SCIA Annual Report 2016-2017

Annual Report

CEO’s Report 2 President’s message 3 Our strategy: 2017 - 2020 4 Our transition into the NDIS 6 Case study - Shaun 8 Partnerships in action 9 The expansion of NeuroMoves 10 Fundraising in partnership 12 Membership + member benefits 16 Case study - Alex 18 Project Edge 19 Salesforce 20 Case study - Patricia 21 How our money is spent 22 Partnerships in action 24 Our Board of Directors 28 Governance 31 Financial review 32 Audit report 34

CEO’s REPORT

by PETER PERRY

As we celebrate our 50th birthday in 2017, and look forward to the next 50 years, it’s important to reflect on where we’ve come from, and chart a course for the future.

Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (SCIA) has been at the forefront of social change since its humble beginnings in 1967. The organisation has grown from its original focus on just the eastern suburbs of Sydney, to expansion across Sydney during the 1970s, across New South Wales (NSW) in the 1980s and 1990s, and across the country in the last decade. SCIA now operates in every mainland capital city, and offers services in three main areas: information and advice, employment, and exercise.

SPINAL CORD INJURIES AUSTRALIA

Last year I wrote about the preparations our organisation had been making for the full rollout of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Those preparations are now complete, and we have in place the services, the people and the systems that will provide a basis for growth over the next few years as the NDIS is fully implemented across Australia.

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I need to say that we are interested in growth, but not for its own sake; as the only national organisation that specialises in spinal cord injury, we feel that we have a lot to offer the 80 per cent of people living with SCI who aren’t yet our members or customers. Many of these people may never need the services we can provide, but we want to be sure we are there in case that ever changes, and to continually develop new solutions to emerging problems.

Early in 2017 we developed a new strategic plan. Our previous plan, developed in 2013, was all about transitioning the organisation to be ready for the NDIS world. Now that that world is a reality, we have set a new course for the period 2017 to 2020. Please see elsewhere in this

report for a fuller explanation of our plans for the future.

I have always held the view that we can’t achieve everything by ourselves. Collaboration is fundamental to the achievement of our mission, and this year we have built partnerships with many organisations. The most significant of these were: ► In November 2016, our

NeuroMoves centre in Lismore was selected as one of the first investments of the new icare Foundation, which describes itself as follows: “With an ability to seed fund and partner for ‘bestin-class’ collaboration, the icare Foundation brings a progressive, innovative solution focused approach to safeguarding the wellbeing of the people of New South Wales”. We are hopeful that this is the start of a longer term partnership with the Foundation;

► In June 2017, we signed

agreements with SpinalCure Australia and the University of Technology Sydney to bring the world-leading research of Prof.

Reggie Edgerton to Australia; further details on this important collaboration are included elsewhere in this report.

I am also pleased to announce that after a significant financial deficit incurred in 2016, 2017 has seen a return to a strong surplus. Making a surplus is not an end in itself, but making sure the organisation is financially sustainable is an important consideration.

A financial surplus means that the organisation is stronger, and is able to invest in projects and services of benefit to members for many years into the future.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

by CHRISTINE TINK

Yes, Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (SCIA) turned 50 in 2017! This is an inspiring achievement that could only have come about through half a century of hard work and strong leadership from an incredible number of dedicated people.

People not unlike Joan Hume, SCIA’s President Elect who sadly passed away earlier this year. Joan was a person to be admired for her courage and determination and the enormous contribution she made to SCIA and the disability sector. It is an unjust world that denied her the opportunity to see our 50th anniversary, an event of which she was justifiably proud.

As part of our birthday celebrations we have sought to acknowledge Joan and others like her with an honour roll. It is important to remember it has not been a single individual effort that has enabled our anniversary milestone. It is always combined effort that makes a team work, a company work, or a society work, and it has certainly been combined effort that has made SCIA work.

We have also celebrated our birthday achievement this year with nationwide lunches and morning teas, the emphasis being to include as many of our almost 1600 members as possible. Our aim has been to share the birthday “cake” at events that all could attend so we hope you were able to join us.

Perhaps the most important focus of SCIA’s Board of Directors is our members – our sole reason for being. We are committed wholly to improving the lives of those living with a spinal cord injury (SCI) and to this we channel our resources. NeuroMoves continues to grow in the number of locations available, participants benefiting and hours provided.

And we are very excited about our collaboration with SpinalCure and University of Technology Sydney (UTS) in setting up Project Edge. This research has the potential to change the lives of many living with an SCI. I am proud of SCIA’s attention to carerelated issues. Our collaboration with Coloplast has produced educational media and discussion groups for members regarding continence and catheterisation. The production of a care module relating to pressure wound management is now available to members and I hope this will be the beginning of a series addressing all areas of care. Too many SCI sufferers end up back in hospital with carerelated issues that could have been avoided. More recently our new website is up and running and acts as an invaluable reference point for all things spinal.

As someone living with a high level SCI, I appreciate the holistic role that SCIA is playing within my community.

At times it may appear the steps are small but there is a big picture being chased, and as much as it is heartening to reflect on the progress that has been made over the last 50 years, the progress that is yet to come could even be considered – dare I say it – “spine-tingling”! Bring on 2018!

ANNUAL REPORT 2016 / 2017

Through all this we have weathered the continuing introduction of the NDIS. The scheme has grown to almost 91,000 participants and 9,000 registered providers as I write. This is an impressive figure that includes not only the old and bold like SCIA, but newly conceived bodies set to partake of the NDIS pie – those that are yet to prove their financial viability and develop a track record amongst participants. Constant and vigilant

evaluation of SCIA’s strategic plan and financial health is a focus of the Board of Directors and indications are we are strongly positioned to remain competitive and able to continue for many years into the future.

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OUR STRATEGY 2017-2020 Every organisation needs to constantly monitor the environment in which it operates, to ensure that it remains relevant and viable. Spinal Cord Injuries Australia does this by conducting an annual strategic plan review (or more frequently if external circumstances change significantly). These annual reviews can be either: • A minor review, where we check in to make sure that the current strategic plan is still relevant, and continues to meet the needs of the organisation and its members; or • A major review, where a significant amount of time has passed since the last major review, or where most of the goals in the current plan have been achieved. In this case, we largely ignore previous plans and look at the organisation and its place in the world afresh.

In early 2017, we conducted a major strategic review. This was because the previous plan from 2013 had been focused on transitioning the organisation to be ready for the introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), and that transition had largely been achieved. The focus for the organisation needed to turn towards continuing to assist our members as they navigate the new world of the NDIS, and ensuring the ongoing viability and growth of the organisation.

The review occurred in a number of stages, as follows: 1. A review of the organisation’s vision and mission; 2. A scan of the environment, to gain the best understanding we could of the issues that will impact on our members and the organisation over coming years; 3. D evelopment of a number of strategic goals, to respond to the issues identified; and 4. A review of the capabilities that the organisation needs to develop, to be able to deliver on the new plans.

As a result of this work, a strategy map (shown on the next page) was developed. This map encapsulates what we will be striving to achieve as an organisation for the period 2017 – 2020. We will continue to review this plan as required, but will do so at least annually.

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The implementation of the strategic plan is managed by explicitly linking its strategic objectives to the annual performance plans of departmental managers and all staff. This process has worked well in the past, and will continue to serve the needs of the organisation in the years ahead.

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SOCIAL OUTCOMES

We create significant social capital within the Australian community...

Reshape community expectations of people living with SCI

Provide services to more clients across Australia

Promote benefits of a National Spinal Strategy

Partner to create Fellowships / Chair in SCI research

CLIENTS

by working with clients, the disability service system and the world at large...

