We are delighted to present the 2023-24 Bayley House Annual Report.
The theme this year is ‘creativity’ and this shines through in all we do at Bayley House. From our wonderful creative arts studio in Highett to our drama, music groups and photography, we have been able to showcase the incredible and talented people who enjoy these programs. As you will see throughout the report, we have much to celebrate. Bayley Arts is up and running, our partnership with BlueCHP and MediStays is flourishing and Hidden Disabilities goes from strength to strength.
In late 2023, Deb Stuart was appointed CEO, replacing Warwick Cavanagh upon his retirement. It has now been almost a year and Deb has brought a new perspective to the organisation, working closely with the Board on strategic and financial priorities. In the ever-evolving landscapes in which we work, 2023-2024 has been a year of consolidation across our new initiatives building on the success of the new start-up projects in the previous year.
The Bayley House Annual Report provides a glimpse into our diverse, complex work, sharing stories of the often-profound impact of our efforts. We are so grateful to our partner organisations and generous donors, the individuals who trust us with their care, and most of all to our brilliant staff and volunteers.
Our committed and experienced Board have contributed so much as they work alongside the CEO and Executive Team to support and guide the projects and initiatives currently underway.
Although the disability support sector is facing considerable change and uncertainty, we believe that a positive and creative mindset that anticipates and leads the way in creating the future we hope to see, is the surest path to success. While it certainly isn’t easy, and we will continue to advocate and fight for legislative and procedural improvements to the NDIS, we should look forward to Bayley House making an ever-increasing contribution to people with disabilities in our community.
Thank you all for being a part of Bayley House.
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In the past year, Home and Living Support has continued to demonstrate significant growth and service excellence across our core areas: Supported Independent Living (SIL), Short Term Accommodation (STA), In Home Support Service (IHSS) and Medium Term Accommodation (MTA).
Our SIL service is currently at full capacity, supporting 45 participants with no vacancies. This reflects both the increasing demand and our commitment to providing high-quality care.
In collaboration with BlueCHP, we have four Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) projects in the pipeline. Two of these projects, located in Mentone and Parkdale, are in the planning phase and are expected to further enhance our housing offerings for participants in need of specialised support.
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Facilitating the successful transition of over four participants from hospital into independent living. Our STA services have also seen continued growth, providing support to over 70 active participants over the past year.
A key focus has been on strengthening the capabilities of our team. Through advanced training in high-intensity support, we are ensuring that our staff are equipped with the skills required to meet the evolving needs of our participants and uphold the highest standards of care.
Over the past 18 months, Bayley House has been working on expanding the reach of its Short Term (STA) and Medium Term Accommodation (MTA) services, extending beyond its traditional participant cohort with the goal of increasing access to make greater impact in the community.
One standout example of this expansion is the journey of Monique, a 26-year-old with complex needs, including Intellectual Disability, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Coffin-Siris Syndrome. Monique also has a history of extreme Behaviours of Concern (BOC), which had previously presented significant challenges for her family.
In a moment of crisis, Monique’s family relinquished care, and she was admitted to Frankston Hospital, unable to return home. The situation gained media attention through an exposé on A Current Affair, highlighting that a vulnerable young person had been left in hospital without a clear path forward.
A Rapid, Collaborative Response
The media coverage prompted swift intervention from the NDIS, with a case manager quickly appointed to review Monique’s plan. Thanks to the increased attention, necessary funding for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), Supported Independent Living (SIL), and Medium-Term Accommodation (MTA) was secured.In response, Bayley House’s STA team worked collaboratively with Monique’s Support Coordinator and Peninsula Health to ensure a rapid intake into our STA/MTA program. Supported by our CEO, the intake process was fast-tracked, enabling our team to develop comprehensive allied health plans immediately after Monique’s arrival. This swift, coordinated approach ensured that Monique was not only supported during this transition but also given the stability she needed to thrive.
A New Chapter for Monique
The outcome of this rapid response was overwhelmingly positive. Monique’s family, deeply impressed with the level of care and support provided by Bayley House, regained trust in the system and, for the first time, felt optimistic about Monique’s future. As a result, Monique and her family have requested to be part of the BlueCHP housing project. This will allow them to co-design Monique’s permanent ‘forever’ home—a long-term solution that ensures stability, support, and a brighter future for her to thrive.
