Mission Australia

Mission Australia announces winner of Anti-Poverty Week competition

noreply@blogger.com (Mission Australia) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:42:00 +0000

Early in October Mission Australia launched the Anti-Poverty Week competition to raise awareness around the issue of poverty and engage people in what they could do to help.

Entrants were asked to prepare a short video - no longer than 60 seconds - addressing what they would do to alleviate poverty if they were Prime Minister for a day to help mark Anti-Poverty Week (11-17 October).

Mission Australia’s CEO, Toby Hall, announced the winner this week to be The Rotary Club of Revesby-Wirrimbirra. One member of the winning team will be flown to Canberra to meet the Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Social Inclusion, Senator Ursula Stephens, to discuss the club's idea.

Congratulations to the winners for a fantastic idea!

To view the winning video on Youtube, follow this link: www.youtube.com/user/RotaryRW

Mission Australia Centre hosts community and government leaders to launch new report

noreply@blogger.com (Mission Australia) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:21:00 +0000

Mission Australia's latest report An icon for exit: The Mission Australia Centre 2005-2008 was launched yesterday by the Hon. Tanya Plibersek, Federal Minister for Housing , at the Mission Australia Centre (MAC) in Sydney's inner-city suburb of Surry Hills.

A s the name suggests, An icon for exit: The Mission Australia Centre 2005-2008 provides a detailed review of the 'all-round' programs run through MAC from 2005-2008.

The event featured a key speech from a MAC client, who provided insight into the practical needs of those trying to overcome crisis. He noted that it was MAC's ability to provide a range of diverse services "under the same roof" that enabled him to transform his life.

The event's speakers reinforced the need for modern service providers to facilitate 'all-round' services - a wide array of services is required by those seeking a sustainable solution to their crisis, such as employment services, medical and dental support, legal support, educational services, financial literacy training and conflict resolution.

Senator Mark Arbib, Federal Minister for Employment Participation , also attended to officially launch Mission Australia Employment Solutions , which facilitates the Federal Government's Job Services Australia program.

Download a free copy of
An icon for exit: The Mission Australia Centre 2005-2008
from our website at this link.

Further reading
Sydney Morning Herald ran a story today about two MAC clients, read on at the Fairfax website: http://www.smh.com.au/national/designer-decor-inspires-homeless-to-get-back-on-their-feet-20091101-hrl9.html

Key facts from the report:

Clients achieved 80% of their goals compared to 42% at the crisis shelter the MAC replaced (an important part of working with homeless clients is to set a goal, eg: to find independent accommodation, to beat drug addiction, etc, and work towards achieving it).
Of clients leaving the MAC there was a 10% decline in people returning to the streets and a 6% increase in those living in a house or flat. Studies show that of men leaving traditional crisis accommodation, around 18% simply move to another short-term shelter while almost 45% return to living on the streets or squat.
Following their time at MAC, there was a significant decline in the proportion of clients reliant on the Newstart Allowance - 58% down to 48% - and an increase in the proportion whose income came from wages/salary - from 7% to 14%.
48% of MAC clients weren't in the labour force before coming to the service, after leaving the centre this dropped to 36%.
Clients stay at the MAC for an average 68 days compared to the 1-3 days at the previous service. Longer stays mean better results.
MAC provides its full range of supports for only $154 a day per person. This is a significantly lower cost per day than providing a bed in another institutional setting (eg: hospital $600/pd or jail $200/pd).

New report shows groundbreaking homeless service is a success

noreply@blogger.com (Mission Australia) — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 23:01:00 +0000

A report into a groundbreaking Sydney homeless service shows it has delivered improved accommodation, employment and goal-achievement outcomes, a reduction in the need for income support and all at a significantly lower cost per day than providing a bed in another institutional setting (eg: hospital or jail).

The Icon for Exit report - an analysis of the outcomes of the Mission Australia Centre (MAC) in Sydney's Surry Hills since it first opened in July 2005 - will be launched by Tanya Plibersek, Federal Minister for Housing, and Senator Mark Arbib, Federal Minister for Employment Participation at the centre (cnr Campbell and Denham Sts, Surry Hills) at 11.30am, Monday 2 November.

The first service of its kind built in Australia, the MAC moves beyond traditional crisis accommodation to meet the needs of a new generation of homeless people.

Rather than the short-term and 'one-size fits all' approach often associated with crisis shelters, the MAC specialises its care, encourages independent living, allows clients stays of up to three months and offers a range of services (eg: dental, GP, education, computer skills, counselling, employment) to help people back on their feet long-term.

According to the report - which covers the period 2005-08 - the MAC's results include:

Clients achieved 80% of their goals compared to 42% at the crisis shelter the MAC replaced (an important part of working with homeless clients is to set a goal, eg: to find independent accommodation, to beat drug addiction, etc, and work towards achieving it).
Of clients leaving the MAC there was a 10% decline in people returning to the streets and a 6% increase in those living in a house or flat. Studies show that of men leaving traditional crisis accommodation, around 18% simply move to another short-term shelter while almost 45% return to living on the streets or squat.
Following their time at MAC, there was a significant decline in the proportion of clients reliant on the Newstart Allowance - 58% down to 48% - and an increase in the proportion whose income came from wages/salary - from 7% to 14%.
48% of MAC clients weren't in the labour force before coming to the service, after leaving the centre this dropped to 36%.
Clients stay at the MAC for an average 68 days compared to the 1-3 days at the previous service. Longer stays mean better results.
MAC provides its full range of supports for only $154 a day per person. This is a significantly lower cost per day than providing a bed in another institutional setting (eg: hospital $600/pd or jail $200/pd).

Mission Australia's CEO, Toby Hall, said the MAC's results provided governments and other agencies with a successful model for developing future homeless services.