Refine member value proposition

Build on existing policy influence

Rationalise existing services to sharpen focus

Deliver all services sustainably, and to exceptional standards Gain new ADE and other contracts

Understand emerging needs to create innovative new services

CONNECTIONS

through providing excellent customer service and creating great partnerships...

Grow CRM, client and competitor analysis capability

Our customer promise: “We can help you with that.�

Further upgrade and develop business systems

Connections with families and carers

Social impact measurement

Bring whole organisation to the client

Australian Spinal Injury Alliance National and international profile Supporters (donors, sector, corporates, icare) Build on relationships with hospitals, clinicians, researchers

Develop, recognise and retain highperforming staff

Challenging career opportunities

Appropriate tools and resources provided

Delighted staff, much improved conditions

Map workforce skills and mix to future needs

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PEOPLE

and being an employer of choice and a learning organisation.

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OUR TRANSITION INTO THE NATIONAL DISABILITY INSURANCE SCHEME A major part of the organisation’s focus in recent years has been on planning for the introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The NDIS is a major social reform, the likes of which only occurs once in a generation.

To ensure our members and clients were as informed as possible, we delivered a series of education and information sessions on the NDIS. In the months leading up to 1 July 2017 we delivered 22 sessions and met with 220 people.

We also offered members and clients a free pre-planning session to assist them with the process.

The impact of the NDIS on our organisation is twofold: 1. T he NDIS will completely revolutionise our members’ lives, and we see it as our responsibility to do whatever we can to assist our members during their transition to this new scheme.

2. A lmost all of the government funding received by our organisation will cease in June 2018. While this only represents around 40 per cent of the organisation’s income, decisions need to be made about replacing this funding from other sources, what services will cease, and what new services can be offered as the NDIS is rolled out.

To prepare ourselves for this new world, we reviewed the services we deliver and how we deliver them to ensure we continue to serve our community and respond to their needs in the best way possible. As part of this review we met with our members, clients, staff, health professionals and our partners and corporate sponsors, to understand their motivations and expectations.

SPINAL CORD INJURIES AUSTRALIA

We also conducted a customer satisfaction survey with a cross-section of our community, asking questions relating to services they receive and how they rate us as service providers. We learnt that 89 per cent surveyed think SCIA is Australia’s “go to” organisation for people with spinal cord injury (SCI), and 90 per cent agree SCIA is a trusted advisor for people with SCI.

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As at the date of this report, the way forward for the organisation is clear, and despite the need to embrace significant change over the last four years, the future for the organisation is very bright. As the disability sector and market continue to evolve, SCIA will be ready to take advantage of new opportunities as they arise.

The following table summarises the impact on SCIA’s services as a result of the introduction of the NDIS, on SCIA and its future services and funding:

SERVICE NAME

GOV’T FUNDED?

FUTURE PROSPECTS AND FUNDING

Individual advocacy

Yes

To be funded via NDIS

Systemic advocacy

Yes

Ongoing and new funding secured

Information / publications

Yes

Alternative funding being sought, at risk

Peer support

Yes

Alternative funding being sought, at risk

Regional services New South Wales (NSW)

Yes

To be funded via NDIS

Accommodation

Yes

To be funded via NDIS

Emergency services

Yes

To be funded via NDIS

CHOICES NSW

Yes

Alternative funding being sought, at risk

Education / events

Yes

To be funded via NDIS

Disability employment

Yes

Will tender for new contract 2018 - 2023

Supported employment

Yes

To be funded via NDIS

Disability enterprises

No

Strong growth and expansion planned

Exercise services

No

Funded via NDIS / private and other sources

Disability awareness

No

Growth due to corporate partnerships strategy

Injury prevention

No

Growth due to corporate partnerships strategy

Support coordination

No

New service, growing strongly

Plan management

No

New service, growing strongly ANNUAL REPORT 2016 / 2017

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Shaun Whitbread was only 25 years old when a motorcycle accident in 2015 meant he not only required a left above-knee amputation but also sustained T7 paraplegia. He attends NeuroMoves in Adelaide where he participates in Activity Based Therapy and hydrotherapy. He credits NeuroMoves and the team of dedicated physiotherapists and exercise physiologists with providing what he calls “the best possible rehabilitation experience”.

“My right leg was pretty smashed up in the accident – and I nearly lost it like I lost my left leg. When I first came to NeuroMoves I had no movement at all in that leg, and its spasticity was pretty bad. Now it is so much stronger, and it helps to hold me upright when I am walking,” he says.

Shaun says his family, particularly his children, inspire him to continue to work hard on his exercises and he has already seen some great results from his hard work and determination that have made it worthwhile. Shaun says he aspires to be a good role model for his children and he plans to return to work and show them that your goals are achievable – if you put your mind to it, you can do anything.

SPINAL CORD INJURIES AUSTRALIA

“I want to maximise the use of my right leg, and to set myself up for lifelong strength and fitness! I want to be able to show my kids that I can still get up and out of the chair and walk around at home. My core strength and balance have come so far, and I now understand the importance of exercise for life.

“The staff are amazing, they genuinely want you to achieve your best, and go out of their way to make it happen for you. When I am at NeuroMoves, I feel like I can do anything,” he says.

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PARTNERSHIPS IN ACTION Wheels in Motion Wheels in Motion is a charitable fundraising group created by five young men after one of them, Matt Pierri, sustained a spinal cord injury (SCI) playing school football. They all witnessed the huge impact it had on his life and the incredible recovery he has since made. One of the activities that Matt attributes his recovery to is our NeuroMoves program. Its impact prompted his friends to band together with Matt to organise a fundraiser for NeuroMoves in Melbourne in 2015, raising $18,000. In 2016, they formed Wheels in Motion and organised another highly successful event; the Rooftop Raiser that saw 300 guests coming together for food, drinks and music in the laneways of Melbourne. It was a massive success both in terms of money raised, nearly $60,000, and the educational impact it had on those attending.

Wheels in Motion not only provides financial assistance to enable access to rehabilitation services and equipment, but also works to change existing community perceptions of people with SCI. With a focus on fundraising and raising awareness in the community, SCIA is proud to be associated with such a passionate organisation.

“It has been a wonderful journey for us to date. We wouldn’t be raising money for SCIA if we didn’t feel strongly about the great work they do, especially the NeuroMoves program, which dramatically improves the lives of those living with SCI,” says Will Kitchen, Wheels in Motion.

Clayton Utz is a large leading Australian law firm and the first large firm to establish an in-house pro bono practice. They share their wealth of knowledge with Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (SCIA), providing all our pro bono legal services.

We are extremely grateful for the expert legal advice and guidance we have received from Clayton Utz over the past 11 years. During the financial year 2016 – 2017 the practice assisted us our registration for the National Disability Insurance Scheme, and a Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Technology Sydney and SpinalCure Australia for the Project Edge research.

The team at Clayton Utz also participated in our business to business national fundraising initiative, The Big Day Off, with staff purchasing raffle tickets to win a day off donated by the firm.

“Clayton Utz is proud to partner with Spinal Cord Injuries Australia and to share the vision of a society without barriers for people with spinal cord injury. Over the last 11 years, we have provided over 3,000 hours of pro bono legal assistance to SCIA. ANNUAL REPORT 2016 / 2017

“Pro bono work is fundamental to who we are as a firm, and our partnership with SCIA is an important part of our pro bono practice,” says Michael Corrigan, Partner, Clayton Utz

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THE EXPANSION OF NEUROMOVES Spinal Cord Injuries Australia’s (SCIA) exercise program, NeuroMoves, is continuing to grow its reach, and our national expansion of this service means we now have 260 clients participating at 11 sites across Australia. This innovative suite of exercise services was officially launched in December 2015 to replace our Walk On program and means we can now offer an individually-tailored exercise program for everyone – including children.

