2023 – 2024
We exchange isolation, prejudice and ignorance with connections, hope and community.
Acknowledgement of Country
Different Journeys would like to acknowledge the traditional owners of the different lands on which we meet today. We respect all Aboriginal Elders past and present. We aim to collaborate with our Aboriginal and/ or Torres Strait Islander friends in the autistic community to connect, empower and support each other and exchange isolation, prejudice and ignorance with connections, hope and community. We acknowledge that the connection to autism and lived experience is our common ground. We acknowledge, respect and maintain that our custodians have cultivated these lands and we continue to learn together.
Front cover photo: Different Journeys Co-founders, Mel Spencer OAM and Merrin Ayton
Chair Report
Sustained dedication and new directions
Dr Ru Ying Cai Chairperson of Different Journeys
This has been another year of tremendous work by Different Journeys staff, volunteers, partners and collaborators to support our autistic and carer communities through connecting, peer-mentoring, advocating and funding!
Let’s take a moment to reflect on the board’s priorities and activities over the last year. First, we welcomed new board members James Gan and Raj Hillary, who brought with them unique political and advocacy knowledge and understanding, as well as business and management skills, respectively.
NEW STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS
The board and executive team members have and are actively refining our organisation’s vision and mission statements to reflect the expanding social responsibilities of our staff and volunteers in supporting the underserved members of our communities.
To align with these updated statements, we have also refined our strategic goals. We are excited to share our latest vision, mission, and strategic goals in this annual report.
Due to growing funding precarity, we have decided to embark on a new adventure in social enterprise. Our CEO, Mel Spencer has been at the forefront of this adventure, certifying our social enterprise in record time and starting various collaborations with the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing, and the State Library of Victoria for the Keeping Carers in the Workplace initiative.
BUILDING DEEPER CONNECTIONS
Another new focus for the board this year is building deeper connections with our operational staff. We invited staff to attend our monthly board meetings to share their thoughts on working at Different Journeys – what a treat for the board members! We learned about our staff’s day-today responsibilities and why they love working at Different Journeys. We were uplifted to hear about the joy and meaning in our staff’s work and the compassionate values that drive their work. It also warmed our hearts to hear how supported they felt by the executive team – many of our staff are unpaid carers of children, partners, parents . . . our staff lives and breathes the work they do!
The work we do is hard – resources are scarce and families are suffering (sometimes due to family violence, often due to lack of available support). Different Journeys’ amazing work is only made possible by our passionate and hardworking management team, staff, volunteers, supporters, partners and donors. I had the first-hand experience of seeing the impact of our work on families during the autism family camp in July, organised in partnership with Interchange Outer East, Beyond the Book Therapy services and The MISFIT Project. Seeing the children and youth feel accepted and comfortable enough to be fully themselves and their parents share intimate stories with each other reinforced to me how important our work is. I felt so fortunate and grateful to be part of our community.
MAINTAINING FINANCIAL HEALTH
In the next year, our goal is to maintain the organisation’s financial health so that we can continue providing essential and life-enriching support to autistic individuals and their families and carers. Thanks to the thoughtful efforts of Des Galgut, we now have a solid budget to work with and track from, a critical tool to enable us to achieve our goal.
It would not be possible to highlight all the amazing work our team has achieved over the year. I invite you to flip through the pages of our report and celebrate some of our key accomplishments.
RU
Dr Ru Ying Cai Chairperson of Different Journeys
CEO Report Eight years of impact and growth
Mel Spencer CEO of Different Journeys
This year, Different Journeys celebrated eight years. Not bad for two mums who teamed up to organise social events so their autistic children could meet others like themselves.
Since then, Different Journeys has provided support to more than 10,000 Victorian families and we continue to evolve. By listening to and working with our community, we are able to provide supports, events and resources tailored to their needs. We now run events in over 10 local government areas that attract attendees from over 43 local government areas.
COMMITMENT TO CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT
In our commitment to continuous improvement, we are always looking at what we do, questioning whether we meet the needs of our community and ensuring we are working towards our organisational objectives:
• We create, fund and host safe events.
• We raise issues and concerns with decision makers whose actions affect the lives of the autistic individual and their families.
• We provide advice and resources to families to build capacity and resilience.
• We empower people.
