As Australians, we have the privilege of walking on a country where the oldest ongoing living culture exists today.
This is attributed to our ancestors, who for many thousands of years told stories, developed dances, and sang songlines about our giant spiritual heroes — ancestors who guided us to walk harmoniously and respectfully, connecting land, sea and environment with oneself.
We follow their songlines and dreaming spiritual stories, which define and enrich us, inspiring our connections to land, family, culture, environment, Lore and a shared identity with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their communities throughout Australia.
We acknowledge and respect those who have paved a pathway, inspiring future generations of leaders.
We recognise the pain and suffering caused by past unjust governmental policies and practices forced upon Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and we are committed to striving towards a future built on truth-telling, reconciliation, and mutual respect.
Together, we strive and journey towards a future where the truth is told, all voices are heard and justice prevails for all Australians.
LES WANGANEEN — UNCLE IN RESIDENCE
Connected Communities, Connected Lives
Centacare has been there for people for a lifetime, and we will be, whenever you need us, because everything we do is centred around you.
This year Centacare focused on transformation, embracing change and new beginnings.
We launched our Strategic Plan 2024-2029, driven by innovation and a deep sense of accountability.
Our strategic plan is our roadmap for purpose and sustainability in the community services sector. Underpinned by our Catholic Social Teaching principles, it renews our commitment to centre our everyday practices around the needs of those we walk alongside.
Connecting Communities, Connected Lives is the key messaging in our strategic plan, and it inspired the concept of our new brand and logo design, which came to life in June 2024.
We now operate under the name Centacare Catholic Community Services to reflect our approach of inclusivity, warmth and professionalism in our work.
The symbol in our new logo holds profound meaning: the ripple represents the impact of our support and interventions; the steps represent the journey we undertake with our clients; and the arc (or ark) represents the safety and stability we provide along the way.
We endorsed a revised corporate structure, which led to the appointment of Liam Connelly, Director of Corporate and Business Operations and Dr Jonathon Louth, Director of Strategy, Research and Innovation (see page 31).
During this period, we successfully secured the Your LINC adult mental health outreach tender in partnership with KWY Aboriginal Corporation, with the trust and guidance of the Department of Health and Wellbeing (see page 19).
Our Stabilising Trauma in Everyday Practice (STEP) Therapeutic Framework was rolled out to our leadership and selected staff for testing and feedback (see page 8).
I thank Archbishop Patrick O’Regan, Executive of the Curia, Centacare Executive team, the Advisory Council and the Diocesan Finance Council for the ongoing support and guidance.
Our annual report offers a glimpse into the lives and stories of our clients and a powerful insight into the work of our staff, whose dedication, advocacy, care and support define who we are as an organisation.
Leanne Haddad
Centacare is part of the Catholic Church Endowment Society Inc, embracing the Catholic Church, Diocesan Centre, Education and Community Services.
A path for healing
As we reflect on 2023-2024, it is evident that while the challenges our communities face are growing, so too is the strength and resolve of Centacare’s dedicated team.
This annual report highlights the obstacles encountered and the achievements of those supporting individuals experiencing hardship every day.
Throughout the year, Centacare provided 62 vital services, addressing the unique needs of individuals and families affected by mental health struggles, domestic violence, homelessness and substance use.
Centacare strives to deliver effective and flexible community services to all South Australians as part of our mission to be sharers of faith, hope and love; builders of bridges; healers of broken relationships and agents of transformation in our world.
With rising economic inequality, mental health concerns and the devastating impact of domestic violence on families, the need for Centacare’s services has never been greater.
Amidst these challenges, Centacare remains a beacon of hope, offering pathways toward healing and recovery. Every day, frontline workers uplift the most vulnerable, empowering them to reclaim their dignity and pursue brighter futures. Together, we are creating stronger, more compassionate communities.
I extend my deepest gratitude to all who make this work possible. May the good God continue to bless the work of Centacare as we continue this vital endeavour.
“The heart of
our mission
is to be agents of transformation, hope and love... to be the people who share the water with those who thirst, and our greatest victory is the reward of peace.”
PATRICK O’REGAN — ARCHBISHOP OF ADELAIDE
Client safety
At Centacare, the safety and wellbeing of children, young and vulnerable people is at the core of our values and actions.
With oversight from our Client Safeguarding Committee, we foster a culture that safeguards children, young and vulnerable people, ensuring they feel protected, valued and empowered.
Closing the gap
At Centacare, we are committed to strengthening the wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals, families and communities.
Guided by Aboriginal voices and lived experiences, we work to deliver material outcomes for a more equitable and connected future.
Diversity, equity and inclusion
We create an inclusive environment that welcomes and respects people of all ages, religions, ethnicities, cultures, abilities, lived experiences, gender identities and sexual orientations.
Together, we build connected communities where every individual feels seen, heard and valued; where lives flourish through solidarity and care.
Stepping up our therapeutic practice
This year, Centacare has continued the build and implementation of the STEP Therapeutic Framework (Stabilising Trauma in Everyday Practice), with testing and feedback now underway.
Developed in partnership with Dr Jackie Amos and Dr Liz Coventry, the framework draws on trauma and attachment literature to embed strength-based and trauma-responsive practices.
