Message from the Chairman

Jeff McCarthy - Chairman

FY24/25 has been a year of momentum and meaningful progress for Sylvanvale. Despite the broader uncertainty across the disability sector, we’ve remained focused on what matters most: delivering consistent, high-quality services and expanding opportunities for the people we support.

This year, we were excited to participate in a groundbreaking NDIA pilot program exploring Blended Payments, which is a new approach to funding NDIS supports. This innovative model aims to improve efficiency and flexibility for participants, and we’re eager to share the insights we’ve gained as the pilot program evolves.

We made significant progress in increasing housing choice and independence for the people we support. Highlights include:

  • 10 new Individual Apartment Living (IAL) apartments at Woolooware Bay, delivered in partnership with AccessAccomm, offering modern, independent living in a stunning waterfront location.
  • 7 new villas—a mix of single and dual-occupancy—opened in Jannali in November, thanks to our collaboration with Good Housing.
  • Construction began on our newest Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) property in Illawong, in partnership with the Sylvanvale Foundation, further expanding our commitment to high-quality, accessible housing.

From left to right: SDA Housing in Illawong; IAL Housing in Woolooware Bay, in partnership with AccessAccom; SDA Housing in Jannali, in partnership with Good Housing)

2025 marked a major milestone as the Sylvanvale Foundation began the process to sell Mikarie Place, which has been home to our head office for more than 40 years. While Mikarie Place holds deep historical significance, our new home will enable us to better serve our community with modern facilities and improved accessibility.

Our Facing Forward Customer Consultative Committee continues to be a cornerstone of our approach. These sessions ensure that the voices of the people we support actively shape our services and decisions.

These achievements reflect our commitment to Sylvanvale’s three strategic pillars:

  • Customer-First Philosophy and Culture: We provide high quality services that meet the needs of our customers and the choices they make.
  • Quality-Driven Practice: We foster a positive culture that enables high-quality supports and flexible service delivery through a capable and informed workforce.
  • Sustainability Management: We strive to improve our productivity and efficiency to support growth, innovation and sustainability.

Our Facing Forward Customer Consultative Committee sessions ensure that the voices of the people we support actively shape our services and decisions

I want to extend my sincere thanks to our incredible staff, whose dedication and compassion make Sylvanvale what it is. To my fellow Board members, our CEO Leanne Fretten, and the entire leadership team, thank you for your vision and commitment.

And most importantly, thank you to the people we support, their families and carers. Your trust, feedback and partnership are what drive us forward.

Jeff  McCarthy
Chairman