"When we built the MAC in 2005 we based our plans on our own experiences, research among other agencies and what we saw working overseas - this service really was a first for this country," said Mr Hall.

"Now we have the results that show the MAC approach works. Yes, we still have much to do and there are challenges ahead, but the move towards more tailored and long-term support that encourages independent living is the way to get homeless people back on their feet.

"Importantly the MAC has developed into a community hub providing a large range of services - not only to its residents, but the entire inner city community.

"The MAC's success has only been possible through collaboration - between us, the three levels of government, our peer organisations, and the generous support of individual and corporate partners.

"The most exciting thing about these results is that they come at a time when both the Federal and NSW State Governments are considering their respective plans for tackling homelessness.

"We hope they both examine these findings and use the MAC's experiences to plan the next generation of homeless services," said Mr Hall.

The Federal Minister for Housing, Tanya Plibersek, said the MAC - which she has visited several times as it is located in her electorate of Sydney - was setting a high standard for future service delivery.

"The Rudd Government's White Paper on Homelessness identifies the need for early intervention, targeted support and wrap-around services to help break the cycle of homelessness," Ms Plibersek said.

"These types of services are exactly what we need if we are going to meet our ambitious goal to halve homelessness by 2020."

Wollongong benefits from passionate financial counselling volunteer

noreply@blogger.com (Mission Australia) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 01:21:00 +0000

Following in the footsteps of recent Order of Australia Medal recipient, Don Ward, Sharad Kotwal has been providing financial counselling services to families in need through Mission Australia's Triple R services in Wollongong.

"Over the past seven years Sharad has proved himself to be an outstanding financial counselling volunteer," said John Brett, manager Triple R Centre. "At the end of each financial year he also provides assistance for families completing their tax returns.

"Sharad is always glad to hear his clients report a favourable tax return or financial decision - it proves that when professional skills are shared they can build a stronger community, while contributing to each individual's process of transformation," said John.

As part of Mission Australia's Triple R services, Sharad works with a team of professionals who provide counselling and community education services. Triple R relies on volunteers like Sharad to enable the service to diversify into four key areas: financial counselling, gambling counselling, youth financial literacy, and youth gambling counselling.

Triple R operates in NSW metro, regional and rural communities. For more information please see our website, click here for details.

Channel Nine's Today show visits Triple Care Farm

noreply@blogger.com (Mission Australia) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 23:24:00 +0000

This week Channel Nine's Today show featured Triple Care Farm - Mission Australia’s residential program for young people experiencing homelessness, substance abuse, mental illness or acute behavioural problems.

Established in 1989, the farm provides young people with one-on-one support, personal counselling, drug and alcohol counselling and group counselling sessions - more information can be found on the Triple Care Farm fact sheet (download here).

Aired on Tuesday, this is the second installment of a two-part series which will help us raise public support of
Triple Care Farm and overcome the critical shortage in funding.

As reporter Sarah Harris noted "...the critical lack of funding means that the farm can only offer 80 places a year. Last year two and a half thousand young people in crisis had to be turned away..."

To view the story, see the video at our YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/missionaust

Triple Care Farm covers 45 hectares of farmland and offers young people the chance to develop emotionally, socially and vocationally in a safe and secure environment. Read more...

Mission Australia launches Christmas Lunch in the Park 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Mission Australia) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 02:32:00 +0000

Mission Australia will host the 34th Annual Christmas Lunch in the Park in Perth again this year. While for many Australians Christmas is a time of festivity, many less fortunate families and individuals with fewer resources may find the season isolating and lonely.

Mission Australia - with over 400 generous volunteers - are hosting Christmas Lunch in the Park again in 2009 to provide these families and individuals a place to enjoy a Christmas Lunch and celebrate the occasion with the wider community.

In previous years we have had up to 2,000 guests and expect to attract similar numbers this year.

The new Christmas Lunch in the Park 2009 website has been launched, where you can find more information on the event or if you wish to contribute to its success.

Our generous contributors in the past have been able to help by donating presents or by making a direct donation to the event.

For more information visit www.missionpromotion.com/clip/

Due to an overwhelming response from the public we no longer require volunteers for Christmas Lunch in the Park 2009.

Mission Australia thanks all enquirers for their generosity.

Teddy Bear mission to celebrate milestone

noreply@blogger.com (Mission Australia) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 22:37:00 +0000

Mission Australia’s Reconnect Gold Coast will celebrate the organisation’s 150th birthday year with a Teddy Bear Challenge starting today.

The challenge, the creative brainchild of a group of committed staff, will see 150 teddy bears made, decorated and delivered to children in need throughout Queensland.

Mission Australia spokesperson, Mary Pennell, said the challenge was a fun way for staff to celebrate the milestone.

“With Mission Australia celebrating 150 years of helping Australians in need, we thought we should do something out of the box to commemorate the milestone,” said Mary.

“The Teddy Bear Challenge will bring local services, our corporate partners and Mission Australia clients together for a fun–filled afternoon of making teddy bears.”

Mission Australia will deliver all teddy bears created to the Queensland Department of Child Safety and Family Services, where they will then be distributed to children in need throughout the state.

Mary said her staff and Mission Australia’s corporate partners are committed to ensuring the success of the Teddy Bear Challenge.

“We're looking forward to celebrating 150 years of Mission Australia by putting smiles on 150 children’s faces.”

Good news story - connecting a young homeless man with accommodation

noreply@blogger.com (Mission Australia) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:27:00 +0000

Mission Australia's Missionbeat service recently received a call from a concerned inner-west resident reporting a “young guy” sleeping in the garage area of her unit block.

Missionbeat driver Kane Lunn attended to the call. "I attended the location and on-arrival spoke to the caller and another neighbour who both expressed concern about the client’s presence and welfare.

