Annual Report - Tasmanian Deaf Society

Transcription

ANNUAL REPORT 2014–2015
Telephone: 03 6228 1955
Fax:
03 6228 1966
Email:info@tasdeaf.org.au
Web:www.tasdeaf.org.au
Facebook:facebook.com/Tasmanian-Deaf-Society-158091484243829/timeline/
Twitter:TasDeafSociety
English version
About TasDeaf
...................................................................................................................................................... 2
Organisation Structure
.................................................................................................................................. 3
Governance Statement
.................................................................................................................................. 4
Acknowledgements and Thanks
Board Directors
CONTENTS
............................................................................................................ 5
.................................................................................................................................................... 6
President’s Report
............................................................................................................................................. 8
Chief Executive Officer’s Report
............................................................................................................. 9
Member Services and Reports
Member Services ...................................................................................................................................... 10
Hearing Link Tasmania
Interpreting Service
Auslan
......................................................................................................................... 10
................................................................................................................................ 11
............................................................................................................................................................... 12
Launceston
Advocacy
.................................................................................................................................................... 12
......................................................................................................................................................... 13
Auslan in the Home
Treasurer’s Report
Auditor letter
................................................................................................................................ 14
........................................................................................................................................... 15
...................................................................................................................................................... 17
Financial Reports
............................................................................................................................................ 18
TASDEAF ANNUAL REPORT 2014-2015 PAGE 1
ABOUT TASDEAF
TasDeaf’s origins date back to the 1850s when as a part of the Blind and Deaf Society, young people
who were blind and/or deaf were taught Braille and superficial speech and lipreading skills. In 1987 the
Tasmanian Deaf Society was incorporated as a not–for-profit incorporated body focusing on advocacy
for deaf and hard of hearing clients. TasDeaf provide support for deaf people and we also provide sign
language interpreting services. It is important to recognise that for many Deaf people, English is not their
first language and accessing and providing information through written English may be challenging for
them.
TasDeaf is an Incorporated Association in Tasmania. It is also:
•
•
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a Public Benevolent Institution
endorsed by the Australian Taxation Office as Income Tax Exempt and as a Deductible Gift Recipient
registered with the Australian Charities National Commission.
Our Australian Business Number is: 44 685 979 486
VISION
An Equitable and Inclusive Tasmanian Community
MISSION
Our mission is to be the leading provider of services and education to those impacted by hearing loss
OBJECTIVES
To support the empowerment of deaf Tasmanians to be independent, confident citizens capable of achieving
their goals, by
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promoting the interests, image and unique culture of deaf Tasmanians
assisting deaf Tasmanians and the general community to communicate with and understand each other
facilitating and advocating access by deaf Tasmanians to adequate community opportunities, resources
and support
providing, where appropriate, services to deaf Tasmanians and their families
promoting equality in vocational opportunities for deaf Tasmanians
NATIONAL DISABILITY INSURANCE SCHEME (NDIS)
TasDeaf is registered with the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) to deliver the following services:
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•
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Interpreting and translating
Development of daily living and life skills
Participation in community social and civic activities
TASDEAF ANNUAL REPORT 2014-2015
ORGANISATION
STRUCTURE

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The tasdeaf Vision
An Equitable and Inclusive
Tasmanian Community
GOVERNANCE
STATEMENT
TasDeaf is incorporated under the Associations Incorporation Act and operates under the rules of association
adopted by the members. Ultimate responsibility for the governance of the organisation rests with the Board.
This governance statement outlines how the Board discharges that responsibility. The Board’s primary role is
to ensure that TasDeaf achieves its objectives.
The Board must ensure that this is achieved in the most efficient and effective way. The Board, which
comprises of the President, Vice president, Treasurer and Secretary, and at least three ordinary members, is
elected each year at the Annual General Meeting. None of the Board Directors receive remuneration for their
services. The Board meets at least six times per year. The Board fulfils its primary role by:
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Selecting, appointing, guiding and monitoring the performance of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
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Formulating the strategic plan
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Approving operating and capital budgets formulated by the CEO and senior management
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Monitoring management’s progress in achieving the strategic plan
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Monitoring management’s adherence to operating and capital budgets
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Ensuring the integrity of internal control, risk management and management information systems
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Ensuring stakeholders receive regular reports, including financial reports
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Ensuring TasDeaf complies with relevant legislation and regulations
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Acting as an advocate for TasDeaf whenever and wherever necessary
The Board has formally delegated responsibility for day-to-day operation and administration to the CEO.
TasDeaf has many stakeholders, including those we support and their families, staff and volunteers, donors
and benefactors, the broader community, and the government agencies that provide funds and regulate our
operations.
TasDeaf adopts a consultative approach in working with our stakeholders. TasDeaf gets involved in industry
forums to ensure government at all levels is aware of our concerns and our endeavours to remain abreast of
industry developments.
