Annual Report 2009-2010

Down Syndrome Victoria

Committee of Management
President Kirsten Deane
Vice President David Saunders
Natalie Graham
Treasurer Damian Morrin
General Committee Anne Page
Lynette May
Peter Sloan

2009 Life Member

Peter Egan

Office Staff
Executive Officer Catherine McAlpine
Adult Support Coordinator Lainy Henderson
Communications Design Jean Cotchin
Education Consultant Ian Cook
Family Support and Training Sue Blandford (formerly Modra)
Information Development Sharon Ford
Information, Marketing and Development Janene Trickey (until April 2010)
Office Assistant Stephanie Papeleo
Office Manager Jocelyn Geary
MyTime and Groups Coordinator Jackie Getson
Reception and Administration Marci Katz
Volunteer Coordinator Meredith Zavattiero
Regular Office Volunteers Alexandra Perry
Dorothy Morrison
Joan Philips
Ken Wright

MyTime and Family Network Group Facilitators

Jackie Getson
Tina Naughton
Marie Symon
Caroline McDiarmid
Rebekah Fraser
Dianne McLellan
Karen Asborne

Special thanks to all of the models in our photographs for

allowing us to use their images in our publications.
This annual report was designed pro bono by Jean Cotchin
with support from the staff at Down Syndrome Victoria.
 Table of Contents
President’s Report 2
Executive Officer’s Report 3
Treasurer’s Report 3
Changing Lives 4-5
Information & Resources 6
Sharing Knowledge 7
Sustainability 8-10
Advocacy 12
Key Performance Indicators 13
Summarised Financial Statements* 14-25
*Notes 2-12 are available in the electronic version of this annual report
which can be obtained from our website at
www.downsyndromevictoria.org.au

Note: The organisation’s legal name is the Down Syndrome Association

of Victoria Inc. Throughout this document the name Down Syndrome
Victoria is used interchangeably with Down Syndrome Association of
Victoria Inc. In all cases it refers to the Down Syndrome Association of
Victoria Inc. There is no other legal entity.