"The police had attended several times. They had moved the client on but on each occasion he had returned to the same location. The neighbour was going to call the police again if Missionbeat were unable to assist," said Kane.

When Kane first approached the client, he was sleeping on an old, dirty mattress and only had a thin blanket to keep warm. As the police continually 'moved him on' he had been braving the rain for some time and was suffering from a bad bout of the 'flu.

After a little conversation Kane found he was twenty-one years old and had been on the streets since he was fourteen. He had recently served a prison term and was only released three weeks before.

Upon his release he was unaware of the support services he could go to for help, and was hesitant of homeless accommodation services after a previous bad experience with fellow residents.

"He was very reluctant to speak to me at first and was quite firm in not wanting to go anywhere. Fortunately, I was able to spend some time chatting with him (and offer him an orange juice). Slowly he opened up and became more trusting. Eventually, he agreed for us to provide transport to a drop-in centre in inner Sydney"

Kane escorted the young man to the drop-in centre (temporary crisis accommodation), briefing the staff on his situation and imploring them to do their best to find him a long-term placement. Kane was thrilled when Missionbeat received the call a few hours later from the centre that the young man would require transport to longer-term accommodation.

Even though only a few hours had passed, Kane noticed a marked difference in the young man when he arrived at the drop-in centre to pick him up.

"I met a happier young man, who had been fed and was looking forward to a warm night's sleep."

For more information on Missionbeat and the recent 30-year Anniversary, visit the Missionbeat fundraising page (click here).

"It's a brand new world" - new campaign provides budget friendly promotions

noreply@blogger.com (Mission Australia) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 02:44:00 +0000

Mission Australia has recently launched the new "butterfly transform" campaign - six beautiful images that portray people actively transforming their lives using the butterfly wing theme.

The GoodWeekend Magazine (Sydney Morning Herald and Melbourne's The Age) will carry a full-page Mission Australia advertisement for our Family pathway using the new Family image (see above).

Following hot-on-the-heels of the GoodWeekend is Woman's Day (two October editions) Gourmet Traveller, Women's Weekly and Qantas Magazines.

Mission Australia's marketing team continue to stretch every dollar and have secured these top-quality advertising positions due to cancelled advertising space.

"We've been lucky enough to get some 'distress space' bookings from widely read and targeted magazines at greatly reduced prices," says Oliver Halley, Mission Australia's head of Brand and Communications.

"Our new imagery is high quality and offers an image of hope and transformation, which really resonates with the readership of these publications."

The new themes will run across other Mission Australia channels including the website and Christmas appeal.

These each represent one of Mission Australia's 'pathways to a better life' - for more information visit our Purpose, Vision and Values page (click here).

Competition for 'distress space' with top publishers is tough, with successful campaigns most often chosen for the quality of the artwork and message conveyed.

Mission Australia thanks their marketing team for securing another successful opportunity - promotions like this allow us to operate without having to divert resources into expensive television / media campaigns, and ensures investment is always prioritised for services.

SBS's Living Black program covers our social enterprise cafe - Charcoal Lane

noreply@blogger.com (Mission Australia) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 22:53:00 +0000

Last night SBS's Living Black program ran a story on Mission Australia's social enterprise cafe, Charcoal Lane.

Through the concept of social enterprise, Charcoal Lane aims to transform the lives of Aboriginal and disadvantaged young people who enrol in our program and see them achieve their life goals through the power of education, training and working together as a team.

Every year, the Charcoal Lane program will give Aboriginal and disadvantaged young people the opportunity to develop their professional and life skills to transition into a career in hospitality and other mainstream employment.

Click here to view SBS's Living Black story on Charcoal Lane at the SBS website
Click here for previous media coverage on Charcoal Lane
Location: 136 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy, Victoria. For opening hours or bookings call (03) 9418 3400 or visit www.charcoallane.com.au

Missionbeat celebrates 30 years of service today - image gallery

noreply@blogger.com (Mission Australia) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 02:30:00 +0000

Mission Australia's Missionbeat has been serving Sydney's homeless since 1979, responding to public calls for help as well as calls from police, ambulance, community services and government departments.

To commemorate the occasion Missionbeat hosted a ceremony at Belmore Park this morning, in Sydney's CBD - please see below for photos from the event.

Missionbeat have launched a small appeal this week to help continue the service into the future. You can help us raise $30,000 for our 30th anniversary simply by visiting missionbeat.com.au - click here.

The congregation at Belmore Park

Speech by Karen Twitchett - Mission Australia

Speech by Daniel Petsalis - Missionbeat manager

From left to right: Daniel Petsalis - Missionbeat manager, Merle Hurcombe - Missionbeat founder, and Karen Twitchett - Mission Australia

Mission Australia Ambassador Lorrae Desmond with guest

Media Release: Mission Australia's Missionbeat: a Sydney Icon turns 30

noreply@blogger.com (Mission Australia) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 06:17:00 +0000

One of Sydney’s most iconic sights – Mission Australia’s famous Missionbeat homeless vans – celebrates its 30th anniversary today.

Missionbeat’s manager, Daniel Petsalis, said while he was proud of his team’s work and past achievements, he celebrated the event with mixed feelings knowing Sydney still wrestled with a significant homeless problem.

“For many Sydney residents, Mission Australia’s famous Missionbeat vans are a familiar and comforting sight – patrolling the inner city to help homeless people and those most in need, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Sydney wouldn’t be Sydney without Missionbeat,” said Daniel.

“Missionbeat is a vital part of Sydney’s homeless community. Every day, our vans – and bikes – respond to calls from the public, emergency services and other homeless organisations, to provide assistance to people in crisis.

“For 30 years we’ve been on the frontline providing an essential link between the city’s most vulnerable and the support they desperately need.