NeuroMoves now covers six distinct exercise offerings: 1. Locomotor training; 2. Activity-based therapy (previously Walk On); 3. Functional electrical stimulation; 4. Strength and conditioning; 5. Group gym classes; and 6. NeuroMoves Kids.

The benefits of NeuroMoves can include improvements in function, mobility, strength and fitness, independence and positive mental health. We work with people to understand their personal goals and help them to achieve them. For some, this is transferring in and out of a wheelchair in order to drive a car; for others it’s being able to feed themselves or make a cup of tea.

In February 2017, we launched NeuroMoves in Lismore, making it our first Australian regional centre.

SPINAL CORD INJURIES AUSTRALIA

We were one of only three organisations to receive funding from the newly established icare Foundation, and hope this collaboration will be the first of many partner opportunities we deliver with this organisation. We would also like to extend our gratitude to the Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation, which also contributed financially to the creation of the Lismore centre.

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The NeuroMoves centre represents a significant investment for regional communities and people living in areas outside metropolitan cities – and illustrates our continued mission to remove barriers to participation for people with spinal cord injury (SCI).

Our exercise services are tailored to work around your disability to enhance your function and mobility, and increase your independence. NeuroMoves is also lots of fun and a wonderful way to get out, work-out, and socialise with others.

In June 2017 an agreement was signed between the University of Technology Sydney, SpinalCure Australia and SCIA to progress new treatments for people with SCIs under the title Project Edge. The agreement establishes two fellowships named in memory of the late David Prast. NeuroMoves will be integral for specific elements of the clinical research program.

We look forward to sharing significant developments of NeuroMoves in the year ahead, including sharing updates on our new centre to open in Canberra in 2017.

ANNUAL REPORT 2016 / 2017

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FUNDRAISING IN PARTNERSHIP

The financial year 2016 – 17 was another great year for Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (SCIA) and our national fundraising campaign, The Big Day Off, saw companies such as Tourism Australia, Johnson & Johnson Medical (Depuy Synthes), I-Med Radiology, Uber ANZ, Clayton Utz and Thrifty Car Rental register to take part. The Big Day Off is an exciting way for businesses to engage with employees by giving them the chance to win an extra day off work and feel good by supporting a worthy cause. The initiative raises vital funds for Australians with spinal cord injury (SCI), with a portion of proceeds going towards our services.

Businesses simply register their organisation at bigdayoff.org and offer an extra day (or days) paid leave for their staff to win. Staff then buy online raffle tickets with winners announced on the first business day of the new financial year.

We’re proud to work with a great team of business people from Albury who established the Big Day Off following the football injury of a local player James McQuillan, who sustained quadriplegia at only 20 years of age. James, his family and the team at The Big Day Off Trust are still all actively involved in the campaign, and collaborate with us to ensure we spread the message as far and wide as possible – and recruit businesses to take part.

One company that took the initiative and made it their own was Depuy Synthes – who dollar-matched funds raised by their employees purchasing raffle tickets.

SPINAL CORD INJURIES AUSTRALIA

“The Big Day Off is a fun and easy way to support people with spinal cord injuries.

It is a real team effort within the workplace. It epitomises the values that the DePuy Synthes Spine & Neuro team are proud to represent, working with our employees within the community to help improve people’s lives,” says Will Foster, Director of Sales, Codman Neuro and Spine, Depuy Synthes.

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Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (SCIA) is working in partnership with Coloplast and their global Access to HealthCare initiative. Coloplast is a leader in the bladder and bowel care field and is supporting SCIA’s “Stories from the Smallest Room” program, designed to break down the barriers people currently face in accessing the right continence care. In year one this project took a three-tiered approach to deliver information; face to face education sessions, online workshops and “how to” videos.

The series focused on the medical aspects and the practicalities of dealing with continence needs. The partnership is ensuring people with a spinal cord injury (SCI) have enough information about their continence needs so they can choose the right options for them – ultimately improving their quality of life.

“Improving health for Australians with an SCI through better continence care is a long overdue initiative and with the NDIS going live each of those individuals now has a unique opportunity to well and truly address this issue. Getting the principles of excellent continence care out there through a series of communication channels will be crucial, and we feel both proud and honoured that SCIA has chosen us to join them on that journey,” says Joseph Johnson Steen, Country Manager, Coloplast.

ANNUAL REPORT 2016 / 2017

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FUNDRAISING IN PARTNERSHIP CONT’D

The Ian Potter Foundation is one of Australia’s major philanthropic foundations, making grants nationally to support charitable organisations working to benefit the community across a wide range of sectors including the arts, environment, science, medical research, education and community wellbeing. The Foundation aims to support and promote a healthy, vibrant and fair community for the benefit of all Australians.

Recognising both the importance of community initiatives that help people living with a disability improve their quality of life and a range of support programs that focus on the prevention of diseases, in 2015 the Ian Potter Foundation generously helped fund the establishment of Spinal Cord Injuries Australia’s (SCIA) NeuroMoves exercise services in Adelaide, South Australia. The centre was officially opened in April 2016, offering exercise programs that range from highly specialised intensive rehabilitation therapy to more generalised fitness programs for people with physical disabilities to improve mobility, function and overall health. With the Foundation’s support, we are now able to help clients achieve a better quality of life associated with independent living.

In 2017, SCIA has once again received funding support from the Ian Potter Foundation to expand our Australian Disability Enterprise (ADE) operations. In line with the Foundation’s objective of improving outcomes for people living with disability, the ADE expansion project will open up employment and up-skilling opportunities which will assist in maximising their professional, financial and social independence.

“SCIA is an outstanding organisation with a strong track record in developing pathways to employment for people with physical disabilities. The Ian Potter Foundation is pleased to support SCIA to further develop this social enterprise through the employment of a business development manager who will secure procurement contracts that will allow for an increase in employment opportunities for SCIA’s clients,” says Charles Goode AC, Chair of The Ian Potter Foundation.

Through its grant funding, the Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation supports community-based organisations like SCIA to deliver important initiatives aimed at improving community health and well-being. In 2015, SCIA’s accessible beach house in Coffs Harbour received funding from the Foundation for a much needed refurbishment. With this support, SCIA can continue to provide this valuable service, and our clients now have an upgraded, accessible beach house that they can enjoy with their families and friends.

The Newcastle Permanent Foundation continued to support SCIA in 2016 by partially funding our NeuroMoves specialised exercise services in Lismore, NSW. Opened in February 2017, NeuroMoves is the first centre of its kind in regional Australia and can now be accessed by people with physical disabilities in the Northern Rivers region. The specialised equipment, funded by the Newcastle Permanent Foundation, will enable NeuroMoves staff to work with clients to find the best possible exercise rehabilitation solution to fulfil their individual needs. We extend our thanks to their staff who vote for the projects they believe deserve funding.

ANNUAL REPORT 2016 / 2017

“People living with a disability in regional areas should have access to the same high-quality equipment and services available to those living in the city. The community projects undertaken

by SCIA serve to reduce isolation and improve the social well-being of those who live with disability, which aligns well to the ethos of the Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation,” says Phil Neat, Foundation Chairman, Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation.

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MEMBERSHIP & MEMBER BENEFITS Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (SCIA) is a member-based organisation run by and for Australians with spinal cord injury (SCI). Since our establishment in 1967, SCIA has worked with members to build and deliver services in the community. As such, we have always relied on our members to inform our work and speak directly to us to ensure we meet expectations. In 2016 we decided to remove all barriers to being a member of SCIA, by introducing a new membership offering for people with SCI and physical disability, their family, friends and carers that is free, and has many great benefits.