A Testament to Collaboration and Quality Care
Monique’s story is a powerful testament to what can be achieved when decisive action, community collaboration, and high-quality support come together. By turning a crisis into an opportunity, Bayley House not only supported Monique through a challenging period but also helped secure a future that offers hope and consistency. This case exemplifies our commitment to transforming lives and delivering impact far beyond immediate support needs, reflecting the core values of Bayley House.
Independent Living with In-Home Support Services
Our supports are tailored to meet the individualised needs and aspirations of each person, whether that involves attending a sporting event, enjoying a theatre performance, managing daily administrative tasks, or participating in significant family milestones.
A highlight of 2024 is the story of Monte, a long-term Bayley House resident and Day Programs client, who was supported by IHSS to attend his sister’s wedding - a day that meant the world to him and his family.
Monte’s preparations for the big event began early in the morning, and with the support of staff, he was kitted out in a stylish suit by noon, ready to celebrate. His support worker, Mark, accompanied him to the wedding, making sure he was comfortable and able to enjoy the day to its fullest. Monte was an integral part of the big day, celebrating with his family and other guests and sipping champagne well into the night.
By the time he returned home in the early hours of the morning, staff were on hand to assist with his personal care before he retired for the night. The day was a wonderful reminder of the power of support to not just meet daily needs but to enable meaningful participation in life’s joyful moments.
At Bayley House, we believe that independent living is about more than care; it’s about making sure our clients live the life they choose, no matter the occasion.
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Daily activities for life long learning
2023-2024 was quite a big year in the Day Programs space.
Community is at the core of our Day Programs, with many relationships strengthening and developing over 2023-2024. Our Community Engagement program has gained further momentum with additional businesses coming on board to offer volunteer work placements for our clients.
Throughout this period, we have also expanded the range of activities available to our clients, ensuring more diverse opportunities for skill development and social interaction. From creative workshops to community outings, each program is designed to foster independence, build confidence, and enhance wellbeing.
Our focus remains on creating an inclusive and supportive environment where every individual can thrive.
Expanded offerings
Our Day Programs continue to be one of the most sought-after services within the organisation running at capacity most weeks is testament to the exceptional quality of programs we provide. We know from feedback that after hours; holiday and weekend programs are in high demand. To meet the needs of our community, we continued to offer After Hours programs, which have booked out every time they are launched.
After Hours programs range from weeknight dinner clubs, Friday night discos and movies, heading off to the theatre and exploring Melbourne. After Hours programs are a great way to maintain and build stronger connections to peers, develop life and independence skills all while in a supported, fun environment.
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Access Skills Training (Certificate Courses) Graduates Graduates shine
In December 2023, Bayley House celebrated the achievements of its graduation group. Students of the course completed their Certificate I in Work Education, marking a significant milestone in their educational journey. The graduation ceremony was an incredible milestone, symbolising accomplishment and growth. This program exemplifies Bayley House’s commitment to enabling individuals with intellectual disability to reach their full potential.
Partnering with LaTrobe University
We signed onto a partnership with La Trobe University’s Living with a Disability Research Centre. This enables us to embed and implement the person-centred active support and practice leadership models. The aim is to see an increase in client engagement in programs across Day Programs and Home and Living.
Music and Drama Therapy placements with Melbourne Universal therapy
Bayley House will host several students from Music Therapy and Drama Therapy courses to scope interest levels for potential new programs in 2025. This is currently a pilot partnership, which has already seen great interest and engagement.
Community and connection
Bayley House collaborates with community partners to create meaningful art experiences for its clients. Through painting, sculpture, and other artistic mediums, Bayley Artists express themselves, connect with others, and contribute to the vibrant cultural tapestry of the community. Artist and avid knitter, Susan Krausz contributed her knitting to 2023 Yarn Bombing initiative supported by Bayside City Council, draping the Black Rock Clock Tower.
