“I was hungry and you fed me, I was thirsty and you gave me a drink, I was homeless and you gave me a room ... Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me –you did it to me.”
MATTHEW 25:35,40 (MSG)
Photo: LWF Burundi
Our Mandate
We love because God first loved us. Jesus said, “For I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited me in; naked, and you clothed me; I was sick, and you visited me; I was in prison, and you came to me… Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers or sisters of mine, even the least of them, you did it to me” (Matthew 25:35-36,40).
Our Vision
ALWS envisages a world where love comes to life (see 1 John 4:9-12); a world where all people live in just societies, where we are all empowered to achieve our full potential, uphold our rights and the rights of others for a life with peace and dignity; and where we are all inspired to remember, welcome and support those who suffer from poverty and injustice (see Galatians 2:10 and Leviticus 25:35).
Our Mission
ALWS reaches out in love, for justice. We bring together people willing to work in service to help end suffering. As partners, we work openly and accountably, supporting programs which welcome, respect and bring hope through care to those fleeing from, or hurt by, disaster, conflict, poverty or oppression. We add our voice to the voices of those unheard and excluded, together crying out for justice so that we can all live in just and sustainable communities.
Our Approach
We work in partnership with proven international aid agencies to maximise our impact for the most vulnerable. This approach enables us to deliver efficient and effective aid and development, with priority care for the most vulnerable in the community: children, women, the elderly, people with disabilities and socially marginalised groups. We invest in community education in Australia, to grow understanding of poverty and international justice, and to inspire Australians to respond with compassion for vulnerable people and communities around the world.
Photo:
Jeff, captain of the Kakuma United soccer team, Kakuma Refugee Camp, Kenya
The past 18 months have reminded us of both the brokenness of our world and the hope we share in Christ. Through ALWS, you have stood alongside communities facing crisis, bringing relief where suffering was greatest. You’ve also invested in long-term projects that nurture dignity and resilience: from life-giving irrigation canals in Ethiopia to education and inclusion programs in Nepal and Kenya. In 2025, our 75th anniversary invited us to look back with gratitude for God’s faithfulness, and forward with renewed vision as we worked together towards the bold, faith-led goal of supporting 75,000 children with school, food and safety. It was inspiring to witness the extraordinary generosity of supporters, with this year-long goal achieved by mid-June!
ALWS has strengthened its governance by incorporating as ALWS Ltd and implementing financial-year reporting, ensuring your trust is honoured with transparency and care. Accordingly, this report provides a comprehensive overview of ALWS’s impact during the 18-month period from January 2024 through June 2025.
On behalf of the Board, I thank our donors, schools, churches and partners. Your generosity, prayers and commitment are living testimonies to God’s love in action.
Jodie Hoff CHAIRPERSON
Through ALWS, you have stood alongside communities facing crisis
A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Last year, in the highlands of Papua New Guinea, I was honoured to be gifted a pig – “Blackie” – during a Lutheran church district women’s conference. I donated him back to the organisers, a small gesture of solidarity that captured what our work is all about: partnership, respect and community strength grounded in God’s love.
This annual report shares the way in which that same spirit is alive in every place ALWS serves, from emergency aid for flood victims in Nepal to restoring livelihoods in Ethiopia and providing education for children in refugee camps across Kenya. Each project reflects your generosity in action helping families – who often feel forgotten by the world – to move from crisis to opportunity.
Here in Australia, we partner with schools and churches who invite us into their classrooms and communities, to learn about global issues and how to respond with compassion and justice.
Thank you for being part of this mission, bringing love to life for those the world might otherwise forget.
Michael Stolz EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Photo: ALWS/Anthony Bothe
Photo: ALWS/ Anthony Bothe
Photo: ALWS
Michael and 'Blackie'
273,235* lives impacted
10,297 supporters $11,943,076 raised
Your action through ALWS is guided by compassion and commitment to dignity.
Working through trusted local and global partners, you help people to build sustainable livelihoods, ensure inclusion for the most vulnerable, provide essential services in times of need, respond swiftly to disasters and inspire Australians to walk in solidarity.
Livelihoods
Through ALWS, you help break the cycle of poverty by enabling individuals to earn a sustainable income, enhancing their self-worth and dignity, and giving them control over their future. Working through local partners, you support the creation of sustainable livelihoods, offering skills training, equipment and mentoring support tailored to each country’s opportunities.
Inclusion
Just as Jesus would, your development work through ALWS prioritises the rights of the most vulnerable in the community – children, women, the elderly, people living with disabilities and socially marginalised groups. Your support, delivered through local partners, improves human rights awareness, ensures equal education access, provides assistive devices and supports community leaders to create inclusive communities.
Essential Services
Your ALWS action provides essential services such as education, water, health care and shelter to marginalised and vulnerable communities when these services break down due to prolonged crisis. Serving through local partners, you support refugees to receive water, health care and shelter, and ensure that children can attend school so they reach their potential and stay safe from dangers such as abuse and exploitation.
Emergency
When conflict and disaster strike, you respond quickly through ALWS to provide practical support such as food, water, latrines, medical supplies and shelter. This rapid response, delivered through trusted partnerships with Lutheran World Federation, Act Alliance and local Lutheran churches, is vital to maximise survival and recovery.
Inspire
Through ALWS, you engage the Australian public to grow compassion and action for the most vulnerable. You support Australian schools to develop understanding and empathy in students. You invite Lutheran churches to express their faith in action and use community events like Walk My Way to engage the wider Australia public in international aid. You also walk alongside local communities as they support refugees to settle in Australia.
Baking for Bunnies in Burundi
Your work through ALWS recognises that families often need different kinds of support that work together to create lasting change.
In a similar way, our international development programs are connected to our education work in Australia.
With your support, we partner with schools and churches to grow understanding and compassion, and to Inspire them to respond in kindness.
At Wimmera Lutheran College in Horsham, Victoria, students were inspired to show kindness. They organised a bake sale, making lemonade, honey joys and chocolate crackles. Instead of keeping their profits, the class chose to buy two bunnies through ALWS Gifts of Grace.