We worked with companies that supply products and services in the disability sector and reviewed our own services so that we could offer tangible reasons for people to join our organisation. As you will see in the member benefits table below, we have a great range of offers and discounts from our corporate partners for members to enjoy, including a free NeuroMoves consultation, and access to information sessions and workshops. We will continue to work with companies to increase the number of valuable benefits we can offer, so please contact us if you have recommendations for us to consider.

We are currently working with our corporate partners and sponsors to build membership packages with a unique set of benefits for companies, including safety in the workplace sessions and disability awareness training, together with a package specifically created for allied health professionals.

Cost*

Individualised support for transitioning to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

Free

Australia

A one-off grant for special circumstances

Free (must meet certain criteria)

NSW residents only

SCIA’s accord magazine and e-news

Free

Worldwide

Invitations to information workshops, social and fundraising events

There may be a cost to attend some workshops

Primarily NSW

Invitations to social and fundraising activities

There is a cost to attend social events

Primarily NSW

Employment advice and support through our EmployAbility service

Free for those referred by DES

Australia wide for NDIS, NSW for icare, in certain Sydney suburbs for DES

Paid for those under NDIS or icare (previously known as Lifetime Care and Support)

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There is a cost for any other category

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Location Available Available Available benefit is to PWD** to family to sector member/ professional available /other carer

Member benefit

Information, advice or referrals for anything SCI-related, including research, and opportunities to participate in research studies

Free

Worldwide

Introductory consultation with our exercise service, NeuroMoves

Free

Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney, Perth and anywhere else via Skype

Location Available Available Available benefit is to PWD** to family to sector member/ professional available /other carer

Cost*

Half hour consultation with Slater & Gordon on will and estate planning

Free

Across Australia and via Skype

Two-night stay at CHOICES apartment in Little Bay, NSW for you and your family during rehabilitation. Includes an accessible vehicle

Free

Available to those with an SCI who are inpatients undergoing rehabilitation at a registered medical facility in Australia

20 per cent off your first Coloplast order through BrightSky Australia NDIS pre-planning advice from Coloplast for your continence needs

20 per cent discount on advertised price Free

Australia

30 per cent off the recommended retail price on all Revitalife products, including beds

30 per cent off RRP

Australia

Your first three, six monthly services on car modifications you organise through Problem Management Engineering for free. This offer only includes cars newly modified from 1 August 2016. The offer is due to expire on 1 August 2017

Free (any parts that need replacing will need to be paid for, and excludes the servicing of the Space Drive)

Australia

Disability Parking Permit holders or modified vehicle owners can save up to 25 per cent on comprehensive car insurance with Blue Badge Insurance. Save an additional $25 on your 1st year premium, if you switch before 30 November 2016

$25 discount on first year’s premium

Australia

10% off all tours, attractions, activities and thousands of other things to do in Australia with Experience Oz www.experienceoz.com.au

10 per cent discount

Australia

30% off recommended retail price at RevitaLife

30 per cent discount

Australia

Purchase a Permobil power chair, TiLite manual chair or SmartDrive MX2 Power through Permobil to receive a free gift

Free gift

Australia

10% discount off homecare equipment at Independent Living Specialists (ILS).

Purchase any power chair through ILS and receive a free gift

10 per cent discount and free gift

Australia

ANNUAL REPORT 2016 / 2017

Member benefit

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Alex Partington was only 16 years old when last year he fell from his mountain bike and damaged his C3, leaving him with quadriplegia. At such a young age, Alex’s world and that of his family, changed forever.

After a lengthy eight-month stay in rehab, Alex and his family had the opportunity to stay at our CHOICES (Client Centred Housing Offering Inspired, Creative and Empowering Services) accommodation, and he now attends NeuroMoves to continue building strength and function. Alex and his family became members of Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (SCIA) in November 2016 and they have taken advantage of some of the many benefits SCIA membership offers.

Thanks to the team at NeuroMoves and his own determination, Alex has already started playing wheelchair rugby, and has plans to return to take up wheelchair basketball in the near future. He credits his family and friends who have supported him and aren’t afraid of his injury for his determination and motivation.

“Life with a spinal cord injury (SCI) can be scary and challenging as you don’t always understand what is going on. It can also be hard fitting back into things as everyone in my family is affected,” he says.

Being a member of SCIA has given Alex access to being part of a community that understands his injury, and he says he and his family have greatly benefitted from our organisation’s information and support services, as well as the discounts and exclusive offers our corporate partners have contributed.

SPINAL CORD INJURIES AUSTRALIA

The family says their experience insuring their modified vehicle with Blue Badge Insurance was positive and they encourage other members to take advantage of their discounts and excellent service.

“We found the service to be both fast and efficient.

They were professional and able to answer all our questions. By becoming a member of SCIA, we have been able to better understand some of the challenges ahead and get support for things we didn’t understand. I still have the same aspirations, to walk and do things again, finish school and get a job doing carpentry. I also want to support other young people with an SCI – as I think there are more young people affected than there are support services available,” he says.

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PROJECT EDGE Project Edge is an exciting collaboration between the University of Technology, Sydney (UTS), SpinalCure Australia and Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (SCIA) to fund the first clinical research program outside of the United States of America (US) conducting ground-breaking research by Professor Reggie Edgerton and his colleagues at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). In a world first, the project has managed to re-awaken the spinal cord and successfully restore feeling and function to more than 20 paralysed people using neurostimulation.

The flagship program is a multi-stream spinal cord injury recovery initiative, that will sit within the new Centre for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine at UTS, headed by SpinalCure Fellow, Professor Bryce Vissel. This exciting new clinical trial uses electrical and pharmacological stimulation of the spinal cord neurons, that has the potential to significantly improve the lives of people with spinal cord injury (SCI).

Project Edge is an Australian development of clinical trials conducted

by Professor Reggie Edgerton and Professor Susan Harkema, initially on four paralysed participants who were implanted with epidural electrical stimulators at the University of Louisville, Kentucky, US. As a result of the treatment, all four can now stand and have improvements in bladder and bowel control, return of feeling and sexual function.

Professor Edgerton has now developed a transcutaneous (through the skin) stimulator, eliminating the dangers and cost of surgery, that will be used in the Australian trials. He has agreed to this collaborative research program in Australia and in year one will focus on the return of hand function for 10 quadriplegics through the use of non-invasive transcutaneous stimulators.

SCIA and SpinalCure Australia will co-fund two fellowships, the David Prast Fellowships, in honour of the late David Prast who was a Board Director of both organisations before his death in 2011. These Fellowships will lead the research teams in the Centre for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine at UTS, so are vital for the program to be successful.

The impact of the work is expected to be profound and far reaching. A key aim is to develop technologies and treatments that can become an integral part of rehabilitation programs nationwide, resulting in improved clinical, financial, and personal outcomes for people with spinal cord injury.

In year one we expect a degree of hand function to be restored. However we will assess baseline functional characteristics to also quantify more proximal upper limb function, trunk stability, ventilator function, spasticity and cardiovascular function.

Results will be assessed by a specialist neurophysiologist. Experts in the relevant fields will also be consulted to assess participants’ progress and will involve physicians for each function measured, including bladder control, bowel control, motor function and sensory levels. These assessments will use the internationally standardised ASIA scale determinations.