Down Syndrome Victoria Annual Repor t 20 09 2010 1

President’s Report
I remember vividly the first time I went to my coffee group. I
went home and my mother in law anxiously asked me how it
went. I said it was great, how much I had enjoyed it and how I
would definitely go again. And then I promptly burst into tears
and spent the next hour crying.
Later – much, much later – I confessed to one of the other
mothers. She laughed and said she had done the same thing.
And after you have been around for a while you soon learn that
everyone cries the first time – either at the group, back in the
car or in the relative privacy of home. But then everyone picks
themselves up, dusts themselves off and comes back again the
next time. The tears are not a reflection of the experience but
just a part of the early fog of grief.
The people I met during those first difficult months after
Sophie’s birth have gone on to become some of my most
treasured friends. We consider ourselves most fortunate to have
friends like these to share our lives with, who have been there
for us through good times and bad.
And when I speak to other families at Down Syndrome Victoria
I find our experience is very common – that everyone has a
similar tale to tell of life-long friendships formed through shared
experience. Everyone speaks of the wonderful relief that comes
when someone else just understands.
Down Syndrome Victoria was established more than thirty
years ago by a small group of parents who came together to
share information and provide support for one another. And
that’s what has continued to happen week after week, in lounge-
rooms and church halls, all across the state for the last three
decades.
Now it seems research is finally starting to document what we
have all known all along – that having other people to share
the journey with lightens the load and strengthens the family.
Overseas research consistently shows that families value peer
support over professional support, and that finding others to
share the journey helps build family resilience.
We have been delighted over the last couple of years to expand
our peer support network to include people with Down
syndrome. Club 21 has gone from strength to strength this
year providing young people with Down syndrome with the
opportunity to socialise and build relationships – and to have
their own opportunity to share the journey.
2 Down Syndrome Victoria Annual Repor t 20 09 2010
A number of Club 21 members have also just begun to meet as
a small leadership group. Over the coming months and years this
group will begin to have input into Down Syndrome Victoria’s
strategic direction. It is very important to us that people with
Down syndrome have a voice in the organisation that represents
them. While it is still very early days, I am sure this small group
will come to have a profound impact on the direction and
functioning of the organisation.
Given how strongly we feel about peer support, and the
increasing evidence of its positive impact on families, many
find it surprising to learn that Down Syndrome Victoria is not
funded to provide this important service. Down Syndrome
Victoria is funded by the Victorian government as an information
provider. We receive some funding to run groups for parents
of preschoolers through the Federal government’s My Time
program. But we do not receive any funding to support the
other groups in the DSV network, nor any funding for the vital
work of the Family Support Worker.
A couple of years ago, the committee of management made the
strategic decision to continue to operate services regarded as
vital as well as invest in new programs and services in response
to member demand. This has placed a significant strain on
our resources but the committee strongly believes we can
no longer continue to ignore the very pressing issues for our
members, particularly those members supporting adults with
Down syndrome. The ongoing funding of programs and services
we regard as essential such as the peer support network and
the Educational Support Services are therefore matters of the
highest priority for the committee, and I hope for our members.
The work of Down Syndrome Victoria will be done when
people with Down syndrome have the same opportunities
in life as everyone else. The same opportunities for a good
education, meaningful employment, somewhere to live, inclusion
in community activities. Sadly, that day is still a long way off. Until
then, I hope we can all work together to achieve the kinds of
changes we all want to see. And we can do it all over a good cup
of coffee.
Kirsten Deane
President
Executive Officer’s Report
Down Syndrome Victoria continues to focus on our priorities
of peer support, information and resources, sharing knowledge,
advocacy and sustainability.
In 2009 / 2010 we experienced increasing demand in every area
- from the expansion of the statewide peer support network
and appointment as a MyTime Coalition Lead Agency to the
collaboration with Down Syndrome NSW on a joint journal.
Requests for the Down Syndrome Victoria Education Support
Service have multiplied (as has the need to fundraise to support
it) and requests for Down Syndrome Victoria presentations and
training sessions are more frequent. Family information sessions
were held at places as diverse as Halls Creek, Bendigo, Mildura
and metropolitan Melbourne.
We were very excited to launch two important initiatives with
the potential to profoundly affect the future of our organisation
- Club21 and Buddy Walk. Club21 is the peer support network
for adults with Down syndrome set up as a result of the
Treasurer’s Report
The financial performance for the period to 30 June 2010 was
ahead of expectations. The Committee of Management had
previously taken a strategic decision to increase the range of
services proved by Down Syndrome Victoria, and to grow
the organisation accordingly. For the period under review, the
Committee of Management had budgeted for a loss of $100k
excluding any investment revaluation. Therefore the operating
result of a loss of $75k was, in the circumstances, a good
performance.
At 30 June 2010 our long term investment fund stood at
$478,707, compared to$600,000 originally invested in 2006. The
significant impairment which was incurred in 2009 as a result of
the global financial crisis is yet to be fully recouped.
We remain a relatively small not-for-profit organisation that
punches above its weight, in terms of services delivered
compared to revenue received. This is testament to the
dedication of Down Syndrome Victoria’s staff and volunteers.
We obviously cannot continue running at an operating deficit
indefinitely, therefore we have invested in recruiting staff to
Down Syndrome Victoria Annual Repor t 20 09 2010
Mentoring Connections program. We are looking forward to
many interesting discussions with the Club21 leadership group.
Buddy Walk became truly national as Down Syndrome Victoria
launched a wonderful community event at Princes Park. Beautiful
weather and a dynamic organising group combined for success
on every level.
Thank-you to our dedicated Committee of Management, the
wonderful staff team who work harder than any group I have
met, our bighearted and enthusiastic volunteers, and for the
support of the many donors whose generosity continues to
amaze us.
Catherine McAlpine
Executive Officer
concentrate on actively pursuing further grant and fundraising
income. Hopefully, the fruits of this investment will be reflected
in the results of future periods.
It should be noted that managing cash flow remains a key
challenge for Down Syndrome Victoria. During 2010 we had to
withdraw $50k from our long-term investment fund for short-
term cash-flow purposes. Post year-end, the funds have been
returned to the long term investment account.
I would like to conclude by taking this opportunity to thank
Peter Egan for his fantastic support on the Finance sub-
committee. Peter, truly deserves, the Down Syndrome Victoria
life membership bestowed upon him this year.
Damian Morrin
Treasurer
3
Changing Lives
Supporting New Families
Families continue to report that one of the most important
factors in dealing with the news that their baby has Down
syndrome was the peer support they received in those early
days. An initial Family Support visit or telephone call can be
extremely beneficial to new families. In 2009–2010 we had 55
new parents contact us.
A great opportunity for new families to connect, learn more
about Down syndrome and the services we offer is at the
Welcome to New Parents evenings. In 2009-2010 we welcomed a
total of 33 new parents at 4 sessions.
In the 2009-2010 period we had 29 families contact us with a
confirmed or suspected pre-natal diagnosis. The support and
information we provide helps families to make an ‘informed
choice’ or to prepare for the birth of their new baby. Down
Syndrome Victoria does not receive any funding for this core
service
Peer Support Network
Staying true to our model of peer support and empowerment
we endeavour to link all families in with a local family network
group. We continue to coordinate volunteer led peer support
groups throughout Victoria including our facilitator led MyTime
groups.
The MyTime program offers a national network of peer support
groups to parents of children with a disability or chronic medical
condition. The initiative is funded by the Australian Government
Department of Families, Community Services and Indigenous
Affairs (FaHCSIA), and is coordinated nationally by the Parenting
Research Centre (PRC).
Down Syndrome Victoria has been a MyTime Provider in
Victoria since the inception of the MyTime program in 2007. Late
in 2009, a number of coalitions were established across Victoria.
DSV became a Coalition Lead Agency, and now manages 16
MyTime groups across the state of Victoria through the MyTime
and Family Network Groups Coordinator. The main difference
between DSV volunteer-led groups & MyTime groups is that the
latter are funded, have a paid facilitator & playhelper to help with
the children, and there is a component of reporting (to PRC)
required. The MyTime groups are also open to all disabilities.
Groups create in an informal and supportive environment
for families and provide an opportunity for families to meet
informally, share ideas and make new friends.
4 Down Syndrome Victoria Annual Repor t 20 09 2010
CALD Families
Contact with new parents from culturally and linguistically
diverse backgrounds continues to increase. In 2009-2010 we
had 14 families referred to us, 8 of these families did not read
or speak English and required a translator. We have very few
resources to support these families so we are always seeking
out appropriate material in other languages.
On-going Support
Our Family Support team is also available for parents with
a family member with Down syndrome of any age, who
may want to talk to someone about a particular issue they
may be facing with their child during transition stages of
their life (starting school, specific health issues, employment,
accommodation etc).
Down Syndrome Victoria has begun strategically addressing
the issue of underemployment of people with Down
syndrome. An overwhelming proportion of people with
Down syndrome who are employed work in a segregated
setting. Down Syndrome Victoria firmly believes that
adults with Down syndrome can and should have access to
employment in the open market. The Family Support team
is working to provide families, professionals and people with
Down syndrome with relevant up-to-date information on the
employment of people with Down syndrome. A resource will
be developed that aims to clarify the options available and
how to access them.
Professional Development
Down Syndrome Victoria offers both standard and tailored
professional development – especially for health and
education professionals. Our health professional in-services
are designed to educate about Down syndrome, to provide
a parent/family perspective and to present hints and tips to
assist nursing staff in dealing with families during the early days
of diagnosis.
Down Syndrome Victoria conducts an annual education
professional day early in the year. Topics at this one-day
workshop vary each year but may include an overview
of Down syndrome, learner profile, behaviour and guest
speakers on various topics.
Down Syndrome Victoria is happy to respond to any
expression of interest that increases the capacity of the
community to welcome and include people with Down
syndrome.
 Changing Lives