Their choice was inspired by the story of Nathan, a 13-year-old boy from Burundi, whose family’s story was told through our 2024 Gifts of Grace campaign. For Nathan’s family, a rabbit is more than a pet. Its manure provides free fertiliser for crops, helping food to grow, which increases their family income.
Your Livelihood project work provides families with the opportunity to build a better life for themselves. When families can earn an income, they have more control over their lives, and children can stay in school and enjoy better health.
Through ALWS your Inclusion work ensures that children like Nathan and his siblings are not forgotten. Your care for the most vulnerable ensures
that Nathan, a child, gets to participate fully in community life. His needs are seen, heard and understood.
This work in Burundi is supported by the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP) and helps families live with dignity and hope.
As children like Nathan are empowered in Burundi, students in Australia are learning what compassion in action looks like, bringing love to life at home and overseas.
Photos
Photos: ALWS
Nathan and his bunny
Action
Resilient and Inclusive Community Development
Centre for Disaster Risk Management and Community Development Studies – Universitas HKBP Nommensen (CDRM&CDS-UHN)
North and West Sumatra and Riau Islands provinces
10,707 people (5,230 female, 5,477 male, incl. 717 persons with disability)
ALWS: DFAT:
$154,233
$571,807
Total:
$726,040
Why our help is needed
Communities face significant physical, economic and social impacts from disasters and economic shocks. These risks are heightened by the changing climate. Many live with insecure livelihoods and limited access to health and education.
Our action together
• 831 people now have reliable access to food
• 1,881 people participating in savings and loan groups and farmer cooperatives
• 1,984 people with improved access to drinking water sources
• 1,219 people participated in training on disability awareness and inclusion
• 190 persons with disabilities participated in a community-based rehabilitation program
• 1,536 people participated in sessions on gender issues and equal rights
Families were supported to start small businesses and home gardens, and trained in financial literacy and disaster preparedness.
What we’re learning
Savings and loan groups strengthen financial literacy and economic resilience. These groups foster collective learning and community solidarity. For members living with disabilities, self-help groups build confidence and encourage community involvement.
Our impact
Through community groups, people living with disabilities and vulnerable women are improving their livelihoods, reducing disaster risks and adapting to a changing climate. With confidence, they now engage with government officials regarding priorities, and help build more inclusive, resilient communities.
Clucks & Courage
“Thank you for the support for me and other villagers to improve and have better lives.” - Arniwati
“My husband died when I was 29. I have been a single mother for 20 years. I worked to support my children because in my heart I wanted to support their education and provide them with daily food.”
Life was not easy for Arniwati, who was born with a hearing impairment.
“At school, children put sticks in my ear and now I am totally deaf in that ear.”
As a widow and a woman living with a disability, Arniwati faced deep stigma, but she was determined to help her family.
In 2023, Arniwati joined a savings and credit group supported by Australian Aid and delivered through your Indonesian delivery partner, CDRM&CDS-UHN. Arniwati borrowed Rp 2 million ($200 AUD) to start raising chickens. She quickly generated a profit from the sale of eggs and chickens, which paid off the loan and allowed her to expand her business.
“In April 2025, I sold 23 chickens for income of over Rp 3 million (about $300 AUD)”
Now with her earnings, Arniwati is renovating her home and saving for her children’s future.
“As long as I have health, I will work.”
Papua New Guinea
What Local Partner
Where
Who
ALWS Action
Church Partnership Program (CPP)
Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea (ELCPNG)
Eight PNG provinces (Eastern Highlands, Jiwaka, Madang, Milne Bay, Morobe, Simbu, West Sepik, Western Highlands) and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville
2,626 people (1,136 female, 1,490 male, incl. 190 persons with disability)
DFAT: $891,826
Why our help is needed
Communities in Papua New Guinea face challenges with livelihoods, security, health, education, water, sanitation, and reliable power and communications. Service delivery is severely lacking, especially in rural areas.
Our action together
Through the Church Partnership Program, communities are being equipped to build stronger, safer lives.
• 782 people trained in new skills, including literacy, leadership and financial skills
• 101 people received support to strengthen their livelihoods
• 81 businesswomen participated in financial literacy training
• 442 people participated in sessions on gender issues
• 643 people received disability awareness training
Additional training for church leaders and community members strengthened promotion of social cohesion.
What we’re learning
Helping young people understand their rights is bringing new energy to ELCPNG’s development work. Training church leaders about gender and disability is helping the church better respond to gender-based violence and to be more inclusive of persons with disabilities.
Our impact
Through the Church Partnership Program, ELCPNG is improving health and education services, engaging young people in development activities, supporting advocacy on community issues, and supporting the protection and care of persons with disabilities and vulnerable women and children.
What Local Partner Where Who ALWS Action
Bangladesh
Emergency Humanitarian Support to the Rohingya and host community people to improve their living standards and build peaceful co-existence
RDRS
Cox’s Bazar District, Bangladesh
5,857 people (3,350 female, 2,507 male)
ALWS: $190,000
Why our help is needed
Bangladesh hosts more than one million Rohingya refugees who fled conflict in Myanmar and now reside in Cox’s Bazar District. These refugees are surrounded by equally vulnerable host communities. Bangladesh faces ongoing political instability, economic challenges and frequent climate-related disasters.
Our action together
• 300 people supported to start incomegenerating activities
• 100 people trained in poultry and livestock rearing
• 150 people trained in home gardening
• 2,500 new trees planted to address deforestation in refugee camps
• 1,156 emergency hygiene kits distributed
• 16,500 metres of drainage channels cleared to reduce flooding
What we’re learning
Strengthening coordination with all stakeholders, including local law enforcement, keeps participants and staff safe. Involving respected community leaders in awareness campaigns builds trust and increases participation.
Flexible activity schedules and contingency plans enable projects to adjust and continue even during periods of unrest.
Our impact
The project has improved hygiene, disease prevention and income access for both Rohingya refugees and host communities through inclusive, community-driven development. Families are achieving independence through income-generating groups, training and agriculture hubs.