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We would like to acknowledge and thank the many people who helped us to achieve our vision of
An Equitable and Inclusive Tasmanian Community in the financial year 2014–2015.
GOVERNMENT
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
AND THANKS
Ongoing funding for our services is received from the Department of Health and Human Services. We
appreciate the ongoing support from the Tasmanian Government, and we commend their commitment and
efforts made toward the improvement of disability services in Hobart by being a pilot site for the NDIS.
Thanks also to Tasmanian Community Fund and also Arts Tasmania, for Auslan in the Home and funds to
work with Terrapin Puppet Theatre.
The Tasmanian Deaf Society wishes to acknowledge the support of the Tasmanian Government, Department
of Health and Human Services and the Tasmania Fire Service for allowing the subsidised smoke alarm
service to be available to people who are Deaf or hard of hearing.
MEMBERS, VOLUNTEERS AND STAFF
TasDeaf recognises staff, family, friends, members and volunteers, as pivotal to supporting our ongoing
delivery of services. Like many other organisations, TasDeaf understands just how important it is to attract
and retain good team members. This is crucial for achieving our vision of An Equitable and Inclusive
Tasmanian Community.
We would particularly like to thank:
Organisations
Senior Citizen’s Club (TasDeaf)
University of Tasmania
A Fairer World
Devonport Community Health Centre
Able Tasmania
Doctor Syntax Hotel
Southern Tas Deaf Social Club
Vicdeaf
National Auslan Interpreter Booking and Payment Service (NABS)
Auslan Connections
National Disability Services
National Disability Insurance Agency
National Relay Service
TasCoss
TasDeaf would also like to thank the members for their support throughout the year including those who
gave financial donations and/or contributed to fundraising initiatives.
Royal Oak Hotel Launceston
Tasmanian Bakeries
The Friends School
The members of the Dorset East Auxiliary for the Blind and Deaf
Individuals
Maree Doig
Carol Brown
Lance Hately
Melissa Anderson – for the Australian Sign Language Interpreter Association (ASLIA) workshop August 2014
Michelle Czyzowicz, Ray Hilsdon, Jarran Harris, Hayley King – for TasALERT filming
David Owen
Team members leaving this year
Gordon Melsom
Catherine Goodluck
Vicki Choraziak
BOARD DIRECTORS
STEVE HODGETTS
President Steven is currently employed as a systems team leader but has a technical fish health
background having worked in the salmon farm industry for 16 years. He has Certificate IV in Frontline
management and graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in 1998 from UTAS (University of
Tasmania), becoming the first Deaf person from a Deaf family in Tasmania to gain a degree of any kind.
He is also a Director of AFDS (Australian Federation of Deaf Societies) and Director of the RTSFBD (Royal
Tasmanian Society for the Blind and Deaf). He won the TasDeaf James Beams scholarship in 1996. He won
the Scholarship for a Not-for Profit (NFP) Chairman’s course through the Australian Scholarship Foundation
conducted by the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Youngest Deaf President of a Deaf society in
Australia (TasDeaf) — as director of TasDeaf since 2008, President since 2011. Steven comes from a Deaf
family where both his parents and sister are Deaf. Steven grew up within the Deaf community, and his
mum worked at TasDeaf for several years. Steven is very proficient in Auslan and English. Steven is married
with three children, the youngest of whom is Deaf (being a third generation deaf person). Steven actively
participates in recreational fishing, boating and diving activities. Enjoys reading a good fantasy novel and
spending time with his family.
TRICIA SHARPLES
Vice president Tricia Sharples has been a board member since 2010 and has been vice president for two
years. Tricia has trained as an Audiologist at the University of Queensland in 1992 and worked for eight
years in Launceston for an Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist and a private Audiology Practice, then returned to
Hobart to continue Audiology on the Eastern Shore in 2001. Tricia was invited onto the board because of her
experience in the field of hearing loss and rehabilitation, but also has been involved with the not-for-profit
Independent Audiology Australia and is currently President of that group.
PETER ALCOCK
Treasurer Board Member since 2014. Peter is a manager working in external audit specialising in
assurance and advisory as well as risk services. Previous to moving to Australia, Peter worked in the United
Kingdom and Channel Islands specialising in financial services. Peter holds a Master’s degree in Chemistry
and Business & Management and is a Chartered Accountant with the Institute of Chartered Accountants in
England and Wales.
LISA CASWELL
Secretary Lisa is the current Secretary of the TasDeaf Board. She works for the Department of Premier
and Cabinet as a Policy Analyst, and holds a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws from the University of
Tasmania. Lisa is also a vice president of Diamondbacks Hockey Club. Lisa joined the Board in 2013 and her
current term as Director expires at the 2015 AGM.