The STEP Therapeutic Framework is a unique and transformative training package that promotes a shared language, trauma responsiveness and a relational mindset.
By fostering a safe and compassionate environment, STEP enhances mental and emotional wellbeing for both staff and clients, reinforcing Centacare’s commitment to excellence in service delivery.
The focus this year has been on introducing staff to the framework’s evidence-based principles and innovative approach. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with managers recognising its potential to transform practice across the organisation. The framework comprises two key components:
Foundational Modules:
These eight modules offer a deep exploration of how early life experiences influence behaviour, providing
staff with tools to support clients in processing trauma, building agency and fostering positive relationships.
Therapeutic Narrative Interventions:
This component equips staff with practical techniques to help clients explore attachment histories and trauma stories, empowering them to achieve meaningful change.
Designed using cutting-edge instructional design principles, STEP combines engaging online modules, experiential workshops, and follow-up supervision led by experienced practitioners.
This interactive and flexible learning experience ensures staff can apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios confidently.
As implementation progresses, STEP is set to become a defining feature of Centacare’s approach.
“ The framework creates a community of practice where the impossible becomes possible.”
LEANNE HADDAD — EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Walking alongside every person and every community who walks through our doors. The year
in numbers
22,316 clients were supported across 62 services and 34 locations.
6,810 children and young people were supported.
1,072 clients are culturally and linguistically diverse.
1,506
clients identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.
144
clients identify as non-binary and/or gender diverse.
531 individuals form our permanent and casual workforce.
53.9 M annual revenue.
Person-centred
All people who walk through our doors feel seen, heard, safe, valued and connected.
Strong and supported teams
Our workforce is engaged, skilled and supported to grow within a healthy, professional and ethical culture.
Closing the gap
We collectively achieve material outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff, clients and communities.
Innovative and evidence-informed
We are recognised as a future-focused teaching, research and learning organisation.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Inclusiveness and a shared commitment to equity is deeply embedded within our culture and practice.
Social impact and sustainability
We strive for sustainable, diverse and innovative funding to drive social impact for clients and communities.
Reach out, whenever you need us
We empower clients to voice their experiences through diverse channels. Our client reference groups share their wisdom to shape innovation across the organisation.
Our Therapeutic Framework, ‘Stabilising Trauma in Everyday Practice’ (STEP), underpins our therapeutic practice. It is embedded across our children’s services programs and is progressively being implemented by staff in all service delivery units.
We champion the client’s voice by offering diverse mechanisms for feedback, which informs changes and decisions at all levels of the organisation.
We have developed feedback tools specifically for children and young people and established strong, committed reference groups, including the headspace Port Adelaide Youth Reference Group and the Foster Carer Reference Group.
Our Young Family Support Programs work alongside each parent and child to develop an individualised case plan that is tailored to their needs and goals. The group sessions focus on providing resources and tools for common issues and gaps detected at the one-on-one support sessions.
A ‘no wrong door’ approach guides our domestic violence services. Through collaboration and partnership with other service providers, we stand by victims/survivors to enhance their
confidence and offer a pathway for sustainable outcomes.
In our homelessness services, our staff walk alongside our clients through changing circumstances regarding their safety, needs, goals and milestones. The case plan is a live document, and our services are centred on offering flexibility and stability.
A grant from the Department of Human Services (DHS) supported the build of a crèche room for children in foster care at our Seaton office. The room was co-designed with staff, carers, Aboriginal Cultural Consultants, and children and young people. The result is a safe space for children and young people to play, engage in therapeutic music sessions and build connections while their carers attend training.
Many of our services have an outreach component, which allows our clients to receive support at a location that is accessible, comfortable and convenient to them.
We have prioritised grant applications to purchase vans for our Aboriginal services and disability services. Removing the obstacle of transportation has significantly improved our clients’ participation in the community and increased their enthusiasm to continue engaging each week.
My support worker is non-judgmental and patient with the barriers that come up for me.
CLIENT — RECONNECT SERVICES
89% attendance rate to drug and alcohol counselling service 1:1 sessions.
4.1 out of 5 is the average client satisfaction score at headspace Port Adelaide.
EXPLORE
Addressing homelessness, one call at a time
• centacare.org.au/news
Kathy’s story
Kathy*, a young woman struggling with active methamphetamine addiction became a victim of a high-profile domestic violence perpetrator. This situation led to her losing custody of her infant child, who is now in kinship care with her parents. She also lost her rental home and faced charges of assault against her parents.
The Whyalla Domestic and Family Violence Unit (SAPOL) referred the client to our Whyalla Domestic Violence Services. SAPOL located and arrested the perpetrator, who was incarcerated for six months.
During this time, Kathy was supported to complete a domestic violence disclosure and connected with a former victim of her abuser, which helped her realise that the relationship was unsafe for her and her child.
Unfortunately, after reconnecting with an old friend who also struggled with addiction, she formed a relationship with another domestic violence perpetrator. This led to further threats and attacks from his associates, demanding money in exchange for her safety.
In coordination with Statewide Domestic and Family Violence Alliance, a case plan was developed around her safety, which included relocating her to Adelaide. At that point, Kathy disengaged from the service and claimed to be too scared to leave Whyalla.