Club21
Feedback from adults with Down syndrome indicated interest
in opportunities to extend social connections and networks.
Down Syndrome Victoria strongly believes it is important to
help facilitate such interactions and planned to do so through
the creation of a Peer Support Network, which offers a safe,
inclusive environment where adults with Down syndrome
can relax, make new friends, support each other and become
involved in community based activities.

Club21: a peer support network for adults with Down syndrome

aims to tackle social isolation while promoting independence and
leadership skills. Club21 has created an inclusive environment
where adults with Down syndrome can extend their social
networks, voice their opinion and enhance their social skills,
confidence, leadership skills and independence. Club21 has also
worked towards promoting inclusion and acceptance of people
with Down syndrome in the general community by participating
in many mainstream activities.

Since Club21’s successful launch in November 2009 membership

has more than doubled in size for both adults with Down
syndrome and volunteers.

During 2010 Club21 membership reached 34 adults with Down

syndrome with activities running approximately once every
two weeks. Popular activities included karaoke, Melbourne Zoo
Twilight night, a theatre production in Ballarat and the Australian
Open.

During 2010-2011 Club21 plans to launch its very first Leadership

Group. The Leadership Group will ideally comprise of five or six
interested adults with Down syndrome who are active members
of Club21. They will be responsible for deciding and helping to
organise activities undertaken by Club21 with the support of the
Club21 facilitator.

Part of the role of the Leadership Group will be to advocate

for others in Club21. They will be responsible for voicing the
opinions, ideas and needs of the other members of Club21.
Training on areas such as leadership skills, group work, running
meetings, decision making and advocacy will be provided to the
Leadership Group so they develop skills that will help them fulfil
their responsibility to Club21 and Down Syndrome Victoria.

