2012/13 Autism SA Annual Report

2012/13 AUTISM SA ANNUAL REPORT

CONTENTSPresident & CEO Report 4 The Treasurer’s Report 8 Serving the Community 10 Community Training Services 14 Our Changing Environment 18 Developing Great Staff 22 Our Values 24 Autism SA Events 26 Acknowledgements 31

Autism SA 262 Marion Road, Netley PO Box 304, MARLESTON DC SA 5033

P (08) 8379 6976 F (08) 8338 1216 E [email protected] www.autismsa.org.au

This has been an exciting and

challenging year, both for the autism

community and our organisation. Our

inspiration has been our Vision of

“a society that enables people living with autism spectrum DisorDers to get the most out of life.”

Towards this, the focus of our activities

during the last 12 months has been:

• planningandpreparingAutismSA

to be effectively positioned at a local,

national and international level;

• continuedcommitmenttoproviding

a range of quality services in the

context of significant disability reform

in Australia; and

• advocatingtoensurethattheAutism

Community remains relevant.

Our desire to continue as a leader in the

field has also resulted in significant time,

energy and resources being devoted to

ensuring the success of the 2013 Asia Pacific

Autism Conference (APAC13), hosted by

Autism SA and held in Adelaide in August.

All this in a year where we head towards

celebrating our 50th year of providing

services to the autism spectrum community

of South Australia.

Data collected by Autism SA through our

database indicates that there were 1004

diagnoses of ASD in the State over the

reporting period: Diagram 1 demonstrates

an increase of 6.7% compared to last year

(2011/12: 941). However, Diagram 2

indicates that revenue has not grown at a level

to ensure the growing demand is met. As at

the end of June 2013, Autism SA had 7,206

people registered for support and services

compared to 6,296 people in June 2012 and

35 people in its founding year of 1964.

We recognise people with a disability

across Australia are currently preparing for

the most dramatic and promising change

that Australia has seen in the delivery of

services and support. The Autism SA Board

has developed an innovative strategic

plan for the period 2013-2016. The plan is

responsive to the changing policy context

and recognises the many challenges

and opportunities that we face as an

organisation and, more critically, that face

the autism spectrum community.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme

(NDIS) will commence operations at a number

of launch sites as of 1 July 2013. Parallel to

the National agenda, the SA Government

has also been progressively transitioning to

an individualised funding model, consistent

with the outcomes of the Strong Voices Report

released in October 2011. There is strong

financial commitment and support from all levels

of government and all parties. Full roll out of

the scheme in 2019-2020 should see funding

for people with disabilities double. It will see

a system governed at a national level that will

aim to ensure that people with a disability have

greater control in choosing and managing their

services and supports.

PRESIDENT AND CEO REPORTby Jenny Karavolos, President and Jon Martin, CEO

4 Autism SA Annual Report 2012/13

This is not just a cultural, strategic and

operational change for service providers,

this is also a cultural change for government

and consumers. Many service providers are

excited by the reforms and the removal of

restrictive funding parameters and guidelines.

Providers will have the opportunity to deliver

what their community of interest requests

rather than what government prescribes.

Embracing the significant reform underway,

our Strategic Plan 2013-2016 delivers seven

key messages for the future, underpinned by

our vision for a society that enables people

living with Autism Spectrum Disorder to get the

most out of life:

• Theconsumerisatthecentreofeverything

we do – Autism SA will ensure that we

provide individualised and person-centred

services and supports. We will ensure

improved ways for people to be involved in

decision-making and representation across

our organisation;

• Serviceproviderofchoice–AutismSA

will deliver the best possible services and

outcomes. There will be a clear shift from

traditional government funding models

where the type and range of services

provided are predominantly determined by

a contract with government. This funding

shift, where individuals will have choice

and control over services and supports

provided, enables Autism SA greater

flexibility to align and provide our services

with what people with an ASD want and

need. We will collaborate with clients,

consumers, service providers, supporters

and staff to deliver greater outcomes;

Diagram 1

0

1000

2000

3000

4000

5000

6000

7000

8000

Financial Year

Total Revenue and Total Client Numbers2001-2013

Num

ber o

f Clie

nts

/ R

even

ue ($

)

2001/02

Number of eligible clients

Total Income (’000)

Average Revenue/Client

2002/03 2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13

Financial Year

Trend in Statewide Diagnoses2001/02 to 2012/13

Num

ber o

f Ref

erra

ls

2001/02

Diagnosed in the community

Total Diagnoses in SA

Diagnosed at Autism SA

Referred for assessment at Autism SA

2002/03 2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/130

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

Diagram 2

Autism SA Annual Report 2012/13 5

• Asecureandcertainfuture–AutismSA

will provide strong, dependable and

innovative governance in a changing

environment that effectively positions

Autism SA and the autism spectrum

community for the future;

• Developingmoreofwhatpeoplewant–

Autism SA will diversify to ensure the long-

term sustainability of our service offerings.

We will seek new and creative opportunities

to increase the relevance, range and depth

of services, partner with other organisations,

and design future services in collaboration

with the autism spectrum community that

have not been previously available or have

been very limited;

• Astrongvoicefor,andwith,theautism

community – Autism SA will continue to

influence and lead social policy as the

sector authority. We have been, and will

continue to be, active in informing the

design and development of the NDIS. We

will also continue to be active in advising

other systems, including education, mental

health, and housing, about the specific

and unique needs of people with an ASD.

This includes an active role in research,

community education and professional

development;

• Greatstaffandgreatsystems-AutismSA

will continuously develop a workplace

where our people will perform at their

best. We will ensure quality by seeking

excellence in everything we do through

continuous quality improvement. We

will provide expertise that is constantly

developing and improving, and an

ethical and high performing organisation

supported by skilled staff; and

• Campaigning,communicating,connecting

– Autism SA will engage and communicate

effectively with our stakeholders to ensure

that the autism spectrum community and

its supporters are aware of developments

and opportunities.

work has alreaDy commenceD on many fronts throughout the year to support the objectives of the strategic plan:

The Board has progressed the transition from

an incorporated association to a company

limited by guarantee under the Corporations

Act 2001 (Cth), consistent with the resolution

passed by members at the Autism SA Annual

General Meeting, held on 28 November

2012. This move for Autism SA will see a

greater system of accountability, greater

representation of members, and more

opportunity to attract funding and extend

the delivery of much needed services.