“I started with sewing, then moved to poultry farming, and now I am growing my own food. I never imagined this kind of independence before.” - Karima
Photos: ALWS
Sewing Success
Karima is a mother and a refugee living in Cox’s Bazar, the largest refugee camp in the world.
She and her husband often struggled to find work. Without steady income, they worried about keeping their daughter in school.
Everything began to change when Karima joined tailoring training that your support made possible through ALWS. Through our local delivery partner, Karima learned new skills, gained confidence and received her own sewing machine.
“This support has given me hope and a future.
“It gave me confidence and financial independence.”
With her earnings from sewing, Karima reinvested into starting a poultry farm, raising ducks and chickens. Her hard work now provides two sources of income!
Most importantly, her daughter goes to school every day, and even sits beside Karima, doing her homework while Karima sews.
What
Local Partner Where Who
Myanmar
Rights Based Empowerment Project (RBEP) & Safe and Inclusive Education
Safe and Inclusive Education for Children in Rakhine: 9,025 people (5,081 female, 3,944 male, incl. 73 persons with disability)
ALWS Action
RBEP ALWS: DFAT: Total: $68,680 $332,561 $401,241
Why our help is needed
Safe and Inclusive Education in Rakhine ALWS: DFAT: Total $34,287 $114,439 $148,726
In Myanmar, long-term conflict continues to disrupt lives and restrict access to education for children, especially those living with disabilities. Local cultural practices also limit the rights and responsibilities of women.
Our action together
• 378 people have improved food and income security through climate-smart practices
• 2,057 people gained access to education, health, WASH (Water and Sanitation Hygiene), and nutrition services
• 15 schools received learning and sports materials to encourage inclusive education
• 177 children with disabilities received tailored support services
• 8,958 internally displaced children accessed education in temporary learning spaces
Training for teachers, and church and community leaders strengthened awareness of child protection, gender-based violence and disability inclusion
What we’re learning
Parents are more willing to send children with disabilities to school when teachers explain the value of education, especially for girls, whose participation remains lower.
Our impact
All 178 children with disabilities identified are now enrolled in school. Support groups for children are promoting leadership and protection. Peer-to-peer training on climate-smart agriculture helps farmers improve their yields, strengthen soil health and reduce costs.
ALWS Action
Local Initiatives for Community Empowerment and Development project (LICED)
31,227 people (22,651 female, 8,576 male, incl. 3,641 persons with disability)
ALWS: DFAT:
Others:
$165,858
$913,856
$130,740
Total:
$1,210,454
Why our help is needed
Forty per cent of Nepalese people still live in poverty. Marginalised groups, including women, children and people with disabilities, often lack access to education, land and public services. Unsafe migration, human trafficking and climate-related displacement worsen these vulnerabilities.
Our action together
• 5,884 people now have sufficient food all year
• 1,813 home gardens established and 1,952 households using energy efficient stoves
• 1,047 people received disability support services
• 4,490 people gained access to improved drinking water
• 1,336 people accessed emergency assistance during crisis
• 6,214 producers now have access to market
• 1,709 women entrepreneurs received financial and business development support
Additional activities strengthened access to justice and encouraged inclusive participation in community institutions and cooperatives.
What we’re learning
That an inclusive, rights-based approach that combines humanitarian support with long term development is very effective. Strong local trust, peacebuilding and inter-faith cooperation have been central to this success.
Our impact
The project improved the living standards of communities. It strengthened community resilience, improved coordination with government services and empowered local leaders and cooperatives. People with disabilities gained better access to resources and economic opportunities, helping promote inclusion and build self-reliance.
"We are glad and thankful that those leaves, which were once considered waste, can now be turned into money." - Sunita (inspired by Bhawana to create a leaf factory in her community)
Leaf-ing the Way
“My name is Bhawana Pulami Magar. Six years ago, I started something new, making leaf plates. At first, I didn’t know if this small idea could change my life. Now, it has become my purpose.”
In Nepal, you support a Transformative Education Program (TEP) facilitated by our local partner LWF Nepal. Through TEP, women like Bhawana are supported to develop innovative small businesses.
With support from this project, Bhawana learnt how to turn local leaves into plates. Today, she runs the Fulbari Leaf Plate Factory and has trained more than 500 women in her community.
“First, I motivate them. Then, I provide them with skills through training and assist in technical operations with business counselling.”
TEP has proven so successful that LWF Nepal is now using this approach across its work, and LWF Burundi is adapting it for their communities too.
By turning leaves into livelihoods, Bhawana has built a better future for herself and inspired other women to do the same.
What
Local Partner
Where Who
ALWS Action
Burundi
Community Integrated Development Project (CIDP)
LWF Burundi
Ruyigi and Cankuzo provinces
23,191 people (11,308 female, 11,883 male, incl. 1,010 persons with disability)
ALWS: DFAT: Total: $166,600 $631,226 $797,826
Why our help is needed
In Ruyigi and Cankuzo provinces, food insecurity is worsened by the presence of refugees and the effects of extreme weather. The project helps farmers adapt to climate change and strengthen disaster preparedness, and supports lasting access to food, education and WASH services.
Our action together
• 6,911 people have improved access to food
• 926 families supported to establish home gardens to improve nutrition
• 2,507 people joined savings and loans groups
• 196 households using energy-saving stoves
• 883 people trained in disaster risk reduction and adaption to changing climate
• 5,773 households improved access to safe drinking water
• 184 additional children enrolled in schools
Community training and awareness activities further promoted inclusion, child safeguarding, gender equality and resilience.
What we’re learning
CIDP has proven to be very effective in supporting participants to generate family income, greatly improving household wellbeing. Lower than expected results in food sufficiency and dietary diversity have reminded us that lasting change takes time.
Our impact
CIDP strengthened social cohesion by uniting returnees, internally displaced people, and host communities through cooperatives. Modern farming techniques increased crop yields leading to wider community adoption of these practices. Women gained access to community resources, and greater participation in community life.