A voice for all
The Bayley Babble podcast, hosted by Bayley House, currently has 60 episodes. The first episode aired over five years ago, featuring an interview with then new staff member, Jordan. The show covers a variety of topics related to the Bayley House community, such as philanthropy, arts, sports, and disability support, with both staff and external guests featured regularly. The Bayley Babble was created to share conversations and interviews that highlight the experiences of people with disabilities, along with discussions on various related topics. You can listen to the Bayley Babble here.
Making a splash
The Danny Frawley Centre has provided a fantastic new location for several of our clients who participate in hydrotherapy. This program is integral for people who need support to remain active and all sessions are planned by a physiotherapist in order to be individualised to the persons needs.
The awards ceremony, which had been put on hold due to Covid, once again filled the hall with the excited buzz of clients, their families, and friends, all thrilled to be part of the day’s celebrations.
The Bayley House Client Awards are a cherished tradition, recognising the dedication and commitment of individuals who have been part of our Day Programs. These programs are an integral part of Bayley House, providing support, engagement, and a sense of belonging to those who participate. The awards highlight significant milestones, celebrating the length of time each client has been involved in our programs.
As the awards were handed out, each recipient’s story was shared, highlighting their journey and the impact the Day Programs had on their lives. The awards have been a wonderful way of individual achievements being recognised and celebrated.
We would to thank the Bayley House Family & Friends group for supporting the Client Awards and being part of the highly successful ceremonies.
Fiona Jarick
Katherine Mansour
Rosie Lowe
Jin Ah Park
Bar Levin
Mary Lawrenson
Lachlan Deayton
Pip Anderson
Sarah Cole
Peter Ginn
Gerald Chee
Sally Tran
Teresa McLeod
Whitney Beruldsen
Belinda Wallace
Dima Miloslavsky
Soknann Tham
Steven Smith
Desma Wong
Catriona Ryan
Brodie Horsey
Stephanie Bennett
Daniel Sobel
Michael Spence
Courtney Tonkin
Carmelo Vinaccia
Holli Clancey
Zoe Elias
Melissa Weyman-Jones
Jane Matthews
Katie Van Der Hoven
Kon Kapsalis
Maddie Read
John Davis
Sarah Felbel
Natalie Listokin
Harry Palatsides
Bri Peatling
Peter Hassouras
Sharon Brayer
Gavin Moore
Rebecca Gemelli
David Long
Sarah Swallow
Iain Walker
Emma Bonte
Louise Taffs
Kathy Cherry
Melanie Caruana
Karen Dennis
Johnathon Pook
Frank Tencic
Sam Weir
Timothy Dalton
Darren Hooper
Inga Wood
Johanna Vallianos
Amelia Cruickshanks
Allan Chua
Tessa Gamboni
Matthew Lloyd
Angela Littledyke
Jacqueline Shafar
Ashlee Cochrane
Thomas Randerson
Luke McCormack
Sarah Woodward
Sally Powell
Cassice Watson
Anna Pham
Sylvia Triantifillis
Lily Cohen
Hope Kennedy
Si Chen
Mark Polonsky
Alisha Barclay
Nicholas DiStasio
James Halvorsen
Olivia Hannon
Montgomery Hede
Molly Hemming
Tess Milgrom
Viktoriya Mindelis
Danny Tong
Robbie Blumenstein
Julia Stone
Georgina Broadway
Hayley James
Amy Martin
Paula Tardiff
Bronwyn Phillips
Nicola Caithness
Jessica O’Donovan
Philip Fullinfaw
John Lasorella
Nicholas Yankos
Our re-established Pathways to Employment program started in January 2024. A wide range of employment training is available at Bayley House, combining a mix of in-house skill development and community-based learning opportunities. This year we welcomed five newcomers to join with current clients in the Pathways to Employment Packages. The core group is enrolled in the CERT I and CERT II Work Skills certificate courses.