The management team of Autism SA have

continued to give a voice to needs of South

Australians living with an Autism Spectrum

Disorder. In particular, Jon Martin, CEO:

• Wasre-electedChairofNationalDisability

Services in South Australia;

• HoldsaDirectorpositionontheNational

Board, and has done so since August

2010. This links Autism SA closely with both

State and Commonwealth Governments,

providing critical decision makers with

ready access to critical information at a

time of significant change; and

• WastheChairoftheAustralianAdvisory

Board on Autism Spectrum Disorders. He

stood down recently after serving in the

role for three years. As the peak body

for Autism Spectrum Disorders, the Board

released a position statement on functional

assessment under a NDIS. This process

is the key interface between individuals

and funding allocations so it is necessary

that the assessment process is sensitive to

the needs of people with ASD. As Chair,

Jon Martin also secured funding from the

Australian Government Department of

Families, Housing, Community Services

and Indigenous Affairs to undertake two

key projects throughout the 2012-2013

financial year.


Other contributions that have had an

impact include:

• Adiscussionpaperdevelopedwitha

focus on children and young people

under the age of 25 with an Autism

Spectrum Disorder, highlighting the

key issues between the disability sector

and mental health. The paper provides

recommendations on ways in which the

service system can be better streamlined,

integrated and provide a more

comprehensive response for people with an

ASD and co-morbid health issues; and

• Developmentandpromotionofguidelines

with a focus on children and young people

under the age of 25 with an ASD, which

are aimed at helping parents and carers of

a child with an ASD better understand the

assistance that may be available to them.

The guidelines will provide information

on how to develop individualised service

plans, as well as key points that parents

and carers should consider when

choosing interventions and support

that are best suited to the needs of their

child with an ASD.

The CEO also participated in the Autism

Cooperative Research Centre Interview Bid

Team. It was announced in February 2013

that the Bid Team was successful in securing

Australian Government funding of $31 million for

a Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) for ASD.

The establishment of Australia’s (and the

world’s) cooperative research effort directed

towards ASD will see the implementation of

a highly innovative ‘whole-of-life’ research

portfolio and the assembly of some of the

finest and most respected scientists in their

relevant fields. The main research activities over

the next eight years will focus on improved

diagnosis, providing appropriate educational

environments and programs for students with

an ASD, and improving opportunities for adults

with an ASD to successfully participate in

higher education and employment.

We have also reached out at an international

level, with Autism SA forging beneficial

partnerships with a range of individuals and

organisations around the world in the planning

and development of the 2013 Asia Pacific

Autism Conference (APAC 13). Our focus was

on a comprehensive conference program that

goes beyond providing the latest and greatest

innovations and ground-breaking research. We

also made a concerted effort to have people

with an ASD at the very centre, the people who

are experts in the lived experience.

With True Colours adopted as the conference

theme, it encouraged people to be bold,

be brave and be brilliant as we collectively

create a great life for people with an

Autism Spectrum Disorder. Autism SA, in

collaboration with the Conference Organising

Committee, will use this opportunity to launch

the Future Leaders program, to ensure young

people with an ASD have the opportunity to

attend and speak at conferences and become

peer mentors, and leaders of the future.

On behalf of Autism SA, we would like to

thank people with an ASD and their families,

along with our members for their continuing

support. We would also like to recognise

our business and community partners, staff,

volunteers, the CEO, Leadership team and the

Board for their outstanding efforts to enable

Autism SA to make significant advances and

be positioned where we are.

We look forward to reporting on our

achievements against our 2013- 2016 Strategic

Plan and the outcomes of APAC 13, as we

embark upon a future that will see us having

a greater focus on communicating outcomes,

connecting with the autism spectrum community

and campaigning for improved life opportunities.

We also welcome you and would be delighted

to have your continuing support and partnering

with Autism SA as we look forward to a very

exciting future; being better positioned to

respond to the autism spectrum community

and enable opportunities and inclusion in this

dramatically changing environment, resulting

in a responsive organisation that enhances the

lives of individuals and their families living with

an ASD.

Jon Martin, Jenny Karavalos

CEO, Autism SA President, Autism SA


THE TREASURER’S REPORTThe total income for the consolidated entity for this financial year has seen a revenue increase of 13%.

The total income for the consolidated entity

for this financial year has seen a revenue

increase of 13%. This is due to increased

government funding for the School Inclusion

Program and increased state funding for the

provision of services to specific individuals.

The increase in revenue has resulted in a

corresponding increase in costs related to

the provision of the additional services.

A small increase in Net Assets was seen

due to strategic investment made into

the organisation’s Client Relationship

Management system, and an increase in the

value of the managed investments. There

continues to be a strong capital base, with a

sufficient level of Assets and Equity to sustain

Autism SA’s financial stability in the future.

2012-2013 2011-2012

% change favourable/

(unfavourable)

Operating Revenue 7,876,562 6,961,140 13%

Operating Expenses (7,942,897) (7,201,690) 10%

Net Operating Surplus/(Deficit) (66,335) (240,550)

Profit on sale of property - -

Net surplus/(deficit) (66,335) (240,550) 72%

TABLE 1 - PROFIT AND LOSS POSITION

TABLE 2 - BALANCE SHEET 2012-2013 2011-2012 % change

Current Assets 1,394,683 1,130,447 23%

Non Current Assets

Property & Equipment 1,731,747 1,667,983 4%

Investment Portfolio 1,520,811 1,414,141 8%

Intangible Assets 268,382 88,913 202%

Total Assets 4,915,623 4,301,484 14%

Current Liabilities 2,143,809 1,712,699 25%

Non Current Liabilities 167,687 96,103 74%

Total Liabilities 2,311,496 1,808,802 30%

Net Assets 2,604,127 2,492,682 4%


PROFIT AND LOSS POSITION

The net financial result for the combined

activities of the Autism Association of SA

Inc. and the Autism Trust Fund of SA (the

‘Consolidated Entity’) is a loss of $66,335,

an improvement from the 2011-2012 loss

of $240,550 as presented in Table 1.

The financial position, as presented, has

been audited by Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu.

Key points of significance are:

REvENuE

1. State Government revenue increase of

25%. Corresponding increase in salaries

and travel;

2. Commonwealth Government Funding

increased by 16% - School Inclusion

Program;

3. Investment revenue up by 85% - trading of

shares;

4. Fee for service revenue down by 20%.

Reduction in secondments, corresponding

reduction in expenses; and

5. Special Purpose Grants revenue decreased

by 32%.

ExPENSES

The total operating expenses for 2012-2013

have increased by 10% compared to the

previous year.

Significant points are:

1. Employee benefits increased by 13%

due to the provision of services required

for the additional grant funding, and a

3.5% increase in salaries as a result of the

Enterprise Agreement.

2012/13 average of 80 FTE’s compared

to 2011/12 with an average of 77 FTE’s;

2. 108% increase in travel costs as additional

funding was received specifically for the

provision of outreach services; and

3. Program Expenses increased by 145%.

This increase is due to the use of agency

staff related to the increased grant funding,

as well as increased expenses for electricity

and minor equipment.

BALANCE SHEET

The Consolidated Entity Net Asset position

at 30 June 2013 has improved by 4% in

comparison to last year, as shown in Table 2.