Livelihood and Resilience Building to People affected by Changing Climate (LRBP)
LWF Ethiopia
Lasta district, North Wollo zone, Amhara region of Ethiopia
6,712 people (2,320 female, 4,392 male, incl. 128 persons with disability)
ALWS: $750,000
Why our help is needed
In Lasta district, drought, rainfall and conflict have left families food-insecure and with their livelihoods destroyed. Farmers cannot safely plant or harvest, while high prices disrupt supply chains and deepen poverty. Women, children and people with disabilities are hardest hit, requiring urgent food and income support.
Our action together
• 1,209 drought-affected farmers equipped with seeds, tools and training
• 120 women joined savings and loan groups
• 185 women supported in poultry farming
• 60 families trained in modern beekeeping
• 70 youth supported to start income-generating groups
• 40 young people producing and selling fuel-saving stoves
• 600 farmers trained in climate-smart agriculture
• 351 farmers supported with vegetable seeds and training
• 128 people with disabilities engaged across project activities
Additional community training strengthened inclusion, gender equality and disaster risk reduction.
What we’re learning
Vulnerable households become more resilient when they are supported with practical skills, resources and inclusive opportunities. Savings and loans groups help women and youth to thrive by supporting income-generating activities that grow independence and autonomy. Including persons with disabilities strengthens community cohesion.
Our impact
The project strengthened food security, expanded livelihood opportunities and supported communities to become more resilient and inclusive.
Sweet Success
“If LWF didn’t support us by different projects, our destiny would be really harsh, and I wouldn’t be able to sow or farm. The assistance of ALWS – LWF is really life-saving."
- Abay
Photos: Ethiopia/Petros KahsayMhret
In North Wollo, Ethiopia, 58-year-old farmer Abay Alemayo once felt hopeless. Conflict, drought and poor infrastructure made life difficult for his family. “As the conflict gets longer and more acute, I started to give up hope,” he shared.
Thankfully, support came for Abay through the beekeeping small business project facilitated by our local partners, LWF Ethiopia. Through ALWS, you helped Abay access beekeeping training, equipment and small business support.
Abay gained new skills and received two beehives worth more than $12,000 Birr ($120 AUD) He now expects to harvest 30 kilos of honey, worth $24,000 Birr ($240 AUD), and will use the profit to improve his farm and support his family. “I need you to come and ask after two or three months to see my transformation of livelihood.
“The assistance of ALWS–LWF is really life-saving.”
What
South Sudan
Building Resilience for a Sustainable Future in Jonglei State, South Sudan. Strengthening communities in Magwi County
Local Partner Where Who
ALWS Action
LWF South Sudan
Twic East, Duk, and Bor South counties in Jonglei State and Magwi county in Eastern Equatoria state.
32,327 people (16,437 female, 15,890 male)
ALWS: $1,060,000
Why our help is needed
South Sudan gained independence in 2011 and is still recovering from decades of brutal war that left the country with no functional social infrastructure or systems. Most areas are also impacted by disasters linked to the changing climate.
Our action together
• 587 people trained in adaptive farming and Disaster Risk Reduction
• 428 people equipped with income-generating and vocational skills
• 17,771 people supported to access improved education
• 1,413 people reached with WASH services
• 12,023 people reached through gender–responsive protection services, community level structures and social cohesion
What we’re learning
Integrated programming enhances impact. The strategic integration of education, environmental stewardship, livelihoods, water access and protection initiatives reinforces community resilience and promotes long-term sustainability. Inclusive stakeholder engagement strengthens social cohesion. Involving returnees, youth, women, county departments, local leaders, schools and NGOs builds trust, strengthens community ownership and ensures projects are accepted and supported.
Our impact
Our projects have made families more self-sufficient by equipping women and men to start profitable small businesses that increase family incomes.
A holistic approach to education that includes the renovation of classrooms and provision of WASH services has increased opportunities for children and youth to access schooling.
What Local Partner
Where
Who
ALWS Action
Kenya
Durable Solutions Project for displaced populations in Kenya & Ambitious Youth Project in Kakuma
LWF Kenya-Somalia
Kakuma and Dadaab
109,269 people (47,334 female, 61,935 male, incl. 3,198 persons with disability) 229 participants under Ambitious Youth Project
ALWS: $972,500
(Kakuma: $522,500; Dadaab: $300,000; and Ambitious Youth Project: $150,000)
Why our help is needed
Kenya hosts more than 850,000 refugees. Many families face shrinking food rations, overcrowded schools and limited livelihoods. Refugees and host communities struggle with conflict risks, poverty and climate shocks. Support is vital to sustain education, protection, peacebuilding and livelihoods.
Our action together
• 101,615 refugee and host learners, including 3,480 children with disabilities, accessed inclusive education
• 43,224 learners benefited from inclusive learning materials
• 1,054 youth engaged in creative, sports and empowerment initiatives
• 138 youth and adolescent mothers enrolled in tailoring and computer skills training
• 20 youth completed 3D-modelling training
• 491 farmers trained in climate-smart agriculture
Additional training strengthened inclusion, gender equality, accountability and ethical service delivery.
What we’re learning
Inclusive education improves enrolment and retention, particularly for children with disabilities. Teacher training, protection networks and community engagement strengthen learning. Empowering youth through sports and vocational training builds resilience.
Our impact
Children are accessing safe, inclusive education. Trained teachers and new learning materials are improving education quality and accessibility for children with disabilities. Youth and adolescent mothers are gaining skills for self-reliance, and peacebuilding efforts are strengthening safer, more cohesive communities.
“I love school and my lessons are the most important thing to me… Before, I had days when I couldn't even write because I had no pen. Now, I can focus fully on my studies and become the best I can be with the help of these learning materials.” - Yusuf
Photos: LWF Kenya Somalia
Stationery for Students
Yusuf* is 15 years old and dreams of becoming a mathematics teacher. “Numbers make sense to me in a way that feels magical.”
His family lost their home during the 2023 floods in Jamame village, Somalia, and they now live in an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp. Life there is difficult, but his mother, Amina, was determined: “I want my son to go to school, just like other children his age.”
Through ALWS, you support our local partner, LWF Kenya-Somalia, to provide school materials so that children like Yusuf can continue their schooling within the IDP camp.