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· An OT certified Travel Training program
· Hidden Disabilities
· Certificate 1 courses
· Community Engagement programs
· Brighton Medical Clinic
· Farro Café
· Cheltenham Community Centre
· Our Village
· Brighton Auto
· Middle Brighton Train Station
· Middle Brighton Newsagency
· St Mary’s Pre-School
· Sports Conscious
· Brighton Grammar ELC
· Timbuktu Café
· Middle Brighton Vet Clinic
· Peter’s Mitre 10 Caulfield
· St Stephen’s Church Gardenvale
· St David’s Moorabbin
· Glen Eira Adult Learning Centre
· Enjoy Church
Pathways to Employment is proving to be a very successful component of skill development at Bayley House. By partnering with external providers and businesses, each participant develops a range of skills that enables them to become more independent, far more capable and confident with their abilities.
The growth and expansion of Bayley House’s Day Programs under the pillars of Live, Learn, Create, Health and Wellbeing and Pathways to Employment
One of the most anticipated additions to Bayley House in recent times was launched when Bayley Arts opened its doors for the first time. Bayley Arts had been a time long coming, and to say that we celebrated would be an understatement.
Our launch evening was a huge success with donors and supporters in attendance to see Bayley Arts in all its glory. It was quite special to open the space to those who have long been supporters of this vision. The objective of Bayley Arts is to provide more arts-based activities for our clients and to become an active partner in the community arts space. It has been wonderful to witness the way the space seamlessly transforms from daytime art studio hosting NDIS programs to weekend exhibition space open to the public.
Since opening in September 2023 Bayley Arts has hosted seven exhibitions, as well as supported an exhibition for Bayley Artists at the Bayside City Council buildings. Some exhibitions have featured professional artists hiring our gallery, others have featured the work of Bayley Artists and one was the result of a collaboration between a professional artist and Bayley Artists. These exhibitions have served to expand our network with artists and arts communities creating new connections and opportunities for our Bayley Artists. They have also served to increase our platform and visibility in the arts industry.
Print-Making Professional Development
The collaboration between Bayley Arts instructors and the esteemed Print Master Adrian Spurr underscores a commitment to fostering artistic growth and skill development within Bayley House and the wider community. Through professional development and hands on learning sessions, artists and staff have been given the invaluable opportunity to refine their craft under the guidance of an expert in printmaking.
Looking Ahead:
An Artist Mentorship role has been developed in readiness for recruitment and piloting of this new service in the next financial year. An Events Assistant Role to support the creation of a new casual role and employment of four people with disability next financial year. This role will support the running of Bayley Arts NDIS exhibitions but in future may also be advertised as a service to artists hiring gallery space for their opening events.
Printed products is an area to be explored in the coming year. A trial run of custom printed t-shirts has been conducted, this will be further developed with the launch of Bayley Arts t-shirts which will be available for on demand ordering.
Art Licencing has been identified as a growth area at Bayley Arts. New documentation has been created to support license sales. This alongside the sales process will be further developed in coming year.
People & Culture
Throughout the 2023-2024 year, the People and Culture, Quality, Risk and Compliance teams focused on streamlining key areas to improve organisational efficiency.
This has enabled effective delivery of operational outcomes and further ensures sustainability of the organisation.
Launched 'People Post' - A monthly newsletter, to keep staff informed and engaged on various initiatives, policies, and programs, fostering a culture of transparency and open communication.
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Proactive networking – A structure was implemented to foster strategic connections, to facilitate collaboration and support enabling the sharing of HR information and expertise, to inform service development, lead and enhance employee engagement, improved retention, employee development and increased productivity.
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Leadership Development Program – The BH Connect Leadership Development Program delivered positive results by enhancing our leadership capabilities, and successfully fostered a culture of meaningful conversations, connection, and collaboration across all levels of the organization. This program equipped our leaders with the skills and knowledge necessary to drive excellence, promote respect, and achieve exceptional results.
Quality, Risk & Compliance Management System – Review and planning commenced to identify the best system that would cohesively bring together the organisations current compliance registers. Our organisational needs were mapped against the NDIS Regulatory Compliance Standard, Core Module 2 – Provider, Governance & Operational Management. A review of three different risk management systems and a comparison of their specifications was undertaken. A preferred system was identified that will be further explored with a view of implementation.
Employee Experience Survey – A comprehensive employee experience survey was undertaken across the organisation to gather feedback and suggestions from Bayley House employees. There was a very positive result in the uptake and voluntary engagement from staff in completing the survey with a 66% response rate. The survey sought feedback on employee engagement, alignment, development, leadership, performance, collaboration, and employee perks. Based on the survey results, targeted steps were taken to address concerns and implement employee engagement strategies and activities.