Significant points include:

1. Increase in Current Assets due to

prepayment of registration fees for

APAC 13;

2. Increase in the Investment Portfolio in

line with the increase in the share market

overall;

3. Increase in Intangible Assets due to

expenditure on the development of

database software;

4. Increase in the employee provisions as

staff numbers increase, and the level of the

superannuation guarantee contribution is

increased; and

5. Increase in Non Current liabilities, due to

the loan received in July 2012 to update

the organisation’s IT infrastructure.



The finalised report, outlining gaps in the current service

framework, has now been presented to the Minister for Disability.

The SWAP has aimed to develop a comprehensive state-wide

service system improvement framework, and a clear pathway to

accessing services for people with an ASD and their families. The

project reviewed the current service system in South Australia. This

process involved consultation with consumers and professionals

to identify gaps and issues with the current ASD service system,

as well as the documentation of service pathways for individuals

and families during pre-diagnosis, assessment and diagnosis, early

childhood, school-age and post-school age.

the result of this review was the Development of 40 priorities for asD service system improvement that may be useful for the initiation of the nDis.

Autism SA has been proud to see Company@ Theatre Group take

the next step in their development, as Tutti Inc. agreed to further

support the development of these promising actors in a performing

arts framework. The organisation also made headline news in

Education Now (The Advertiser) on 14 August 2012, when the

Minister for Education and Child Development, Grace Portolesi,

announced additional funding allocation of $650k over two

years for the organisation. This announcement saw our CEO, Jon

Martin, participate in two radio interviews with regional stations.

SERVING THE COMMUNITYOne of the most significant roles Autism SA has played in the community this year has been in taking a lead role in the State-wide Autism Project (SWAP) that concluded in June 2013.

After attending a number of parent group meetings to discuss

NDIS, as well as the State-Wide Autism Project (SWAP) Survey

Outcomes, and making considerations to transfer to a company,

it became evident that there is still a lot of work to be done

around creating NDIS awareness in the community.

The feedback received from parent groups regarding SWAP

and general discussion indicates that there are still significant

amounts of unmet needs.

autism sa will have an important role in continuing to builD relationships with the community of interest.

Our work has continued with the Telstra Foundation’s iModeling

Project. Over the three years of the iModeling Project it has been

found that:

• 79%ofparticipantsincreasedtheirsocialskillsduringthe

program and 74% maintained these skills after the program

ceased;

• Therewasadecreaseinproblembehavioursfor61%of

participants during the program and 58% maintained this

decrease in problem behaviour after the program ceased;

• Whilstgeneralisationofskillswasnotanobjectivemeasure,

parents reported that 75% of participants generalised the skills

into different settings. The reported generalisation increased

with each year of the program;

• Thethirdyearwasthemostsuccessfulforanumber

of reasons; established program, group selection and

experienced facilitators; and

• TheIntellectualDisabilitygroupbegantheprogramwith

social skills in the well below average range, but by the

end of the program they were in the average range. These

results continued to increase after the program had ceased.

This range is calculated on age range, not cognitive ability,

showing a fantastic result.

The organisation engaged with a consultant to assist with Autism

SA self-assessment under the Australian Service Excellence

Standards (ASES). ASES is the third edition of the Service

Excellence Standards; an internationally accredited quality

improvement program initiated by the SA Department for

Communities and Social Inclusion, aimed at supporting non-

government organisations in the Community Services Sector across

Australia. Autism SA currently holds Award level, the highest level

under the standards. An external independent assessment of

achievement was undertaken before September 2013.


EACH mONTH, AN AvERAgE OF

INDIvIDuALS ARE DIAgNOSED

WITH AN ASD

493293230

898

237

128

746 25064 937

580,750403

187403

13 9467

5,065

Early Intervention (EI) Clients: Diagnosis/Therapy Outreach:

Behaviour:

Counselling:

Diagnosis:

Respite:

REgISTERED FOR SERvICES

AuTISm SA INFOLINE RECEIvED

PEOPLE WERE DIAgNOSED IN SOuTH AuSTRALIA

RECEIvED OCCuPATIONAL THERAPy IN mETRO ADELAIDE

RECEIvED SPEECH PATHOLOgy IN mETRO ADELAIDE

RECEIvED AN ASSESSmENT By AuTISm SA IN mETRO ADELAIDE

WEEKEND PLACES PROvIDED

DAy OPTION CLIENTS

INDIvIDuAL CONTRACT

CLIENTS

SCHOOL

HOLIDAy PLACES FILLED

ATTENDED gROuP SESSIONS

41RECEIvED INTENSE BEHAvIOuR

SuPPORT

ATTENDED COuNSELLINg SESSIONS

ATTENDED FOuNDATION SKILLS gROuP

POST DIAgNOSTIC APPOINTmENTS

THE TOTAL AmOuNTS TO

OuTREACH CLIENTSIN

CLuD

INg

CALL

S

mIN

uTES

OR DAyS OF CONTINuOuS SuPPORT

received Consultancy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Pathology or Developmental Educator support through EI services over the year.

40DIAgNOSTIC ASSESSmENT COuNTRy

vISITS

20THERAPy SESSIONS PROvIDED IN COuNTRy REgIONS

5,81418ARE uNDER

THE AgE OF

7,206ARE REgISTERED AS ELIgIBLE FOR SERvICES FROm

INDI

vIDu

ALS


1,700School Inclusion Program (SIP): Autism Advisor Program: Helping Children with Autism (HCWA):

RECEIvED CONSuLTANCy, OCCuPATIONAL THERAPy, SPEECH PATHOLOgy OR DEvELOPmENTAL EDuCATOR SuPPORT THROugH SIP SERvICES

INDIvIDuALS

OvER THE yEAR

28135

18OuTREACH CLIENTS

41698

313 592

42141

PROFESSIONAL TRAININg WORKSHOPS

CHILDREN REgISTERED

CHILDREN REgISTERED

PARTICIPANTS ATTENDED



PARTICIPANTS PuRCHASED

APPROxImATELy

@ AuTISm SA

INCL

uDIN

g

1,800

HCWA

HCWA

FOR

THE

FOR

THE

669,120465

THE TOTAL AmOuNTS TO

HELD IN SOuTH AuSTRALIA

PACKAgE IN SOuTH AuSTRALIA

PACKAgE IN THE NORTHERN TERRITORy

HELD IN THE NORTHERN TERRITORymIN

uTES

OR DAyS OF CONTINuOuS SuPPORT

EARLy DAySWORKSHOPS

EARLy DAySWORKSHOPS

THE GROWING NUMbER OF INDIVIDUAlS DIAGNOSED WITH AN ASD IN SOUTH AUSTRAlIA

8% INCREASE

2008/09685

2009/10739

2011/12941

2012/131004

+54

2010/11846

14.5% INCREASE

+107

11.2% INCREASE+95

6.7% INCREASE+63

80FEE-FOR-SERvICE TRAININg AND CONSuLTANCy OPTIONS


There has been a range of new workshops

which have performed strongly in the market,

including the ‘Special Needs Coordinators

Day’, ‘The supporting students on the spectrum

for SSO/ESO day’, and the most recent

success, ‘The Incredible 5-Point Scale day’,

which is being presented with the author’s

written permission.