ANNE-MARIE STRANGER
Fellowship Coordinator Health Service Management (FCHSM), Graduate member Australian Institute of
Company Directors (GAICD)
Director Anne-Marie is an executive health service manager with over 25 years’ experience on not-forprofit Boards, most recently as Chair of Oakdale Services and Veranto. Her educational qualifications are
extensive and include: MPH, B B Sc, B Bus (HA), Dip ACR, D PM, GDip FDR, GDip Mediation. Anne-Marie’s
father was deaf and she has a strong interest in supporting people with a disability, evidenced through her
volunteer work in the community.
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MARIA RUSHTON
BA, Dip Ed, Diploma of Interpreting.
Director Maria has been on the TasDeaf Board for about four years. Maria is a teacher of the Deaf and
qualified paraprofessional Auslan interpreter. Maria has been involved in the Deaf community for many years
through her older profoundly Deaf sister, as well as through her work. She is involved in a number of other
community associations, as a result of her children’s involvement in school and sport. Before becoming a
teacher, she worked in both State and Commonwealth government roles, and for the University of Tasmania.
BRENDON CORNELIUS
Director While growing up as a young deaf man, Brendon was an active participant in the Deaf youth
group, taking on a leadership role for more than 20 years. When the Deaf youth group closed down due to
lack of numbers, it was only natural that Brendon continued to volunteer serving in numerous other roles
with the Tasmanian Deaf community such as the Hobart Deaf club, Tasmanian Deaf Sports and Recreation
Association, Tasmanian Council of the Deaf and being part of the organising committee of the Australian
Deaf Games held in Hobart in 1991, which attracted over 1000 people from around Australia as contestants
or visitors.
Brendon was first nominated and elected on the Board of TasDeaf in 2006 and has continued to serve as a
Director. Currently, Brendon is the longest serving Director on the TasDeaf Board. He brings his knowledge of
the Tasmanian Deaf community and is a strong advocate for continuous improvement of services for Auslan
interpreting and a fair go for the members of TasDeaf.
Brendon is also currently on the committee of the Tasmanian Deaf Ten-pin Bowling, which has grown in
numbers over the last few years to be a vibrant group.
Brendon has worked for almost 20 years as a Team Leader at Parkside Foundation, which provides a range of
services for carers, people with disabilities and older people living in Southern Tasmania. He has a passion
for helping people live to their full potential and ensuring they have a quality life.
RETIRING BOARD DIRECTORS
Mark Donnelly and Ray Hilsdon
TASDEAF LIFE MEMBERS:
Leigh Harrison
Peter Bailey
Derrick Tabor
Beryl Tabor
Diana Hodgetts TASDEAF ANNUAL REPORT 2014-2015 PAGE 7
PRESIDENT’S
REPORT
It’s my pleasure to present the 2015 President’s report to all our members, staff and various stakeholders.
Firstly I would like to thank all the Board Directors for another year of giving up precious amounts of your
own time in a voluntary capacity which is sometimes easily overlooked by those who don’t know what really
goes on in the background. I truly value each one of your guidance, advice and input over the last 12 months
in both Board and sub-committee meetings.
The end result of all this hard work is that TasDeaf continues to operate and work towards its goal of being
sustainable post 2016.
Looking back at previous years has made me realise how far TasDeaf has come in the last 12 months.
Our fantastic new CEO Mary Gays has hit the ground running continuing on working with the Board in setting
up TasDeaf to be NDIS-ready once it is rolled out during 2016 and beyond.
As I keep saying —with the incoming implementation of the NDIS, this has created some opportunities and
challenges for TasDeaf due to the members and stakeholders being able to choose for the first time which
service provider they want to spend their NDIS money on.
We need to ensure that TasDeaf continues to be the first choice of our members and stakeholders. To do
this, we need to continue to find new ways, which entails more learning, discovering, using our knowledge
and unique skills to keep on building this platform.
What this means is there will be some structural changes being implemented soon for Mary and the staff of
TasDeaf to focus on going forward.
At the moment, the Board of Directors are engaged in formulating a Strategic Plan for the next 3 years.
There will be ample time for all our stakeholders to participate with this before its finalised.
Whilst I would have liked for this to be happening earlier this year, the Board had to deal with a number of
Special General Meetings (SGMs), which severely impacted on the Board’s time and ability to focus on the
Strategic Plan and has put us on the back foot a bit. However, on the brighter side, as a result of the dealing
with the SGMs, we have a new updated constitution which better reflects the current not-for-profit (NFP)
environment that TasDeaf operates under. Thanks to David Owen and the small group of members who
helped with this.
Secondly I would like to thank Mary and the staff of TasDeaf for continuing on with their dedicated work in
ensuring that TasDeaf has a good brand name reputation in the Tasmanian NFP sector.
And finally -—a big thank you to all our loyal members for being supportive, which was greatly appreciated
by all of us on the Board of TasDeaf.