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NDIS Quality and Safeguarding Audit – Bayley House successfully completed their audit, which reflects our ongoing compliance against the safeguarding standards, enabling Bayley House to maintain its ongoing registration to deliver NDIS funded services to the people we support.
Key Initiatives to support the pillars of Connection, Achievement, Respect & Excellence in the next year, will include:
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Importance of Fundraising
As we operate in the NDIS landscape, the importance of fundraising and philanthropy grows each year. NDIS funding is designed to support a ‘reasonable and necessary life’ for people with disability. The only way that we can enable a ‘full and enriched life for people with intellectual disability’ is through the contributions of our generous community.
Whether you supported one of our appeals throughout the year, participated in our March Challenge, partnered with us through our corporate partnership program, attended our charity lunch, fundraised for us, provided a grant for one of our projects, or donated goods or services, we are very appreciative of your support.
The Festive Season Appeal this year was focused on raising funds to grow our Textiles Program. The Bayley House community rallied behind our Appeal and we overachieved our goal, raising over $76,000 which enabled us to provide much needed resources and supplies for the Textiles program.
With our Mid-Year Giving Appeal, we were successful in raising over $125,000. These funds will help us to continue to provide new programs and resources creating more opportunities for our clients to make choices that will shape their future.
We introduced a new peer to peer fundraiser this year, the March Challenge, raising $15,000 for Bayley House in support of individuals who challenged themselves to ‘stop’ or ‘start’ an activity in the month of March. Whilst these appeals are public in nature, we have had many supporters contribute to Bayley House over the past twelve months in other ways.
We were delighted with the attendance of over 340 people at the annual Charity Lunch, held at the RACV Club in Melbourne. Supported by a significant number of volunteers, businesses and individuals, close to $130,000 was raised through this event for Bayley House.
Bayley House has also generated significant funding from a range of Trusts and Foundations in the form of grants specifically to introduce new programs, such as art therapy, and assist with program resources.
Another key contributor to this fundraising total, are the funds from the Bayley House Foundation. Led by an accomplished volunteer Board, the Foundation contributed strongly again this financial year to enable Bayley House to increase our capacity across the fundraising department and support the establishment of our Gift in Wills Program.
The past year marked a milestone with the successful establishment of Bayley House’s Gifts in Wills program. Through this initiative, we invited our community of supporters to consider including a gift in their Will to the Bayley House Foundation, creating a lasting legacy for future generations.
This new program aligns with the vision of Bayley House Foundation, which exists to provide sustainable financial support for Bayley House’s ongoing programs and services. The Foundation ensures that bequests received through wills are managed prudently, with a focus on long-term growth and security. By including a gift in their will, supporters help sustain vital services today, while also contributing to the financial resilience of Bayley House for many years to come.
In our first year, we have already seen encouraging interest from people who share our passion for Bayley House. We value the legacy of each bequestor and are committed to working closely with them to understand their passions and intentions. By engaging with our team, bequestors can share their passions, ensuring that their gift reflects their personal values and desires. We strive to honour their contributions with the respect they deserve.
In addition, we are dedicated to supporting all our community members by providing resources to help them with their wills and estate planning, an area that is deeply personal and at times complex. In June we provided an article on our website regarding the importance of planning for financial trustees and executors of people with intellectual disability.
We are planning to hold Wills and Estate information sessions from a range of industry experts in the coming year.
As we look ahead, the Gifts in Wills program will remain a cornerstone of our fundraising efforts, ensuring our clients can continue to access our range of programs and accommodation well into future. We thank everyone who has shown their belief in our mission and long-term vision.
For more information as to how you could include a gift in your will, contact legacygiving@bayleyhouse.org.au
Brilliant Bayley Birds
Within the Bayley House community, it is said that Christmas does not begin until the Bayley House Concert has been held.
The Bayley House concert, is in fact the result of incredible support from our dedicated fundraising volunteers, the Bayley Birds. Formed in February 1973, after an advertisement was placed in the local paper, seeking support from Brighton mothers to start an auxiliary and fundraising club. The advertisement led to four women, who worked on fundraising at the children’s hospital, responding.