The average number of participants per

workshop has increased from 16.2 in

the 2011/12 financial year to 18.3 in the

2012/13 financial year.

The feedback collected from the workshops

has showed fantastic results, scoring 3.82 out

of 4 for the content of the presentations and

the presenters skills.

The fee-for-service packages have

experienced a significant growth over the

past few years, particularly with a significant

increase in consultancy support. This support

includes consultancy, facilitator support,

Occupational Therapy and Speech Pathology

support. This has been reflected in an

almost 80% increase in the hours of support

requested, from 270 hours in 2011/12 to 480

hours in the 2012/13 financial year.

The fee-for-service support and training

services has allowed Autism SA to be able

to provide training and support services to

approximately 1,800 people in the South

Australian community. The data has also

shown an increase in these services to the

country and Greater Adelaide regions, with

18 out of the 79 services being undertaken

in these areas.

Recently a survey was sent to all that accessed

a fee-for-service package. Of those returned,

the average feedback was 4.4 out of 5,

with customers reporting that they ‘agreed’

or ‘strongly agreed’ that the service was of

benefit to their site and a majority also stated

they would access services again in the future.

Overall, it has been a fantastic, busy and

innovative year for the Education and

Training Services department, and according

to early data, 2013/14 looks like it will

be no different!

The Autism Advisor Program (AAP) has

had another successful year, registering

592 children living with an ASD for HCWA

funding. Of these children, 83 were from

culturally and linguistically diverse families.

All families are given information about Early

Days workshops at their appointment with an

Advisor, resulting in 49% of families attending

an Early Days workshop. With a yearly target

of 158 participants, our benchmark was

surpassed as workshop attendance saw

313 participants attend.

COMMUNITY TRAINING SERVICESAutism SA’s workshops and in particular, the Professional Learning Series, has continued to perform strongly in the 2012/13 financial year, despite a dramatic increase in competition.

Autism SA staff from the Autism

Advisor Program sharing

information with families at ASD EX.


These participants rated that they were

100% satisfied with the workshop, and

gave positive feedback:

“it was very useful anD woulD be great for parents to attenD early (in the Diagnosis process) to ease confusion.”

“helpeD with new iDeas anD looking for ways to improve my interactions with my chilD.”

“presenters were wonDerful anD so very full of knowleDge anD anecDotes.”

AAP updated their HCWA Provider Booklet

this year, and after doing so received some

very positive feedback, even from those

interstate! HCWA Providers have commented

that parents and carers are calling with a

much clearer request for the type of services

they want. Visual Day Workshops have

continued to be popular with families and

carers, whereby AAP staff base themselves at

a local venue and families can get advice and

make visuals for free with the Advisors, as well

as take them home to use with their children.

The AAP continue to offer Communication

Awareness sessions in country areas. These

are proving valuable, with attendance from

families and children with an ASD, school

staff, child care workers, police officers and

disability services staff.

Community Services has continued their

program, and in 2012/13 commenced

working with two individual contracts of

substantial size and intensive support. They

further increased our reputation as a provider

of choice and specialist support.

One individual who received support was

recovering from a Traumatic Brain Injury. They

transitioned from living under very restrictive

conditions in hospital, to being supported in

temporary respite, and finally to be supported

full-time by Autism SA. They were then able

to successfully live independently within their

own tenancy. This client is now accessing

the community regularly, and with a creative

and varied schedule, has re-joined the

previously attended Day Options

Program and is re-building skill levels

previously enjoyed.


Community Services has delivered growth

of 259% in service delivery hours of

individual contracts since last year! This

is a huge achievement, and represents a

dramatic growth in our services to work with

individuals to create specialised programs of

individualised support in the community.

In 2012/13 our demand for respite services

grew to over 100 families on each respite

register. This meant we reached our targets of

children attending weekend respite, and also

for the school holiday programs, which were

noted as being high in demand.

Community Services welcomed a number

of new staff, including some growth and

changes in leadership, with the appointment

of Emma Barrett – Senior; Amanda Gibbons

– Northern Team Leader; and Anita Hoppo –

Individual Contract Team Leader.

Our respite houses placed an appeal for

donations of toys, games and teddies and

were overwhelmed by the response from

our donors, families and staff. We have lots

of photos of our clients making good use of

the new donations. The houses were also

fortunate enough to secure grants of shade

sails and donations for equipment from

Coopers Brewery Foundation and the Liquor

Industry Charity Golf Club of SA.

The Spectrum Advisory Services (SAS) team

continues to play a vital role in raising awareness

and understanding in our community; by

providing training and development for families,

counselling for young people and their families,

and social development programs for adolescents

and adults. SAS hosted adult workshops including

topics such as Independent Living, Employment,

The Hidden Rules of Communication, Making and

Keeping Friends, Relationships, and the most well-

attended workshop, Communication.

The average attendance at an adult workshop

is between 15 to 20 attendees and many of

these participants come back to attend a future

workshop to learn more about ASD.

“as i am finishing tafe this year, i really neeDeD to know the basics of how to finD a job anD after attenDing these workshops, i feel more confiDent anD comfortable.”


The Peer Mentor Program’s Future Gardens

project was a huge success that gave 24

children living with an ASD the opportunity

to learn basic cooking and gardening skills,

as well as life skills, including how to work in

a team, planning and budgeting for weekly

living expenses. Autism SA provides support

and strategies for the development of peer

relationships and social skills throughout

the program. The group mentors are

encouraged to develop leadership skills

and assist other participants, with the help

of the group facilitators.

The Family Workshops have grown in

popularity and have gone from being

cancelled due to lack of interest last year,

to being in high demand this year, so much

so that the team has had to constantly book

participants at ‘over capacity’. Due to the high

level of interest, we have been responsive to

the ASD community by developing three new

workshops including Helping Children on the

Spectrum Manage Anxiety, Information and

Activities for Siblings of Children on the Autism

Spectrum and Acceptance and Commitment

Therapy – An Introduction.

The SAS team has successfully taken over the

key responsibility for facilitating the Positive

Partnerships Parent Carer workshops this

year. It has been a great experience and

opportunity for the team to improve their

presentation skills. Autism SA’s professional

reputation continues to gain momentum, as we

continually receive a lot of positive feedback

and thanks from the parents and carers whom

access these kinds of services.