Yusuf says, “Now, I can focus fully on my studies and become the best I can be with the help of these learning materials.”
One of the top students in his class, Yusuf is full of hope. “I want to be a math teacher one day so I can help other children, just like me. Education is the key to a better future, I will never stop learning.”
*Name changed to protect identity.
What Local Partner
Where Who ALWS Action
Somalia
Promoting inclusive communities where children with disabilities and persons with specific needs realise their rights and have access to improved holistic wellbeing
LWF Kenya-Somalia
Kismayo, Jubbaland State and South West State of Somalia
13,036 people (6,999 female, 6,037 male, incl. 2,862 persons with disability)
ALWS:
DFAT:
Total:
$136,203
$440,275
$576,478
Why our help is needed
Somalia is facing a humanitarian crisis caused by conflict, political instability and climate disasters that displace families and cut off access to basic services. More than half the population lives in poverty, and millions struggle with hunger.
Our action together
• 4,978 children with disabilities accessed inclusive education
• 1,051 children with disabilities received school kits with bags and stationery
• 830 children and 937 adults participated in weekly playgroup sessions
• 1,242 adults living with disabilities received counselling and assistive devices
• 500 children living with disabilities received hygiene kits
• 50 caregivers of children with disabilities supported with startup kits and business training
Additional training and advocacy sessions promoted gender equality, inclusion and child protection.
What we’re learning
Protection and inclusion are most effective when they respect local culture and community systems. It’s important to build local capacity from the start. Training needs to come with enough resources.
Our impact
Children with disabilities are now learning in greater numbers, teachers have improved their skills, and adults with disabilities have received rehabilitation and assistive devices for the first time. Caregivers are earning income, and communities are shifting attitudes about gender and disability, helping build long-term inclusion.
During the reporting period, ALWS responded to 11 emergencies, providing life-saving assistance to 19,287 people. Your support included food, water, sanitation, shelter, non-food items, health care, and psychosocial and protection support.
Your ALWS emergency work focuses on ensuring communities affected by disasters receive timely, effective and relevant help. This is achieved through strong collaboration with partners in Australia and overseas.
In Australia we partner with Christian-aid Agencies (CAN DO), the Emergency Action Alliance (EAA), and DFAT through the Australian Humanitarian Partnership (AHP).
Overseas, we coordinate with the LWF global humanitarian team, our local country partners, and ACT Alliance, a global faith-based coalition.
Alongside immediate relief, your support prioritises strengthening partner capacity and community resilience by supporting preparedness, planning and training for future disasters.
Myanmar –Cyclone Mocha & earthquake
3,793 people affected by Cyclone Mocha received emergency assistance, including shelter repair, hygiene kits and cash for work opportunities.
582 earthquake-affected people received cash support to purchase food.
South Sudan – flooding and conflict 5,175 people were supported with life-saving humanitarian assistance under ACT appeals. $125,000
Israel/Palestine – conflict
Burundi – conflict
Papua New Guinea –landslides
Through Augusta Victoria Hospital in East Jerusalem, 148 people received medical treatment, accommodation, meals, transportation, dignity kits and psychosocial support. ALWS also supported the procurement of assorted medical supplies for the hospital.
ALWS supported LWF Burundi to provide humanitarian assistance to refugees from the Democratic Republic of Congo. ALWS also contributed non-food items for 209 adolescent refugee girls.
ALWS, through CAN DO, provided emergency food and non-food items to 677 affected people.
Somalia – flooding 1,100 people received education and access to water, sanitation, hygiene, non-food items and emergency toilets.
Kenya – flooding 1,566 people received access to water, sanitation, hygiene, food, shelter and non-food items.
$145,921
$50,000
$29,033
$50,000
$50,000 TOTAL $1,230,929
Photo: ALWS
EMERGENCY RESPONSE: Myanmar Earthquake
In March 2025, a powerful earthquake struck Myanmar. Tragically, 3,798 lives were lost, and thousands of families were left without homes, safe water or basic supplies.
Through ALWS, you responded rapidly to provide life-saving assistance for 1,600 families in four of the most affected regions: Sagaing, Mandalay, Southern Shan and Nay Pyi Taw.
Your ALWS action included cash assistance so that families could quickly purchase food supplies. One mother shared:
“It meant we could buy rice and oil for our children. It gave us strength to keep going.”
Over the months that followed, your support, in partnership with funds from the Emergency Action Alliance Myanmar appeal (as seen on ABC and SBS) has included:
• Safe water and sanitation: 20 water points were repaired, giving 1,000 people access to clean drinking water and protection from disease. Family latrines were also built.
• Hygiene and dignity kits: 1,600 women and girls received soap, sanitary pads, toothbrushes and other essentials.
• Disability support: 250 assistive devices were distributed to people with disabilities, ensuring an inclusive response.
• Psychosocial care: trained staff offered counselling and referral services for those coping with trauma.
Through our local partners, you continue to support affected families through livelihood support, shelter rehabilitation and school support.
Your swift response and ongoing care has helped families in Myanmar take steps toward recovery, dignity and hope.
Burundi Community Integrated Development Project (CIDP)
Burundi is one of the poorest countries in the world, ranking 185 out of 189 in the 2019 Human Development Index. Critical issues include high unemployment, limited access to healthcare and lack of basic infrastructure.
Through ALWS, you support the Community Integrated Development Project (CIDP), a project implemented by our local partner LWF Burundi (Lutheran World Federation) that focuses on improving livelihoods, food security and social cohesion in vulnerable communities.
The project supports women like Charlotte, vice-president of one of the cooperatives, to learn and apply new farming techniques that increase yields and improve livelihoods.
Through training in sustainable farming practices, establishing savings and loan groups and improving access to clean water, the project supports families to build resilience and improve their wellbeing.
Evaluation overview
ALWS encourages partners to run evaluations to understand how well programs are working and to learn for the future.
ALWS helps by supporting timing and terms of reference, joining evaluation teams, providing feedback on reports and following up on recommendations.