Three of the four women are still part of the group: Gwenda Hance, Margaret Templeton, and Janet Walter. The four women met with the Bayley House board, and then Brighton council, which led to the Bayley Birds being formed. The group is currently led by founding member Faye Barrow. The group has had up to 15 members over the years and has contributed to Bayley House and the wellbeing of our clients in many exceptional ways.
Fifty years of support has meant an incredible $1.5 million dollars has been raised by the Bayley Birds.
While the Christmas Concert is an event that many people know the Bayley Birds for, it was their creativity and drive that fostered many wonderful events over the years. Golf days, gala balls at the Hyatt Regent, Menzies Rialto (as they were known), fashion parades, tennis days, movie night and so much more.
All of the Bayley House community extend our most sincere thanks to the brilliant Bayley Birds, the passion and dedication this group has shown supporting adults with intellectual disability has been unwavering for fifty years. The time, effort and energy they have all contributed to the livelihood of Bayley House has been nothing short of inspirational. So much so, that their efforts were recently recognised by James Newbury MP in Parliament. You can read his full transcript here.
For anyone interested in learning more about how you can make an impact and support Bayley House, please visit Get Involved - Bayley House or contact fundraise@bayleyhouse.org.au
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower & Bayley House Partnership.
This year has seen huge growth of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, helping to build awareness for over 950 non-visible disabilities across Australia and New Zealand.
The team has grown to seven Sunflower champions working hard to expand the business and provide more opportunities for Bayley House Clients to get involved, build new skills and grow in confidence.
During the year over than 700 new organisations joined the program and trained their staff to better support people with hidden disabilities including Major Airports, Shopping Centres, Sporting Venues, Cultural Institutes, Healthcare Facilities, Retail Outlets, Councils, Educational Institutions, Transport Networks and more. Over 75,000 lanyards were distributed directly to people with disabilities and through the growing Sunflower network.
During the year the Sunflower marketing team launched our first Sunflower Conversations podcast featuring disability advocate Peta Hooke, interviewing ten Australians with lived experiences of Hidden Disabilities. We also released our monthly e-newsletter for Sunflower Members full of insights and shared stories of support.
We are looking forward to 2024-25 where we will continue to drive awareness and support for the initiative ensuring more services, venues and events across our region are accessible and inclusive to people of all abilities.
This year, we are pleased to report an overall surplus of $190,762 for the 2023-2024 financial year. This surplus comprises an operating deficit of $1,059,347 from our ongoing operations and philanthropic and investment income of $1,250,109.
We benefited significantly from accumulated capital reserves being invested in the financial markets that performed well in the financial year. Income and gains from these investments, along with donations from the Bayley House community, allow us to provide clients and families with the level of care and support expected by the Bayley House community. In addition, we are very fortunate that our Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program is performing very well and is having a positive impact on our financial position. We are also extremely grateful for the continued support from the Bayley House giving community with philanthropic donations totalling $718,364.
Our short term goal is to ensure that Bayley House's operating businesses within the NDIS framework become at least financially breakeven, as the current operating deficit is unsustainable moving forward. We have undertaken a considerable amount of work to unpack the NDIS pricing arrangements and cost structures in order to reset each of the businesses. We will continue to strategically review the services and support we provide to Bayley House clients and the community to ensure that Bayley House remains in a strong financial position.
I would like to thank our CEO, Deborah Stuart, and her finance team for their continued support through the year and members of the Finance and Risk Committee for their dedication in keeping Bayley House in a strong financial position.
Jeff May, Treasurer
There are many ways you can be part of Bayley House.
Are you wondering how to take that first step in your journey of living independently? Get in touch with our Home & Living team to find out about our Short Term Accomodation.
Wer have a variety of programs to support you develop new skills in a safe, fun environment. Get in touch with our Day Programs team to find out more.
Want to support Bayley House but you aren’t sure how? Get in touch with our Philanthropy team to see how you can be part of the Bayley House story.
Thank you to everyone in the Bayley House community for the support you have shown over the past year.