Bring on 2016!
Warm regards
Steve Hodgetts
President
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TASDEAF TEAM
TasDeaf is a community organisation that provides services to our members and the Tasmanian community.
This is largely due to employing a team committed to achieving ‘an Equitable and Inclusive Tasmanian
Community.’ The TasDeaf team consists of nine full-time and part-time workers, based in Hobart and
Launceston. The team includes Joyce Clifford (17 years service), Jeanette Symonds (7 years), David Closs (7
years), Rachel Freeman (5 years), Jane Hodgkinson (nearly 4 years), Michelle Czyzowicz (2 years), Tony Bain
(2 years) with Sharyn Hill (recently joined). Together the team have served the deaf community in Tasmania
for 42 years while at TasDeaf. Each person brings a wealth of experience from previous roles in the Deaf
and hard of hearing (HoH), community and business sector. Anne Blanch is employed on contract to provide
hearing screening in the north of the state. A pool of casual interpreters also makes up the TasDeaf team.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE
OFFICER’S
REPORT
OPERATIONAL FOCUS
Structural legacy issues have provided the focus for operations in the year 2014–2015. At a Special General
Meeting (SGM) in July 2015, a new constitution was voted and accepted by members. Other achievements
include:
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review of the constitution, with four SGM requests
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conversations about TasDeaf’s future structure with other providers in the sector
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developing a more formal working partnership with Deaf Sports Australia
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working as part of the Australia Federation of Deaf Societies
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fundraising with the Entertainment Book
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Senior Citizens Club (SCC) Easter, Christmas, Mother’s Day raffles
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Christmas staff appreciation lunch
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Signpost newsletter
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website—and website review in the coming year
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beginning to understand how to have a sustainable business model to take us forward into different
funding arrangements
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monitoring the impact of changes with the NDIS, and how they affect our organisation
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a focus on workplace health and safety, together with wellbeing of our staff
With expected changes to funding we have been undertaking a review of the current structure of the
Society. This review has included the current strategies, position descriptions, service delivery model and
expenditure. This review has enabled the development of an improvement plan which has been presented to
the Liaison Officer responsible for overseeing our operations.
The review of our current expenditure has revealed the opportunity to enter into new contracts and develop
stronger relationships with other service providers. In the coming months we will be sending out a survey to
all of our members to help us understand more about specific community needs.
The new structure will help us to provide consistent and relevant service to all of our members. Our new
structure will also enable us to explore how to help us to make the best use of our building. For example
ASLIA already hold meetings here, and there may be opportunities to partner with others and maximize the
use of our building.
The team has applied for various grants to help meet service gaps. For example, Financial literacy,
Multicultural Arts and Festivals Grant in relation to Auslan Interpreter access and funds for a mobile hearing
booth. None of these applications have been successful and this highlights the competing demand for
scarce grant funding. TasDeaf have continued to work with Terrapin Puppet Theatre with their development
of digital Deaf poetry. This project will continue to be developed over the next year.
Achieving our vision of an Equitable and Inclusive Tasmanian Community would not be possible without our
staff team, strong relationships with members, and our partnerships with others in the sector. I would like
to take this opportunity to thank my colleagues, Board, and volunteers for their ongoing optimism, energy
and their dedicated approach to TasDeaf. There is no doubt we are facing considerable changes with the
commencement of the NDIS. I believe TasDeaf can rise to this challenge by working together.
Mary Gays
Chief Executive Officer
MEMBER
SERVICES
AND
REPORTS
MEMBER SERVICES
This year has seen some interesting and challenging changes with the introduction of the NDIS. We have
been attending many events surrounding the implementation of this new scheme. This scheme brings
regulation to the delivery of service across the disability services area and has highlighted the need for us to
review and change our current service delivery model.
The changes bring exciting opportunities for us to provide a more consistent and effective level of
information, support, advocacy and awareness within the Deaf and hard of hearing communities. The
opportunity to provide individual focused service delivery will bring with it more links to other agencies
within the community, thereby raising the profile of the Tasmanian Deaf Society.
We are also in the process of working alongside providers within the My Aged Care scheme, which was
launched this year. This program is designed to help people to stay in their homes and this brings exciting
directional opportunities for us, particularly in the assistive listening devices area.
TasDeaf members have provided feedback around accessibility of TasDeaf and also raised the need for
more groups. A trial will be introduced next financial year where we will extend our opening hours and offer
workshops and information sessions on the topics that have been requested.
Relationships are being strengthened and developed to assist unified service delivery and support for the Deaf and
hard of hearing community. This is supporting TasDeaf to advocate for our members; offering a service aimed at
empowering people to manage their own lives and needs, and creating a more inclusive Tasmanian community.