After several weeks of no contact, she reengaged with the case manager, as she was determined to turn her life around. She decided to self-fund a hotel stay while continuing to engage with domestic violence support services.
The case manager advocated for further emergency accommodation and nominated her for another transitional housing tenancy. She was referred to drug and alcohol support services and engaged with the Department for Child Protection to begin a process of reunification with her child.
Kathy was successfully nominated for a transitional housing tenancy in Whyalla. She remains sober, has weekly visits with her child, and is rebuilding her relationship with her parents. Kathy has cut ties with past drug associates and continues to actively engage in addiction support services
*We have changed our client’s name and picture to protect her privacy.
Servant leadership informs our approach
We work collaboratively towards sustaining a workplace culture that promotes diversity, respect, integrity and professionalism.
Led by servant leadership principles, we offer our staff meaningful opportunities for development and strive to provide a work environment and benefits that have a positive impact on all aspects of their lives.
Through supervision, team meetings, standing committees, working groups and staff surveys, we ensure that our staff voices are central to organisational decision-making processes.
The development of our Strategic Plan 2024-2029 was the result of extensive consultation with staff, clients, and stakeholders. Several platforms were available for staff to choose their involvement.
This year also brought the rollout of our STEP Therapeutic Framework training modules. The staged process has guaranteed that staff from all our units experience the content and provide feedback before the deployment across the organisation.
The modules have made a significant impact on our work already through their practical application in personal identity, trauma processing and cooperative relationships.
STEP has also been a focus of our management forums, ensuring that our leadership team is
fully equipped to support its implementation. It also serves as a tool to inform professional relationships, supervision and mentoring.
Our teams are also working in Communities of Practice to build consistency in our training facilitation and delivery, develop a common language and promote collaboration and knowledge sharing across the organisation.
At our disability services, the role of the Behaviour Support Advisor has transformed the dynamic and reduced pressures between external providers and our disability support workers.
By providing guidance, training, and support, the advisor helps improve the implementation of our clients’ support plans, benefiting their health, safety, and empowerment
Thorough handover processes are key at our 24/7 residential facilities for the consistency of our supports, but also for our staff to have the space for debriefing, supervision and reflective practice. It is crucial that our teams stay connected regardless of the dynamics of shiftwork.
We will continue to provide opportunities for training, development and career pathways for our staff with lived experiences to empower their contributions to our service delivery.
I have been able to keep growing with the organisation and have found a place where I can live my purpose and have a positive impact on the community.
CENTACARE STAFF
88%
permanent staff retention. 700 hours of support were provided by volunteers at Wandana Community Centre in playgroups, community garden and pop-up supermarkets.
A sense of place and purpose
At Centacare, every year starts with the commissioning of our leadership team.
This tradition was initiated in 2012 by former Director Pauline Connelly to acknowledge the roles of the leaders in our organisation and embrace a sense of place and purpose within Centacare.
It is also a renewal of the commitment to be servant leaders and to advocate for the most vulnerable members of our community with respect and kindness.
This ceremony is always held in the context of our Manager Development Forums, which are sessions held three times a year for our leadership team to undertake training, participate in workshops and provide feedback on organisational initiatives.
They also offer opportunities for creativity, connection and partnerships between teams, which usually lead to improvement and transformation in our service delivery.
EXPLORE
Centacare faces named as finalists in SA Child Protection Awards • centacare.org.au/news
The focus of the forums in this period has been the development of our Strategic Plan 2024-2029 and the launch and implementation of our therapeutic framework, Stabilising Trauma in Everyday Practice.
We are proud of the immense work, innovation and collaboration involved in the development of our strategic plan and therapeutic framework, which will embed a common direction and language to support our workforce and contribute to sustained positive change for individuals and families.
“The Commissioning Ceremony is a moment of peace, reflection and inspiration for the new year ahead. You look around and recognise that you have a great support network”.
CENTACARE STAFF
Now more than ever, the work must continue
We stand firmly in our resolve to uphold and advocate for the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
At Centacare, we are creating opportunities to learn and connect with Aboriginal cultures to safeguard and celebrate an environment where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices are listened to, respected and valued.
Our Aboriginal Cultural Consultants and First Nations Coordinators have led this journey with patience, humility and generosity.
Through education on historical events, informative walks through the land and yarning sessions with our Elders group, we are building a knowledge platform across the organisation that will continue to expand.
The Nunga Group is a space for our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff to connect, share experiences and voice their perspectives on significant topics for Centacare and the sector.
Their guidance on service model design, adaptation of training resources and recruitment are pivotal in our purpose of engaging and retaining First Nations staff and partnering with community controlled organisations.
This year, we sponsored and joined the fifty-year celebrations of Tauondi Aboriginal College.
We also sponsored the SNAICC (National Voice for Our Children) Conference in Darwin, where the theme #VoicesAtTheTop inspired a range of thought-provoking topics and provided a space for deep listening and truth-telling.
At the Otherway Centre, we offer a hub of enriching cultural activities for Aboriginal Elders to honour the prominent role they continue to play in families and communities.
Our foster care program organises regular activities at the Centre to give Aboriginal children and their foster carers opportunities for cultural connection by listening to the Elders weave stories that bridge generations.
The headspace Port Adelaide team also offers opportunities for healing and connection for First Nations young people and their families through artwork and spray painting workshops.