“Each of our three vans covers around 30,000 kilometres every 12 months and helps 30-40 people daily. It costs close to $75,000 to keep a Missionbeat van on the road per year.

“We’ve seen a lot of change. Sydney’s rough sleepers are younger than 30 years ago. In the late ‘70s, most homeless people struggled with alcoholism. It’s still a factor but they also face a complex range of other issues including mental illness and substance abuse.

“Missionbeat has changed as well. We do a lot more than simply offer transportation. Because we’re the first point of contact we play an important role in making sure people receive the best and most appropriate care for their situation.

“We’ve also recently started a bike service. People sleeping rough are often tucked away out of site, not only for privacy but also to avoid getting drenched or sunburnt.

“By putting our workers on bikes, we ensure people living around Sydney’s stairwells, alcoves and doorways have access to basic medical care and accommodation.

“Missionbeat is sometimes the only friendly face rough sleepers people see. You cannot put a value on the joy and friendship our drivers share with the people they help.

“Having said that, I wouldn’t mind us missing out on our 60th anniversary. We’d love to see government targets met to find accommodation for all roughsleepers by the end of the next decade – and that we’re out of a job – but it’s a big ask.

“The number of homeless people sleeping rough in Sydney is actually on the rise. The City of Sydney’s most recent count found numbers had increased almost 13 per cent between August 2008 and 2009 – from 354 to 399.

“We’re grateful for all the support we receive from the different levels of government, from businesses and the public. As long as we continue receiving that support and there are homeless people sleeping rough on Sydney’s inner city streets there’ll be Missionbeat.

“And you can help guarantee Missionbeat’s presence for many years to come.

“...we’re launching a small appeal in aid of Missionbeat. You can help us raise $30,000 for our 30th anniversary simply by visiting missionbeat.com.au,” said Mr Petsalis.

Celebrity chef cooks up a storm today for a good cause

noreply@blogger.com (Mission Australia) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 23:53:00 +0000

Ben O’Donoghue, one of Australia’s most talented and well-loved celebrity chefs, TV presenters and cook book authors, will be cooking up a storm this Thursday, 15 October 2009, at Mission Australia’s Cafe One on Wickham to mark Anti-Poverty Week and the launch of his Australia Day Barbeque competition to help raise funds for Mission Australia.

Clients and friends of Cafe One on Wickham will enjoy a sample from Ben’s new cook book – Ben's Barbeque - from 11.30am.

Cafe One on Wickham provides low cost meals and coffee – as well as a range of individual support services – to homeless and seriously disadvantaged people. The cafe provides a sense of belonging to the lives of these people and is a place for them to reconnect with society.

Ben said he is thrilled to be launching the competition, a partnership with Mission Australia and Clayton Utz to help Australia’s vulnerable.

“I love cooking for people, and I can’t think of a better way to mark the launch of the competition and Anti-Poverty Week 2009 than by serving up a barbeque for some worthy Australians,” Ben said.

“I’m looking forward to sitting down over a steak sandwich, and listening to some of the stories of Cafe One’s customers and sharing a few of my own cooking secrets.”

Ben is offering Mission Australia supporters, the chance to snap up his cook book – BEN’S BARBEQUE - at the low price of $25, with all proceeds going to support Mission Australia’s Cafe One on Wickham.

This offer is only available through our mini-site: missionpromotion.com/communityfundraising/cookbook

Mission Australia and Ben are offering one lucky person, who purchases the book through the Mission Australia website, the chance to win an Australia Day barbeque in their own backyard for 10 people – cooked and catered for by Ben himself – along with two cases of wine from Penfolds and their very own Barbeques Galore barbeque.

Ben hopes the competition will encourage people to support Mission Australia.

“I admire the work Mission Australia does, and the commitment with which they support our country’s most disadvantaged – so I feel privileged to be helping raise some well-deserved funds for the organisation.”

Ben O’Donoghue cook book launch at Cafe One

Date: Thursday, 15 October 2009
Time: 11.30am
Where: Cafe One - 56/256 Wickham St, Fortitude Valley

To purchase Ben’s latest cook book – Ben's Barbeque – and for competition details, please visit missionpromotion.com/communityfundraising/cookbook

Vision and interview opportunities with Ben O’Donoghue available for further information contact:
Melissa Tucker, Rowland – (07) 3229 4499, 0413 980 229 or Melissa.Tucker@rowland.com.au

Café One on Wickham is a space for the entire community to interact. The Cafe not only provides approximately 20,000 meals each year, it also offers homeless and disengaged people with the assistance and support they need to make sustainable changes in their lives.

Café One on Wickham offers:
•    Direct support to around 5,000 people through counselling, advocacy and connection to other specialised services
•    Free legal and health advice to more than 650 people each year from visiting services
•    Information about housing options
•    A micro credit system
•    A space to connect with others and avoid social isolation
•    A meeting point for community groups
•    Access to the Catalyst Program (a program conducted in partnership with Australian Catholic University to provide university education to disadvantaged Australians).

The café costs approximately $430,000 a year to run and relies entirely on the support of the community and local businesses.

Opinion: Charities capitalise on business to fight poverty

noreply@blogger.com (Mission Australia) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 02:36:00 +0000

With over 20,000 homeless people in Victoria, we need to rethink our strategies to combat the rise of poverty in our society.

Whether we like it or not, the gap between those who have and those who have not is growing.

Enter social enterprise – a proven method in the fight against injustice, inequity and disadvantage in communities around the world.

Many charities are using the power of social enterprise to harness commercial businesses as their modus operandi. These businesses are driven not by profit, but by opportunity – giving those without power and voice a chance to participate in on equal terms.

Last week, 600 devoted social innovators from across the globe came to Melbourne to discuss emerging trends, successful models and cutting edge techniques to decrease the rise of poverty throughout the world. These international experts were seeking an innovative marriage of business and charity – the merging of market with social purpose.