ANNUAL REPORT 2016 / 2017

Over the five-year research program Project Edge aims to show return of significant function in key areas when the stimulation is off. This has been evidenced by the more than 30 participants who have now been implanted with the device. SCIA will also assist with exercise physiology research through our NeuroMoves program to increase mobility and retain return of increased function.

19

SINGLE CUSTOMER VIEW SALESFORCE As part of our ongoing commitment to being the “go to” organisation for Australians with spinal cord injury (SCI) we invested in a new customer relationship management (CRM) database. Because the CRM system we created and developed with Salesforce allows us to record all information in a central place, it means we can continually improve the member and client experience of Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (SCIA).

Since its implementation across all departments in the last financial year, we’ve implemented more streamlined processes for staff that have resulted in cost-efficiencies and, as the system will record all interactions with our members, clients and suppliers, we anticipate it will continue to build efficiencies across our organisation. Having a central system reduces the need for clients and members to repeat themselves; everything they share with SCIA staff will be recorded for future reference.

The new system is largely automated so there is less manual intervention required and we can tailor all organisation-driven communications including service delivery, marketing and fundraising to the individual, and use this to inform our work.

SPINAL CORD INJURIES AUSTRALIA

Having a single view of individuals gives us real-time access to our clients and members’ expectations, and how we can deliver these in a tailored way, regardless of where they live, what injury they have, and their life stage.

We can also quickly produce reports to analyse campaign effectiveness, and will continue to iterate and develop the system to evolve with the changing needs of our organisation.

20

Patricia Woodhouse lives in Tamworth, New South Wales and was the owner of a busy hair salon before she had spinal fusion surgery on her C5/C6/C7 in 2005 that left her with incomplete quadriplegic upper motor neuron lesions.

Following her surgery, Patricia received in-patient physical rehabilitation in Sydney before returning home where she says she initially felt overwhelmed, alone and isolated.

She was in a lot of pain and was experiencing a number of physical conditions, including spasms and numbness in her limbs.

Through Glenda Hodges, SCIA’s Regional Coordinator, New England, Patricia was put in touch with an occupational therapist and continence nurse to better understand what she needed at home, and what she was eligible for. She began attending social and information events held by SCIA, where she met with others from her region living in a similar situation.

Patricia attended one of our National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) information sessions.

Glenda helped Patricia prepare for her planning meeting and was with her when she met with the Local Area Coordinator. Glenda is now Patricia’s Support Coordinator, assisting Patricia as she accesses the supports she needs.

“SCIA have been a lifeline to getting everything sorted for me. Being part of the NDIS has given structure to my day. I receive help with showering, cleaning and transport which has meant my husband could go about his work without worrying about me and my care during the day. I have a wonderful team of carers to help me with all my needs and it has taken the pressure off both of us,” says Patricia.

Patricia says she is looking forward to more independence at home, gardening, and cooking for her husband of 41 years, and spending quality time with family and friends without relying too heavily on them for support.

ANNUAL REPORT 2016 / 2017

“I am starting to feel proud of myself and my confidence is increasing. I am doing more to build up my strength. I hope in the future to do some volunteer work. I love to laugh and be happy, and even though the pain won’t go away and my body won’t do what I would like it to, I am happy,” Patricia says.

21

HOW OUR MONEY IS SPENT Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (SCIA) believes in being completely transparent in all of its activities. This transparency is very important in relation to our finances, as it is critical that all of the organisation’s funders and other supporters can readily understand how SCIA uses the funds that are entrusted to it.

Income by source Government grants Customer fees Other income Fundraising and sponsorship

Government grants are received from both the Federal and New South Wales (NSW) governments. Most of this funding will cease from 1 July 2018, as will the associated expenses.

Customer fees are received from NeuroMoves clients (either directly or via government or private insurance schemes) and from customers of our Australian Disability Enterprise.

Fundraising and sponsorship is received from trusts, foundations, corporations, individual donors and bequests.

Other income includes rental and investment income.

Expenses by type Staff costs Property & IT Depreciation

SPINAL CORD INJURIES AUSTRALIA

Other costs

22

Travel costs Member grants

Expenses by service type

NeuroMoves SCI Assist EmployAbility Accommodation Marketing and Fundraising Customer Experience Organisation support

NeuroMoves is SCIA’s exercise service, which has now grown to be the organisation’s largest service, with at least one centre in every state of Australia.

SCI Assist includes such services as peer support, advocacy, information, emergency and NSW regional services, all of which are currently government funded; these activities will be financed via the NDIS and from other sources in future.

EmployAbility is SCIA’s employment service, including both open employment and supported employment; these services will grow significantly as the NDIS rolls out.

Accommodation costs are personal care costs, and are currently government funded; this funding and the associated costs are being gradually reduced as the NDIS rolls out.

Marketing and Fundraising includes the direct costs of fundraising, as well as marketing costs such as publications, website, social media, events, and promotional activities.

Customer Experience is a new area which handles all customer enquiries, applications and referrals; its motto is “We can help you with that.”

Organisation Support includes the activities required to administer the organisation, such as finance, human resources and information technology.

ANNUAL REPORT 2016 / 2017

23

PARTNERSHIPS IN ACTION

Independent Living Specialists (ILS) is one of Australia’s largest providers of home care equipment and a leading provider of mobility and seating equipment. In partnership with Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (SCIA), ILS launched a series of wheelchair and seating clinics in regional NSW and Sydney offering clients the chance to try out the latest in mobility equipment.

Free clinics took place in Ballina, Tamworth, Bathurst, Coffs Harbour and Sydney and were facilitated by a team of allied health professionals.

At SCIA, we want to ensure everyone has access to the information and services that they need to make an informed decision on what works best for them. We know that people living in regional areas can struggle to access the services that they require and we’re thrilled to be able to offer these regional clinics so more people can physically try out what’s available.

SCIA shares our core values; we both aim to maintain independence and well-being for clients living in the community with a medical condition or disability through holistic and client-focused care. ILS offers a comprehensive range of essential products and services available within the home care and hospital markets,” says Peter Reid, Co Founder and Managing Director, Independent Living Specialists.

SPINAL CORD INJURIES AUSTRALIA

Permobil Australia is a world-renowned industry leader in pressure care, mobility and positioning solutions. With a similar philosophy to SCIA, Permobil uses technology to help people with limited mobility overcome barriers to independence, allowing them to live the lives they choose, no matter what that might be. Permobil entered into year two of their partnership with SCIA in January 2017 and we’re excited to be working together to improve confidence and promote inclusion. Permobil has delivered a number of education sessions to SCIA’s community on subjects ranging from power chairs to traveling with an injury.

24

“At Permobil Australia we see a number of people each week who have had their lives changed by spinal cord injury. We are very proud to further develop this relationship with SCIA as the sponsorship very much complements the work we do at Permobil in enhancing independence and mobility,” says Owen Dawes, Managing Director, Permobil Australia.

ANNUAL REPORT 2016 / 2017

25

26

SPINAL CORD INJURIES AUSTRALIA

PARTNERSHIPS IN ACTION CONT’D

Leading car modifier, Problem Management Engineering (PME), is partnering with Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (SCIA) to ensure more people with a spinal cord injury can get back behind the wheel. PME can convert a whole range of vehicles and don’t just limit themselves to cars alone.

They’ve carried out a number of workshops with SCIA clients, both in the community and within spinal units of NSW, to educate people in the latest advancements in technology which mean that many more can enjoy the freedom that driving brings.

“We love working with SCIA to the best of our ability, using our knowledge, experience and expertise to create the ultimate driving solution for people’s needs. We are all about giving our clients the independence and flexibility that driving can bring,” says Bill Georgas, Chief Executive Officer, Problem Management Engineering.