• We listen, we engage and involve our community in the design and delivery of everything we do.
ADDRESSING UNMET NEEDS OF UNPAID CARERS
While many autistic individuals have strong voices, they often rely on family members for navigation and guidance. These families, in turn, require support. But where do they go for help? Who supports the 10% of the workforce who are unpaid carers? We have identified a significant unmet need among unpaid carers, highlighting the importance of everyone becoming autistic allies.
10%
Ten per cent of the community are unpaid carers. Collectively, we save the government $77.9 billion a year.
But who cares for the carer?
We walk side by side with carers, connecting them to services and supports, as shown by our work with 2,985 carers. Our dedication to meeting their needs is reflected in the stories we hear about the differences we make; our representation in meetings, committees and boards; and our collaborations with like-minded organisations. We offer numerous participation opportunities, hosting over 263 events, and provide employment opportunities with 96% of our team having lived experience.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Imagine a world where we don’t have to disclose we are autistic because reasonable accommodations and acceptance are a part of everyday life. Different Journeys is contributing to this vision by offering presentations and consultations to organisations, upon request. In the last year, we presented at the Victorian Aquatic and Recreational Conference about our autism swim events which has generated new connections. We also collaborated with other organisations including Uniting Vic Tas, Moonee Valley Council, NAB and Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre.
EXPANDING SUPPORT AND BUILDING PARTNERSHIPS
Through our Carer Employment Program, funded for the past two years by the Department of Family, Fairness and Housing, we have learnt a lot about barriers to work for unpaid carers. Our steering committees in Bendigo and Outer East Melbourne have helped shape our views and supports, focussing on three key elements –Carer Support, Carers into Work and the Employer Journey. This initiative, along with connections with Arc Blue, Coliban Water and State Library Victoria, motivated us to expand our services and register to become a social enterprise focussed on guiding workplaces to support unpaid carers to further their education and secure employment.
Through ongoing conversations, we continue to identify gaps in locations, information and access. Partnering with other organisations enhances opportunities for our community. We are excited to expand our Carers Cuppas to Point Cook and Narre Warren with Australian Multicultural Community Services , and initiate First Nations Carers Cuppas at Bendigo with Bendigo & District Aboriginal Co-operative (BDAC).
ADVOCACY AND STRATEGY INVOLVEMENT
We are continuing our ongoing consultative role in the development of the National Autism Strategy, National Carer Strategy and review of the Victorian Carer Strategy. Our hope is to be a voice for the many members of our community who place trust in us.
Already, we have been invited to participate in carer consultations and the Ministerial Round Table for the Victorian strategy, ensuring that neurodivergent voices are heard.
We are booked for numerous upcoming carer consultations and look forward to discussing foundational supports and navigator programs proposed by the federal government. Our involvement aims to raise awareness of our community’s needs and advocate for a social model of disability and support, aligning with our advocacy and awareness strategy.
LONG-TERM SUSTAINABILITY
Our financial status is always a challenge, particularly in these stringent times. We are grateful to the Victorian Government for their continued support, yet securing funding is an ongoing struggle each year. Job security for all our staff is dependent on obtaining grant funding to ensure our long-term sustainability. Despite these challenges, I’m proud that we have been able to provide employment for 64 individuals in some way, shape or form this year. I am determined to grow these opportunities moving forward.
THANK YOU!
Lastly, I’d like to acknowledge our Different Journeys Board, who always has my back. I am grateful to our Chairperson – Dr Ru Ying Cai – who has been outstanding and our staff and volunteers who keep showing up with a shared belief in what we are doing. I’m so proud of you.
Thank you to our community that continues to have faith in us and trusts that we have got their backs. I also acknowledge the crucial support from the many organisations that we partner with.
Mel Spencer OAM CEO of Different Journeys
Our vision is a future where autistic people fully participate in public life, facilitated by community awareness and understanding.
We support celebrations.
We provide connections. We create communities.
WHO WE ARE
Different Journeys was established in 2016, by Melbourne mums, Mel Spencer and Merrin Ayton, to address the loneliness and isolation experienced by their autistic children.
While much has changed in the last eight years, we continue to work across Victoria to create supportive neuroaffirming environments for autistic people and their families, and carers to connect and share experiences.