New to TasDeaf, Sharyn Hill is an experienced service delivery evaluator and has worked with many
businesses and organisations to implement change for sustainability and to raise their profile in the
community. Sharyn is on the Board of the West Moonah Community House and regularly leads volunteers
at events such as the Taste of the World Moonah and Church Together Tasmania. Sharyn’s role at the
Tasmanian Deaf Society is Member Services and Operations Manager. This role is temporary and is about
assessing, researching, making recommendations for improvements in service delivery and devising plans for
implementation as appropriate.
Sharyn Hill
Member Services and Operations Manager
HEARING LINK TASMANIA
Hearing Link Tasmania (HLT) provides a diverse service to Hard of Hearing (HoH)Tasmanians in various
settings such as education, community, aged care and the workplace. Team leader Sharyn Hill, David Closs
and Anne Blanch deliver a statewide service. Sharyn and David work part-time, with Anne on a contract
basis.
INDUSTRIAL HEARING TESTS AND NOISE TESTING
Industrial hearing tests and written reports continue to be TasDeaf’s major income generator, through
Hearing Link, having tested 23 companies with 284 workers in the last financial year. TasDeaf take pride in
delivering a high- quality professional service. This is evident by companies seeking every two years hearing
testing for their workers. Of these companies, most have been noise tested and their workers educated
on the dangers of not wearing their hearing protection in the workplace. We advise and sell appropriate
hearing protection that is correctly attenuated to noise levels that exceed Australian noise standard of 85 dB
(decibels). There has been a 30% increase in the number of workers participating in industry hearing tests
this financial year and indications are that this trend will continue in the future.
‘EARMOLD’ PLUGS
TasDeaf continues to make and fit ‘Earmold’ plugs for Tasmanians who want something durable and
comfortable that protects their hearing when exposed to loud noise. With demand increasing since
inception, the team has prepared and fitted 44 ‘Earmold’ sets to satisfied customers in the past financial
year, up from 33 made and delivered the previous financial year.
SPECIALISED SMOKE ALARMS
Demand for specialised smoke alarms continues to increase due to high levels of hearing loss and increasing
awareness of the subsidised smoke alarm program. Recent applications for funding have been successful
and applications for the available smoke alarms are being processed at this time. The current supplier
of smoke alarms is experiencing availability problems due to difficulties achieving Australian Standards
compliance. Other sources of similar products are currently being sought.
PAGE 10
CHILDHOOD SCREENINGS
Due to lack of funding for this program, the childhood screening program has been discontinued for now.
However, links are being made with Australian Hearing to lobby for new funding.
HARD OF HEARING SUPPORT GROUP
The group meets on the third Wednesday of each month between 10.30am and 12 noon. They are supportive
of each other and welcome new members. The group meets regularly to discuss their experiences and
to give support to others experiencing hearing difficulties. They regularly provide feedback and advice to
TasDeaf on services available.
TasDeaf is working with the Hard of Hearing Support Group to arrange the annual Christmas lunch. The
group is looking to volunteer and fundraise to assist TasDeaf in 2015–16. The group meets in the TasDeaf
community/meeting room.
CONSULTANCY AND SALE OF TECHNOLOGY
Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA): Due to changes in DVA requirements we are unable to support
veterans directly at present, but are working with hearing aid and audiology providers to make available
assistive listening technologies for veterans
University Of Tasmania (UTAS): Continuing relationship with UTAS Disability Liaison sector to support,
evaluate and supply relevant technology to Deaf and Hard of Hearing students
Sale of Technology to Individuals: Assistive listening technologies for hard of hearing people continue to be
available and are promoted at every opportunity
HEARING AID BANK (HAB)
We continue to supply disused hearing aids that have been donated, and refer clients to the below
Audiologists for the HAB.
Eastern Audiology Services: Tricia Sharples, Hobart
Ear Clinic: Ian Parsons, Launceston
COMMUNITY HEARING TESTS
Free community hearing tests continue to be available to the public at the TasDeaf Hobart and Launceston
offices. 42 community hearing tests were conducted throughout Tasmania during the last financial
year including several on King and Flinders Islands, where TasDeaf services were donated to the local
communities during visits to conduct industry hearing tests.
David Closs
Member Services, Hearing Link
INTERPRETING SERVICE
The last financial year has seen a continuation of our agreement with Vicdeaf for their interpreting service,
Auslan Connections, to manage interpreter bookings in Tasmania.
Our relationship with Vicdeaf also means we are kept informed of developments regarding new ways to
provide interpreting. With improvements in technology and internet services, Video Remote Interpreting will
be one way to increase interpreter availability where appropriate.
In the last financial year, 537 bookings were handled—322 of those went ahead and unfortunately, for 29
bookings we were unable to provide an interpreter. We provided an interpreter for 9 bookings free of charge.
This compares to the year before when 523 bookings were handled with 334 going ahead and 16 unable to
be provided for.