Revitalife is a leading provider of therapeutic sleep systems, including fully adjustable beds that are beautifully designed. The company partnered with SCIA this year, offering a substantial discount to members of 30 per cent off the RRP. “Being a responsible corporate citizen is at the core of what we do at Revitalife. When we were approached by SCIA to support the vital services they offer the community, we saw a unique opportunity to not only financially partner with a very worthy organisation but also to further develop our range of products specifically designed to improve the lives of people with limited mobility. Our partnership has already allowed us to not only showcase our products to all SCIA members, but to also develop lines of communication to our product development team to ensure we always offer the very best in product features and benefits available in the marketplace,” says Nathan Kerrins, General Manager, Revitalife.

ANNUAL REPORT 2016 / 2017

27

OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS Christine Tink* President

Director since 2015

Board Development & Governance Subcommittee + CEO Liaison Subcommittee Meetings attended: 9

Brad O’Hara Chairman Director since 2010

Finance and Audit Subcommittee + CEO Liaison Subcommittee Meetings attended: 10

Joan Hume*^ Director 2012-2017 President 2015-2017

Members’ Issues Subcommittee + Board Development & Governance Subcommittee Meetings attended: 6

Stewart Calderwood

SPINAL CORD INJURIES AUSTRALIA

Director since 2012

28

CEO Liaison Subcommittee + Finance and Audit Subcommittee Meetings attended: 11

Michael Rabbitt*

Anna-Maria Arabia

Director since 2017

Director 2012-2016

Members’ Issues Subcommittee + Board Development & Governance Subcommittee

CEO Liaison Subcommittee

Meetings attended: 1

Meetings attended: 1

Richard Stewart*

Richard Klinger*

Director 2015-2017

Director 1997-2017 (excluding 2005–2007)

Members’ Issues Subcommittee

Members’ Issues Subcommittee

Meetings attended: 9

Meetings attended: 9

Mark McCauley*

Brett Stevenson*

Director since 2016

Board Development & Governance Subcommittee, CEO Liaison Subcommittee + Finance and Audit Subcommittee

Director since 2016

CEO Liaison Subcommittee + Finance and Audit Subcommittee

Meetings attended: 7

Meetings attended: 5

David O’Brien*

David Brawn

Director 1996-2016

Director 2006-2016 Chairman 2007–2013

Finance and Audit Subcommittee + Board Development & Governance Subcommittee

Meetings attended: 4

Meetings attended: 3

*Denotes a person with a physical disability ^Joan Hume sadly passed away on 10 March 2017

ANNUAL REPORT 2016 / 2017

Finance and Audit Subcommittee

29

30

SPINAL CORD INJURIES AUSTRALIA

GOVERNANCE Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (SCIA) places a very strong emphasis on its governance practices. Apart from being the right thing to do, this is driven by a belief that as a charity which relies on the support of a range of community stakeholders, the organisation needs to operate to the highest possible standards in order to earn and maintain the trust that has been placed in it by its various partners.

In practice, this desire to achieve best practice governance standards is demonstrated as follows: 1. T he SCIA Board, which has a majority of people with a severe physical disability, meets every month and ensures that the organisation is constantly true to and focused on its vision, mission, and strategic plans; the activities of the Board are governed by the organisation’s constitution and by-laws.

2. T here are four Board subcommittees, whose membership can include directors, staff members, and external individuals. These subcommittees meet at least quarterly, and focus on particular aspects of the organisation’s activities, as follows: a. M ember Issues: this committee focuses on ensuring that the needs of members are heard and acted on; b. B oard Development and Governance: this committee focuses on ensuring that the organisation’s Board and governance practices are continually evolving and are at the highest possible level; c. F inance and Audit: this committee ensures that the organisation’s financial performance and sustainability are assured; and d. C EO Liaison: this committee liaises with and oversees the CEO to ensure that the organisation is being led and managed in accordance with its vision, mission and strategic plans.

3. T he organisation has a range of frameworks and policies to guide its activities at a macro level, including: a. R isk Management Framework: this framework, which is reviewed at least annually, identifies all key risks facing the organisation, and seeks to mitigate those risks as far as is reasonable or possible; b. S uccession Planning: succession plans are in place for the CEO’s role, and work is underway to develop succession plans for all key management positions; and c. R eserves Policy: this policy seeks to provide a rationale for the level of reserves being held by the organisation, and to ensure that this is updated as circumstances change.

ANNUAL REPORT 2016 / 2017

4. T he Board has completely updated the organisation’s constitution, to respond to changing circumstances in the disability sector and with not-for-profits generally; a new constitution (based on the ACNC Model Constitution) was adopted at the 2016 Annual General Meeting, and a range of associated by-laws have subsequently been developed and adopted.

31

FINANCIAL REVIEW Spinal Cord Injuries Australia ABN: 93 001 263 734

Statement of Financial Position

Statement of Financial Position

As At 30 June 2017

For the year ended 30 June 2017 Note ASSETS CURRENT ASSETS Cash and cash equivalents Trade and other receivables Financial assets

6 7 8

TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS NON-CURRENT ASSETS Financial assets Property, plant and equipment

8 9

TOTAL NON-CURRENT ASSETS TOTAL ASSETS LIABILITIES CURRENT LIABILITIES Trade and other payables Short-term provisions

10 11

TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES Long-term provisions

11

TOTAL NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES TOTAL LIABILITIES NET ASSETS

EQUITY Reserves Retained surpluses

SPINAL CORD INJURIES AUSTRALIA

TOTAL EQUITY

32

The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.

2017

2016

$

$

380,014 540,965 2,431,097

249,414 354,452 1,815,765

3,352,076

2,419,631

2,001,274

396,572 1,891,146

2,001,274

2,287,718

5,353,350

4,707,349

790,087 776,395

671,592 763,234

1,566,482

1,434,826

93,167

87,998

93,167

87,998

1,659,649

1,522,824

3,693,701

3,184,525

3,693,701

69,433 3,115,092

3,693,701

3,184,525

Spinal Cord Injuries Australia ABN: 93 001 263 734

Statement ofof Profit or Loss and Other Comprehensive Income Income Statement Profit or Loss and Other Comprehensive For the Year Ended 30 June 2017

For the year ended 30 June 2017 2017 Revenue Revenue Other Otherincome income Community Communitydevelopment developmentexpenses expenses Community Communityservices servicesexpenses expenses Direct Directcosts costsofoffundraising fundraising Administration Administrationand andmarketing marketing

Note 4 4

2016

$ 9,348,146 272,006 (3,570,254) (3,489,710) (517,054) (1,464,525)

$ 8,483,314 38,121 (3,627,533) (3,481,823) (318,664) (1,870,797)

Surplus // (deficit) (deficit) before before income income tax tax Surplus Incometax taxexpenses expense Income

578,609 -

(777,382) -

Surplus Surplus // (deficit) (deficit) for for the the year year

578,609

(777,382)

Other Other comprehensive comprehensive income: income: Loss investments Losson onavailable availableforforsale sale investments

-

(193,100)

Other comprehensive comprehensive income income for for the the year year Other

-

(193,100)

Spinal Cord Injuries Australia Total comprehensive comprehensive income for the the year year Total income for

578,609

(970,482)

ABN: 93 001 263 734

Statement of Cash Flows

Statement of Cash Flows

For the Year Ended 30 June 2017

For the year ended 30 June 2017 Note CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: ACTIVITIES: Receipts Receiptsfrom fromcustomers customers Payments Paymentstotosuppliers suppliersand andemployers employees Donations received Donations received