We strive to eliminate societal barriers that disable autistic people by promoting understanding and acceptance, while offering peer support to empower and enable the full participation of autistic people and their carers in all aspects of community life.
TO ACHIEVE OUR VISION, WE:
Create, fund and host safe events for autistic individuals and their families including those who provide care to connect, have fun and support each other in meaningful ways.
Provide advice and resources to families to build capacity and resilience and uphold their needs and those of who they are caring for.
Raise issues and concerns with decision-makers whose actions affect the lives of autistic individuals and their families.
Walk alongside carers drawing on our lived experience to provide advice and support.
“It is so rewarding to introduce carers to supports and services they never knew existed. I share that joy felt by our participants and their family because I’ve been there.”
Merrin Ayton Co-founder/Manager, Carer Support Team
OUR STRATEGIC GOALS:
Support and services
• Provide a safe and supportive environment for autistic people and their families
• Walk side by side with carers, connecting them into services and supports to increase their capacity
• Facilitate and support access to employment, education, and volunteering opportunities for the community
• Increase participation of and support for autistic people and their communities in new underserviced areas of Victoria
Advocacy and awareness
• Highlight concerns to those who make decisions that affect the life of autistic people and their community
• Increase the awareness and understanding of the impacts of intersectionality
Advocacy and awareness
• Different Journeys is seen as an organisation that is led, managed and developed by individuals with lived experience
• Increase the diversity of all areas of the organisation to better reflect the communities in which we operate
Autistic teen events
Autistic adult events
Carers Cuppas
1:1 peer mentoring
Carer support events
Blokes Events
Autism Family Camps
Autism bowls events
Autism swim events
LGBTQIA+ events
Carer
events
COMMITTEE INVOLVEMENT AND ADVOCACY
As committee members of key community groups, we advocate for autistic and carer communities. We share information, explore stakeholder activities, develop partnership ideas and secure grant funding to enhance community engagement and well-being. We are members of the following groups and networks:
• Nillumbik Disability Advisory Group
• Victorian Autism Education Strategy AES) Advisory Group
• Victorian Autism Plan Advisory Group (APAG) Mental Health
• Victorian Carer Advisory Group
• Eastern Metropolitan Regional Carer Provider Network
• Bendigo Carer Employment Steering Group
• Mental AZ Network (Greater Bendigo & Loddon)
• Heathcote Early Years Network
• Victoria Police Disability Portfolio Reference Group
• Outer Eastern Carer Employment Steering Group
SPOTLIGHT ON BENDIGO
In Bendigo last year, we held more than 63 events which included our autistic teen peer support; Carers Cuppas in Heathcote, The Bendigo Club and Bendigo Library; Blokes Events; and more recently, the addition of autistic adult peer support events.
Our team has grown and we now employ three permanent staff and receive invaluable assistance from 11 casual staff and volunteers. I love working with my team; they are passionate, enthusiastic and all wanting to help make a difference. We all support each other and step in whenever someone else needs help, ensuring that no one feels alone in their efforts.
We are really grateful to the support of Different Journeys and our community partners over the past 12 months, without which, none of this would have been possible. The Bendigo Autism Asperger Group, better known as BAAG, was going to fold due to volunteer burnout, but with Different Journeys’ support and employment, we are reviving BAAG and bringing new energy and resources to continue its mission of supporting the autistic community.
BAAG is still an entity under the Different Journeys umbrella. We share the same vision, purpose, and mission and are committed to supporting autistic people and their families by meeting them where they are at.
We acknowledge that families come in all forms, including traditional families and families of choice, and we strive to provide tailored support that respects and honours each unique family structure.
In the next year, we look forward to our First Nations Carers Cuppa events in conjunction with the Bendigo & District Aboriginal Co-operative (BDAC), our after hours female dinners and working more closely with some of our local primary schools.