In the 2024–2025 reporting period, four countries completed an evaluation. This included Burundi, where the CIDP was reviewed to assess its relevance, impact and effectiveness in supporting communities to strengthen livelihoods and food security.
What we've learnt
• The Community Integrated Development Project (CIDP) demonstrated strong relevance to the needs of participants and alignment with local conditions and institutional priorities
• The project is improving food security by training and supporting farmers in modern farming practices
• Cooperatives improved social cohesion by uniting diverse community members, including host communities, internally displaced peoples and returnees
• The project increased women’s confidence to express ideas and improve their economic conditions leading to financial independence
• Continued support is needed to consolidate achievement and promote sustainable adoption of modern and climate-smart agriculture practices and cooperative resilience
• There were positive changes but activities need to be more focused due to limited income allocations
What we will do
• Continue and strengthen the community selection process of participants
"We can now eat three times a day; morning, lunch, and dinner."
• Introduce the Transformative Education Program (TEP) (a successful program pioneered by LWF Nepal) to staff and communities and leverage community resources
• Consider strategies such as Transforming Masculinities to mitigate potential conflicts arising from changing gender dynamics within families
• Continue ongoing support to facilitate the transition to environmentally sustainable methods
• Strengthen and diversify feedback response mechanisms to foster trust among participants and ensure their concerns are addressed promptly
• Consolidate project zones, extend project duration, empower women, improve participant support and localise implementation while enhancing transparency
Story of change
Your ALWS action, through our local partner LWF Burundi, is supporting women like Charlotte, vicepresident of a cooperative called Gumakubikorwa, meaning “Let’s keep working”, that is helping families in Burundi grow stronger through farming.
Charlotte shares, “I am a traditional farmer. Then your support came to train us in modern agricultural techniques. It was as if a light went on for me. I was so excited to start using the new methods, like planting in rows. Before, my harvest was very small – about 50 kg now it is much better, I can get 200 kg. With the new techniques, you can still have a small plot, but you can harvest much more. The change in the climate is a real challenge for us. Last year we had less harvest because of the sun that dries the land too much. There is not much water around. We can now eat three times a day –morning, lunch and dinner. Thank you for the way you support us always.”
6,911 people gained food security
926 families started home gardens
2,507 people joined village savings groups
Inspiring Compassionate Giving
“But Mum, I want to help the little boy with the rabbit!” These were six-year-old Jaylen’s words when he heard that his family was considering a gift through ALWS.
Jaylen’s mum, Bec explains, “As parents we value teaching our kids the importance of giving to others through our time, money or skills. We loved being able to do this with our kids last year at Christmas through the ALWS Gifts of Grace catalogue and storybook. Reading the story of Nathan from Burundi was the perfect way to show our kids how their money could help other children living across the globe.
I wasn't sure how much the story had resonated with Jaylen, until months later when we were talking about another giving opportunity and he said, 'but Mum I want to help the little boy with the rabbit.' Such a simple story had stayed with him months later. It is my hope as a mum that the next generation can continue to support those in need around us.”
Partnership Seeds Hope
Generous Australians, like Colin and Judy Lewis from Victoria, are changing lives through partnering with farming families in Burundi. Providing tools, seeds and training in modern farming techniques, the farm partnership helps families to secure their future and build independence.
“We choose ALWS because of its at-thecoalface approach and we selected the Burundi Farm Partnership because of its multifaceted impact on the immediate and long-term welfare of the Burundi farm families. What a privilege it is to assist in this way!”
Colin and Judy Lewis
Welcoming the Stranger
ALWS supports Lutheran churches to participate in CRISP, the Australian Government’s new community refugee settlement program. Through CRISP, local churches can bring love to life by providing practical hands-on support to a refugee family arriving in Australia.
To find out more, scan the QR code or contact our team on 1300 763 407.
Jaylen reading ‘Nathan and the Fluffy Fertiliser Factory’ with his father Jesse.
One of the farming family's supported through a Burundi Farm Partnership
Colin Lewis at home in Victoria
Photos: LWF Burundi/Lea Gillabert
Photo: ALWS
Photo: Rebecca Miegel
That’s our Business!
“I’ve seen students’ fires lit when they realise they can act to help address some of these big problems.”
For Vicki Schilling, Director of Teaching & Learning (Primary) at Geelong Lutheran College, Victoria, those sparks of passion are what make ALWS’ What’s My Business? curriculum so powerful.
Each year, Year 6 students step into the shoes of social entrepreneurs. They learn about the challenges of poverty, explore business skills and then launch their own mini-enterprises at the Year 6 Market Day. The profits are directed to ALWS Gifts of Grace, helping vulnerable communities around the world.
Beyond business plans and market stalls, the experience leaves a deeper impact. “It gives students an enlarged awareness and empathy for the needs of the world,” Vicki says. “It helps us connect our Christian faith with a call to action, develop optimism and hope, and shows that what we do can transform lives of people we may never meet.”
“It’s so important for our young people to look beyond themselves, have empathy for others and also hope for the future and their role in it. ALWS’ What’s My Business? curriculum and market day is known as the highlight of Year 6.”
School Engagement
(1 January 2024–30 June 2025)
Very Valuable Volunteers
ALWS is deeply thankful for the dedicated service of volunteers. In June, Peter Renner completed nine years as a volunteer member of the ALWS Board.
“It has been a privilege to serve on the ALWS Board and help strengthen its governance capacity and capability, building on the strong foundations of those before us. I wish the Board and staff every blessing as they continue ALWS’ mission to bring aid and development to people often forgotten.”
Passionate volunteers like Peter contributed 1,391 hours during the reporting period, saving $47,210. This support means more of your donation gets to those who need it most. Thank you, volunteers!
'What's My Business?' stall.
Peter and Robyn Renner are both passionate supporters of ALWS.
Photo: Geelong Lutheran College
Photo: Robyn Renner
Photo: Peter Renner
ALWS began in 1950 so that generous Australians could bring care and love to those overlooked and forgotten by the world.