Premier Jay Weatherill announced the

SA launch site for the NDIS at Autism

SA’s premises on 25 July 2012. For South

Australia, the focus will be on approximately

5,000 children aged from 0 to 14 years from

July 2013 to June 2016. During the first year,

existing and newly eligible children aged 0

to 5 years will be accepted to participate in

the NDIS launch. During the second year, it

is planned that existing and newly eligible

children aged 0 to13 years will be included,

and in the third year it is planned that all

eligible children aged 0 to14 can be part of

the scheme.

All elements of the design and implementation

of the NDIS must consider previous history

telling us that a generalist approach does

not work in favour of the autism spectrum

community. The prevalence of ASD is growing

at a faster rate than any other disability, and

therefore any system aiming to be sustainable

must focus resources on the populations of

most need.

Further, when compared to people with other

disabilities, people with an ASD experience

poorer outcomes in relation to workforce

participation and education. Barriers to

participation for people with an ASD are

generally ‘invisible’, resulting in professionals

and the general community not having a

full appreciation of the specific and unique

challenges faced by people with an ASD.

Expertise in ASD and the ability to plan

interventions and supports around these

needs are critical. Unlike other disabilities,

there exists a complex array of potential

interventions for autism with variable evidence

base including therapies, supports and

interventions for individuals with an ASD.

Specialist knowledge and experience is

required in order to develop and manage a

personal pathway plan for individuals.

In the lead-up to the Council of Australian

Government’s (COAG) meeting in April 2012,

South Australia joined New South Wales in

reaching agreement with the Commonwealth

for the full implementation of the NDIS.

For South Australia, this will see the total

investment on disability support grow to

over $1.4 billion in 2018 to 2019. Of this,

the SA Government will contribute $723

million and the Commonwealth Government

will contribute $760 million. About 33,000

people with disabilities will be supported.

Legislation was introduced and passed to

increase the Medicare Levy by 0.5% to help

pay for the NDIS. The levy would raise about

$3.3 billion a year from 2014 to 2015, and a

proportion of this would be provided to State

and Territory Governments to assist with the

implementation of the NDIS.

OUR CHANGING ENVIRONMENTThe prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder is growing at a faster rate than any other disability, and therefore any system aiming to be sustainable must focus resources on the populations of most need.


Autism SA held a NDIS Forum on 1 May

2013 for families of children with an ASD

to provide information on the scheme’s

development. Focus groups were hosted by

Autism SA, and included approximately 100

parents and carers of children in the 0 to 14

age group. In these focus groups families

indicated the need to be able to access

knowledge, expertise and informal supports to

assist them in decision-making with regard to

how best to utilise their funding.

Another significant change in the sector relates

to The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of

Men tal Disorders (DSM) that was revised and

then released in May 2013.The DSM is the

main assessment tool for diagnosing Autism

Spectrum Disorders

One of the most important changes in the fifth

edition (DSM-5) is to Autism Spectrum Disorder

(ASD). The revised diagnosis represents a new,

more accurate, and medically and scientifically

useful way of diagnosing individuals with

autism-related disorders.

Under the DSM-5 criteria, individuals with Autism

Spectrum Disorder (ASD) must show symptoms

from early childhood, even if those symptoms are

not recognized until later. This criteria change

encourages earlier diagnosis of ASD but also

allows people whose symptoms may not be fully

recognized until social demands exceed their

capacity to receive the diagnosis.

The impact on the rate of diagnosis in SA has

yet to be established.

The use of terminology such as PDD-NOS

and Aspergers syndrome are not recognised

in the released DSM-5 and it is likely they will

be phased out and it is anticipated that the

term Autism Spectrum Disorder will be more

commonly used.

Families also identified the need for the autism

community to have a strong and active voice in

the ongoing design and implementation of the

NDIS. There was also much support for Autism

SA to continue to provide its current services and

supports and to further assist

with providing professional development

and support for teachers to better support

children at school.

Families listed a diverse range of

considerations for choosing services

and individual service providers. These

considerations reflected the family’s desire to

ensure the best possible care and support for

their children. Families reported that it was

important that individual service providers

were caring and respectful of a family’s

needs and that individuals involved in service

provision were experienced, knowledgeable

and qualified.


The Early Intervention and Clinic Services

team have continued to provide high quality

advice, consultation to new and current

families and also the delivery of tailored

services to each child.

Our aim has been to deliver information

and direct services that enhance child

development, family support and build a

capacity within the family by providing ideas

and strategies for the family to implement

in the child’s natural environments that will

promote the embedding of skills developing

and developed.

This year has seen the focus on developing

strong and lasting relationships with our

families and with the implementation of the

NDIS in SA that focusses exclusively on

children and young people with a disability

this has become imperative in understanding

what families are expecting from Autism SA

regarding range and extent of services that

they will be eligible for and want to access.

Throughout the year, the team consulted

broadly with families regarding their views

and perceptions of the NDIS. This not only

allowed us to consider the types of services

and supports that people desire, but it also

allowed us to gather information for workforce

planning, financial planning and infrastructure.

A NDIS Launch Site Working Party for SA

was established throughout the year with

representatives from major non-government

organisations, as well as Federal and State

Government representatives. Autism SA is

represented through our CEO, providing an

opportunity to inform and shape a service

system resulting in improved outcomes for

people with an ASD and their families.

At a local level, the State Government

has continued to implement the transition

to individualised funding. From 1 January

2013, all clients in receipt of six or more

hours per week or $10,000 per annum of

support through Disability SA’s brokerage

or individualised Day Options programs,

were given the opportunity to choose how to

manage their personal budgets. At this stage

all of the individuals supported by Autism SA

have elected to continue with the government

managing their services and funds, and Autism

SA has continued as the provider.


A cabinet re-shuffle by Premier Weatherill in

December 2012, resulted in Tony Piccolo MP

being appointed as Minister for Disability

and Jennifer Rankine MP being appointed as

Minister for Education and Child Development.

At a critical time for both disability services

and education services, Autism SA has worked

hard to develop and maintain collaborative

relationships with respective ministerial

responsibilities and portfolios.

The State Budget in June 2013 provided

an additional $108 million over five years

for disability; on top of the $215 million in

last year’s budget. Exactly where it will be

allocated is not defined. The budget also

confirmed the South Australian Government’s

pledge to provide $3.6 billion in the six years

leading up to the introduction of the NDIS.

Spending measures in other portfolios which

have an influence on people with disability

includes $31.1 million to renew and relocate

special schools and $450,000 in 2013/14 to

devise ways to deliver a more innovative and

efficient justice system.

In other national policy developments, on 1

November 2012 legislation was passed by

the Australian parliament to set up the new

charities and Not for Profit (NFP) national

regulator, The Australian Charities and Not

for Profit Commission (ACNC). The ACNC

commenced operations in December 2012,

and charities will be required to be registered

with the regulator to access Commonwealth

tax concessions. Autism SA is registered on the

new ACNC website as a Public Benevolent

Institution (PBI) and is currently undergoing the

process for the new company structure.