Our Community Connections and Kindred Spirits Programs offer Aboriginal-specific services to families in Adelaide North and West.
Through local partnerships, we work to reduce isolation and promote engagement with health services, education and the community.
The conference gave me the confidence to keep finding ways to advocate for the children in our care to learn their culture.
CENTACARE FOSTER CARER AT SNAICC NATIONAL CONFERENCE
We work closely with the Aboriginal Community Controlled sector, notably:
• Aboriginal Sobriety Group
• Tauondi Aboriginal College
• KWY Aboriginal Corporation.
Empowering connection to community and supports
A family of seven, including two parents and five children, was referred to our Kindred Spirits (KS) service due to Jordan’s* (aged 14) disengagement from school, which was likely caused by past trauma at a previous school, leading to depression and anxiety.
After assessing his needs, the First Nations Coordinator facilitated their transition to a flexi-school. Jordan has re-engaged in education, increasing his attendance from three half-days to four full days per week.
Additionally, Talia*, the family’s eldest (aged 17), left school due to complex needs related to their diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder and Dyslexia. With Talia’s consent, the Kindred Spirits coordinator referred them to Barkuma, where they are now engaged in permanent employment. *not their real names.
Restore Intensive Family Services supported a large Aboriginal family who faced challenges engaging with services, were dealing with grief and loss, and lived in an overcrowded house.
Utilising a trauma and cultural lens, our team supported the adult siblings to apply for their own properties and advocated for the family to relocate into a larger house to preserve the family unit.
Through persistent advocacy, the family has been allocated a three-bedroom house. Additionally, the children are now attending kindergarten, with NDIS applications lodged as required. The family is supported by Restore’s Aboriginal Cultural Lead and Aboriginal Health Services in the area.
The adult siblings have been linked with a trauma-informed flexible job network provider, who is supporting them in further education pathways and employment opportunities.
Respecting the dignity of each person
We collaborate with diverse stakeholders to enhance our knowledge and provide culturally inclusive practice.
Through our Diversity Council membership, we offer our staff an extensive suite of resources, webinars and research reports on a wide range of topics linked to diversity and inclusion in Australia.
Our Children’s Services team has developed and facilitated the ‘DELTA’ cultural training workshop, which invites staff to reflect on contemporary issues impacting inclusivity and diversity. The workshop also explores ways to enhance our connection with clients from diverse cultures.
The Foster Care program participated in the ‘Picnic in the Park’ Feast Festival to celebrate pride, diversity, art and culture.
The festival was created over 25 years ago to provide a safe space for individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community and allow artists to express themselves across multidisciplinary art forms.
Queer Quest is a social support group for young people aged 12-17 who are members or allies of the queer community. headspace Port Adelaide runs weekly sessions where members connect through art, gaming and workshops.
Many of our services collaborate with external providers to help clients navigate the NDIS system as needed.
We also partner with agencies specialised in providing social services for multicultural and linguistically diverse communities.
With over 30 years of experience, our disability services team offers their expertise in providing supported accommodation and day options to clients in metropolitan Adelaide and Whyalla.
Our NDIS Plan Management team provides dedicated 1:1 support for processing invoices and claims, while efficiently managing NDIS budgets for clients in Adelaide and regional South Australia.
The role of our Behaviour Support Advisor is to review clients’ disability support plans, identifying opportunities to empower their choices and reduce restrictions wherever possible.
Wandana Community Centre is known as a multicultural hub, where community members from Adelaide’s East gather around playgroups, excercise, games, food preparation, knitting, gardening and much more.
People from all backgrounds and ages gather at Wandana, where they embrace a sense of community, empathy and support.
I have found that I am not alone. I get opportunities to do things I like, feel accepted and be myself.
CLIENT — headspace PORT ADELAIDE
17 restrictive practices were eliminated from our disability services clients’ support plans.
27% of young people supported by ASCEND Youth Life Promotion identified as members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Unlocking independence
For years, a woman with diabetes and an intellectual disability lived with a padlocked pantry. Though she enjoyed an independent life through work, friendships and community day options, boredom often led her to snack when home alone. The padlock, placed by her support team more than ten years ago as a precaution, became an accepted and unquestioned part of her daily life.
With the introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and in conjunction with the Quality and Safeguards Commission, Centacare has reviewed the use of restrictive practices in disability services. The review provided an opportunity to move away from risk-averse restrictive measures towards a model that supports clients in developing their ability to self-monitor and make informed decisions.
As a result, her support team reconsidered whether the padlock still served her best interests.
Restrictive practices, such as locked doors or activity limitations, are typically used only when there is a significant risk to the individual or others.
EXPLORE
Queer Quest wins 2023 Health Equity Award • centacare.org.au/news
These measures are meant to be temporary and should be reviewed regularly, typically every 12 months.
Where possible, the goal is to gradually reduce and eliminate such constraints, enabling clients to enjoy greater autonomy.
In collaboration with her Behaviour Support Practitioner, her team implemented a personalised behaviour support plan which includes small, portion-controlled snack boxes, allowing her the freedom to manage her own food intake.
Today, her pantry is unlocked. More importantly, she now has control over when and what she snacks on. This change wasn’t just about opening a pantry door; it marked a shift from externally imposed limitations to an approach that nurtures a sense of self and ability to choose.