2017

2016

$

$

3,732,161 (8,647,532) 929,592 72,748 4,499,285

Interest Interestreceived received Receipt from Receipt fromgrants grants

Net cash provided providedby/(used by/(used operating activities Net cash in)in) operating activities

3,661,743 (8,892,896) 772,379 44,160 3,959,825 (454,789)

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Proceeds and equipment Proceedsfrom fromsale saleofofplant plant and equipment Purchase and equipment Purchaseofofproperty, property,plant plant and equipment Proceeds assets Proceedsfrom fromsale saleofoffinancial financial assets

80,757 (536,411) -

112,168 (639,085) 750,000

in)in) investing activities Net cash cash provided providedby/(used by/(used operating activities

(455,654)

223,083

130,600 249,414

(231,706) 481,120

380,014

249,414

Net increase/(decrease) in held Netincrease/(decrease) incash cashand andcash cashequivalents equivalents held of year Cash and and cash cashequivalents equivalentsatatbeginning beginning of year of of financial year Cash and and cash cashequivalents equivalentsatatend end financial year

6

The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements. *The notes referenced in the 2016/17 Financial Review form part of these financial statements and appear in the full Financial Statement and can be found at scia.org.au/annual-report.

10

ANNUAL REPORT 2016 / 2017

586,254

33

INDEPENDENT AUDIT REPORT INDEPENDENT AUDIT TO THE MEMBERS OF REPORT SPINAL CORD INJURIES AUSTRALIA INDEPENDENT AUDIT TO THE MEMBERS OFREPORT SPINAL CORD INJURIES AUSTRALIA TO THEon MEMBERS OFthe SPINAL CORD INJURIES AUSTRALIA Report the Audit of Financial Report Report Opinionon the Audit of the Financial Report We haveon audited the financial report of SpinalReport Cord Injuries Report the Audit of the Financial Opinion

Australia (the Company), which comprises the statement of financial position as at 30 June 2017, the statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income, the statement of changes in equity and the statement of cash flows for the year then ended, and notes to the financial statements, including a We have of audited the financial report of Spinal Cord Injuriesdeclaration.

Australia (the Company), which comprises the statement of summary significant accounting policies, and the directors' Opinion financial position as at 30 June 2017, the statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income, the statement of changes in equity and the statement of cash flows for the year then ended, and notes to the financial statements, including a In our opinion, thethe accompanying financial report of the Company is in(the accordance with the Division 60 the of the Australian We have audited financial report of Spinal Cord Injuries Australia Company), which comprises statement of summary of significant accounting policies, and the directors' declaration.

Charitiesposition and Not-for-profit Commission Actstatement 2012, including: financial as at 30 June 2017, the of profit or loss and other comprehensive income, the statement of changes in equity and the statement of cash flows for the year then ended, and notes to the financial statements, including a In our opinion, the accompanying financial report of the Company is in accordance with the Division 60 of the Australian summary of significant accounting and the directors' declaration. (i) giving a true and fair viewpolicies, of the Company's financial position as at 30 June 2017 and of its financial performance Charities and Not-for-profit Commission Act 2012, including: for the year ended; and In our opinion, the accompanying financial report of the Company is in accordance with the Division 60 of the Australian (i) giving a true and fair view of the Company's financial position as at 30 June 2017 and of its financial performance Charities and Not-for-profit Commission Act 2012, including:- Reduced Disclosure Requirements and the Australian Charities (ii) complying with Australian Accounting Standards for the year ended; and and Not-for-profit Commission Regulation 2013. (i) (ii)

giving a true and fair view of the Company's financial position as at 30 June 2017 and of its financial performance complying with Australian Accounting Standards - Reduced Disclosure Requirements and the Australian Charities for the year ended; and and Not-for-profit Commission Regulation 2013.

Basis for Opinion (ii) complying with Australian Accounting Standards - Reduced Disclosure Requirements and the Australian Charities

and Not-for-profit Commission Regulation 2013.

We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. Our responsibilities under those standards are Basis for Opinion further described in the Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Report section of our report. We are independent of the Company in accordance with the auditor independence requirements of the Australian Charities and We conducted our audit in Act accordance Auditing Standards.

Our responsibilities under those standards are Not-for-profit Commission 2012 andwith theAustralian ethical requirements of the Accounting Professional and Ethical Standards Basis for Opinion further the Auditor's the Audit (the of the Financial Report section of audit our report.

We are Board's described APES 110inCode of Ethics Responsibilities for Professional for Accountants Code) that are relevant to our of the financial independent of theWe Company in fulfilled accordance with ethical the auditor independence requirements Australian Charities and report in Australia. have also our other responsibilities in accordance with of thethe Code.

We conductedCommission our audit in Act accordance with Auditing Standards.

Our responsibilities underand those standards are Not-for-profit 2012 and theAustralian ethical requirements of the Accounting Professional Ethical Standards further in Code the Auditor's the Audit of Financial Report section of audit our report. are Board'sdescribed APES 110 of EthicsResponsibilities for Professionalfor Accountants (thethe Code) that are relevant to our of the We financial We confirm that theCompany independence declaration required by theindependence Australian Charities and Not-for-profit Commission Act 2012, independent of the in accordance with the auditor requirements theCode.

Australian Charities and report in Australia.

We have also fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance withofthe which has been given to the directors of the Company, would be in the same terms if given to the directors as at the time of Not-for-profit Commission Act 2012 and the ethical requirements of the Accounting Professional and Ethical Standards this auditor's Board's APESreport.

110 Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (the Code) that are relevant to our audit of the financial We confirm that the independence declaration required by the Australian Charities and Not-for-profit Commission Act 2012, report in Australia. We have also fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with the Code. which has been given to the directors of the Company, would be in the same terms if given to the directors as at the time of We the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. this believe auditor'sthat report.

SPINAL CORD INJURIES AUSTRALIA

We confirm that the independence declaration required by the Australian Charities and Not-for-profit Commission Act 2012, which has been given to the directors of the Company, would be in the same terms if given to the directors as at the time of We believe that audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Emphasis ofthe Matter this auditor's report.

34

We draw attention to Note 1 to thewe financial statements which desribes the revenue recognition policy Cord Injuries We believe thatofthe audit evidence have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for of ourSpinal opinion.

Emphasis Matter Australia, including the limitations that exists in relation to the recording of cash receipts from collection. Revenue from this source represents $78,029 which is 0.8% of the Company's overall revenue. Our opinion is unmodified in respect of this We draw attention to Note 1 to the financial statements which desribes the revenue recognition policy of Spinal Cord Injuries matter.

Emphasis of Matter Australia, including the limitations that exists in relation to the recording of cash receipts from collection. Revenue from this Newcastle PKF(NS) Audit & Assurance Limited$78,029 Sydney source represents which is 0.8% of the Company's overall revenue. Our opinion is unmodified in respect of this Partnership We draw attention to Note 1 to the financial which desribes Level 8, 1 O’Connell statements Street 755 Hunter Streetthe revenue recognition policy of Spinal Cord Injuries matter.

ABN 91 850 861 839 Sydneythat NSWfor 2000the Australia West NSW Australia, including theof limitations exists in Financial relation to Newcastle the recording of 2302 cashAustralia receipts from collection. Revenue from this Responsibilities Directors Report GPO Box 5446 Sydney NSW 2001 PO Box 2368 Dangar NSW 2309 Sydney Newcastle PKF(NS) Audit & Assurance Limited source $78,029 which is 0.8% of the Company's overall revenue. Our opinion is unmodified in respect of this Liability limited by arepresents scheme Partnership p +61 8346 6000 p +61 2 4962 Level 8, 12O’Connell Street 755 Hunter Street2688 approved under Professional matter.