Given the significant changing landscape,

Autism SA has also focused on a marketing

and communication strategy to ensure that we

can be a strong voice, for and with, the autism

spectrum community. The role of Manager

- Fundraising and Communications was

redefined as Manager - Strategic Marketing

and Communications with a related shift in

roles and responsibilities.

It has allowed us the opportunity to focus on

APAC 13 as a vehicle for bringing information

to the broader community and engaging the

autism spectrum community. Throughout the

year, a Social Media and Communications

Officer was engaged reflecting the operating

environment and the active online communities.


To ensure a positive cultural shift in a time

of radical reform for the disability sector,

a review of the organisation’s values;

Quality Service, Expertise, Collaboration,

Teamwork, Leadership, Diversity and

Professionalism, was undertaken. Our new

values have now been adopted and will

be the centre of the work that we do, as

Autism SA continues moving forward.

Mapping for the future and scanning the

environment to determine the service ‘gaps’

has helped us to develop a sound workforce

plan that will be benchmarked against like

industries and measured against ‘Employer of

Choice’ indicators; Return on Investment; and

compliance with relevant legislation.

The outcomes of the review saw a restructure

of the Fundraising and Communications

team that now has a new focus to better the

position of the organisation, as the Autism SA

Marketing and Communications team. An

identified key area for growth by this team is

to build a stronger social media and online

community presence, and in November 2012

a part-time role was created for a Social

Media and Communications Officer.

DEVElOPING GREAT STAFFIn preparation for the rollout of the NDIS, and building strong foundations to position Autism SA in a sustainable position for the future, Autism SA reviewed the entire organisation and its approach to service delivery with a particular focus on Autism SA’s position in the community


Since the rollout of this initiative, there has

been an outstanding increase in our social

media and marketing activities, and in turn

has had an increased impact on our

unscheduled fundraising activities by

members of our community.

The success of Autism SA continues to

rely on the dedication and commitment

of professional staff and volunteers; our

organisation’s greatest asset. Autism SA is

committed to recruiting and retaining staff who

continue to dedicate themselves to enhancing

the lives of people living with an ASD.

The organisation strives itself on becoming

an ‘Employer of Choice’ and has developed

a sound Workforce Development Plan

based on our reviewed values.

This is vital for long term sustainability

and attracting highly skilled staff to an

evolving and changing disability sector.

“i love working at autism sa. the supportive working environment encourages me to seek further eDucation. this allows me to continually progress anD improve my professional skillset whilst imrpoving outcomes for autism sa.”


OUR VAlUES

TOgETHER we strive

We are a group of individuals working collaboratively together for the advancement of Autism SA’s mission. We need to support, forgive, thank, laugh, talk and acknowledge each other… probably more often than we think ought be necessary.

CuRIOSITy in our thinking

We ask questions of each other to learn more about a situation before we jump to assumptions and conclusions. When we stop asking questions we shut down our curiosity.

TRuTH in decision-making

Our decisions are evidence-based, not simply opinions. They come from asking lots of questions and validating answers.

autism sa will utilise the following strategies in orDer to take steps towarDs becoming an ‘employer of choice’:

ATTRACTIvE SALARIES

(ABOvE AWARD RATES)

Fair Work Australia released the minimum

salary rates payable from 1 July 2012 as a

result of the Equal Remuneration Decision.

Comparison of the minimum rate payable

against the Autism SA rates indicates that for

staff involved in the provision of services and

employed under the Social, Community, Home

Care and Disability Services Award, Autism

SA pays our staff between 5.5% - 26.3%

above Award rate.

RECOgNISINg ONgOINg STAFF COmmITmENT

Every year, Autism SA recognise staff

members who have reached pinnacle

milestones within the organisation. This year

the following staff were recognised for:

FIvE yEARS OF SERvICE

Brenda Gruden

Natalie Davies

Amy Schultz

Jessica Steyn

Claire Robertson-Holland

Lauren Davey

Dianne Ford

Pei-Yin Huang

TEN yEARS OF SERvICE

Lesley Cutts

Liesl Munn

Gus Venables

Lexie Dryden

Erica Handley

Susan Maschmedt

5.5%ABOvE AWARD RATE SACS Levels 1 - 3

15.8%ABOvE AWARD RATE

SACS Level 5


SACS Level 4


SACS Level 6


COuRAgE to take action

When we make a decision we are clear about the decision and its consequences.

We encourage decisions to be acted on and hold ourselves accountable for our promises to each other.

RESPECT for each other

Having fun together… not making fun of each other.

Accepting that I don’t have a monopoly on the truth – my opinion might be wrong.

Recognising and appreciating our different roles (in and outside work), our strengths and our contributions.

ADvENTuRE in how we do things

We will encounter new situations and risks as we implement change and chart new territory. We will try to be mindful of our fears, assess risks and acknowledge that sometimes we’ll get things right and sometimes we’ll learn from our actions. Change is implemented with a spirit of adventure, not blame.

CELEBRATE effort that contributes to making the workplace better

Recognise and acknowledge the values in our communication and behaviour.

Acknowledge others when you see them living the Values.

Highlight achievements and accomplishments.

CELEBRATINg STAFF RECOgNITION

To improve attraction and retention of

professional staff, Autism SA has implemented

a staff recognition and reward policy that

celebrates staff success, in the development

of the STAR Awards. This is a focus within

Autism SA; demonstrating a commitment to

the implementation of an effective and

tangible reward process for staff.

RECRuITmENT AND RETENTION

End of Financial Year data indicates a

staff turnover rate of 11.7%. This compares

with 15.8% in 2011/12, 13% in 2010/11

and 16% in 2009/10. Staff absenteeism

maintained at 3%. A recent report from

National Disability Services Victoria indicates

a turnover rate of 21% for community service

organisations across all occupational groups

(i.e., full-time, part-time and casual). Constant

comparisons to benchmarks are important to

inform the workforce development strategy for

Autism SA and to achieve our objective of

being an ‘Employer of Choice’.

PROvIDINg A SAFE WORKINg ENvIRONmENT

South Australia passed the Commonwealth

Workplace Health and Safety Act on 1

November 2012 and became the seventh

jurisdiction to adopt the harmonised WHS

laws. This brings SA in line with QLD, NSW,

NT, ACT and the Commonwealth jurisdictions

where the new laws have already been

implemented. The new laws were effective

in SA as of 1 January 2013. Autism SA’s

leadership team and WHS committee have

been provided access to information and

training to assist with the transition.


AUTISM SA EVENTSConsumer engagement in the autism community of South Australia and beyond continues to grow.