This story underscores the importance of respecting human rights in everyday care and support. By moving from a model of risk aversion to one that champions freedom and dignity, support workers can help clients lead independent, empowered lives.
Strong practice informed by evidence
Our agency is committed to continuous learning, participating in research projects and conducting program evaluations to inform the improvement of our service models and delivery.
Our STEP Therapeutic Framework training package has transformed evidence-based academic theories into eight modules that can be applied in everyday therapeutic practice.
We have built strong alliances with community-controlled organisations that have led to innovation in our service design.
Through our partnership with the Centre for Social Impact at Flinders University, we conduct research and evaluation projects that inform service delivery improvements for better client outcomes.
Also, our early intervention and recovery domestic violence services are broadening the traditional ways of connecting with victims/survivors by using place-based methodologies to build trust in the community and respond promptly to the identified needs.
Our Animal Wellbeing Program provides opportunities for safe interactions with animals at schools, disability services and community settings.
It has been shown that animals can positively impact a person’s behavioural, emotional and verbal distress, helping build skills for self-awareness and self-regulation.
The ASCEND Youth Life Promotion team led the review of our suicide risk assessment guidelines, which are a crucial resource for early intervention and prevention.
ACCESS Programs, our employee assistance service, has developed an evidence-based training suite on relevant topics for workplace issues and concerns, such as dealing with change, managing conflict and building resilience.
Research in drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs showed that gardening was associated with improved outcomes in higher treatment retention and higher client satisfaction.
This informed our 2023-2024 Alban Place therapeutic garden project, which was funded by Catholic Charities (see page 24).
For our homelessness services, it is a priority to conduct regular monitoring and analysis of data to identify emerging trends and gaps to be addressed.
At Wandana Community Centre, programs are delivered by the community, for the community, with our staff providing the framework and skills to build the capacity of grassroots initiatives and create broader social systems.
The STEP training has made evident that, as practitioners, we need to be brave to go to the wound and repair. We need to keep showing up for our clients.
CENTACARE STAFF
4 out of 8 STEP training modules have been rolled out to Centacare staff.
9811
support hours provided by Your LINC between March and June 2024.
Your LINC
MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
In April 2023, Centacare and KWY Aboriginal Corporation formally announced a partnership to deliver Your LINC Mental Health Services across Adelaide and select regional areas.
Your LINC: Lived, Identity, Navigate, and Connect, represents a significant step forward in mental health support, blending evidence-based practices with a person-centred approach.
Funded by the Department of Health and Wellbeing, the KWY and Centacare partnership is one of the largest providers of community-based individual psychosocial support in the state.
Through this collaboration, KWY is introducing a dedicated and community-controlled Aboriginal service, centring on cultural ways of healing, engagement and recovery. This initiative provides a unique avenue for improving outcomes and wellbeing, reducing risk and promoting recovery among Aboriginal people, families and communities.
Craig Rigney, CEO of KWY Aboriginal Corporation, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are proud to partner with Centacare in offering culturally responsive mental health services that honour and respect the diverse needs of our communities.”
Building upon Centacare’s extensive experience delivering individual psychosocial support services, Your LINC will expand its reach in multiple Local Health Networks, with services across greater metropolitan Adelaide, the Barossa, Hills, Fleurieu Peninsula, Kangaroo Island and the Limestone Coast.
Leanne Haddad, Executive Director of Centacare, highlighted the services’ commitment to providing comprehensive and tailored support stating, “Your LINC is dedicated to walking alongside individuals on their mental health recovery journey, prioritising their lived experiences and building agency to achieve their own identified goals.”
Your LINC embodies a strength-based approach to mental health support, where our workers walk alongside individuals to reclaim their sense of self and community.
Through collaboration, compassion and cultural responsiveness, Centacare and KWY Aboriginal Corporation are contributing to meaningful and sustained outcomes in the lives of those navigating mental health challenges and recovery.
Leaving our mark on sector growth
Over the years, we have built strong relationships in the social services sector. We are proud of our role as advocates for change.
This year, our staff’s expertise was showcased and valued on the national stage. Senior staff from our Unify Family Reunification Services presented at the conference ‘Improving Outcomes for Children Experiencing Vulnerability and Risk’ in Sydney, where they shared critical insights about the STEP Therapeutic Framework, enriched by case studies.
Senior staff from our northern parenting programs presented their paper ‘Breaking the cycle’ at the Marcé Society Helen Mayo House Conference. Their research discussed how the impact of intergenerational trauma, loss and adversity within the perinatal period can lead to significant barriers to accessing services.
Our Family Dispute Resolution team presented a webinar on supporting children’s wellbeing when working with separating parents through the Emerging Minds platform.
We made a submission to the Inquiry for Commissioner April Lawrie’s report ‘Holding on to Our Future’, and we hosted the sector discussion ‘Protecting kids, protecting culture: How we can improve our responses to Aboriginal infants, children and young people’ with Commissioner Lawrie and Guardian Shona Reid.
Our Next Steps pilot service undertook an evaluation process to inform proposals for the future and sustainability of this type of support model for young people exiting care.