In May 2015, Joyce’s position at TasDeaf became five hours per day, five days per week, with the aim of
having more TasDeaf input into our interpreting service.
This year we welcomed Eliza Allan to Tasmania. Eliza is a Professional Level Interpreter based in Launceston.
We are pleased to have Eliza on board, particularly in the North and North West of the state where access
to interpreters can sometimes be difficult.
The interpreting team thanks you all for booking with us and we look forward to working with you all again
in the next financial year.
Joyce Clifford
Member Services, Auslan Interpreting
AUSLAN
Auslan Curriculum
At the start of this financial year we reviewed and updated our Auslan curriculum. The new Auslan
curriculum underwent major changes from the ones we previously taught over the years. As you are aware,
our language like all languages, Auslan is constantly evolving. Therefore we have ensured our curriculum is
not outdated. The new curriculum still remains as a community course. Our goal was to ensure we provided
sufficient and informative lessons to the students who undertake our classes.
The new curriculum had been used throughout the year of 2014 only in Hobart but under a trial basis before
launching in the northern parts of Tasmania. Each class was extended from 6 to 8 weeks, following the
school terms. The Auslan tutor noticed significant improvement in students’ learning and signing abilities
with this new curriculum.
Once the courses had taken off in Hobart, our Auslan tutors were requested to teach in the north-eastern
regions of Tasmania. We used the new curriculum with a few adjustments to the course. This is the first
time both of the tutors were fortunate enough to work together teaching what they admire the most— the
language they are passionate about. The Auslan team, with the assistance of our colleague Jane, often
tailor Auslan courses to suit the needs of an organisation or individuals for one-on-one sessions.
Michelle Czyzowicz
Member Engagement, Auslan and Communications
LAUNCESTON
Another busy year has flown by with TasDeaf offering statewide support to Tasmanians with any form of
hearing loss. This support helps to overcome the barriers faced during everyday lives.
Activities during the year included the following.
•
Attended Dorset North East Auxiliary for Deaf and Blind Annual General Meeting (AGM) as a TasDeaf
representative and collected a generous donation.
•
Deaf Community Awareness Training: (DCAT) delivered at Hobart, Launceston and Burnie including
successfully completion at North West Christian School, North West Work & Training agency and
St Finn Barr’s Catholic School; with a total of nine sessions for the year, more than previous year
2013–2014.
•
UTAS Health Workshop on Sexual Health: These Workshops were funded by Tasmanian Community
Fund research project. As part of this, DCAT was included Red Cross, Drug Education and Sexual
Health to both TasDeaf members and other community organisations with a provision of an Auslan
interpreters.
The TasDeaf team also represented Deaf/HoH residents by attending Launceston City Council Access
committee meetings every three months throughout the year.
Centrelink Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) trials with Queensland Deaf Services were held at Launceston
Centrelink for two days at the beginning of November 2014 with six Northern Deaf participants. Deaf
participants had a positive result from the trial.
National Relay Service (NRS) Workshops hosted by Lance Hately at all three venues with updated
information on the NRS.
TasDeaf President Stephen Hodgetts, along with CEO Mary Gays and Ray Hilson visited Deaf community
North and North West Coast earlier this year for an opportunity to meet one another to share thoughts and
ideas to support TasDeaf.
Deafblind workshops were held at Launceston TasDeaf office for supporting Tasmanian Deafblind community
by Able Australia (Victoria).
Jeanette Symonds
Member services advocacy community liaison (Launceston)
PAGE 12
ADVOCACY
The TasDeaf advocacy team member has been rather busy this year across a broad spectrum.
Deaf World: Purpose — Auslan skills building and retention and building Cultural awareness, knowledge
and respectful behavior.
Auslan immersion class: has been developed for people who have a prior knowledge of Auslan with a
view to strengthening and developing Auslan receptive, and production skills and exposure to Deaf cultural
norms within an informal setting with various Deaf role models are introduced to illustrate diversity in
relation to Auslan use. Classes are run informally with a broad range of topics for discussion to develop
skills and language exposure over a broad spectrum.
Fingerspelling: Purpose — To support ongoing fingerspelling production and receptive skills building for
Auslan users with limited exposure to sign language, those wanting to retain and develop their skills further.
Fostering relationships and advocating for Deaf and hard of hearing people in the workplace, Education sector
and community groups in various forms throughout the year, running information sessions/ workshops individually
tailored to ensure our information was relevant to each environment. Most information sessions ran between one
and one and half hours, depending on the environment, the information to be covered, and question time at the
conclusion of each workshop. Below is an indication of the breadth of settings, and information provided:
Girl Guides – Deafness awareness
DHHS: invitation to represent TasDeaf at their ‘Celebrate Ability with a Disability Awareness Day’ event.
Uniting Age Well residential care, Communication and Cultural Awareness workshop for employees
supporting a Deaf resident.
Employer request for strategy meeting and coordination of support in the workplace.