Leah Thomas Bendigo Regional Coordinator
Our Impacts 2023 – 2024
Victorians we connected with 263 events
5000
20 4,105
hours worked by Different Journeys volunteers
expos and festivals we took part in
43 20 representations from Local Government Areas presentations delivered by Different Journeys staff/volunteers
13,528
individual carer peer support hours
• Bendigo Adult Events
• Moonee Valley Teen Events
• Autistic Makers Market
2,985
unpaid carers we supported
- NEW INITIATIVE -
• State Library carer employment demonstration project
• Social enterprise (Keeping Carers in the Workplace)
• Blokes Events
- EXPANDED INITIATIVE -
• New swim event venues • Carers Cuppas
23,319 total website sessions
• Blokes Dinners • Carer peer support
- OUR IMPACT ON THE WEB -
40,855 total website page views 96% increase in website visits over 12 months
1,264 total website resource downloads
- OUR IMPACT ON SOCIAL MEDIA -
152,928 total reach across social media 6% increase in social media reach over the past 12 months 15% increase in social media followers over the past 12 months 155%
increase in Facebook reach
We
support celebrations.
We support celebrations
At Different Journeys, we believe in the power of celebration to uplift spirits, strengthen our community and recognise the invaluable contributions of staff and volunteers.
We celebrate achievements, both big and small, individual and collective. Whether it’s through our newly established social enterprise, laying the groundwork for our First Nations Carers Cuppas, the joy and connection found at Autism Family Camps, or the success of our first Makers Market, we applaud our community for their authenticity, resilience and empowerment.
KEEPING CARERS IN THE WORKPLACE
This year, Different Journeys was registered as a social enterprise for our work in guiding workplaces to support unpaid carers to further their education and secure employment. This was a significant step forward for our carer employment initiative, which was established in 2021, with the support of a state government grant.
Our carer employment initiative focused on two specific regions – Greater Bendigo and Outer East Melbourne. We have established steering committees in these areas composed of Consortium members, field staff, carers and potential employers. As a result, we have formed strong partnerships with Heathcote Health, Lifely, Coliban Water, Arc Blue and Bendigo & District Aboriginal Co-operative (BDAC), and are growing our connections with Bendigo Telco, Bendigo TAFE and Kangan Institute. This diverse representation ensures that we address the needs and insights of all relevant parties, enhancing the impact and reach of our projects.
FIRST NATIONS CARERS CUPPAS
We have been working closely with BDAC to establish a pilot program of First Nations Carers Cuppas. The program will provide a safe and supported environment where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can explore services, supports and other opportunities for themselves and those they care for. The first of these events will be held in Bendigo in July 2024.
AUTISM FAMILY CAMPS
In partnership with Interchange Outer East, Beyond the Book Therapy and The MISFIT Project, we successfully hosted two Autism Family Camps once again this year. The camps were held on Phillip Island and in Axedale and included a range of activities such as art therapy, damper making, flying fox, giant swing, beach play, welding and cookie decorating. Our camps focus on flexibility and choice, allowing families to tailor their activities to suit their unique needs and preferences, ensuring an inclusive and enjoyable experience for everyone.
“It’s nice to know that you’re not alone in the challenges, but it’s also really nice to be able to share the wins and the exciting stuff with other people who get it.”
Shaun Maroondah Adults Event
He’s prepared to give things a go, despite sometimes feeling a bit nervous. He is a regular on the microphone at Different Journeys events, both in giving speeches as well as running the Kahoot quizzes with wit and humour. Bailey is confident in approaching new attendees who are like him when he first attended, meek, nervous and apprehensive. He naturally puts them at ease, making them feel comfortable to be their authentic selves. Attendees often seek out Bailey at events, knowing that if he is there, they will be OK.
He is a strong peer model for both the autistic community as well as for families, providing hope and proof of what is possible. Bailey’s strong leadership enables others to walk alongside him and inspires them to show up, step up and volunteer.
Bailey Bendigo Teens and Adults, event attendee
FINDING COMFORT AND COMMUNITY AT THE AUTISM FAMILY CAMP
“Trying to explain in words the sense of belonging and shared community at the Autism Family Camp is almost impossible. The smiles, laughter and above all else, the sense of comfort I experienced was so different.
When I think of a family camp I think of a school camp with parents along for the ride, but this wasn’t like that. Yes, there were amazing activities, great staff and good food. But what really stands out is the ability for like-minded people to feel safe in being their true selves. This is really important.
We are who we are and although that should always be embraced, neurodivergent individuals can lack this confidence in normal social settings.
At family camp, this wasn’t the case. I saw so many people being a raw, pure version of themselves whilst letting their hair down and it was incredible to be a part of it.”
