP
A report such as this tells an important story, but what appears here is only a fraction of the real
story of the St Vincent de Paul Society through the last twelve months in this part of the world.
The Society may not be part of the formal structures of the I thank all of those who have been part of the Society’s story
Church, but their work and witness take us to the heart of through the last year. You do not claim the limelight; the
what the Church is called to do and be. We are those called Society never does. But “your Father who sees in secret will
to worship the Lord, and to serve him in obedience to his reward you” (Matthew 6:4). In the end, only God sees the
works: “As long as you did this to the least of my brothers and story whole; and in the end the Society’s story is part of God’s
sisters, you did it to me” (Matthew 25:40). We cannot claim story in the world. Therefore I Praise God for another year
to worship the Lord in truth if we do not serve the poor and of humble service in the footsteps of St Vincent de Paul and
needy. That call is at the heart of biblical religion, and Pope Blessed Frederic Ozanam, and I commend this report to all
Francis has put it before with new clarity with his call to go to who read it and the work of the Society to their prayers.
the peripheries. That is what the Society does and it is why it
matters not only to the Church but to the whole community.
The Most Reverend Mark Coleridge
Archbishop of Brisbane
ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY QUEENSLAND 17YEAR IN REVIEW | ANNUAL REPORT 2016-17
SPIRITUAL
ADVISOR’S
MESSAGE
In 1833 when Frederic Ozanam gathered in Paris with his friends in an attempt to show the
relevance of the Catholic faith, he was inspired to simply ‘do a little good’.
Who would have thought that the small gesture of collecting discriminated against; we have carried firewood when we
remaining firewood and delivering it to a widow would have have helped people with no interest loans or when we have
been the birth of the St Vincent de Paul Society. Who would met as a Conference to share our stories of service; we
have thought that the criticism of the irrelevance of the carry firewood when we work behind the scenes in so many
Catholic faith would have led to nearly 200 years of tangible different ways to facilitate the process so that others can
witnessing to the compassionate and liberating love of Christ. meet the poor face to face. Yes, today there are still great
Who would have thought that a 22 year old young man could needs in our local communities. And yes, today we still carry
ignite a fire in so many others who found meaning in reaching firewood in the footsteps of Frederic Ozanam.
out to those less fortunate. Whilst the appearance of the
As we carry firewood into the future, we are not sure of the
firewood has changed, that same passion to help others, that
emerging poverties that await us. Yet what we do know, is
same passion to live our faith in action, that same passion
that to ensure our vibrant future there will always be a need
to love God with the sweat of our brow and the strength of
for men and women, young and old, to share the mission of
our arms, continues to inspire thousands of Vincentians,
Frederic Ozanam. The need to live our Catholic faith through
volunteers, associate members and staff who carry on this
tangible gestures of love in action will always be necessary.
same mission.
Thus, the St Vincent de Paul Society will always need new
During 2016-2017, all those affiliated with the Society have hands and new hearts willing to take up the firewood and
carried firewood in a variety of ways. We have carried bring it to the poor.
firewood every time we visited families and listened to their
Let us pray for renewed energy in our spirit of service. Let
needs; we have carried firewood whenever we served
us pray for the same passion of Frederic Ozanam who was
people in a Vinnies Shop; we have carried firewood when
tireless in his self-sacrifice. Let us pray for listening hearts
we advocated for the rights of those who were being
to truly discern those who are in greatest need in our local
communities. And let us pray for all those who help us to carry
firewood, for as we carry on the mission of Ozanam, we stand
on the shoulders of all of those who have gone before us in
their humble quest to become better, and do a little good.
“IN MY LIFE I WANT
TO BECOME BETTER AND Sister Mel Dwyer
Spiritual Advisor
DO A LITTLE GOOD…”
Blessed Frederic Ozanam
18 ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY QUEENSLANDANNUAL REPORT 2016-17 | OUR PEOPLE
OUR
People are at the core of our good works and the manner in which we operate. This person
first principle applies not only to the people we assist but to our valued Vincentians,
volunteer members and employees.