Social Media has provided a new and

interactive avenue for Autism SA to raise

awareness and to communicate with not

only our immediate audience, but reach a

far wider market. Families and individuals

have embraced the use of social media and

it continues to be a source of communication

and knowledge for our organisation, as

Autism SA is led by the needs and concerns

of the ASD community.

uNSCHEDuLED FuNDRAISINg

In 2012/13, Autism SA was chosen as the

beneficiary charity for 33 unscheduled

community events, whereby donations were

collected on our behalf. Some highlights

include; The Liquor Industry Charity Golf

Day, The Women in Agriculture and Business

conference, ‘The Adventures of the High Tea’

hosted by the Anna Rennie Chapter (women

of the Port Adelaide Enfield Chamber of

Commerce), The Adelaide Hills Doll Guild’s

Doll and Bear Show at Hahndorf, the Saffron

Sky Café Coffee Day and the Run4Autism

initiative by Travis Saunders.

PuBLIC ENgAgEmENT OPPORTuNITIES

Actively engaging in public speaking

opportunities has proven beneficial, as Autism

SA professionals continue to be in demand

as people strive to know more about ASDs.

This financial year saw Autism SA present at

more than ten Rotary and Lions Club meetings,

and make seven guest speaker appearances

at other various community groups and

organisations around local and regional

South Australia. The team have also

presented information at events including;

training and workshop sessions provided by

TAFE SA, The Adelaide College of Learning

and Development and the University of

South Australia.


ExHIBITIONS

Demand for information about service

pathways is evident from families living

with an ASD. Participating in exhibitions

throughout the year ensures a physical

presence in the community and provides

much needed knowledge and support.

Autism SA participated in many exhibitions

throughout the year including the Disability

and Ageing Expo (August 2012), RAAF

Open Day Expo (January 2013), ASD EX:

Pathways to Services Expo (April 2013)

and the Aboriginal Children’s Health Expo

(April 2013). Thanks to external funding,

the Autism Advisor Program was presented

with a unique opportunity to host a free

information exhibition that saw more than

30 organisations on the autism provider

panel come together to exhibit their range

of services to more than 540 families who

attended the one day event.

CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS

We continue to rely heavily on strong

partnerships with our corporate supporters.

A special thanks goes to ABC Adelaide,

Baiada Steggles, Deloitte, Kelly & Co.,

Coopers Brewery, Commonwealth Bank

and Credit Union SA.

New partnerships were established with

Adelaide Convention Bureau, Adelaide

Convention Centre, Collotype Labels,

Boileau, Adelaide Baby Bargains and

The Promotion Factory.

OTHER SERvICE PROvIDERS

Working in collaboration with other leading

service providers is vital, as we endeavour

to create a better life for people living with

an ASD. Our partnerships with Community

Bridging Services, Guide Dogs SA/NT, Minda

Incorporated, Department for Communities

and Social Inclusion will continue to support

people living with an ASD in the community.


THE AuTISm SA RECOgNITION AWARDS PRESENTATION CEREmONy

One of the most well attended and highly

anticipated events on the Autism SA events

calendar is the Autism SA Recognition Awards

Presentation Ceremony. Held on Friday,

20 July 2012 at the Goodwood Community

Centre, this year’s event embraced a family-

friendly approach and included fun activities

and entertainment for children, as well as a

free sausage sizzle and goody bag for all

guests. Recognising personal achievements

of people living with an ASD and the support

of individuals, professionals and corporate

supporters who make a positive difference in

our community is an important aspect of the

work that we do at Autism SA.

ASIA PACIFIC AuTISm CONFERENCE (APAC 13) LAuNCH

One of our major focus points in the 2012/13

financial year has been the development of

True Colours: Asia Pacific Autism Conference.

In August 2012, Autism SA in conjunction

with the APAC 13 Committee launched the

conference theme with a special event for

sponsors and supporters held at the Adelaide

Convention Centre. Hosted by APAC 13

Ambassador and former 5AA radio presenter,

Amanda Blair, the evening saw more than

150 guests witness the Minister for Disability,

the Honourable Ian Hunter MLC, announce

sponsorship support of $50,000 from the

State Government towards hosting APAC 13.

THE AuTISm SA SuNDAy mAIL CITy-BAy FuN RuN

More than 320 participants joined together

to run from the city to the bay as part of ‘Team

Autism SA’. The event was kindly supported by

the Autism SA Volunteer BBQ team and our

generous sponsors; Scalzi Produce, Nippy’s

Fruit Juices, BD Farm Paris Creek Yoghurt and

Schapel Butchers. Using social media and

online fundraising platforms such as Everyday

Hero and Go Fundraise, the event helped to

raise more than $20,000 to support the work

of Autism SA.

AUTISM SA EVENTSThroughout the year, the Marketing and Communications team has worked closely with committed volunteers, dedicated community groups and South Australian businesses to host effective fundraising and awareness events for the organisation’s staff, supporters and families to be involved in.


AuTISm AWARENES mONTH

April is Autism Awareness Month and in 2013,

this month was busier than ever before! In

partnership with Adelaide Autism Adventures,

Asperlutely Autsome and S.A.F.E. SA, for the

first time ever, Autism SA hosted community

awareness stalls each week during April,

providing an opportunity for families to visit

our staff and other parents in person at

Rundle Mall and Westfield shopping centres

at Marion, Tea Tree Plaza and West Lakes.

An increase in physical community and

online presence through social media

activities, meant an increase in unscheduled

fundraising activities throughout the year.

These included various Light It Up Blue events,

held both locally and around the state in the

regional communities of Mount Gambier and

Port Lincoln.

During the month, Autism SA was active

in engaging supporters to participate in

online fundraising, whereby supporters were

invited to establish online fundraising pages

with Everyday Hero and Go Fundraise to

generate donations to support the work of

the organisation. Larger organisations also

participated in fundraising and there were

new partnerships established with Credit

Union SA and Commonwealth Bank who

actively participated in collecting donations

and selling merchandise.


Encouraging individuals, parents and

community groups to be active in raising

awareness and funds in an appropriate

manner that enhances the Autism SA brand,

is a significant part of the work that we do.

We work cohesively to provide support,

including marketing collateral and evidence

based information to community groups

such as Kaleidoscope (Port Lincoln) and

Asperlutely Autsome (Adelaide) to assist

them with their fundraising needs.

Support is given to the parent support groups

and partner organisations through assistance

with events, collateral and merchandise. This

is supported by knowledge and expertise in

marketing, communications and fundraising,

which has proven to be invaluable to these

groups being successful.

Coordinating new opportunities for our

families, that are facilitated with a focus on

providing the best possible environment and

care for people with an ASD, is at the centre

of what we do. In July 2012, more than 20

Autism SA children and siblings, joined in the

fun at a private Redlegs (Norwood Football

Club) Football Clinic held specifically for kids

on the spectrum. Furthermore, in December

2012, Autism SA worked closely with David

Jones to create an atmosphere suitable for

visiting Father Christmas at Magic Cave

specifically for families living with an ASD.