Social enterprises unite communities to get a fairer deal. When exploitative factory owners and shopkeepers charged exorbitant prices in England in the industrial revolution 150 years ago, a group of workers established their own shop to provide quality and affordable food to their community and the first social enterprise was born.

Through the support of governments, the last fifteen years has seen a resurgence in social enterprise. The value of social enterprise has been recognised as the combination of local agencies and passionate people understanding local needs. Coupled with an entrepreneurial and creative approach, bit-by-bit these businesses are effectively responding to the needs of disadvantaged communities.

By providing services where little or none existed, social enterprises can give communities the public services it needs. By creating jobs for unemployed people excluded from the labour market due to their low level of educational attainment and life skills, such as early school leavers, social enterprises provide real work experience, training and allow a sustainable pathway to employment.

The most successful economies from around the world have adopted the social enterprise ethos. From coffee to construction, from landscaping to logistics, from packaging to painting, from markets to manufacturing, from recycling to repairs, from nurseries to newspapers, from hotels to health, from gyms to geraniums, from insurance to funeral homes, there are over 55,000 social enterprises in the United Kingdom alone.

The largest credit union in Canada, Vancity Credit Union has 310,000 members and provides financial support to people who have been ignored or forgotten by the larger commercial banks as well as helping charities to build their own asset base.

The world’s largest social enterprise, the Mondragón Corporacion Cooperativa in Spain, comprises 120 companies, employs 42,000 worker-owners, runs 43 schools and one college, generates more than $4.8 billion annually in manufacturing, services, retail and wholesale distribution, and administers more than $5 billion in financial assets.

Over the last ten years in Australia, the South Australian and Victorian Governments have led the recognition and revival of social enterprises, ably assisted by groups that target and sponsor unique and viable social enterprise ideas, like Social Traders.

Initially through training programs, not-for-profit groups such as Mission Australia have set up social enterprises that provide opportunities for disadvantaged and jobless Australians to get a job.

Trainees are offered integrated personal skills development and accredited training that aims to enable the transition to sustainable mainstream employment.

Social enterprises such as the Urban Renewal, a landscaping and construction business, provides an entry to the job market for young people that have limited employment prospects due to poor life and relationship skills, low educational attainment, mental health, drug and alcohol issues.

The life and job skills developed in social enterprises enable the job-seeker to find rewarding and sustainable employment in the long term.

Thanks to dedicated and skilled managers and team leaders, in running businesses such as Urban Renewal and the Charcoal Lane Aboriginal restaurant in Fitzroy, Mission Australia offers quality and value for money services to government and the public. We do not want pity. We want the opportunity to showcase the skills of people who don’t get that opportunity to demonstrate what they’re capable of.

As we reflect on the ways we can seek to draw members of our society out of poverty, Australia must share the faith of this unique marriage of business and charity. But even with the welcome support of the Commonwealth Government through the Jobs Fund initiative, the number of social enterprises in Australia remains relatively small.

In order for Australia to harness the power of social enterprise to provide jobs in our high unemployment and disadvantaged communities and get people off the streets of our cities, regional and rural areas, we need the investment and recurrent assistance from Australian governments and social investors.

Social Enterprise can help create a fairer Australia.

Paul Bird is the Victorian State Director of Mission Australia

Keeping families together: A community service manager's story

noreply@blogger.com (Mission Australia) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 23:55:00 +0000

Mission Australia’s Project Circuit Breaker (PCB) is a mobile crisis service that supports parents with children aged 9 to 17 on Brisbane’s north-side.

The program uses a range of techniques to help achieve positive outcomes for families such as mediation to help reduce conflict and parenting skills to enable parents to communicate with their children more effectively.

We interviewed Service Manager, Kym Dwyer, who describes what it is like to work at the front line of this unique service.

Describe a recent client success story..

"I really enjoyed witnessing the changes to many families lives when PCB was offered the opportunity by (corporate partner) Vodafone to take 20 families to Sydney for a ‘Star Tour’.

"Twenty families were treated to an overnight stay in a hotel, a boat cruise on Sydney Harbour and a tour of Fox Studios where they wrote and recorded a song together and made a film clip. Some of our families had never been on a plane before or spent quality time together.

"The positive impacts the trip had on the families were numerous including improvement in relationships and increased confidence of the parents to adequately care for and provide safe environments for their children. It was an awesome experience for them and for us!"

What is the most challenging aspect of your role?

"It can be emotionally challenging sometimes hearing some of the personal hardships and struggles that a family has gone through."

What are the best aspects of your job?

"I enjoy working with families who want to make positive changes in their lives. I appreciate every moment a family opens up and shares their story with me. To be part of each family’s transformation process is a rewarding experience."

Celebrating an exceptional Volunteer - from the COMPASS Relapse Prevention Program

noreply@blogger.com (Mission Australia) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:06:00 +0000

Mandy Smith is a volunteer and co-facilitator of our COMPASS (Relapse Prevention Program) at the Mission Australia Centre in Surry Hills.

Mandy graduated with a Diploma of Counselling and Psychotherapy, and now utilises her skills to share her expertise and experience to help improve the lives of our clients. She helps clients stay off drugs by providing strategies to steer away from triggers and old habits, while building greater self awareness and self-confidence.

Mandy finds inspiration in her COMPASS program clients - and sees their honesty, determination, strength and hope as "an inspiring gift".

Mandy commends the staff at the Mission Australia Centre for the proactive, professional and friendly environment they provide for her and her clients.

While Mandy values the contributions of her clients as a "gift", Mandy herself is a truly dedicated and inspiring volunteer for the COMPASS program and Mission Australia.

Thank you Mandy!