At the end of World War II, thousands of refugees, many of them Lutheran, arrived in Australia seeking a new life. Recognising the need, the Lutheran church community reached out with open hearts to help them find their feet. Founded on this generous compassion for the most vulnerable, the service of ALWS has grown to now support 281,457 individuals in 13 of the poorest countries in the world.
To continue this legacy, ALWS chose to celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2025 by supporting 75,000 children with the essentials for a happy, healthy life – food, school and safety.
A step-of-faith target, the goal of supporting 75,000 children, at an average of $25 each, seemed beyond reach at the start of 2025. But steadily the generosity of ALWS supporters overflowed.
Local schools like Good Shepherd Lutheran School at Para Vista, South Australia, held fundraisers to support classrooms of children to access education.
Stepping out to bring love to life
During the reporting period, 5,952 Australians stepped out at 31 Walk My Way events across the country so that children impacted by poverty and war could access food, shelter and schooling.
Thank you!
More than 1,400 generous Australians stepped out at ALWS Walk My Way events in Bonegilla, Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane, raising support for more than 10,000 children.
ALWS Platinum Partner, LLL, generously offered a $75,000 grant to match dollar-for-dollar donations from LLL facility holders, supporting another 6,000 children.
An Australian Government 5:1 Matching Grant for Nepal inspired ALWS supporters to donate enough to support more than 12,000 children with food, school and safety.
ALWS’ year-long anniversary target to support 75,000 children was achieved on Monday 16 June!
We give thanks to God for the ongoing legacy of faithful donors who continue to reach out through ALWS with open hearts, to provide practical care for the most vulnerable.
Photos: ALWS/The School Photographer
Left: Migrant families arriving at Bonegilla Below: Former Bonegilla residents at the ALWS 75th anniversary weekend.
Photo:
Jodie Hoff
CHAIRPERSON
BTeach, BEd, Grad DipED (Theology), MEdLeadership
Principal of LORDS, Qld Commenced 7 March 2019
Peter Schirmer
BOARD MEMBER
BA (Hons); MDevStud; DipFinCounsellg Financial Counsellor at Lutheran Care, SA Commenced 1 January 2025
Andrew Kotzur VICE-CHAIRPERSON
BBus (Admin), MAICD
Co-owner & Managing Director of Kotzur, SA Commenced 27 March 2020
Rev Mark Schultz
CONSULTANT
BTh, Grad Dip Min Assistant to the BishopInternational Mission, LCANZ Commenced 23 September 2023. Transitioned from Board Member to ex-officio consultant 14 August 2025.
Morgan Brookes BOARD MEMBER
BA, BEd, GradCertBus Head of Senior School at Cornerstone College, SA Commenced 8 September 2011
Thank you!
Alice Caldwell BOARD MEMBER
LLB (Hons), BIR, GradDipLegPrac
Senior Legal Officer, ACT Commenced 5 September 2023
Peter Renner, served as Board Member from 10 March 2017 until 23 June 2025.
Tom Brennen, served as Board Member from 26 March 2020 until 28 September 2023.
The ALWS Board met on 5 March, 21-23 June, 23-24 August, 7 November, 12 December 2024 and on 21 March 2025. The ALWS Ltd. Board met on 12 December 2024 and on 21 March and 23 June 2025.
Program Advisory Committee (PAC)
PAC Members are Peter Schirmer (Chair), Anthony Sell, Geoff Robinson and Rebecca Robinson. PAC Consultants are Vicki Gollasch and Michael Stolz.
PAC met on 13 March, 4 June, 7 Aug and 5 December 2024, and on 13 March and 19 June 2025.
Finance Audit and Risk Committee (FAR)
FAR Members are Andrew Kotzur (Chair), Jodie Hoff, Ron Asquith and Kerryn Simpfendorfer. FAR Consultants are Shane Buckland and Michael Stolz.
FAR met on 14 March, 5 June, 14 August and 28 November 2024, and on 14 March and 19 June 2025.
Fundraising and Marketing Committee (FAM)
FAM Members are Rev Mark Schultz (Chair), Lorelei Baum, Tony Smith and Leo Orland. FAM Consultants are Jonathan Krause, Aaron Glover and Michael Stolz.
FAM met on 14 March, 6 June, 8 August and 2 December 2024 and on 12 March 2025.
Michael Stolz
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
BEng, EMBA, GAICD
Vicki Gollasch
PROGRAM MANAGER Dip. Ed., BTh (Lutheran Ed.)
Shane Buckland
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER CA, BComm (Acc)
Jonathan Krause
COMMUNITY ACTION MANAGER
BA
Aaron Glover
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT MANAGER
MBA, BBus
Financial Summary
ALWS was entrusted with $11.9 million during the reporting period to bring practical care and hope to people in greatest need. This remarkable outcome reflects the deep generosity of our supporters and the ongoing strength of our partnership with the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. We are truly grateful—thank you!
On 1 January 2025, ALWS transitioned to a new incorporated entity, Australian Lutheran World Service Limited (ALWS Ltd), and adopted a 30 June financial year end. This change strengthens accountability, compliance and aligns financial reporting with Australian Government grant requirements and the standard Australian financial year.
The financial information in this report reflects 12 months of the former entity (1 January–31 December 2024) and six months of the new entity (1 January–30 June 2025).
In the 2024 calendar year, ALWS received $8.6 million in revenue, down on the prior year due to lower bequest and grant income. With the aid sector facing inflationary pressures and funding cuts, ALWS used reserves to maintain program commitments, so partners could continue their life-changing support. Expenditure totalled $10.3 million, resulting in a deficit of $1.66 million.
For the six months ended 30 June 2025, ALWS Ltd recorded $3.3 million in revenue and $4.3 million in expenditure, creating a deficit of $970,275. Income in January–June is typically lower as government grant income is normally received in the second half of the year.
Although expenses have exceeded income over the past two and a half years, ALWS maintains healthy reserves to support our mission and has strengthened our focus on managing costs.
ALWS continues to operate efficiently and despite inflationary pressures our five-year average ‘overhead’ is 16.2%. ‘Overheads’ are fundraising, accountability and administration costs, as defined by the ACFID Code of Conduct. This means 83.8% of funds entrusted to ALWS go to programs that help and educate people.