We were honoured with several nominations at the South Australian Child Protection Awards 2023 delivered by the Department for Child Protection. Two of our foster carers were chosen for the Positive Impact award.
Our Specialist Therapist and a couple of long-serving foster carers were nominated for the Lifetime Achievement category, while another two foster carers were finalists for their commitment to connecting children to Country and culture by implementing the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Child Placement Principle.
Our staff participated in qualitative interviews for the Lived Experience Leadership and Advocacy Network (LELAN) and partnered with the Mental Health Coalition of South Australia to create a video that encapsulates the ethos of our joint endeavour and celebrates the passion, dedication and contributions of our lived experience workers.
As signatories to the Thriving Families pledge, we ratify our commitment to transformational and generational change.
They came to us scared and worried; when we look at them today, five years later, they are the most funny, happy, empathic, loving kids you could ever wish for.
AWARDED FOSTER CARER
780
South Australian children needing family-based care.
1 in 3 women in Australia experience a form of violence in their lifetime.
New targets to end violence
At the end of 2022, Australian, state and territory governments released the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022—2032, underpinned by the first five-year Action Plan, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Action Plan and the Outcomes Framework.
The National Plan describes how all areas of society need to work together over the next ten years to end violence against women and children, with the action plans outlining government initiatives aimed at preventing, addressing and responding to violence against women and children. They provide a roadmap to drive the first five-year effort towards achieving the vision of the National Plan.
The development of the first Action Plan included specific consultation with victim-survivors, beyond the inclusion of victim-survivor expertise on the National Plan Advisory Group and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Council.
EXPLORE
The National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children • dss.gov.au/end-violence
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Action Plan 2023-2025 was developed in genuine partnership with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Council on family, domestic and sexual violence.
It lays the foundations for longer-term structural change and aims to address the immediate safety needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, children and families.
The Outcomes Framework 2023-2032 shows us where we want to be in ten years, working towards a generational change where all Australians live free from gender-based violence and are safe at home, work, school, in the community and online. It will help track, measure, monitor and report change over the life of the National Plan.
Under the umbrella of Embolden —South Australia’s peak body for specialist domestic, family, and sexual violence services— and as the largest provider of specialist domestic violence support services in regional South Australia, we continue to strengthen our commitment to partnering, innovating and advocating to uphold the rights of women and children.
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Become a foster carer with Centacare.
Breathing Space helped our client recognise that the judgement she felt did not define her identity as a mother nor detract from her love for her child.
Child Protection Morning Tea
Caz | Case Manager | Breathing Space
Leading
the
way in teaching, learning, and community impact
This year has been transformational for Centacare’s Registered Training Organisation (RTO no. 1004), now rebranded as the Centacare Institute.
This new identity reflects the bold steps we have taken in our journey to become a leading teaching, learning, and research organisation in the community and social services sector.
Working in partnership with key stakeholders, we introduced a range of new accredited skill sets, including Homelessness Support, Working with Complex Needs in Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) and Peer Leadership.
These offerings reflect our commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the sector and building a workforce equipped to meet diverse community needs. Our focus is driven by four key areas:
• Accredited Training: Expanding qualifications tailored to the sector’s emerging demands.
• Workplace Training: Offering practical solutions for professional development.
• School Programs: The soon-to-be-launched Power Up online modules in partnership with the Port Adelaide Football Club.
• STEP Therapeutic Framework: A cornerstone of our innovative training approaches, with further development underway.
In addition to accredited training, we are strengthening our non-accredited programs. This includes the introduction of Mental Health First Aid Training, with more offerings in development to meet the evolving needs of Centacare and the sector.
Going forward, this has resulted in the launch of the Centacare Institute’s website, demonstrating our new direction and showcasing expanded opportunities for staff, learners and partners.
These initiatives reflect our mission to innovate, lead and deliver impactful solutions that make a difference across South Australia. Together, we are building a brighter future, empowering the sector and creating meaningful change in our communities.
“I am eternally grateful to the team for their constant support... I doubt I’ll ever get used to people believing in me.
Funding Transformation
Through the generosity of their supporters, Catholic Charities funded the transformation of crucial spaces for our clients’ wellbeing.
Green Recovery
At our Alcohol and Other Drugs rehabilitation facility, Alban Place, the backyard evolved from a grey area covered in concrete into a space to sit and enjoy the greenery.
This therapeutic garden supports residents’ wellbeing and provides them with a sense of accomplishment through gardening, planting and harvesting.
The First Home
At Westbourne Park, we renovated a dwelling owned by the Adelaide Archdiocese for our pilot program Next Steps to offer a transitional housing opportunity to young people exiting care.
Following a mental health crisis, a young client terminated his lease, was hospitalised, placed on a Community Treatment Order, and began sleeping in his car.
Centacare provided immediate housing in Westbourne Park for eight months, allowing him to stabilise, secure employment and engage in mental health treatment. With support, he has set up a new home, maintained his job and achieved ongoing stability in his mental health and overall wellbeing.
Play and Heal
Our Riverland Domestic Violence Service offers support and secure emergency accommodation for women and children fleeing domestic violence.
The playground at the residential facility has been revitalised, and offers a fun play area for children and families to enjoy as they heal and recover.
“Young people are now learning to grow vegetables and care for plants, which has given them purpose and skills we couldn’t have nurtured otherwise.