Mission Australia celebrates 150th birthday in Newcastle today

noreply@blogger.com (Mission Australia) — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 22:41:00 +0000

Mission Australia will celebrate its 150th birthday with a morning tea in Newcastle today to thank loyal donors, volunteers and staff in the Hunter for their tireless support over the years.

Special guest at the event is the Lord Mayor of Newcastle, Cr John Tate. He’ll be joined by around 100 other guests representing government departments, funding bodies, corporate partners, individual donors, volunteers and Mission Australia staff.

Lisa O’Brien, Mission Australia’s Operations Manager for Northern NSW, said the organisation had a long history in the region, originally providing support to families and children via the Mayfield Baptist Church before evolving into the Hunter Mission in 1991 and then joining the Mission Australia family in 2000.

“We run a range of crucial services for individuals and families in need in Newcastle and throughout the Hunter,” said Ms O’Brien.

“Our homeless services – such as Mission Australia’s Newcastle Adult Accommodation Support Service (NAASS) and The Signpost – focus on helping people at risk of homelessness maintain their housing or provide a first point of contact for homeless people to access assistance, including low cost accommodation.

“Our services for young people detect signs of problem behaviour and help divert them from the juvenile justice system. For those leaving detention we provide the support they need to get their lives back on track so they can avoid re-offending.

“We work with people with mental illness and help them overcome social isolation and participate in their community through education and employment.

“Our financial services help a diverse range of clients – from people in a bad position because they’ve lost their job and are unable to manage their debts through to those battling addiction.

“Our employment programs have been helping long-term jobseekers in the Hunter for more than a decade.

“And we have five new early childhood services in the area – which we recently took over from ABC Learning – and which emphasise supporting children to make a successful transition to school.

“These are examples of just some of the services we run in Newcastle and the Hunter – programs that make a real difference in people’s lives – but which we couldn’t run without the support of our loyal local donors, volunteers and business partners.

“We really look forward to celebrating our 150th with all our friends,” said Ms O’Brien.

To read more about Mission Australia's 150th Anniversary, please visit the 150th website (click here).

Olympic great shows support for Inala's children

noreply@blogger.com (Mission Australia) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 23:13:00 +0000

Sally McLellan, Australia’s 2008 100m Olympic silver medallist, attended the Browns Plains Little Athletics meet in Brisbane on Saturday 3 October to support children living in and around Inala.

It’s part of an initiative between Mission Australia and AXA to sponsor 10 children from the Inala area to participate in the 2009/2010 Little Athletics season.

Sally, who won her first major title at age 14 years, has thrown her full support behind the initiative.

“It’s important for all children, from all walks of life, to have the opportunity to be involved in fun activities that can develop and promote positive attitudes, social interaction and healthy lifestyles,” Sally said.

“It was heart-warming to see these kids – who normally wouldn’t have the opportunity to participate in Little Athletics – being given this chance. Mission Australia and AXA are doing a wonderful thing for these kids.”

The initiative will enable the provision of sporting uniforms, transport to and from events, and a dedicated resource from Mission Australia to support the participants and their families during the 2009/2010 Little Athletics season.

Mission Australia spokesperson, Mayleen Etakai, said one of the aims of the initiative with AXA is to break down the social barriers the children face on a day-to-day basis.

“With one in every 10 families living in poverty in the Inala area – some of the children in this community don’t have the same opportunities as other kids their age,” Mayleen said.

“We’re hoping, with the support of Sally and AXA, our program starts changing the lives of these 10 kids and helps them have some fun and make new friends in the process.”

AXA General Manager Sales and Marketing Adrian Emery said they are proud to be involved in such an initiative.

“AXA has a long standing commitment to supporting the local communities in which we conduct business. Our AXA Charitable Trust donates over one million dollars each year to supporting charities assisting sick or disadvantaged children,” Mr Emery said.

“We feel our partnership with Mission Australia will give these kids an opportunity they otherwise would never have received and, through Little Athletics, give them the confidence to reach their full potential.”

Sally said she spoke to the children about her experiences at the Olympics and Berlin World Championships.

“I couldn’t wait to get out there and see the talent at Browns Plains Little Athletics. Hopefully my story can inspire them and who knows, we may even find our next Olympic medallist right here!”

To view Brown Plains Little Athletics' website photo gallery, with images from the day please visit: www.brownsplainslittleathletics.org.au/gallery.php

Opinion: Welfare reform 10 years on - from our CEO, Toby Hall

noreply@blogger.com (Mission Australia) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 00:22:00 +0000

A significant milestone in our recent political history passed without fanfare this week.

It’s been 10 years since the Howard Government launched Australia on the path of welfare reform.

A decade down the track we might consider whether it’s an anniversary worth celebrating.

The independent committee charged by the government to make recommendations for change – a series of proposals known as the McClure Report – came back with three objectives for welfare reform: significant reductions in the number of jobless families and households; significant reductions in the proportion of the working age population on income support; and stronger communities with improved social and economic participation.

Perhaps uniquely for a major report on such a contentious issue it was greeted positively, not only by both sides of politics, but also by the business and community sectors.

It offered government a comprehensive road map for reform – a systematic approach to what is a highly complex problem. At the time there was real optimism for change.

But the Howard Government’s failure to embrace the McClure Report as a whole – including some of its toughest reforms – has left many of its targets either unmet or compromised.

In terms of jobless families, there’s no doubt the number has fallen since the late 90s. Increasing employment and welfare to work measures have had an impact but numbers are still too high.

Australia has the second-highest percentage of children living in jobless families in the developed world.

There are an estimated 543,000 Australian children currently in this position.

Around one in seven Australian children lives in a jobless family – one in two for single parent households – with all the associated implications that carries for future social and economic development.

These are hardly significant reductions.

And remember these numbers have remained stubbornly high through some of the best economic times Australia has experienced.