At 30 June 2025, ALWS Ltd held net assets of $5.6 million, ensuring a sound financial position to meet obligations and support our mission.
For the 18-month period from 1 January 2024 until 30 June 2025
Financial Highlights
WHERE YOU HELPED
For the 18-month period from 1 January 2024 until 30 June 2025
Note: The ratios are program expenses expressed as a percentage of total expenditure less fundraising, accountability and administration costs, as reported in the audited Comprehensive Income Statements.
Note: The ratios are program
costs, as reported in the audited Comprehensive Income Statements.
USE OF FUNDS
Note: The ratios are
THE SUPPORT YOU PROVIDED HOW ALWS IS SUPPORTED
and
Note:
Statement of Comprehensive Income
For the 18-month period from 1 January 2024 until 30 June 2025
Statement of Changes in Equity
For the 18-month period from 1 January 2024 until 30 June 2025
Statement of Financial Position
For the 18-month period from 1 January 2024 until 30 June 2025
These summary financial statements have been taken from Australian Lutheran World Service Ltd Audited Financial Statements for the six-month period from 1 January 2025 to 30 June 2025, and the Australian Lutheran World Service Audited Financial Statements for the 12-month period from 1 January 2024 to 31 December 2024. The full audited reports are available, along with a digital version of this Annual Report, on the ALWS website www.alws.org.au/policies-reports/
Scan to see full audited reports
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT
AUSTRALIAN LUTHERAN WORLD SERVICE
AUSTRALIAN LUTHERAN WORLD SERVICE LIMITED
Statement on the Financial Summary
The accompanying Financial Summary embraces the combined activity of Australian Lutheran World Service (ABN 36 660 551 871) for the period 1 January 2024 to 31 December 2024 together with Australian Lutheran World Service Ltd (ABN 70 679 042 169) for the period 1 January 2025 to 30 June 2025.
We expressed an unmodified audit opinion on the full financial statements of Australian Lutheran World Service for the year ended 31 December 2024 on 27 March 2025.
We expressed an unmodified audit opinion on the full financial statements of Australian Lutheran World Service Ltd for the six month period ended 30 June 2025 on 17 October 2025.
The Financial Summary presented in this Annual Report does not include the same content and detailed note disclosures of the full financial reports.
Board of Governors’ responsibility for the Financial Summary
The Board of Governors are responsible for the preparation of the Financial Summary based on the audited financial statements.
Auditor’s responsibility
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Financial Summary based on our procedures, which were conducted in accordance with Auditing Standard ASA 810: Engagements to Report on Summary Financial Statements.
Opinion
In our opinion, the Financial Summary derived from the audited financial statements of Australian Lutheran World Service and Australian Lutheran World Service Ltd is consistent, in all material respects, with the audited financial statements for these entities over the stated period.
MTC ADVISORY PTY LTD Chartered Accountants
Mark Le Cornu Registered Company Auditor
24th October 2025
Australian Lutheran World Service (ALWS) Limited ■ ABN 70 679 042 169 10 Somerset Drive Albury NSW 2640 Australia
Incorporation and Charitable Status
• Public company limited by guarantee under the Corporations Act.
• Registered charity with the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profits Commission.
Tax Concessions and Fundraising
• Public Benevolent Institution (PBI).
• A Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR).
• An Income Tax Exempt Charity (holding tax concessions and exemptions relating to income, goods and services, and fringe benefits taxes).
• Registered to fundraise throughout Australia.
Accreditations
ALWS has full accreditation with the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to deliver Australia’s aid program. To maintain accreditation, ALWS’ systems, policies and processes are rigorously reviewed every five years.
ALWS acknowledges the funds, care and support of the Australian Government to see positive change through our work together.
ALWS is a full member of the Australian Council for International Development (ACFID). As a signatory to the voluntary, self-regulatory ACFID Code of Conduct, we are committed to conducting our work with transparency, accountability and integrity.
ALWS is also a signatory to the Fundraising Institute of Australia (FIA) Code of Conduct.
Feedback and Complaints
Feedback on this report and our work more generally can be sent to alws@alws.org.au.
Complaints, including those relating to a breach of the ACFID Code of Conduct, can be made to our Complaints Manager at complaints@alws.org.au or 1300 763 407. If the complaint is against the Executive Director, contact Board Chair Ms Jodie Hoff chair@alws.org.au or 1300 763 407.
Safeguarding
ALWS is committed to ensuring that all children and vulnerable people are treated with dignity and respect and that the health, safety and wellbeing of all is protected in our work.
ALWS personnel are expected at all times to promote the safety and wellbeing of all children and vulnerable people, and reduce Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment (SEAH) risk, as well as manage incidents of harm to children and vulnerable people and SEAH that may occur in relation to ALWS activities or personnel.
Complaints relating to a breach of ALWS’s Safeguarding Policy can be made to our Complaints Manager by emailing complaints@alws.org.au.
About this Annual Report
This report covers our service and performance during the 18-month period from 1 January 2024 until 30 June 2025. It has been prepared in compliance with legal requirements and the ACFID Code of Conduct.
LUTHERAN CHURCH OF AUSTRALIA
How
do
you want to be remembered?
Dedicating a gift in your Will, to keep on helping people through ALWS, is a wonderful way to show the people you care about the values you hold precious.
Your gift brings love to life for people in danger from poverty and injustice, and at risk of being forgotten by the world. Your kindness and foresight will support them to build strong independent lives for their families.
You can dedicate a gift in your Will to be used now, where it is most needed … … or have ALWS invest it in our Living Water Legacy Fund, so only the proceeds each year are used, and your gift keeps on giving.
Yes, preparing your Will is a sensitive subject.
However, planning your Will carefully and clearly, with professional guidance, will relieve your family of worry, and free them to celebrate your life in the way you’d wish them to. Request your FREE Lives You Touch booklet, or have a confidential chat to discover more about how you can keep on blessing others through ALWS: alws@alws.org.au 1300 763 407