Advocating for Auslan access to Retirement Benefit Fund (RBF) information session.
Supporting a member of the Deaf community with information and services available to them to improving
their life skills and employment opportunities.
Employee Assistance Fund (EAF) information meeting with Wise Employment
Terrapin Theatre meetings about funding and wage discussions/clarification.
Advised the Hobart Theatre company on visual communication in relation to a show they were performing
titled ‘MADE’, and advising on inclusion and access for Deaf and hard of hearing community members.
Zero Industries: working with Travis Stewart (private business owner). Coordination, sourcing and
interviewing of four deaf/ hard of hearing community members interested in employment in the
engineering sector.
Advising on Deaf and hard of hearing culture, Auslan interpreter, and note-taking information and
processes for UTAS Vocational Education and Training (VET) Equity support grant working group.
Advised Kathryn Lomar (author) on cultural and linguistic aspects of the signing deaf community and
reviewed her manuscript entitled “Talk Under Water”.
TasTAFE Migrant Education meeting: advising on English language acquisition for Deaf and hard of
hearing refugees, on improving the educational opportunities for migrant deaf students at TasTAFE, and
the role Interpreters play in the education system.
Coordination of a request for a Language assessment by a Mission Australia client on their English
comprehension in relation to legal proceedings.
Two meetings with Working It Out Inc about advising on Deaf and hard of hearing culture in relation to
their transgender children media project.
ABC radio interview request: sourced and organised a community member for interview on ABC regarding
national interpreters/ translators day.
Suicide Prevention Australia: advised Tracy McCown in regards to Auslan interpreter access, remuneration
and processes for their National Suicide Prevention meeting.
Working with DPEM (Department of Police and Emergency Management) and DPaC (Department of
Premier and Cabinet) on the Vulnerable persons working group as an advisor on deaf and hard of hearing
culture and communication (Auslan, captioning, face to face communication techniques in emergency
situations for emergency services personnel), recommendations regarding deaf and hard of hearing
Awareness workshops for emergency services personnel.
Involvement in the planning, development, production, and implementation of the TasALERT Disaster
response before, during and after videos (Auslan versions).
The coordination and implementation of a first responder action plan to ensure equal access to
information via emergency media broadcasts for the deaf and hard of hearing community in Tasmania.
Council of The Ageing (COTA) TAS Disability Discrimination Roundtable Discussion with The Hon Susan
Ryan AO, Disability Discrimination Commissioner in November.
NDIS: Tasmanian Information, Linkages and Capacity Building (ILC) Sector Consultation Forum in February
Centre for Rural Health University of Tasmania, Tasmania Community Fund (TCF) School of Health
Sciences, grant for Deaf community. Assisted with community information and organising participants.
Jane Hodgkinson
Member Services Advocacy and community liaison (Hobart)
AUSLAN IN THE HOME
Funded by the Tasmania Community Fund, Auslan in the Home worked with seven families across Tasmania.
Families came from diverse areas, including Waterloo, Ulverstone, Devonport, Hobart, Sandford, and
Rocherlea. Families were sourced from TasDeaf contacts with the Education Department and their Teachers
of the Deaf.
Auslan in the Home sessions were held weekly. Each session involved worker travel time and preparation.
The facilitators conducted lessons with five families within their own home environment. Two families were
combined for lessons and due to accessibility issues, these lessons were conducted at the TasDeaf Hobart
office.
In all, 16 adults and 24 children attended the Auslan in the Home program. Being individual family focused,
progress was often slow, though for some other families progress went very well. All families were asked
what signs they would like to work on for the next session, plus revision of the previous week’s signs.
Monthly Auslan afternoon tea sessions were also attended by eight participants.
All family members were included: parents, step-parents, grandparents and children and siblings. Help was
given to families with understanding the child’s language. One family had some difficulties with keeping
up the child’s level of Auslan. Another child has both Cochlear Implant (CIs) and required signs for back up
when the child is not wearing CI. Songs and Games in Auslan were also popular.
TasDeaf Team
PAGE 14
This year’s financial result has started to show the hard work and decisions made over the previous years are
starting to result in a more sustainable TasDeaf.
The accounts for the current year show a small profit of $995, up from a loss of $63,994 last year. This
however does not mean that TasDeaf is out of the woods yet and further improvements to our revenue
generation is required to ensure we remain self-sufficient with the introduction of the NDIS and that our
services and offerings remain profitable.
TREASURER’S
REPORT
The Society has experienced a tough year with numerous special general meetings requests and a change in
CEO. I would like to let the members know that these requests are not cheap exercises, the costs of venue
hire, professional advice, Director’s time and staff time dealing with requests significantly impacts our ability
to reform and reposition the TasDeaf business. I would hope that any future concerns be directed to the CEO
and Board in order for us to attempt to resolve and prevent these considerable costs going forward.
