Message from the CEO
The last few months have been a very exciting time for Autism SA. The Fisher Street property is about to go on the market and Autism SA has recently signed a lease proposal for 262 Marion Road, Netley. Autism SA will be responsible for the fit-out of the premises, and if this occurs according to proposed time frames, we will be aiming to move early in 2008. This is a great opportunity to improve our service delivery, operations and financial strategy.
I was also fortunate to attend the recent announcement by the Prime Minister of $190.7 million for Autism Early Intervention. This is a major step forward for the autism community in Australia. It is also pleasing to note that the Labor Party has matched this promise with the addition of six specialised centres around the country. For further information, please visit www.autismsa.org.au.
Our major training and development activities continued in August with an Applied Behavioural workshop by Dr Gina Green. In September we were also pleased to sponsor a series of four workshops by the Institute for Applied Behavioural Analysis which were well attended. On 12 October a client focused workshop entitled ‘Constructing a Creative Future’ was run with a specific view to exploring artistic career options for people on the Spectrum.
Autism SA’s 43rd AGM was held on 26 September with the Minister for Disability, The Hon Jay Weatherill being the guest speaker. The Minister spoke briefly on the State Government’s recent announcement of $450,000 per year to enable the continuation of Autism SA’s Early Development Program at its current level of service delivery. This amount is part of the $4 million that was announced for early intervention prior to the state election in 2006.
Congratulations to Donna Webb and Amanda Harris for being elected on to the Autism SA Board of Management, and to John Langton who was recently re-elected as President of the Board.
The Autism SA strategic plan 2005-2008 is currently being reviewed and work has commenced on a new plan for the period 2009-2011. To date 89% of the Key Performance Indicators in the current plan have been achieved. The strategic planning process has been instrumental in the growth of the organisation over the past three years and will continue to be the basis of our future directions.
I would to take this opportunity to wish you a happy and safe Festive Season and I look forward to keeping you informed in 2008. If you have not already done so, I encourage you to start receiving our regular information email service which has received very positive feedback.
To join simply send a message to infomail@autismsa.org.au
Jon Martin
CEO Autism SA