CELEBRATING A PROUD HISTORY WHILE LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

We present our 2023 – 2024 Annual Report.

Fifty years ago, our founders opened the doors at Araluen Lower Plenty with a dream – a vision for a brighter future for their young children with disabilities. They created a place where support, opportunity, and inclusion could thrive, laying the foundation for a legacy that has reshaped lives for generations.

Reflecting on 50 years of commitment
This year has been a milestone for Araluen, celebrating 50 years at Lower Plenty. It has been a time to reflect on the vision and courage that built our foundation and continues to guide us today. This Annual Report celebrates our achievements and progress as we continued the critical work needed to ensure Araluen remains a place where people can thrive.

Navigating change with strategy and innovation
The disability sector is undergoing unprecedented change and uncertainty, requiring organisations across the sector to adapt to survive and thrive. Our Board, experienced in navigating risk and uncertainty, is addressing our challenges responsibly and strategically. This year, we embraced innovation to strengthen our support and reputation, such as the implementation of Active Support, while focusing on developing sustainable new opportunities like Positive Behaviour Support.

The work to address our financial challenges is underway, grounded in developing innovative service models, finding more cost-effective ways to deliver support, and strategic asset management. These efforts are positioning Araluen to thrive while staying committed to our purpose. We will continue to streamline service delivery, property management, workforce, corporate overheads, and operations to enhance sustainability, so we can support people with disabilities for years to come.

Looking ahead with purpose
Change is essential for Araluen to thrive in this evolving landscape, and we are embracing this reality with a clear focus on our future. Guided by our new Values and Behaviours, we are driving initiatives that strengthen our services, build resilience, and foster a culture of zero tolerance for abuse. Our outstanding audit results affirm our ability to provide high-quality, safe support, which remains at the heart of everything we do.

THANK YOU!

Our advances are made possible thanks to the support and loyalty we enjoy from many. We fully appreciate our dedicated professional Board who volunteer their time, all our volunteers, our community including participants, families and carers as well as our financial and industry partners who provide assistance in so many different ways. And of course, our dedicated staff teams continue to shine. Your support and involvement integral to our success. Thank you for helping us build a future that honours our past, drives positive change, and ensures that Araluen remains a place where everyone can thrive.

We hope you enjoy the Araluen Annual Report 2023 – 2024.