Down Syndrome Victoria Annual Repor t 20 09 2010 5

Information & Resources
Resource library
The past twelve months have seen
the ongoing transformation of Down
Syndrome Victoria’s resource library into
a valuable up-to-date resource base for
members. This process has occurred in
three stages:
(i) a comprehensive review and
rationalisation of the existing collection,
(ii) a significant grant from the Lord
Mayor’s Charitable Fund supported the
purchase of many new resources to
upgrade and expand the collection, and
(iii) a user-friendly classification system
was introduced, coupled with the
electronic recording of the entire
collection and the borrowing system.
During the past year, approximately 170
new items have been purchased for the
resource library, including publications,
DVDs and CD-ROMs and journal
subscriptions. In addition, a number of
new periodicals have been added to the
collection as a result of journal exchange
agreements with other organisations for
the quarterly journal Voice.
6 Down Syndrome Victoria Annual Repor t 20 09 2010
Journal Information on the
The past year has been a very significant website
one for the quarterly journal Voice. Four Down Syndrome Victoria continuously
issues of the journal have been produced reviews information available both on the
over this period, each including a themed internet and in print, in order to provide
feature section. The themes covered our members and others interested
were: Life skills, Early years, Education in Down syndrome with relevant and
and Health Matters. current information. Over the past year,
the information base on our website
In 2009, discussions commenced has continued to expand, with particular
between Down Syndrome Victoria and attention being focused on information
Down Syndrome New South Wales resources relating to early years
with a view to publishing a collaborative development, education and students
journal for members in both states. An with Down syndrome, and supporting
editorial committee was formed with people with Down syndrome and their
two staff members from each state, families in the transition from school and
including a Managing Editor, Jill O’Connor, into adult life.
from the NSW office. The first jointly
produced edition of the journal Voice was
published in March 2010 as a 24-page
journal, supplemented in both states by
an 8-page state-specific supplement. This
has proved a successful and rewarding
partnership, producing a high quality
publication which brings world’s best
practice, news from the local, national
and international community of people
with Down syndrome and their families,
and latest information and research to
members of both associations.
Sharing Knowledge
Education Support
Service
More of our students with Down
syndrome are now moving through to
the end of secondary education and
as attitudes and aspirations for their
children change and develop parents
are confronted with post secondary
educational systems, various government
services, workplaces and a society
in general that may not always fully
understand and be ready to meet these
needs.
Parents are faced with a maze of
information surrounding government
services, private (government funded)
services, mysterious educational and
funding options, jargon and acronyms all
of which serve to confuse and perplex.
The Education Suppprt Service supports
planning for such transition to work and/
or further education as this needs to
begin at least midway through secondary
schooling. This is complemented by the
Down Syndrome Victoria Adult Support
Coordinator.
Down Syndrome Victoria Annual Repor t 20 09 2010
The Education Suppprt Service
supports 68 students – made up of 41
metropolitan and 27 regional / country
students. As well there are the regular
on-off local, interstate and overseas
enquiries.
The annual Professional Development
Day for teachers and support personnel
was held in March and attracted 81
participants. This year the focus was
on behaviour management and Maths.
Of special interest was the session
where two classroom teachers (one
primary, one secondary) spoke of their
experiences of teaching students with
Down syndrome. A past Education
Suppprt Service (now TAFE) student
supplemented her teacher’s popular
presentation.
In May a successful Choosing A School
(primary and post primary) information
session was held attended by 20 families
Of course funding is always an on-going
concern as subscriptions meet only
approximately 25% of service costs and
so your support of Race Day and Golf
Day along with the contributions from
government grants and trusts are much
appreciated.
All of this has made for another
successful and productive year for the
Education Suppprt Service.
PEER Weekend
Bacchus Marsh
The theme of the 2009 People
Empowered, Educated & Rested
(PEER) Weekend was “Speaking for
my Self”. 109 family members attended
to obtain up-to-date information and
to enjoy networking and peer support
opportunities. The PEER Weekend
provided childcare with the support of
15 volunteers to enable parents to have
plenty of time to relax, socialise and
become better informed about caring for
people with Down syndrome.
7
Sustainability
Down Syndrome Victoria is an evolving organisation, striving
to continue to provide best practice resources and up to
date information in its support of its members. A fundraising
focus encompassing donations, events, community fundraising,
corporate sponsorship, grants and funding from trusts and
foundations is necessary to support the organisational objectives.
Buddy Walk
The inaugural Melbourne Buddy Walk was a huge success. Over
600 registered walkers participated at Princes Park on Sunday,
October 11, enjoying a sunny and relaxing day. Just over $27,000
was raised for Down Syndrome Victoria’s support, education
and advocacy programs.
Natalie Lawlor, Sophie’s mother said it was “a great day and a
wonderful celebration of inclusion and diversity - this is such a
fantastic community to be a part of”. Before Sophie was born,
Natalie contacted Down Syndrome Victoria’s Family Support
Coordinator for information and advice. She is now an active
member in the Down Syndrome Victoria community and
organises logistics for Buddy Walk Melbourne as a volunteer on
the Organising Committee.
Most of the funds raised were donated via the Buddy pages