We are predominately a volunteer run Our Employees Employee agreements
organisation with 2,962 Vincentians and
We acknowledge the expertise our Our Employee Agreements and
6,335 volunteer members, supported
employees provide to complement Classification Standards ensure
by 3,285 employees.
our good works. There are currently equitable and consistent employment
3,285 employees providing a range and remuneration practices across all
Our Vincentians
of services to the community, this levels of the organisation. The central
Our 2,962 Vincentians are the includes program professional workers purpose of any paid position within the
backbone of the Society, operating in aged care, disability, alcohol and Society is to assist Vincentians to fulfil
through local Conferences at the drug rehabilitation, mental health, child the Society’s vision and mission. It is
grassroots. This approach to assisting and family programs. Retail and depot the duty of all employees to support
Queenslanders makes the Society operation staff, housing
effective at addressing local need. Our and tenancy management,
Vincentians determine the strategic migrant and refugees,
direction of the Society and how best to youth engagement and
provide our programs and services to development, microfinance
people in need. and lending programs,
education, and the
Our Volunteer members dedicated administration,
management and
The Society’s volunteer members help
corporate services.
make the numerous good works we
undertake everyday a reality. These When a paid employee role
people, who give freely of their time and is required to support our
expertise, enable us to offer a hand up works, we seek to ensure
to many Queenslanders. You will find that suitably experienced
volunteer members working across the and qualified people are
state in Centres of Charity, warehouses, attracted and retained.
tutoring programs, support centres and Strategies include human
in many other capacities to help make a resources policies and
difference in the lives of people in need. procedures in areas
Volunteers give generously of their such as recruitment and
time, skills and experience to support selection, performance
Vincentians to fulfil our mission. appraisal and management,
training and development
and equal opportunity.
ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY QUEENSLAND 19OUR PEOPLE | ANNUAL REPORT 2016-17
and carry out activities to deliver the used to assist with implementing safe
Society’s strategic objectives and work practices and preventing future
ensure compliance with legislative incidents from occurring through risk
GENDER and Society standards. It is in this way minimisation strategies. No notifiable or
consistency in mission, philosophy, major incidents were reported during
compliance and quality of service is this period.
maintained whilst ensuring funds are
It is evident that the Society workplace
primarily directed towards service
Employee statistics* health and safety management plan
and assistance outcomes, not
is effective with the Society achieving
administrative costs.
Gender Number % under industry average for WorkCover
claims this financial year. The industry
Female 2,818 86 Our people management
average being 2.459 and the Society’s
Male 467 14 We strive to apply principles of best average is 1.43. This also demonstrates
practice in all our people management inclusive commitment to safety from
programs. To this end a variety of all levels of management and the
resources have been developed and culture that the Society has instilled with
made available across all levels of the our workforce.
organisation. Resources include the
EMPLOYMENT The Workplace Health and Safety
STATUS Volunteer and Employee Team Book, as
(WHS) Committee was very productive
well as the Members Handbook. These
throughout the year with quarterly
publications outline our expectations
meetings including one face to face
and provide guidelines as well as
Employment status* meeting held in August 2016. During the
detailing key workplace health and
financial year the Committee reviewed
safety information. A comprehensive
Status Number % and updated asbestos registers, safety
Volunteer Management Manual, a
data sheets, traffic management plans
Full time 821 25 Workplace Health and Safety (WHS)
and conducted annual audits. Committee
toolkit containing a custom WHS DVD
Part time 2,103 64 members also focused on fire safety,
and other training materials are available
which included providing training to staff
Casual 361 11 across the State to ensure a culture
on evacuation procedures, fire equipment
of safe work practices are promoted
training and ensuring evacuation plans
and our valued people are supported
were current. The Human Resources
appropriately. Monthly tool box sessions
department also conducted risk
have been maintained to meet training
management and incident reporting
requirements and keep skills relevant
training in November 2016.
across the State.