Implementing specialised activities such as

these provides a fantastic opportunity for

kids with an ASD and their families to

participate in a supportive and

understanding community environment.

Social media continues to play a huge part

in our daily marketing and communication

strategy, and Facebook and Twitter provide a

platform to reach more community members

than ever before. From November 2012 to

September 2013, there has been an 87%

increase in Facebook ‘likes’. People talking

and sharing our page on a monthly basis is

at an average of 781 people (up from 150

people in November 2012 and a 420%

increase). People who see daily content on

our Facebook page now spans approximately

17,762 people (up from 1,629 people since

November 2012); a total increase of 990%.

There is on average 1,756 people per month

who engage with our page, which is up from

300 people since November 2012 and is a

485% increase.

AlMOST DAIlY, WE ARE CONTACTED bY AN INDIVIDUAl OR SUPPORT GROUP ENqUIRING AbOUT FUNDRAISING TO SUPPORT THE WORk OF AUTISM SA.

IN M

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FACEbOOk USER ENGAGEM

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AN INCREASE OFAN INCREASE OF

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990 %17,762

Facebook.com/AutismSAadelaide

Twitter.com/AutismSA


AuTISm AmBASSADORS

Ms Katharine Annear (since 2008)

Mrs Gloria Bryant (since 2008)

Ms Tamara Caire (since 2013)

Mrs Brooke Clark (since 2012)

Mrs Katy Correll (since 2013)

Ms Abbey-Leigh Dalton (since 2008)

Ms Tara Davis (since 2008)

Mrs Nadia Demasi (since 2008)

Mr Matt Deighton (since 2010)

Miss Kristie Dix (honorary since 2010)

Ms Alison Gaskin (honorary since 2010)

Ms Barbara Green (since 2008)

Ms Julie Julyan (since 2008)

Ms Alison Keast (since 2008)

Mrs Stephanie Kowalski (since 2008)

Ms Diane Whitaker-Lockwood (since 2008)

Mr Stephen Loveridge (since 2008)

Mrs Vivienne Mangos (since 2008)

Mr Bruce Meatheringham (since 2008)

Ms Kathryn Michaelsen (since 2008)

Ms Helen Neale (since 2008)

Mr David Palmer (since 2008)

Ms Annette Paterson (since 2008)

Mrs Melissa Poole (since 2012)

Mrs Kirsten Richards (since 2008)

Mrs Linda Sandell (since 2008)

Ms Zoe Sandell (since 2008)

Mr Charlie Stone (honorary since 2011)

Ms Miwa Stynes (since 2008)

Mrs Julie Taylor (since 2008)

Ms Amanda Tulloch-Hoskins (since 2008)

Mrs Donna Webb (since 2008)

Mrs Josie Wilson (since 2008)

Mr Stewart Wymer (since 2008)

AuTISm SA BOARD mEmBERS

Ms Jenny Karavolos (President)

Mrs Col Eardley (Vice President; resigned

September 2012)

Mr Troy Mohler (Treasurer)

Mr Luke Dale (Legal Expertise)

Mr Darren Gibbins (Management Expertise)

Dr Brian Matthews (ASD Expertise; resigned

October 2012)

Mr Peter Davey (Consumer Representative)

Mr David Ligertwood (Consumer

Representative)

Mrs Raphael Murphy (Consumer

Representative)

Ms Amanda Harris (Financial Member

elected by staff)

Mr Neil White (Co-opted)

LIFE mEmBERS

Mrs Roma Aimes

Mrs Mary Angel

Mrs Rose Baker

Assoc. Prof. Verity Bottroff

Mr Richard Bruggemann

Mrs Jean Bryant

Miss Cheryl Casey

Mrs Jean Cox

Mr Lloyd Cox

Miss Betty Davis+

Mr Ken Foggo

Mr Leigh Hall OAM

Mrs Ruth Halpin

Mr John Harley

Mrs Nerida Higgins

Mrs Joy Johns

Mrs Hilary Johnson AM+

Mrs Betty Jordan OAM

Dr Margaret Kyrkou

Mrs Judith Leeson

Dr Ruth McIntyre

Mr David McLean

Mrs Anne Nottage

Mrs Valerie Retallick+

Mr John Rosevear

Mrs Mae Saun+

Mr Matthew Tiddy

Dr Peter Tillett

Mr Bernhard Vaughn

Mr Dudley Wilson

Mrs Margaret Wilson

(+ denotes deceased)

PATRON

Rear Admiral Kevin Scarce AC CSC RANR,

Governor of South Australia

vICE PATRONS

The Hon Justice T.H. McGovern DFC

(Retired)+, R.S. Turner Esq, CBE, P Satchell

THANk YOU & ACkNOWlEDGEMENTS


THE HILARy JOHNSON PROFESSIONAL ACHIEvEmENT AWARD

RECIPIENT: Rochelle Miller

THE KATE PARKER ExEmPLARy SERvICE AWARD

RECEPIENTS: Eliza Cruze & Breeanna

Leonello, & Lesley Cutts & the Blair Athol Staff

Team

SPECIAL COMMENDATION: Bruce & Josie

Williamson

BuSINESS PARTNERSHIP AWARD

RECIPIENT: Adelaide Autism Adventures

SPECIAL COMMENDATION: Asperlutely

Autsome

PATRONAgE AWARD

RECIPIENT: Baiada Steggles

SPECIAL COMMENDATIONS: Credit Union

SA & Women in Agriculture & Business

PARENT/CARER AWARD

RECIPIENT: Annie McDermott

INDIvIDuAL ACHIEvEmENT AWARD (12 yEARS & yOuNgER)

RECIPIENT: Shemesh Ohayon-Hughes

ENCOURAGEMENT AWARDS: Corey

Flynn, Melissa Kirkman, Sylas Lee & Deakon

Schwarze

INDIvIDuAL ACHIEvEmENT AWARD (13 yEARS & OLDER)

RECIPIENT: Braden Stockham

ENCOURAGEMENT AWARDS: Mark

Cheesman, Chelsea Curtis & Kristie Dix

AuTISm AmBASSADOR AWARD

RECIPIENTS: Tamara Caire (Corporate) &

Katy Correll (Community)

2013 RECOGNITION AWARDS RECIPIENTS


AUTISM SA ARE GRATEFUl TO THE FOllOWING ORGANISATIONS AND COMMUNITY GROUPS:

MAJOR CORPORATE PARTNER

OTHER PARTNERS

CORPORATE PARTNERS

bRAND AND DIGITAl PARTNERS


2012/13 Autism SA Annual Report

Documents

Transcript of 2012/13 Autism SA Annual Report