established by families with some amazing results. Down
Syndrome Victoria is very grateful to the key fundraisers who
contributed and would especially like to acknowledge the efforts
of Limor Peterson (Noam Peterson) who raised $4408, Nicole
Gosbell (Team Nathan) - $2445, Fiona Hall (Jack Hall) - $2,380
and Kathleen Muller (Max) - $2,000.
8 Down Syndrome Victoria Annual Repor t 20 09 2010
Race Day
Mooney Valley Race Day on Saturday 25 July was again a
great success, with over $20,000 in proceeds allocated for
the Education Support Service. When Ian Cook, Education
Consultant for Down Syndrome Victoria took to the stage and
interviewed Rainer Stephani, it was a powerful example of the
impact the service can have not only just when the strategies are
put into place, but over the long term. More than 230 people
attended for a day filled with laughter, good food, socialising and
fun. A highlight was the Punters Club, where participants bought
shares and professional punter David Mason placed bets on their
behalf.
T4321 – Kick off
T4321 is a national initiative and takes place on or near World
Down Syndrome Day (21st March). In 2010, Down Syndrome
Victoria participated and promoted the event to its members
with great success.
Elizabeth Sfetkidis enthusiastically embraced the idea of hosting
a tea, “For the past two years, World Down Syndrome Day
has been a special opportunity for myself and my family and a
time to reflect on how we can help shape our daughter Marina’s
future. As well as raising awareness about Down syndrome and
some much needed funds, hosting our T4321 was great fun and
an opportunity for close family and friends to socialise over a cup
of tea and some home–made scones that Marina helped bake.”
Family Fun Day
In 2010, Family Fun Day happily fell exactly on World Down
Syndrome Day – Sunday, the 21st of March. 400 members of
Down Syndrome Victoria attended, which included 99 of our
families. A BBQ, games, rides and lots of entertaining activities
made for a fun-filled day that aimed to bring the community
together and facilitate peer group relationships and support
group networks.
Golf Day
Yet again it was a perfect day for an enjoyable morning of
golf followed by a sumptuous lunch at the Growling Frog Golf
Course on Sunday 14 March. Sixty people attended and as
well as participating in a challenging but fun round of golf,
approximately $17,000.00 was raised to support the Down
Syndrome Victoria Educational Support Service for schools.
This success would not have been possible without the support
of the participants and donations from supporters of the event
as well as the tireless efforts and generosity of two members;
Neville Hall and Paul Gorman,
Puffing Billy Day
An inspiration to provide a fun day out for our members spun
Wayne Eriksen into action and led to the organisation of Puffing
Billy Day on the 16th of May where 250 of our members and
their families were provided a free pass aboard Puffing Billy and
enjoyed a BBQ lunch as well. Many thanks to Wayne for his
dedicated efforts in providing such a wonderful day for all who
attended.
Down Syndrome Victoria Annual Repor t 20 09 2010
Volunteers
Down Syndrome Victoria has been the grateful recipient of
over 2000 hours volunteered by dozens of generous people
throughout 2009-2010. Potential volunteers learn about
volunteering opportunities in many ways; via the Down
Syndrome Victoria website and publications, referrals from
Council-run resource centres, recruitment drives at Volunteer
Expos, through the excellent intranet sites hosted by tertiary
institutions or by having a personal link with Down syndrome.
Once they have satisfied our criteria, applicants are provided
with an Induction pack to support them in their role. Only
after this stage & depending on availability & area of interest,
volunteers have many options. These include attending MyTime
groups as play-helpers, facilitating Family Network Groups,
joining in Club21 activities, office-based work or lending a hand
at the various peer support and fundraising events held annually.
These activities are not limited to the Melbourne area, as our
services and events are state-wide.
Thank you to every one of our volunteers for making the
invaluable contribution of their most precious asset: their
time. We are always thrilled & humbled by the generosity of
volunteers and their help allows us to focus on our members.
9
Thanks for your support
In-Memory Donors Major Donors
Many thanks to those that gave in > $10,000
memory of: Syndrome Angels
Fiona McBurney
George Demetriou $10,000-$5,000
Pat Willis Hawthorn Football Club
Robyn O’Callaghan Mr John Laidlaw
Walter John Weir Mr James Watson
and the christening of Zara Avola
$4,000-$1,000
Trusts & Foundations Woodpeckers Club Inc
Lord Mayor’s Charitable Fund Red Hot Relationships
$18,500 for Adult Support Mr Marcus Sweeney
Elizabeth McQueen
The Marian & E.H. Flack Trust Mr & Mrs Brendan & Jana Curtis
$10,000 for Adult Support Mrs Fiona Graham
Seymour Station
The George Hicks Foundation Macquarie Financial Holdings Ltd
$5,000 in support of Down Syndrome (donation nominated by Melinda Elliott)
Victoria Rock-E-Road Pty Ltd
Ian Hicks
Ken and Carol Klooger Foundation Mrs Christine Poole
$2,500 in support of Down Syndrome
Victoria $800 - $300
Mater Christi College
Government Grants Port Douglas Chamber of Commerce Inc
Department of Education & Early Moonee Valley Racing Club
Childhood Development Mrs Angela Blakston
$90,000 for resources and professional Dr Peter Sloan
development for education professionals Mr Richard Dalton
Mrs Kim Ngo
Department of Human Services Mr James Patterson
$70,000 for website and database Mrs Roslyn Allen
upgrade Rotary Club of Waverley
Mr Simon Davies
External / Community Mr Bernie Sweeney
Fundraising: St Joseph’s Primary School
Elizabeth McQueen – Geelong Music Red Energy
Trivia Night ($2,000) Methodist Ladies’ College
Mrs Charmaine Guest
PIA Kids – Trivia Night fundraiser raised Ms Sue Finnie
funds for the donation of a Karaoke GE Money
Machine (value of $3,000) AAA Action Drafting Pty Ltd
Chubb Security
A note of thanks as well to Reynolds Cash For A Cause PROBIOTECH
Automation Controls for their donations (AUST)
of Boardmaker Software and a Colour
Printer in support of our operations.