With regards to our income we continue to remain heavily reliant on DHHS funding. Without this we would
not be able to operate in the way that we do. We have also been the beneficiary of a number of donations
and bequests during the year. Bequests and donations provide significant injections into the Society and
show the high regard the Society is held in the community.
Our costs on a like for like basis remain consistent with the previous year when removing impairments
related to our move to the new office. Costs remain a continuing focus of the Board to ensure that we are
able to appropriately monitor profitability across all elements of the business and continue to provide the
level of services expected by the members.
Our balance sheet remains in a strong position however low interest rates impact the Society’s ability
to make appropriate returns on our investments. However I believe that our strong position does place
ourselves in a good situation to address our future.
I would like to extend my thanks to my predecessor Mark Donnelly. Without his hard work and diligence
during difficult times we would not be in the position that we are today.
This year’s result is encouraging however there is still a lot more work that is required to ensure that we are
able to position TasDeaf for a bright future.
Peter Alcock
Treasurer
Tas Deaf Expenses
2014-15
Tas Deaf Income
2014-15
TasDeaf Income 2014-15
TasDeaf Expenses 2014-15
Grant Expenses
Smoke Alarm
Other Income
Sales
Stock
Administrative
Interest
Fees for Services
Rent/Rates
DHHS Grant
Utilities
Insurance
Depreciation
Employee Expenses
Bequests/Donations
Other Grants
Tas Deaf
5 Year Equity
TasDeaf 5 Year Equity
$1,200,000.00
$1,000,000.00
$800,000.00
$600,000.00
$400,000.00
$200,000.00
$0.00
2011
PAGE 16
2012
2013
2014
2015
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
TASMANIAN DEAF
SOCIETY INC
STATEMENT OF
FINANCIAL
POSITION AS AT
30 JUNE 2015
PAGE 18
Income
Fees for services
Smoke alarm
Grants
Bequests
Interest received
Workers compensation reimbursements
Other income
Total income
Less: Expenses
Accounting and audit fees
Advertising
Agent fees and legal fees
Bank charges
Board expenses
Catering
Conference and meetings
Interpreting expenses, consulting and contractors
Depreciation
Electricity and water
Fundraising, sponsorships and events
Grant expenses
Insurance
Loss on leasehold improvements
Membership and subscriptions
Motor vehicle expenses
Printing, publications and stationery
Purchases and computer expenses
Rates and taxes
Rent
Repairs and maintenance
Staff amenities and office expenses
Sundry expenses
Telephone, postage and internet
Travel and accomodation
Employee costs
Total Expenses
Net Surplus/(Deficit) for the year
Other Comprehensive Income
Total Comprehensive Income for the year
2015
$
2014
$
104,261
22,177
415,688
95,321
22,799
55,633
24,841
740,720
100,750
15,435
424,973
181,000
19,387
36,011
30,239
807,795
26,908
1,206
2,775
409
3,120
1,722
497
12,114
10,015
5,523
(449)
3,788
17,058
2,174
2,593
4,696
21,962
4,771
43,727
1,999
2,840
753
10,964
6,036
552,524
739,725
995
995
22,101
4,186
497
444
4,529
1,943
1,816
15,487
16,270
4,819
7,613
19,717
14,877
61,465
753
4,319
6,377
25,636
2,788
56,124
9,478
3,544
6,434
13,797
6,870
559,905
871,789
(63,994}
(63,994)
2014
$
Assets
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade and other receivables
Inventories
Other assets
Total Current Assets
Non-Current Assets
Property, plant and equipment
Total Non-Current Assets
Total Assets
713,636
8,150
7,705
15,840
745,331
647,016
108,660
7,705
16,451
779,832
4
32,178
32,178
777,509
40,002
40,002
819,834
Liabilities
Current Liabilities
Trade and other payables
Employee benefits
Unspent grants
Total Current Liabilities
Non-Current Liabilities
Em ployee benefits
Total Non-Current Liabilities
Total Liabilities
Net Assets
5
6
45,490
23,053
35,325
103,868
57,491
29,712
81,338
168,541
6
33,317
33,317
137,185
640,324
11,964
11,964
180,505
639,329
Equity
Accumulated surpluses
Total Equity
640,324
640,324
639,329
639,329
2
3
TASDEAF ANNUAL REPORT 2014-2015 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2015
$
Note
TASMANIAN DEAF
SOCIETY INC
STATEMENT OF
COMPREHENSIVE
INCOME FOR THE
YEAR ENDED
30 JUNE 2015
PAGE 19
TasDeaf
Telephone: 03 6228 1955
Fax:
03 6228 1966
Email:info@tasdeaf.org.au
Web:www.tasdeaf.org.au
Facebook:facebook.com/Tasmanian-Deaf-Society-158091484243829/timeline/
Twitter:TasDeafSociety