Message from the Board Chair

I was appointed the new Alkira Board Chair November 2023 and I’m delighted to present my first report to our members and friends.

The contribution to Alkira of my predecessor, Peter Harrison, cannot be overstated. Peter has served on the Board for over four decades, including thirty years as Treasurer and eight as Chair. Earlier this year, Peter rode his bicycle from Rome to Paris, generating more than $30,000 in sponsorship for our organisation. On behalf of everyone at Alkira, thank you for your remarkable commitment and work.
Alkira is here to make a positive difference in the lives of our participants, and we have done that for 70 years! This has not happened through chance or good luck, but rather because of the passion, skills, and talents of many people. I want to thank and congratulate our CEO, Julia Canty-Waldron, her senior leadership team, and each of our 200+ support and administrative staff for all you do.
My Board colleagues continue to give their time and expertise freely and generously, and I want to thank and congratulate them. I am delighted that Joseph Connellan, Brian Dudakov and Alicia Stark were recently appointed to the Board. In addition, Alyssa Ianno, who is participating in the Observership Program, has also provided substantial input.
While our financial position remains strong, the NDIS pricing structure presents ongoing challenges. Please be assured that we are constantly focussing on how to offer the best possible services to our participants in a financially sustainable way. The financial and other support provided by our partner organisations, philanthropic trusts and foundations, donors, bequestors and volunteers continues to be substantial. That assistance helps ensure our participants are provided with the best possible supports, services, and programs.

Continually examining ways to enhance high governance standards has been a strong focus. Important initiatives included migrating our incorporation status from that of an Incorporated Association to a Company Limited by Guarantee, focussing on our strategic plan objectives and developing a digital transformation framework.
There have been many highlights during our 70th anniversary year:

• Recognition events for Life Governors and Carers
• Launching the AlkiraBiz Coffee Trailer as a social enterprise
• Successfully meeting NDIS recertification standards
• Ongoing development of our operating systems and processes

Over the past year, Alkira has supported more than 280 participants. It has been an outstanding team effort, and I thank all who have played a part.