10 Down Syndrome Victoria Annual Repor t 20 09 2010

Down Syndrome Victoria Annual Repor t 20 09 2010 11
Advocacy
Down Syndrome Victoria has gradually taken a more active
advocacy role in the community, media and disability sector. We
are actively involved in the Down Syndrome Australia network,
we participate in industry councils and roundtables, we are
asked for comment by the media on subjects involving Down
syndrome and disability and generally do our best to represent
our membership vigorously and honestly.
World Down Syndrome Congress
The World Down Syndrome Congress (WDSC) is held every
three years and represents the best opportunity to gather the
latest research and examine new and innovative programs for
people with Down syndrome and their families. The theme of
the 2009 Dublin Congress was Lifelong Living & Learning. The
consistent messages from key conference presentations were
the importance of inclusion, planning and resilience.
r
5IF
JNQPSUBODF
PG
JODMVTJPO
*ODMVTJPO
JT
NVDI
NPSF

nuanced than just ‘mainstream’. Being in the community is
essential but not enough. Direct personal contact is key to
changing community attitudes.
r
5IF
JNQPSUBODF
PG
QMBOOJOH
4VDDFTT
EPFTOU
IBQQFO
CZ

accident. A high level of expectation and preparation by
family and supporters is the biggest predictor of positive
outcomes for people with disabilities.
r
5IF
JNQPSUBODF
PG
SFTJMJFODF
5IF
DIBMMFOHF
JT
UP
SBJTF

resilient children, children who see themselves as problem
solvers. Children who grow to realise that things won’t
always be easy, but who become adults with the confidence
in themselves to deal with difficulties. Adults with Down
syndrome tend to pass their decision making power on
to families and carers. Vigilance needs to be exercised to
ensure that this does not happen.
12
The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disability
has completed the move in disability theory from institutional
to mainstream policy. Now it is time to move from theory to
practice. This does not mean creating new rights for people with
disabilities, but applying existing rights effectively. Governments
need to lay down a dynamic of change. The ‘temptation of
elegance’ must be resisted– the written word will not achieve
everything. The time for transformative action has come.
Many nations are grappling with an unaffordable three-
tiered system made up of institutions, old community and
contemporary community supports. As change is implemented
inequity of resources has become an issue; especially when
incentives are in the wrong place. The resources directed to the
‘second wave’ of de-institutionalisation – special schools, day
services and sheltered workshops – need to be redirected to
policies and practices that enable people to live the lives that
they choose.
Down Syndrome Victoria aims for a lives of growth,
development and opportunity and is committed to structures
and support that have been proven to give meaningful choice to
the lives of people with Down syndrome.
And therein lie the challenges to governments; to support the
mainstreaming of disability, to resource community supports,
and to understand that supports can be infinitely calibrated
to the individual. That is – to prioritize inclusion, planning and
resilience.
Catherine McAlpine attended the WDSC as part of her DHS
funded Ethel Temby Study tour.
Down Syndrome Victoria Annual Repor t 20 09 2010
Key Performance Indicators
2009-2010 2008-2009 % Change
Membership
Members at 30th June 1042 1021 2.06%
Attendance at Family Fun Day 433 357 21.29%

Suppor t
Suppor t calls handled 1437 958 50.00%
Suppor t emails handled 879 -
Number of new family contacts 55 45 22.22%
Peer suppor t groups 32 25 28.00%
Peer suppor t par ticipation 1368 1196 14.38%
Parent education sessions held 12 9 33.33%

Training
Educators trained 88 150 -43.33%
Health professionals trained 120 105 14.29%
Respite/carers/others trained 75 42 78.57%
New volunteers trained 29 30 -3.33%
Student Placements 8 5 60.00%

Awareness
Website visitors 258347 56930 353.80%
Website hits 880839 989221 -10.96%
Library borrowings 586 -
Dnews circulation 18919 -

Fundraising
$ raised from charitable trusts/foundations 69,879 76301 -8.42%

Volunteers
Number of active volunteers 71 72 -1.39%
Number of new volunteer enquiries 150 102 47.06%
Volunteer hours 1843 2036 -9.48%

Down Syndrome Victoria Annual Repor t 20 09 2010 13

Statement by Members
of the Committee

The committee has determined that the association is not a reporting entity and that this
special purpose financial report should be prepared in accordance with the accounting policies
outlined in Note 1 to the financial statements.