ABN 91 850 861 839 f +61NSW 2responsible 8346 6099 fNewcastle +61 2 West 4962 3245 The directors of the Company are ofNSW the 2302 financial Standards Legislation Sydney 2000 Australiafor the preparation Australiareport that gives a true and fair view in 26 GPO Box 5446 Sydney NSW 2001 PO Box 2368 Dangar NSW 2309 accordance with Australian Accounting Standards Reduced Disclosure Requirements and the Australian Charities and Sydney Newcastle PKF(NS) Audit by & Assurance Liability limited a scheme Limited PKF(NS) Audit & Assurance Commission Limited Partnership isAct apmember firm of the 6000 PKF International Limited family of legally independent and does not Partnership +61 2 8346 p Hunter +61 2Street 4962 Not-for-profit 2012 and for such internal control as2688 the firms directors determine is necessary to enable the approved under Professional Level 8, 1 O’Connell Street 755 accept any861 responsibility or liability for the actions orfinactions of2any individual member or correspondent firm2or4962 firms. 3245 ABN 91 850 839 +61 8346 6099 f view +61 Standards Legislation preparation of the financial report that gives a true and fair and free2302 from material misstatement, whether due to fraud Sydney NSW 2000 Australia Newcastle WestisNSW Australia For office locations visit www.pkf.com.au 26 GPO Box 5446 Sydney NSW 2001 PO Box 2368 Dangar NSW 2309 or error.

Liability limited by a scheme PKF(NS) Audit & Assurance Limited Partnership is a member firm of the PKF International Limited family of legally independent firms and does not

p +61 2 8346 6000 p +61 2 4962 2688 approved under Professional accept any responsibility or liability for the actions or inactions of any individual member or correspondent firm or firms. f +61 2 8346 6099 f +61 2 4962 3245 Standards For officeLegislation locations visit www.pkf.com.au

In preparing the financial report, the directors are responsible for assessing the the Company’s ability to continue as a going 26

disclosing, as applicable, matters going and using the going concern basis of accounting unless PKF(NS)concern, Audit & Assurance Limited Partnership is a member firm of the PKF related Internationalto Limited familyconcern of legally independent firms and does not accept any or liability for the actions to or inactions of anythe individual member or or correspondent firmoperations, or firms. theresponsibility directors either intend liquidate Company to cease or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

For office locations visit www.pkf.com.au

Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Report

INDEPENDENT REPORT Responsibilities of AUDIT Directors forfor thethe Financial Report Responsibilities of Directors Financial Report TheThe of the Company areare responsible for for thethe preparation of the financial report thatthat gives a true andand fairfair view in in directors of the Company responsible preparation of the financial report gives a true view TOdirectors THE MEMBERS OF SPINAL CORD INJURIES AUSTRALIA accordance withwith Australian Accounting Standards - Reduced Disclosure Requirements andand thethe Australian Charities andand accordance Australian Accounting Standards - Reduced Disclosure Requirements Australian Charities Not-for-profit Commission ActAct 2012 andand for for such internal control as as thethe directors determine is necessary to enable thethe Not-for-profit Commission 2012 such internal control directors determine is necessary to enable preparation of the financial report thatthat gives a true andand fairfair view andand is free from material misstatement, whether duedue to fraud preparation of the financial report gives a true view is free from material misstatement, whether to fraud or error. or error.

In Report preparing thethe financial report, thethe directors areare responsible for for assessing thethe thethe Company’s ability to continue as as a going on the Audit of the Financial Report In preparing financial report, directors responsible assessing Company’s ability to continue a going concern, disclosing, as as applicable, matters related to going concern andand using thethe going concern basis of accounting unless concern, disclosing, applicable, matters related to going concern using going concern basis of accounting unless thethe directors either intend to liquidate thethe Company or to operations, or have no no realistic alternative butbut to do so.so. directors either intend to liquidate Company or cease to cease operations, or have realistic alternative to do

Opinion

Auditor's Responsibilities forfor thethe Audit of of thethe Financial Report Auditor's Responsibilities Audit Financial Report We have audited the financial report of Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (the Company),

which comprises the statement of financial position as at 30 June 2017, the statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income, the statement of Our objectives areare to obtain reasonable assurance about whether thethe financial report afinancial whole is free from material changes in equity and statement of cash flows for the year then ended, and notes to as theas statements, including a Our objectives tothe obtain reasonable assurance about whether financial report a whole is free from material misstatement, whether due to to fraud or or error, to to issue an an auditor’s report thatthat includes ourour opinion.

Reasonable summary of significant accounting policies, andand theand directors' declaration. misstatement, whether due fraud error, issue auditor’s report includes opinion.

Reasonable assurance is aishigh level of assurance, butbut is not a guarantee thatthat an an audit conducted in accordance withwith Australian Auditing assurance a high level of assurance, is not a guarantee audit conducted in accordance Australian Auditing Standards willwill always detect a material misstatement when it exists.

Misstatements cancan arise from fraud or error andand areare Standards always detect a material misstatement when it exists.

Misstatements arise from fraud or error In our opinion, the accompanying financial report of the Company is in accordance with the Division 60 of the Australian considered material if, individually or or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic considered if, individually in the aggregate, Charities andmaterial Not-for-profit Commission Act 2012, including: they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on on thethe basis of the financial report. decisions of users taken basis of the financial report. (i)

giving a true and fair view of the Company's financial position as at 30 June 2017 and of its financial performance for the year ended; and

(ii)

complying with Australian Accounting Standards - Reduced Disclosure Requirements and the Australian Charities and Not-for-profit Commission Regulation 2013.

PKF PKF for Opinion Basis We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Report section of our report. We are independent of the Company in accordance with the auditor independence requirements of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profit Commission Act 2012 and the ethical requirements of the Accounting Professional and Ethical Standards Board's APES 110 Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (the Code) that are relevant to our audit of the financial report in Australia. We have also fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with the Code.

SWe COTT TOBUTT confirm that the independence declaration required by the Australian Charities and Not-for-profit Commission Act 2012, SCOTT TOBUTT which has been given to the directors of the Company, would be in the same terms if given to the directors as at the time of PARTNER PARTNER this auditor's report.

OCTOBER 2017 30 30 OCTOBER 2017 We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. , NSW SYDNEY , NSW SYDNEY

Emphasis of Matter We draw attention to Note 1 to the financial statements which desribes the revenue recognition policy of Spinal Cord Injuries Australia, including the limitations that exists in relation to the recording of cash receipts from collection. Revenue from this source represents $78,029 which is 0.8% of the Company's overall revenue. Our opinion is unmodified in respect of this matter.

ABN 91 850 861 839

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation

Sydney

Newcastle

Level 8, 1 O’Connell Street Sydney NSW 2000 Australia GPO Box 5446 Sydney NSW 2001

755 Hunter Street Newcastle West NSW 2302 Australia PO Box 2368 Dangar NSW 2309

p f

p f

+61 2 8346 6000 +61 2 8346 6099

+61 2 4962 2688 +61 2 4962 3245

PKF(NS) Audit & Assurance Limited Partnership is a member firm of the PKF International Limited family of legally independent firms and does not accept any responsibility or liability for the actions or inactions of any individual member or correspondent firm or firms.

For office locations visit www.pkf.com.au

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ANNUAL REPORT 2016 / 2017

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Head Office: 1 Jennifer Street Little Bay NSW 2036 1800 819 775 office@scia.org.au www.scia.org.au /spinalcordinjuriesau /SCIAust /spinalcordinjuriesaustralia