It’s further evidence that the problems of jobless families and job poor communities won’t be overcome by economic growth alone.
In terms of working age people heavily reliant on income support – again, while numbers have declined overall – there remain major challenges in supporting key groups into work.

Between 1996 and 2007 the number of people receiving the Disability Support Pension actually increased from 500,000 to more than 700,000 – greater growth than in any other pension category.

It’s estimated that 20 per cent of this total – 140,000 people – are thought to be capable of work, but we’ve failed to reach them.

And as for those vulnerable communities that stood to benefit most from the roll-out of the McClure Report’s recommendations, it’s Mission Australia’s experience that we’re a still a long way off from achieving its lofty goals of social and economic transformation.

Despite a strong start, the previous government’s approach to welfare reform was unbalanced and lacked coordination and integration. Ten years on we’ve failed to reap its full benefits and in some cases have gone backwards.

The current administration has the opportunity – particularly through its social inclusion agenda and the Henry Tax Review – to finish the job.

Among other things, that means simplifying the overly complex benefits system and introducing a single income support payment with a needs-based ‘add on’ bonus according to individual or family circumstances.

It also means removing remaining barriers to participation – such as the disincentives that exist in the current tax system for welfare recipients seeking to return to work.

We must tackle effective marginal tax rates so when an individual moves from welfare to employment they don’t suffer the double hit of income tax and a dramatic reduction in benefits.

As the majority of disadvantaged Australians are moving from income support to low paying jobs, the combination of income tax and a reduction in benefits is crippling.

And we need the Rudd Government to deliver its disability employment strategy.

While completing these reforms will be challenging and costly they will ultimately benefit us all via greater economic and social participation.

But if we don’t find the political will to see them through the gap between the job rich and job poor will become ever wider, condemning our most vulnerable communities to sclerotic levels of disadvantage.

Toby Hall, CEO, Mission Australia

Media Release: PM for a day? What would you do to tackle poverty?

noreply@blogger.com (Mission Australia) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 02:07:00 +0000

Mission Australia is encouraging Australians of all ages to say what they would do to alleviate poverty if they were Prime Minister for a day to help mark Anti-Poverty Week (11-17 October).

The best response – delivered in the form of a short video no longer than 60 seconds – will be judged by Mission Australia’s CEO, Toby Hall, with the winner being flown to Canberra to meet the Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Social Inclusion, Senator Ursula Stephens, to discuss their idea.

According to Toby Hall, the idea behind the competition was to organise a fun activity that also raised awareness around the issue of poverty and engaged people in what they could do to help.

“Most Australians are pretty lucky but there is a significant minority who are stuck in poverty, cut off from life’s essentials, and who need our help,” said Mr Hall.

“From our own research we know that around one in seven people who turn to welfare organisations lack a substantial meal at least once a day – that’s a shocking situation in modern Australia.

“As well as the most basic need for food, 30 per cent of our clients lack a decent and secure home; 25 per cent are unable to buy prescribed medicines; 46 per cent don't have access to dental services; and 11 per cent don't have a separate bed for each of their kids.

“People living in poverty are unable to participate in the activities that most of us take for granted. They are often faced with difficult choices – such as skipping a meal to pay for a child’s text book.

“Getting involved in the ‘PM for a day’ competition is easy. All participants need to do is make a short video of themselves – no longer than 60 seconds – and tell us what they would do to address poverty if they were Prime Minister for 24 hours.

“It doesn’t have to filmed on a video camera – you can use your mobile phone – just as long as it’s less than 60 seconds and sticks to the subject.

“Simply visit www.missionaustralia.com.au/apw for entry details. To post your video participants will need to register with youtube.com.

“There's still two weeks left to get your entry in. We have to receive videos by midnight on Friday, 16 October with the winner being announced online on Friday, 30 October.

“We’ll fly the winner to Canberra to meet the Parliamentary Secretary for Social Inclusion, Senator Ursula Stephens, to discuss their ideas and the issues surrounding poverty,” said Toby.

Media contact: Paul Andrews (02) 9219 2080 or 0409 665 495

Mission Australia's Charcoal Lane restaurant now taking orders

noreply@blogger.com (Mission Australia) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 23:09:00 +0000

It’s not often that you associate an up-and-coming restaurant with a community service organisation, but that’s exactly what makes Mission Australia’s Charcoal Lane restaurant so distinctive.

You can sense that Charcoal Lane is special as soon as you walk through its door. Created within a beautiful heritage building in Melbourne’s up-and-coming Fitzroy district, the restaurant features delicately hand painted ceiling panels.

The menu is equally unique – a fusion of modern Australian food and native flavours.

Charcoal Lane was made possible through a partnership with the Victorian Aboriginal Health Service (VAHS). It provides the opportunity for Aboriginal and disadvantaged young people to transform their lives through traineeships and apprenticeships within the restaurant.

The heritage building in which Charcoal Lane is located originally housed VAHS from 1973 until 1992. VAHS is not just a health service. As well as offering access to a wide range of services and programs it has always been a place where people gather, share stories and pass on wisdom.

Many of the people who visited VAHS also frequently congregated at the back of a briquette factory in Fitzroy/Collingwood colloquially known as ‘Charcoal Lane’ – the inspiration for our restaurant’s name.

People came to Charcoal Lane to enjoy each other’s company, to share a drink and a story away from the public eye. One of those people, Archie Roach, recently released a song of the same name in remembrance of the people and times of the Lane.

The new Charcoal Lane has a wonderfully appetising menu, which showcases the restaurant’s native influences.

We hope that Charcoal Lane will continue to be a meeting place for the community in the future and encourage you to experience the food first-hand.

Charcoal Lane is located at 136 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy, Victoria.
For opening hours or bookings call (03) 9418 3400 or visit www.charcoallane.com.au
View previous Charcoal Lane media - click here.

