Annual Report 2022-23

Across 2022-23 we provided more than 27,000 hours of support services to families, an increase of more than 6000 hours on the previous year. Our staff travelled more than 107,000 km to deliver our programs and services, an increase of more than 80,000 km, and we’re now providing services in 26 Local Government Areas across Victoria, up from 17. We are supporting more children, young people and families than at any other time in our organisation’s history. This milestone is down to the efforts of every one of our people. 

Following through with the aims outlined in our Strategic Plan launched in 2021-22, we have changed the way we manage client data and analyse outcomes, with processes added to embed the client voice into our practice leading to some impactful outcomes for our clients. We also opened an incredible five new Early Years centres across Whittlesea, Darebin and Casey, bringing our total Early Years footprint to 12 centres across Victoria. We welcomed 995 new little learners to our centres for the period, an increase of 192 enrolments on the previous year. 

Tony Smith departed our Board this year. A long-standing member of our team, Tony pioneered our (now annual) Kieser Charity Golf Day which has raised record funds to support our work. Tony has been an unwavering advocate, cultivating strong partnerships with industry and lending his commercial acumen to our growth objectives. We wish Tony all the best in his future endeavours. 

In 2023, Whitelion Youth signed an Intent to Merge into Kids First. This merger is a rare opportunity to create an organisation that provides a broad suite of programs and services nationally. With established presence in Victoria, Western Australia, New South Wales and South Australia, for those aged between 10 to 24 years old, we now have the ability to provide high quality client-informed services and collective impact across Australia. 

Improving the life trajectories of our nation’s most vulnerable children and young people is our legacy – we’re grateful to every single person who has contributed to its continuation this year.

– Aileen Ashford, Chief Executive Officer and Sandy Forbes, President

"In 2022/23 Kids First was able to emerge strongly from the challenging pandemic financial climate. Our overall revenue has increased by $7 million compared to the previous financial year mainly from increased funding for new program offerings. Grants have increased by 5% representing strong backing from a range of philanthropic partners. We have continued to make positive gains to increase our footprint and maximise positive outcomes for children and families, with growth particularly in Early years services. Donation funding also increased and we welcomed back our largest fundraiser, the 3AW Lunchtime Rumours Feast after a two-year COVID hiatus. All-in-all, a very strong financial position and platform to continue to deliver impact for many years to come."

– Davin Magee, Treasurer