The Society celebrated October Safety
The Society is committed to workplace
EMPLOYEE
month and held a number of events
CLASSIFICATION health and safety and putting in place
and celebrations to thank all involved
effective measures to minimise any
with the Society for their dedication
risk associated with the work that
and commitment to safety. The
is performed. During the financial
Employment classification* Warwick Warehouse celebrated their
year, 422 incidents were recorded
achievement of 10 years of zero lost
for near misses and minor accidents
Number % time injuries.
that occurred. This information is
Admin 296 9
Sales 99 3 Group statistics
Community 2,233 68 Group 2016-17 2015-16 2014-15 2013-14 2012-13
Services
Vincentians 2,962 3,155 3,665 3,312 2,946
Labourers 66 2
Conferences 210 213 210 213 210
Managers 164 5
Society volunteers 5,935 6,761 5,643 6,156 5,566
Professionals 427 13
Society employees 400 372 348 341 351
*Please note these statistics Ozcare employees 2,885
include both Society and
Ozcare employees. Ozcare volunteers 400
20 ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY QUEENSLANDANNUAL REPORT 2016-17 | OUR PEOPLE
Workplace Health and Safety Recruitment and selection The pack includes:
Workforce Opinion Survey Results
The Society’s Recruitment and • Welcome letter, employment
The Society received a 4.43 rating Selection Policy and procedures contract, position description and
for safety consciousness out of for the recruitment of all new Fair Work Information Statement
5. 88.37% of responses feel that Society employees ensures that all
• New employee forms for payroll,
management encourages people to recruitment and selection processes
superannuation
report safety concerns and 78.24% are undertaken with consistency
stated that corrective action is always and in accordance with equity and • Employee Agreement outlining
undertaken after an incident has merit-based principles. All permanent terms and conditions of
occurred or been reported. 87.55% positions are advertised both internally employment
indicated their manager considers the and externally with key selection criteria
• HR Policy Booklet on policies such
safety of workers a top priority and and decision making occurring through
as Code of Conduct, Conflicts
86.18% feel communication regarding a panel-based interview process
of Interest, Discrimination,
safety issues in the workplace is and pre-employment screening.
Harassment and Bullying,
adequately managed. On occasion, casual and short term
Information Technology and Social
contract positions may be advertised
The survey highlighted our workers Media, Whistleblower, Grievance
internally to provide an opportunity for
commitment to safety, with 90.37% Resolutions, Disciplinary and
appropriately skilled employees and
of people reporting that co-workers Performance Management, Health,
volunteers within the Society to move to
are supportive of a safety conscious Safety and Wellbeing
paid development opportunities.
work environment and 89.91%
responding that co-workers are willing The Society understands that a
to assist them with tasks to ensure successful recruitment process
they are performed safely. 91.29% must result in the appointment of an
of respondents stated they had been applicant that is not only appropriately
adequately trained to perform daily qualified and experienced but will also
tasks in a safe manner. 90.36% of be the right fit within the organisational
survey respondents were comfortable culture and a suitable representative
raising a safety concern with their of the Society’s core values and ethos.
line manager. To facilitate the successful selection
of the most suitable applicant, all
National Police History Checks Society interview panels consist of
94%
representatives who are employees,
In-line with the Society Screening
Vincentians and a mix of genders.
& Suitability Policy, all new and
current Vincentians, volunteer All interview panel representatives are
members and employees are provided with a list of predetermined of employees believe
women and men have
required to have a suitable police questions to ensure consistency in the equal opportunities
history check. The Society is now an interview process. They also receive with the Society.
accredited organisation and is able an information sheet which outlines
to conduct National Police History the Society’s and the interviewers’
Checks internally. obligations in relation to the Society’s
Recruitment and Selection Policy
Screening and Suitability Review and the Society’s Discrimination,
Panel Committee Harassment and Bullying Policy
A review panel has been established
to assess all disclosable outcomes
to ensure that all interviews are
conducted in a manner compliant with WE STRIVE
on a case by case basis against a
developed risk assessment matrix in-
relevant legislation.
FOR BEST
PRACTICE
As part of the offer of employment all
line with the Society ethos and mission. new employees are provided with an
Review Panel members include HR employment page which contains key
Manager Kirstin Hinchliffe, Senior We strive to apply
information relating to employment with principles of best
Child Protection Officer Ray Snell, the Society. practice in all our people
Faye Wilkinson, John McMahon and management programs.
Terrence Darwin. Resources include the
Volunteer and Employee
Team Book, called the
HR Team Book, as well as
the Members Handbook.
ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY QUEENSLAND 21You can also read