The garden also provides a space for relaxation, yoga and exercise – supporting both their mental and physical health in recovery.”
ALBAN PLACE STAFF
The Power to End Violence Against Women Program (PTEVAW) was specifically designed for male Year 10 students to promote women’s rights and gender equality.
Then, in 2020, Empowered was developed as an educational program that provides tools to understand healthy relationships and foster a well-developed sense of self to female Year 10 students
This year, Dante Visentini, Hugh Jackson, Jed McEntee, Ash Saints, Amelie Borg and Sachi Syme were the players who led the delivery of these programs in 38 South Australian schools.
Power Community Limited, the not-for-profit charity arm of the Port Adelaide Football Club, invited our Executive Director, Leanne Haddad, to speak at a leadership event in November 2023.
Education powers generational change
With a strong vision of prevention, Power Community Limited, Centacare and the Department for Education have partnered since 2016 to deliver educational programs to young people around healthy relationships.
Leanne presented to hundreds of young women about the factors contributing to gender inequality and highlighted ways to overcome societal barriers that perpetuate violence and abuse.
In May and June 2024, our staff attended the Aboriginal Power Cup and the Multicultural Power Cup, two competitive AFL carnivals. These events include a careers exhibition where secondary school students explore meaningful pathways for their future.
We are grateful for the opportunity to connect with young people and highlight the diverse professional avenues relevant to the community and social services we provide.
We are committed to continue growing this partnership that invests in generational change to end violence against women.
38 schools engaged in the PTWEVAW and Empowered programs.
3,728
South Australian students participated.
4083
kilometres travelled for the delivery of the educational programs.
Together, we are stronger
GOVERNMENT FUNDERS
• Adelaide Primary Health Network
• Attorney-General’s Department
• Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service
• Country Primary Health Network
• Department for Child Protection
• Department for Correctional Services
• Department for Education
• Department for Health and Wellbeing
• Department of Human Services
• Department of Social Services
• eSafety Commissioner
• National Disability Insurance Scheme
• SA Health
• SA Housing Authority
• Skills SA
OTHER FUNDERS/GRANTS
• AnglicareSA Communities for Children Playford and Onkaparinga
• Association of Independent Schools
• Barossa Foundation
• Catholic Charities
• Catholic Education SA
• Morialta Trust Grant
• Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Adelaide Charitable Trust
• St Vincent Trust
• Wyatt Benevolent Society
MEMBERSHIPS
• Child and Family Focus SA
• Community Centres SA
• Embolden
• Employee Assistance Professional Association of Australasia
• Family and Relationship Services Australia
• Family Law Pathways Network
• Homelessness Australia
• Lived Experience & Advocacy Network
• National Disability Services
• Mental Health Coalition of SA
• Shelter SA
• South Australian Council of Social Services
• South Australian Network of Drug and Alcohol Services
ALLIANCE PARTNERS
Adelaide North West Homelessness
• UnitingSA
• Aboriginal Sobriety Group
• AnglicareSA
• St John’s Youth Services
• The Salvation Army (SA)
• Uniting Communities
Country North
• Uniting Country SA
• Centacare Catholic Country SA
• The Salvation Army (SA)
• West Coast Youth and Community Support
Statewide Domestic and Family Violence
• Women’s Safety Services SA
• Centacare Catholic Country SA
• Junction Australia
• Nunga Miminar Inc
• The Salvation Army (SA)
• Uniting Country SA
• Yarredi Services
PARTNERS
• Aboriginal Sobriety Group
• Access National Network
• Australian Refugee Association
• CatholicCare NT
• Carer and Disability Link
• Carers SA
• Carer and Community Support
• Centacare Catholic Country SA
• COTA Strength for Life
• Emerging Minds
• Flinders University - Centre for Social Impact
• Healthy Mind
• Helping Hand
• Housing Choices
• KWY Aboriginal Corporation
• Lived Experience Workforce Program
• Mission Australia
• Port Adelaide Football Club
• Port Adelaide Enfield Council
• Power Community Limited
• Right Care Right Place
• South Australia Police
• Tafe SA
• Tauondi Aboriginal College
• Women’s and Children’s Hospital
• Women’s Information Service SA
DONORS
• Adelaide Medical Solutions
• Brave Capibara
• Brother Michael Christmas Hamper Appeal
• Brush with Kindness
• Burton Knitting Group
• Catherine McAuley School
• Catholic Women’s League SA
• Coles Christies Beach
• Commonwealth Bank Port Adelaide
• Compass Catholic Community
• Emmaus Knitting Group
• Habitat for Humanity
• Keith Catholic Women’s League
• Latitude Recruitment Mount Gambier
• Lil’ Adelaide Rollers
• Lioness Club Mount Gambier
• Lyn Shea
• Nazareth Catholic Community
• Norwood International High School
• OZ Harvest
• PACT Foundation
• Pasadena Kindergarten
• Rosary School Prospect
• Rima’s Luncheons
• Rotary International
• Sacred Heart College
• Saint Ignatius College
• Saunders Riverland
• Soroptomist International
• Southern International Women’s Day
• St Aloysius College
• St John Bosco School
• St John The Baptist Old Scholar Mums
• St Michael’s College
• St Patrick’s Technical College
• TIDE Church
• Wesnet
• Xavier College Gawler Belt
• Youth Education Centre Kilburn
• Zonta International
Financials
Centacare recorded a planned deficit of $1.27m for the 2023-24 financial year primarily driven by the increase in employee benefits expenses and the establishment of system innovation initiatives.
Employee benefits expense rose by $1.86m (4.4%) and is largely attributable to the minimum award rate increase of 5.75% and the additional 0.5% increase in the Super Guarantee Contribution.
Centacare is actively pursuing strategies to diversify income streams, including expanding our fee for service revenue programs and advocating for a more sustainable funding model that reflects the true cost of delivering quality services to our community.
Centacare’s financial position remains solid with a healthy asset base.
Centred around you
Service Delivery
Areas of Support
Service Delivery
METROPOLITAN ADELAIDE
KAURNA COUNTRY
ADELAIDE SA 5000
45 Wakefield Street
HQ: 08 8215 6700
ACCESS Programs: 08 8215 6799
Counselling: 08 8228 8900
Plan Management: 08 8228 8940
ALDINGA SA 5173
Cnr Quinliven Road and How Road 08 8215 6310
BLAIR ATHOL SA 5084
Malvern Place 08 8303 6610
ELIZABETH DOWNS SA 5113
Dads Business Shop 7A
Elizabeth Rise Shopping Centre
26 Hamblynn Road 08 8412 9500
ELIZABETH PARK SA 5113
The Centa 34 Yorktown Road 08 8412 9570
ELIZABETH SOUTH SA 5112
Carlow Place 08 8412 9520
FULLARTON SA 5063
Louise Place 08 8412 9530
GILLES PLAINS SA 5086
Wandana Community Centre
14 Blacks Road 08 8215 6330
MORPHETT VALE SA 5162
Coolock House 08 8412 9560
NOARLUNGA CENTRE SA 5168
Level 1, Commonwealth House Colonnades Shopping Centre 08 8303 6600
POORAKA SA 5095
Hannah Place 08 8303 6670
PORT ADELAIDE SA 5015
78-80 St Vincent Street
headspace Port Adelaide 08 8215 6340
Centacare 08 8303 6660
SALISBURY SA 5108
33 Carey Street 08 8412 9500
SEATON SA 5023
413 Grange Road 08 8159 1400
STEPNEY SA 5059
80C Payneham Road 08 8228 8950
REGIONAL SA
BERRI SA 5343
MERU COUNTRY
Riverland Domestic Violence Service 08 8215 6380
MOUNT GAMBIER SA 5290
BOANDIK COUNTRY
Level 1, 62 Gray Street 08 8303 6630
MURRAY BRIDGE SA 5253
NGARRINDJERI COUNTRY
Office T3, 2-6 Sturt Reserve Road 08 8215 6320
WHYALLA STUART SA 5608
BARNGARLA COUNTRY
5 Colebrook Street 08 8215 6370
OUTREACH LOCATIONS
• Adelaide Hills
• Angaston
• Barossa
• Gawler
• Goolwa
• Grant
• Kangaroo Island
• Karoonda East Murray
• Langhorne Creek
• Loxton
• Mid Murray
• Millicent
• Mount Barker
• Naracoorte Lucindale
• Pinaroo
• Penola
• Renmark
• Robe
• Southern Mallee
• Strathalbyn
• Tatiara
• The Coorong
• Victor Harbor
• Waikerie
• Wattle Range
• Yankalilla
Whyalla
Barossa
Berri
Adelaide
Murray Bridge
Kangaroo Island
Mt Gambier
ARCHBISHOP OF ADELAIDE
Patrick O’Regan
EXECUTIVE OF THE CURIA
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Leanne Haddad
DIRECTOR
CORPORATE AND BUSINESS OPERATIONS
Liam Connelly
EXECUTIVE MANAGER
CHILDREN’S SERVICES UNIT
Amalie Mannik
EXPLORE
Our Governance Structure
• centacare.org.au/about
EXECUTIVE MANAGER MENTAL HEALTH, COUNSELLING AND WELLBEING SERVICES
Kim Formosa
DIOCESAN FINANCE COUNCIL
DIRECTOR
ADVISORY COUNCIL
STRATEGY, RESEARCH AND INNOVATION
Dr Jonathon Louth
EXECUTIVE MANAGER DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, HOMELESSNESS AND YOUTH SERVICES
Megan Welsh
EXECUTIVE MANAGER CARE AND SUPPORT SERVICES
Gabby Jones
Archdiocese of Adelaide
45 Wakefield Street
Adelaide SA 5000 08 8215 6700
enquiries@centacare.org.au centacare.org.au
We are committed to the
Centacare has an ongoing commitment to building and maintaining a Child Safe Organisation. We endorse the Charter of Rights for Children and Young people and promote those rights in our policy and practice.
Centacare welcomes people who are intersex, gender diverse and of all sexualities.
Statement regarding the traditional owners of the land
For thousands of years, Aboriginal peoples have walked on this land, in their country. Their relationship with the land is at the centre of their lives. We acknowledge the Aboriginal peoples and their stewardship and spiritual connection with their lands.
Centacare is nationally accredited against the Quality Improvement Council (QIC), Australian Health and Community Services Standards.