Angus Appleby Marketing Manager
AUTISTIC MAKERS MARKET
Through a grant from Investing in Women’s Grassroot Grant Program, we were able to deliver an autism-friendly makers market in early 2024.
Our project was an incredible success, far exceeding our goals for building confidence, as well as economic and social opportunities for gender-diverse and female autistics. Our self-nominated committee of eight autistic women and non-binary people chose, designed and ran the Autistic Makers Market, supporting almost 20 autistic creatives to run their own market stalls.
Each committee member built skills and experience in leadership, project management, safety management, creating accessible environments, communications, teamwork, organisation and peer support. Almost all the makers made money, and many received bespoke orders. Each maker was supported to develop skills in organisation, creativity, marketing, sales, community interactions and engagement, money management and decision-making.
The market helped us connect with new autistic families and partners from the local area and beyond, with attendees reporting a positive environment that gave autistic customers the opportunity to practise interacting with the makers and purchasing their wares.
CELEBRATING OUR CEO – MEL SPENCER AWARDED OAM
Mel was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to community health in the first King’s Birthday Honours List announced in June 2023. She received her Medal in an official ceremony from the GovernorGeneral Prof Margaret Gardner AC at Government House in October 2023.
The award recognises Mel’s ongoing advocacy to Government; development of employment, education and carer peer support programs to improve outcomes for autistic people and their carers; and establishment of the Pathways for Carers program, a peer support working program for carers.
Mel’s advocacy work involves regular meetings with politicians and their advisors, speaking at autism and carers’ conferences and representing the autism community on advisory committees across Victoria.
“I would not be here without a lot of professional and personal support. No one can do it alone and I want to thank my autism community for allowing me to represent their voices.”
Mel Spencer CEO
CELEBRATING OUR VOLUNTEERS
and is now pursuing a special effects internship.
While these achievements are testament to Dylan’s perseverance and the support of his parents, none of this would have happened without the practical guidance and wisdom from Different Journeys. The Different Journeys Peer Support Team helped get Dylan a new NDIS plan and a proper assessment from an occupational therapist. This in turn led to Dylan receiving regular speech therapy, counselling, specialist job services support and fortnightly occupational therapy, launching him to a level of independence that has given his parents the peace of mind to enjoy a vacation.
Jonathon Tan
Receiving a Deakin Community Award
Jonathon Tan received a Deakin Community Award for his efforts to raise awareness about our autism community and how to model and achieve good positive outcomes during his volunteer role with Different Journeys.
Darren Ayton
Receiving a Casey Volunteer and Community Award
Darren Ayton received a Casey Volunteer and Community Award in recognition of his valuable contributions to Different Journeys.
*Names have been changed
We provide connections.
We provide connections
At Different Journeys, we are dedicated to building meaningful connections that drive positive change and inclusivity and enrich our community.
Our advocacy efforts have led to impactful collaborations with the Victorian Electoral Commission and Maroondah Council. We have also joined forces with the Diverse Learners Hub, an initiative of the Victorian Government Disability Inclusion program, to enhance support for neurodiverse students and their families.
Through strategic alliances with organisations like NABility and Pressroom Philanthropy, we extend our reach and resources, helping to create environments where everyone can thrive.
NABility
“We have found Different Journeys to be incredibly easy to work with. They have flexed and supported engagement activities which have been tailored to the needs of NAB and our carer community. The feedback from colleagues has been outstanding. We look forward to continuing to work with the Different Journeys team.”
Blair Hawthorne Co-Chair NABility NAB Employee Resource Group
Different Journeys was approached in 2024 by NABility, the National Australia Bank’s (NAB) employee resource group comprising employees with disability, carers of family members with disability and allies. Part of the NABility strategy is to look for opportunities to support colleagues with disabilities as well as colleagues that have caring responsibilities. As subject experts in the carer space, we have worked with NAB on creating awareness of supports available for unpaid careers in their workplace.
Working collaboratively with NAB has enabled us to segue into becoming a social enterprise. We work with employers to identify carers in their workforce and support them by providing practical tools, sharing resources and experiences, helping them access services, redesigning job roles to suit their needs, and ultimately enhancing staff well-being, resilience, work-life balance, care outcomes and loyalty.
VICTORIAN ELECTORAL COMMISSION
After being approached by a carer about the challenges her children experienced with voting, Different Journeys made a submission to the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC), outlining accommodations to enable the neurodivergent community to safely vote.