Mission Australia Early Learning opens it's doors in Shell Cove

noreply@blogger.com (Mission Australia) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 02:03:00 +0000

Mission Australia threw open it doors to local families at its Shell Cove Early Learning Service on Sunday to celebrate the launch of the new centre.

Families enjoyed a BBQ and children’s entertainment including storytelling, face-painting and pony rides.

New enrolments taken on the day have gone into the draw for a free skydive by Sky Dive on the Beach (Wollongong) in October.

Mission Australia’s spokesperson, Ben Williams, said Mission Australia had a long and successful history caring for children and providing not-for-profit early learning.

“We plan on making a significant contribution to early learning in the Wollongong and Shellharbour areas having taken on the former ABC Learning centre in Shell Cove,” said Ben.

“Currently we assist hundreds of children and their families through early childhood support services. We’ll be drawing on all of that experience and knowledge at Shell Cove."

As a not-for-profit provider, Mission Australia's early learning services have a very different structure and approach to the previous owner, ABC Learning, noted Mr Williams.

“Because we’re a not-for-profit organisation, any surpluses generated from Mission Australia’s centres are returned straight back into the services to deliver better outcomes for children.

“The bottom line for us is we’re here to provide high quality early learning and care and to make a long-term difference. We run our services for the benefit of children, families and the community – not shareholders.

“The local Shell Cove community has really embraced the notion of a not-for-profit like Mission Australia taking over the management of this centre and we’re looking to repay their faith by providing a fantastic service to support children and families,” said Ben.

Tiger Putt Putt, Country Kitchen Café, Photo House Kiama, Play Days, Tangs Restaurant Shellharbour Village, Bakers Delight Wollongong, Play Maze and Donut King all made prize donations for the open day.

Advantage U Tennis Coaching also conducted tennis demonstrations for the children.

More information for parents:

Parents interested in enrolling their children in Mission Australia Early Learning at Shell Cove can contact the centre on 02 4297 6922, or visit the site webpage for more information - click here.
To download the Parent's Handbook, click here.
For more information please visit Mission Australia Early Learning Services online - click here.

Youth think outside of the box with Artstart 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Mission Australia) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 21:47:00 +0000

As part of the NSW Government's Artstart 2009 initiative, Mission Australia has provided school students across the Kiama region with the opportunity to provide Mission Australia's Donation Bins an artistic 'makeover'.

Artstart 2009 is managed through local councils and aims to encourage youth aged 12 to 24 to design and direct creative projects with the assistance of community service organisations like Mission Australia.

The students involved used Mission Australia's donation bins as the 'canvas' for their designs. Kiama Municipal Council's senior youth worker, Andrew Chatfield, said as part of the creative process, teachers at each school integrated the project into visual arts studies, enabling them to completely manage the project's design.

The students have redecorated the bins following the theme of Mission Australia's Big Heart Stores - Reduce, Reuse, Recycle - and have come up with some fantastic murals and designs to emphasise the theme.

"The project gave the young people taking part an opportunity to express their creativity, build self esteem, and develop leadership and teamwork skills, while being involved in a worthwhile cause to promote and educate people of all ages on the importance on recycling, reducing, reusing," Mr Chatfield said.

We hope that the Kiama community will support the project by helping us fill the six bins before they are collected by Mission Australia and distributed throughout the region.

The public can view the students' artworks while donating unwanted clothing, shoes and blankets to Mission Australia - for bin locations please visit www.missionaustralia.com.au/big-heart/donation-bin-locations

Mission Australia marks 150 years with a fundraising sleepout in Dubbo tonight

noreply@blogger.com (Mission Australia) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 01:10:00 +0000

Mission Australia is celebrating its 150th anniversary with a fundraising sleepout in Dubbo this evening.

Those sleeping out will seek sponsorship for their efforts with the person raising the most money receiving a prize.

Highlight of the event will be a ‘cardboard box house making competition’ where representatives from Mission Australia services and other community agencies in Dubbo will construct their own shelter for the evening.

A BBQ will be held on the night – and for breakfast the next morning – to help raise money from passers-by for Mission Australia’s local services.

Mission Australia provides a range of programs in and around Dubbo including:

Dubbo Leadership and Cultural Development Program – helps keep Aboriginal students aged between 9 (Year 5) and 17 (Year 11) years at school and increases their cultural awareness, identity and understanding.
Housing and Accommodation Support Initiative (HASI) – helps people with mental illness receive care at home and keeps them in touch with their community. It also reduces their length of time spent in hospital and helps them avoid homelessness.
Brighter Futures – provides support to vulnerable families and children as early as possible and builds their resilience to prevent problems developing in the future.
Young Offenders Post-Release Support – supports young people after their release from the juvenile justice system. Provides positive alternatives to offending and helps with practical things such as anger management and basic living skills.
Resource and Recovery – aimed at improving outcomes for people with mental illness by supporting them in developing personal goals with a focus on training and employment.

Want to raise money for Mission Australia?

Run your own fundraiser with Mission Australia's Community Fundraising.

Events can include trivia nights, auctions, theme days, guessing competitions, getting sponsored to run, walk or cycle, and many other activities.

Fundraising Toolkit and Registration Form - view and download from this link
To contact the Community Fundraising team, or learn more visit the Community Fundraising site from this link

Seven's Sunrise covers recent UTurn graduation

noreply@blogger.com (Mission Australia) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 22:07:00 +0000

In a recent post we reported on the latest graduation ceremony at the U-Turn service in Tasmania - a highly successful youth program.

U-Turn aims to break the cycle of motor vehicle theft by engaging participants in 'hands on' mechanical training while addressing life-skills and personal development issues. Please visit the U-Turn website for more information.

Seven's Sunrise program also provided coverage of the event - the clip can be viewed here: