Annual Report
2023–2024
at the Casino Neighbourhood Centre.
Momentum Collective acknowledges all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as Australia’s
and
We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging and extend that respect to all our Aboriginal and Torres
Islander clients, employees, partners and stakeholders.
By Kim Healey, a proud woman descendant of the Bundjalung and Gumbaynggirr nations and the winner of Momentum Collective’s 2023 Bundjalung Artwork Competition.
Chairman’s Report
Andrew Weil Chairman
As we reflect on the past year, I want to express my sincere gratitude to all our staff for their unwavering service to the clients we support. While this year has presented significant challenges, including a financial loss, it has also reinforced our commitment to our mission and the communities we serve.
The challenges across our National Disability Insurance Scheme services have tested our resilience, but they have also highlighted the importance of adaptability and innovation in our approach.
Considering our financial challenges, we are taking proactive steps to enhance our sustainability. We conducted a comprehensive review of our operations to identify efficiencies and new funding opportunities. We are also strengthening our information technology capability.
I am proud of the remarkable impact our teams have continued to make. Our Community Housing and SHS services have continued to grow with an additional $24.7M in capital funding and an expansion of our Assertive Outreach partnership in Byron Bay.
We have supported 4,987 clients demonstrating our commitment to making a difference across our communities. Our dedicated staff and volunteers have shown incredible passion and tenacity, ensuring that our programs remain strong and responsive to the needs of our community.
To my fellow Directors, thank you for your dedication to the governance of Momentum Collective, so we can continue to support our clients in achieving their goals.
Sincerely,
Andrew Weil
CEO’s Report
Tracey Mackie
I’m delighted to present Momentum Collective’s 2023–2024 Annual Report, a testament to our clients, people and organisation. It is a journey marked by opportunities, challenges, achievements and, most of all, a solid commitment to our vision.
This year has been challenging as we navigate the evolving regulatory and funding landscape across our NDIS and community services. We have supported the most vulnerable in our communities and we are grateful for the continued dedication shown by our teams to make a difference in people’s lives.
Throughout 2023–2024, we successfully achieved over $9M in grants. These funds have enabled us to expand our services and strengthen our commitment to the communities we serve. We have continued to build a secure pipeline of funding for new capital developments, which now total $24.7M.
Momentum Collective is also proud to announce the extension of contracts for our Community Mental Health
Recovery Houses and Assertive Outreach program. In addition, we have established a new partnership with Northern Rivers Housing to deliver comprehensive support services for the Together Home program.
One of our top priorities this year was to improve client engagement and create inclusive opportunities. We have been working on our new Integrated Business Application and the teams have been working tirelessly to implement it successfully in the next financial year.
To enhance our tenants’ experience, we are the proud recipient of an $800K grant from the Land and Housing Corporation, which enabled us to upgrade 20 properties.
Thank you to our Board, our valued clients, employees and partners for your continued support as we work to create inclusive and meaningful opportunities for our community.
Sincerely,
Tracey Mackie
Messages of Support
Geoff Provest MP Member for Tweed
Momentum Collective has been a part of the Tweed community for over 30 years now. As the Member for Tweed Heads, I am always thrilled to see more inclusive opportunities for all members of our community. Momentum Collective continues to provide support services that enrich the lives of many individuals and their families. Thank you to Momentum Collective for the everyday support you continue to provide.
Dennis Watt Gold Coast Titans Executive Chairman
Momentum Collective has been a wonderful club partner, with their support of our Leagueability program highlighting our shared commitment to social inclusion through sport.
As Titans, we want to make rugby league a game for all. Through our Leagueability program, athletes with physical or intellectual disabilities can play an adaptive version of our game.
The team from Momentum Collective has played a huge part in helping us grow this program, to the point where we’ve seen a 20% rise in participants since they’ve been involved.
Janelle Saffin MP State Member for Lismore
The Lismore community continues to recover from the humanitarian disaster of the 2022 floods. I congratulate Momentum Collective’s entire team, led by CEO Tracey Mackie and Chairman Andrew Weil, on supporting our most vulnerable people. Thank you for making a real difference in the areas of mental health, disability, domestic and family violence and homelessness. Working together, we can ‘build back better’ for a brighter future.
Cr Robert Mustow Mayor of Richmond Valley Council
It is with appreciation I reflect on another year of work carried out by Momentum Collective. Our community has faced challenges, but thanks to your support we have seen resilience grow stronger.
Momentum Collective’s efforts have provided critical support to those most in need and, on behalf of Richmond Valley Council, I thank you for your continued dedication to our community’s health and wellbeing.
I look forward to all you will achieve in the coming year.
About Momentum Collective
Empowered
Our Impact
We Supported
4,987* PEOPLE
4,263 clients lives are supported and were enriched through our community programs
Across our properties
655 tenants are in safe homes and off the streets
222 mental health recovery clients Specialist Homelessness Service
We received
1,014 after-hours domestic violence response enhancement calls
2,599
532 people with disability women & children escaping domestic and family violence Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islanders
1,493
577
315 employees properties
293
103
197
34
17
58
5
One
Messages of Support
Enhance Client Experience
Our commitment to our vision of “connected communities, empowered people” has guided our strategic focus throughout the year. “Empowered people” refers to our clients and to our dedicated staff who work tirelessly to enhance our client’s experience.
Shaping Services Through Feedback
One of our key priorities this year was to improve client engagement and create more inclusive opportunities. We implemented the Outcomes Framework, conducting baseline surveys within our Supported Independent Living and Specialist Disability Accommodation services in August, surveying over 65 clients. These surveys, consisted of seven questions linked to five client outcome domains – safe and suitable housing, empowerment, health and wellness, connection to community and purpose and fulfillment. We assessed how effectively Momentum Collective is meeting its clients’ needs and supporting their goals. We plan to follow up in the coming months to measure progress and continue refining our approach.
The “no wrong door” approach we adopted has been instrumental in ensuring clients receive the correct information and are directed to the appropriate internal and external stakeholders to achieve their goals.
Clients can confidently approach us, knowing we are committed to assisting them navigate their journey, reducing the need to repeat their stories and allowing them to focus on building relationships with their Service Managers.
Gaining a deep understanding of the client admission journey was one of the projects scheduled for the 2023–2024 financial year. We started working on the Integrated Business Application and are in the process of selecting the system that meets the needs of our clients, staff and business. This new system will facilitate a smooth and consistent client experience, enabling us to establish stronger relationships from the very first interaction.
In response to the evolving needs of NDIS participants, we took significant steps to enhance our centre-based, group and capacity-building programs. A NDIA report highlighted that approximately 60% of NDIS participants lacked input in selecting programs or services, prompting Momentum Collective to embark on a sevenmonth journey to better understand the needs and preferences of clients, families and carers. This collaborative approach led to the rebranding and co-design of group programs in partnership with our NDIS clients, culminating in the launch of the Bloom program in April 2024.
Bloom, celebrated through launch events in Casino, Grafton and Tweed Heads, has already made a profound impact by improving clients’ capacities, allowing them to achieve greater independence and fulfillment. This program reflects a client-centric, dynamic experience and embodies vibrancy, enjoyment and innovation, as envisioned by our clients.
Building a Cohesive Framework for Service Excellence
Over a three-month period, our community program teams participated in workshops focused on Program Logic model skills. These workshops were both productive and engaging, offering team members the opportunity to share valuable experiences and insights. The teams have been thoroughly reviewing and refining the Program Logic for our Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) funded programs, including Specialist Homelessness Services, Assertive Outreach and the Casino Neighbourhood Centre services.
This structured approach ensures consistency across all of our programs and aligns with our contractual requirements with the DCJ. We had clarity on our objectives, identified the necessary resources and outlined the activities needed to achieve our desired outcomes. Through collaborative discussions and activities, we have aligned our current work with this logic, ensuring transparency and clear direction in our efforts. Additionally, Momentum Collective has implemented a Case Management Framework that serves as an essential resource, guiding and supporting our Case Managers in comprehensively addressing the various aspects of their roles.
Strengthening Communities
Throughout 2023–2024, Momentum Collective has made significant strides in uplifting individuals and building stronger, more connected communities. This progress was made possible through the support of our stakeholders, including donors, community members and government agencies. Our approach, centered on innovation and collaboration, has led to the introduction of new services and the strengthening of existing partnerships.
A notable example of our innovative efforts is the Community Cart program, designed to support vulnerable clients with easily accessible food. The cart was built by young people participating in one of our school holiday programs in Casino, New South Wales. The cart relies on community generosity – based on the principle “take what you need, give what you can”. It has provided essential support to many people facing hardship in the area.
Additionally, our After-School Drop-in program has, on average, 20 to 30 young people coming along each week to share some games, activities and food.
The “Level Up Program”, focusing on enhancing employment opportunities and skill development, was introduced in October 2023. This initiative demonstrates our commitment to empowering the next generation, with 50 young people participating in the 2023–2024 program.
School holiday program at the Oak Centre, Casino, New South Wales.
Tenants Experience and Youth Support
This year, we concluded our NSW Government funded Youth Headlease program with great success. It provided critical support to youth experiencing or at risk of homelessness, enabling them to transition from temporary housing to long-term private rental arrangements. The positive outcomes of this program are a testament to Momentum Collective’s commitment to transforming lives through sustainable housing solutions.
Additionally, we were gracious recipients of an $800K grant as part of the Land and Housing Corporation Capital Maintenance Program. This grant facilitated the much-needed upgrade of 20 of Momentum Collective’s older properties, ensuring our residents live in safe, modern and comfortable homes. Notably, a $40K portion of this grant was allocated to the enhancement of a social housing property in Kingscliff, which now serves as transitional housing for individuals dealing with mental health challenges. This initiative is part of our broader commitment to integrating social support within our housing services.
Momentum Collective’s dedication to connected communities and empowered people remains at the heart of everything we do and we look forward to continuing this vital work in the coming year.
Meet Charles
At 24, Charles faced significant challenges due to his mental health condition, leaving him feeling lost and disconnected. A turning point came when he was referred to Momentum Collective’s Community Recovery Mental Health home in Coffs Harbour. There, he found a sense of belonging for the first time.
Under the guidance of Momentum Collective’s Case Coordinator, Debra, Charles began to experience safety and support. Charles had been homeless and emotionally withdrawn, without meaningful relationships. Moving into the recovery home gave him hope and a chance to rebuild his life. “I wasn’t in a good place before,” Charles reflects. “But with Momentum Collective’s support, I started to regain confidence and embrace new challenges.”
One of the highlights of Charles’ year was his 24th birthday, celebrated with his housemates and staff. It was important to share Charles’ meaningful connections on his special day.
After-School Drop-in program at the Oak Centre, Casino, New South Wales.
Priority Two Business Growth
In the past year, Momentum Collective has experienced business development, driven by strategic investments and the successful acquisition of over $9M in grant funding. These funds have enabled us to expand our services and strengthen our commitment to the communities we serve.
Building for Tomorrow
Significantly, Momentum Collective has continued to build a secure pipeline of funding for new capital developments, which now totals $24.7M.
Momentum Collective’s pipeline of new developments comprises a mix of NSW Government and Commonwealth funding that will support access to safe and secure crisis accommodation and community housing.
These projects provide a critical investment in homes and accommodation for vulnerable members of our
community and capacity to support women and children experiencing domestic and family violence, as well as individuals facing homelessness or unable to access homes from the open market.
Forging Stronger Partnerships
We are proud to announce the continuation of our Community Mental Health Recovery House program for another three years in key regions such as Grafton, Lismore and Tweed Heads, New South Wales. This extension, supported by NSW Health, reflects our ongoing dedication to providing safe, supportive and therapeutic environments that empower individuals on their recovery journeys.
Throughout this year, our growth has been marked by the strengthening of our partnerships. A notable example is our collaboration with Northern Rivers Housing (NRH), where we provide comprehensive wraparound case management and support services
for individuals housed under the Together Home program. Our teams are now working closely with NRH’s Tenancy Managers to ensure the sustainability of solid tenancies across the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, fostering positive outcomes for program participants.
Our commitment to addressing homelessness has also been reinforced with the extension of our Assertive Outreach (AO) program in Tweed Heads and new AO funding to support homelessness in Byron Shire. Since commencing supports across Byron Shire in March 2024, we have supported over 200 homeless individuals.
Together, the partnerships have achieved a 40% reduction in rough sleeping across Byron Shire and Tweed Heads. This program, funded by the NSW Department of Communities and Justice, is a collaborative effort involving Momentum Collective, Social Futures, Homes NSW and NSW Health.
Our Alliance Partnerships led by Momentum Collective had Specialised Homelessness Services (SHS) extended through to June 2026, including the Specialist Workers for Children and Young People program that provides focused support for children in refuge. These funding extensions highlight our commitment to supporting women and children who are at risk of or are experiencing homelessness as a result of domestic and family violence and our commitment to the wellbeing of children and young people in our refuges.
Over the past year, we have provided tailored support to 2,919* (across the entire northern region) women and their children, which includes 59 children and youth in refuge, ensuring they received the necessary support during challenging times.
*Includes all Momentum Collective’s Alliance Partners clients.
Pipeline of New Developments
DCJ funding, via Core and Cluster and the Community Housing Innovation Fund (CHIF) for 13 x 1 and 2 bed units, plus 1 ancillary services support building in Casino. Construction is expected to begin in early 2025.
DCJ funding, via Core and Cluster and Commonwealth Government funding via Safe Places for 13 x 1, 2 and 3 bed units, plus 1 ancillary services support building in Tweed Heads, New South Wales. Construction is expected to begin in early 2025.
DCJ funding via CHIF for 7 x 2 bed units in Grafton, New South Wales. Early project works are in progress.
development in Casino, New South Wales.
Our Footprint
Bundjalung
Youth Programs
Looking ahead, Momentum Collective remains focused on driving positive change and delivering innovative, client-focused services that meet the evolving needs of our communities. Our dedication to supporting youth has been further strengthened with the Casino Neighbourhood Centre securing over $76K grant from the Youth Participation Fund, part of the Resilient Kids Program. We have also received $9K to run school holiday programs – thanks to the Office for Regional Youth. These programs are dedicated to building resilience, increasing life skills and encouraging active youth participation, aligning perfectly with our mission.
As we continue to grow, we are confident that our strategic initiatives and partnerships will enable us to make a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve.
We would like to provide thanks to our government and non-government funding bodies and organisations for their continued support and strategic collaboration to address access to housing and related community supports.
Gumbaynggirr
Githabul
Brisbane
Grafton
Evans Head Casino
Gold Coast
Tweed Heads
Byron Bay
Ballina
Lismore
Meet George
“I didn’t think that I’d ever be housed in a place that I could call my own. I thought that was just a dream that just wouldn’t happen. Momentum Collective and Heather, they helped me achieve a dream.”
George faced many challenges on his journey to stability, living in a caravan park with no permanent home. When floods destroyed his temporary residence in 2022, his situation became even more precarious, deepening his sense of uncertainty.
Heather, our dedicated Tenancy Officer at Momentum Collective, worked tirelessly, advocating for George and navigating the complexities of the housing system to secure him a permanent home.
Through this process, Heather became an ally, ensuring George’s dream of a stable home became a reality.
Now, with a permanent residence, George enjoys renewed hope and independence.
“I’m only limited by my imagination now. That’s how I feel.”
Tenant George with Momentum Collective’s Tenancy Officer Heather Marsh at his house in 2023.
Priority Three Optimise Processes & Systems
In 2023–2024, Momentum Collective embarked on a comprehensive review of our systems, driven by the need to streamline operations, enhance efficiency and better support our services and programs.
A Deep Dive into the Client’s Journey
We initiated a phased approach to evaluate our current systems.
We began by thoroughly analysing our employee and client journeys, collaborating closely with stakeholders across various departments including people, change and culture, finance, rostering intake teams, payroll and operations. This involved an in-depth assessment of our current processes and a detailed mapping of system requirements to ensure that any solutions would align with our operational needs.
In the next few months, Momentum Collective will work on improving the software to streamline operations and improve efficiency across the organisation.
This strategic investment is a significant step towards optimising our internal processes, enhancing our service delivery and supporting the growth and success of Momentum Collective.
Clearer Communications, Stronger Teams
In response to the feedback gathered from the 2023 Employee Survey, Momentum Collective developed and implemented our new Communications Plan. This plan was designed to enhance our internal communication channels, ensuring they are more effective and responsive to the needs of our employees.
One of the several key initiatives introduced was our new monthly staff newsletter. It serves as a regular communication tool, improving the flow of information across the organisation.
A staff feedback channel on our intranet was also implemented as a two-way communication tool that allows staff to share thoughts, suggestions and concerns directly with the leadership team.
Finally, our new internal communications protocol was established to ensure clarity and consistency in our internal communications. This protocol serves as a crucial reference guide to maintain effective communication throughout the organisation.
These initiatives highlight our focus on fostering a more connected and engaged workforce, ensuring that all employees within Momentum Collective are informed, heard and valued.
An employee at Momentum Collective explores one of the new system options.
Priority Four
Invest in Our Workforce Capability
In 2023–2024, Momentum Collective has made substantial progress in enhancing our organisational effectiveness and fostering a supportive, engaged work environment. This year, our focus has been building a sustainable workforce, refining our operational processes and implementing initiatives that enrich the employee experience.
Registered Training Organisation
Our Momentum Collective Academy team developed an accredited training course, the Building Resilience program which was delivered to 25 team members and to 20 students from external community organisations. The outcomes for the students were the development of skills to manage personal wellbeing in the workplace including reflective practice. This investment in resilience training has equipped participants with the tools to navigate challenges and maintain wellbeing, contributing to a more resilient and productive organisation.
Shaping a Positive Employee Experience
A highlight of the year was our 2023 Bravo Awards Event on the Gold Coast which was attended by over 110 employees. It was a celebration of our teams and exceptional achievements. Congratulations to all award winners for their dedication to Momentum Collective’s mission.
Momentum Collective has also implemented several initiatives to support staff, promote a collaborative workplace and retain talent, including the Momentum Perks program.
The Building Resilience program delivered online by Momentum Collective Academy.
This Staff Benefits program offers a variety of advantages, including a fitness passport, salary packaging with significant discounts, as well as the Employee Assistance program, giving employees access to counselling, coaching and support, financial coaching, nutritional coaching and a wellbeing app.
One of our focus areas has also been to increase opportunities for career progression with several team members successfully transitioning into new roles and moving across different teams.
It has been inspiring to see the evolution of our employee-led committees. We continued to see the Work Health and Safety and the RAP (Reconciliation Action Plan) working groups have a positive impact. The Equity, Diversity and Inclusion committee has developed an organisational strategy aimed at fostering a culture of belonging and acceptance.
Driving Efficiency Across the Organisation
During the second half of the year, our focus has been on improving operational efficiency. We undertook a substantial project to streamline processes and redefine roles by applying our guiding principles to inform these decisions and ensure a client-centred approach.
Through strategic initiatives and targeted investments in our people, we have strengthened our organisation’s foundation, ensuring a more resilient, productive and collaborative workplace. As we look ahead, we remain committed to fostering an environment where our employees can thrive and our collective efforts continue to drive meaningful impact in the communities we serve.
Momentum Collective employees at the Hollywood themed 2023 Bravo Awards.
Two team members receiving recognition from the
Ballina RSL, one of our supporters.
Our Community & Partners
Momentum Collective is dedicated to supporting local communities and is grateful for the support we receive from small businesses, community members, larger organisations and companies.
As part of our commitment to Reconciliation, we took part in several Reconciliation Week events, including the Walk on Country in Kingscliff, a movie night in Casino and a community day in Grafton.
During NAIDOC Week, with the theme “Keep the Fire Burning,” we encouraged employees to
be advocates for positive change. The Tweed Heads Community March was a standout event, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds to celebrate Aboriginal culture.
We extend our thanks to all supporters and donors for their generosity and partnership throughout the year.
A better now
Feedback
We are here to improve the lives of our clients, and to improve the way we do business.
Your feedback is important to us. Please contact us at 1300 900 091 about the things we have done well or the things we could do better. Alternatively, visit our website.
About This Report
This report covers the activities of Third Sector Australia Ltd, trading as Momentum Collective, during the 2023-24 Financial Year. Full financial information can be found at: www.mymomentum.org.au
T: 1300 900 091
E: info@mymomentum.org.au
W: mymomentum.org.au
Third Sector Australia Ltd
Trading as Momentum Collective ABN: 54 213 576 984 35 Wharf Street Tweed Heads NSW 2485 Public company limited by guarantee under the Corporations Act.
Registered as a Public Benevolent Institution with Australian Charities and Not-for-profit Commission.
Deductible gift recipient.
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