In the opinion of the committee the financial report:

1. Presents a true and fair view of the financial position of Down Syndrome Victoria as at
30 June 2010 and its performance for the year ended on that date.

2. At the date of this statement, there are reasonable grounds to believe that Down
Syndrome Victoria will be able to pay its debts as and when they fall due.

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

Kirsten Deane (Chairman)

Damian Morrin (Treasurer)

14 Down Syndrome Victoria Annual Repor t 20 09 2010

Summarised Financial Statements

INCOME STATEMENT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2010

2010 2009
Note $ $
INCOME
Recurrent income (DHS) 113,640 110,016
Investment income received 31,232 73,929
Club21 income 3,978 -
Peer Support income 104,869 73,958
Resources income 3,511 2,400
Training & Development income 52,490 39,535
Membership fees 8,559 24,214
Charitable Trusts & Foundations 69,879 76,301
Government Project Grants 60,000 85,052
Donations 138,810 58,921
Fundraising income 21,222 20,276
Fundraising Events 37,977 33,109
Other revenue 680 1,918
TOTAL INCOME 646,847 599,629

EXPENSES
Employee benefits 450,100 432,816
Professional & Consulting fees 38,935 38,516
Bank charges 4,506 3,637
Depreciation 24,727 20,113
General Administration 20,717 27,541
IT and Internet 14,307 12,845
Rent 38,092 37,818
Occupancy Expenses 10,654 9,407
Repairs and Maintenance 511 1,300
Library & Resources 37,017 24,133
Statewide support 25,143 22,707
MyTime Expenses 11,802 11,111
Advocacy Expenses - 4,016
Member Event Expenses 16,024 4,355
Volunteer Expenses 3,153 2,526
Training Event expenses 4,278 19,121
Fundraising expenses 20,870 7,697
TOTAL EXPENSES 720,836 679,659
Investment Impairment 1(e) - 191,980
NET DEFICIT FOR THE YEAR -73,989 -272,010

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

Increment in financial assets 38,105 -
TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME -35,884 -272,010

Down Syndrome Victoria Annual Repor t 20 09 2010 15

Summarised Financial Statements

BALANCE SHEET AS AT 30 JUNE 2010

2010 2009
Note $ $
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents 122,173 33,683
Receivables 27,984 52,163
Prepayments 577 1,000
Salary Packaging Clearing Account 915 -
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 151,649 86,846

NON-CURRENT ASSETS
Financial assets 2 478,707 490,602
Property, Plant and Equipment 3 23,852 41,689
TOTAL NON-CURRENT ASSETS 502,559 532,291

TOTAL ASSETS 654,208 619,137

CURRENT LIABILITIES
Unearned revenue 4 111,216 52,359
GST liability 11,943 5,387
Payroll liabilities 5,649 12,976
Provision for annual leave 6 28,336 21,573
Other current liabilities 23,422 20,663
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 180,566 112,958

NON CURRENT LIABILITIES

Provision for long service leave 6 6,801 3,454
TOTAL NON CURRENT LIABILITIES 6,801 3,454

TOTAL LIABILITIES 187,367 116,412

NET ASSETS 466,841 502,725

EQUITY
Financial assets reserve 5 38,105 -
Accumulated funds 428,736 502,725
TOTAL EQUITY 466,841 502,725

The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements

16 Down Syndrome Victoria Annual Repor t 20 09 2010

Summarised Financial Statements

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2010

Accumulated Financial assets
funds reserve
$ $
Balance at 30 June 2008 774,735 (75,666)

Net deficit for the year (272,010) -

Revaluation decrement - 75,666

Balance at 30 June 2009 502,725 -

Net deficit for the year (73,989) -

Revaluation increment - 38,105

Balance at 30 June 2010 428,736 38,105

CASH FLOW STATEMENT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2010

2010 2009
Note $ $
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Grants received 188,500 198,566
Membership fees 8,559 24,214
Interest received 500 1,956
Other receipts 501,092 315,626
Payments to suppliers and employees -684,503 -693,358
NET CASH PROVIDED BY (USED IN) OPERATING ACTIVITIES 7 14,148 -152,996

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES

Purchase of property, plant and equiptment -6,890 -3,272
Redemption of financial assets 50,000 -
Investment distribution received 31,232 58,872
NET CASH PROVIDED BY INVESTING ACTIVITIES 74,342 55,599

NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH HELD 88,490 -97,397

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF FINANCIAL YEAR 33,683 131,080

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF YEAR 122,173 33,683

The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements

Down Syndrome Victoria Annual Repor t 20 09 2010 17

Summarised Financial Statements
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2010

NOTE 1 - STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The financial report is a special purpose financial report that has been prepared in accordance with the Accounting Standards,
Australian Accounting Interpretations, other authoritative pronouncements of the Australian Accounting Standards Board and the
requirements of the Associations Incorporation Act 1981 ( Vic).

The following is a summary of material accounting policies adopted in the preparation of the financial report. The accounting policies
have been consistently applied, unless stated otherwise.

Basis of Preparation
Reporting Basis and Conventions
The financial report has been prepared on an accrual basis and is based on historical costs modified by the revaluation of selected non-
current assets, and financial assets and liabilities for which the fair value basis of accounting has been applied.

Accounting Policies
(a) Income Tax
The association is exempt from income tax under the provision of Section 50-5 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997.

(b) Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, plant and equipment are carried at cost less, where applicable, accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. The carrying
amount of plant and equipment is reviewed annually by the association to ensure it is not in excess of the recoverable amount from
these assets. The recoverable amount is assessed on the basis of the expected net cashflows that will be received from the assets
employment and subsequent disposal. The depreciable amount of all fixed assets is depreciated on a straight line method commencing
from the time the assets is held ready for use.

The depreciation rates used for each class of assets are:

Furniture, Fixtures and Fittings 11.0 - 36.0%
Plant and Equipment 20.0 - 36.0%
Computer Software and Systems 20.0 - 36.0%
There has been no change to the depreciation rates from the previous years.

(c) Leases
Lease payments for operating leases, where substantially all the risk and benefits remain with the lessor, are charged as expenses in the
period in which they incurred.

(d) Financial Instruments

Recognition
Financial instruments are initially measured at cost on trade date, which includes transaction costs, when the related contractual rights
or obligations exist. Subsequent to initial recognition these instruments are measured as set out below.

Loan and receivable

Loan and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market
and are stated at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method.

Available-for-sale financial assets

Available-for-sale financial assets are reflected at fair value. Unrealised gains and losses arising from changes in fair value are taken
directly to equity unless there is a significant or prolonged decline in the fair value of the asset indicating impairment. When the financial
assets are considered impaired the unrealised losses arising from changes in fair value are taken as expense. However any subsequent
increase in the financial assets’ fair value is taken directly to equity.

18 Down Syndrome Victoria Annual Repor t 20 09 2010

Summarised Financial Statements

NOTE 1 - STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

Financial liabilities
Non-derivative financial liabilities are recognised at amortised cost, comprising original debt less principal payments and amortisation.

(e) Impairment of assets

At each reporting date, the association reviews the carrying values of its assets to determine whether there is any indication that those
assets have been impaired. If such an indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset, being the higher of the assets fair value
less costs to sell and value in use, is compared to the asset carrying value. Any excess of the asset carrying value over it’s recoverable
amount is expensed to the income statement.

Where it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, the association estimates the recoverable amount of
the cash-generating unit to which the asset belongs.

(f) Employee benefits

Provision is made for the association’s liability for employee benefits arising from services rendered by employees to balance date.
Employee benefits that are expected to be settled within one year have been measured at the amounts expected to be paid when the
liability is settled, plus related on-costs. Employee benefits payable later than one year have been measured at the present value of the
estimated future cash outflows to be made for those benefits.

(g) Provisions
Provisions are recognised when the association has a legal or constructive obligation, as a result of past events, for which it is probable
that an outflow of economic benefits will result and that outflow can be reliably measured.

(h) Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term highly liquid investments with
original maturities of three months or less.

(i) Revenue
Grants are recognised as revenue when the association gains control of the underlying assets. Where grants are reciprocal, revenue
is recognised as performance occurs under the grant. Non-reciprocal grants are recognised as revenue when the grants is received or
receivable. Conditional grants may be reciprocal or non reciprocal depending on terms of the grant. Reciprocal grants carried forward
as unearned revenue on the balance sheet.

Interest revenue and distribution income from investments are recognised on a proportional basis taking into account the interest rates
applicable to the financial assets.

Donations are recognised as revenue when received unless they are designated for a specific purpose, where they are carried forward
as unearned revenue on the balance sheet.

(j) Goods and services tax (GST)

Revenues, expenses and assets are recognised net of the amount of GST, except where the amount of GST incurred is not recoverable
from the Australian Taxation office. In these circumstances, the GST is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of the asset or as
part of an item of expense. Receivables and payables in the balance sheet are shown inclusive of GST.

(k) New Accounting Standards

Certain new accounting standards and interpretations have been published that are not mandatory for the 30 June 2010 reporting
period. As at 30th June 2010, the association has not and does not intend to adopt these non mandatory standards early.

Down Syndrome Victoria Annual Repor t 20 09 2010 19

 Down Syndrome Victoria
219 Napier Street, Fitzroy Victoria 3065
p: 1300 658 873 f: 03 9486 9601
e: info@dsav.asn.au
www.downsyndromevictoria.org.au