This piqued the interest of The Age, which ran a comprehensive story titled, Push for ‘quiet hour’ at polling booths for neurodivergent voters. The article featured quotes from Mel Spencer and promoted the advocacy efforts of Different Journeys. Subsequently, Mel met several times with the VEC and secured employment for Different Journeys participant, Bailey White as an ambassador with VEC. He will visit community groups to talk about how to vote and share his voting experiences as an autistic person. In the coming year, we hope to continue our discussions with VEC around adjustments and accessibility.
MAROONDAH COUNCIL
Different Journeys has a long-standing relationship with Maroondah Council. For several years we have partnered on numerous projects funded by the council, beginning with the establishment of the Pathway for Carers walks. We are also fortunate recipients of substantial in-kind support.
As a Maroondah-based organisation, we are thrilled to receive an annual donation through the staff giving project, acknowledging our impactful work within the community.
DIVERSE LEARNERS HUB
Different Journeys has collaborated with the Diverse Learners Hub, an initiative by the Victorian Education Department, to enhance support for students with diverse learning needs. Together, we facilitate connections between parents, carers and neurodiverse students, empowering their active participation in educational settings.
We co-design support strategies that amplify the voices of parents and carers, ensuring their perspectives contribute effectively to the Diverse Learners Hub.
Through this partnership we have created a suite of resources for parents, supporting them in asking for reasonable adjustments, student support group meetings and inclusive education plans.
PRESSROOM PHILANTHROPY
Pressroom Philanthropy has been a great supporter of Different Journeys, standing alongside us as one of over 50 charities they champion.
Their support extends beyond financial contributions, encompassing invaluable pro bono services such as strategic advice and the creation of impactful flyers, banners and marquees that amplify our message.
We deeply appreciate Pressroom Philanthropy’s ongoing commitment and belief in our mission. Their partnership aligns with our shared vision of creating a world where children and families thrive in safety, health and joy.
BERNARD’S CARERS CUPPA EXPERIENCE
Bernard is a resident of a retirement village and primary carer for his wife who is living with dementia. His first visit to the Croydon Carers Cuppa at Croydon Library was a tentative step, yet it quickly became a pivotal moment of connection and support.
During his initial Carers Cuppa, Bernard did not take long to strike up conversations with Different Journeys staff and fellow carers. Feeling that this was a safe place to be vulnerable, Bernard shared his story and was comforted to find out that he was not alone and was experiencing similar issues as other carers.
Bernard shared his struggles in managing his wife’s emotions and behaviours associated with dementia. Despite his connections within the retirement village, he had not accessed any formal carer support groups and was unaware of available resources.
During the Carers Cuppa, our peer carer support staff discussed several of Bernard’s critical concerns and made suggestions for accessing support services such as My Aged Care, Carer Gateway and the Victorian Centre for Mental Health.
A Peer Carer Support Officer organised referrals to these organisations and within 24 hours they contacted Bernard and connected him to supports that were relevant to his needs.
Bernard expressed immense gratitude for the guidance and support provided. He acknowledged the Carers Cuppa as a valuable resource for learning about available services and connecting with others in similar situations. He attended another Carers Cuppa, further solidifying his connections with other carers and reinforcing the value of the support network.
We create communities.
We create communities
At Different Journeys, we create dynamic communities where autistic people and their families as well as carers can connect, learn and navigate their journeys with confidence and optimism.
This year, our partnerships with Box Hill TAFE and Workforce Australia Local Jobs have enriched our carers events. Our collaboration with Glen Park Community Centre has transformed our Carers Cuppas into hubs of discovery and empowerment, and we have witnessed strengthening camaraderie at our Blokes Events. Our online communities continue to grow and thrive, becoming an increasingly important channel for engagement, support and dissemination of valuable information.
BOX HILL TAFE
This year, staff from Box Hill TAFE Skills and Jobs Centres attended all our Chirnside and Lilydale Carers Cuppas, building a rapport with carers and providing a wealth of information on the many and varied learning opportunities available to them and those they care for. The friendly atmosphere of our Carers Cuppas provides a welcoming, supportive environment in which carers feel comfortable connecting, learning and exploring new possibilities.
GLEN PARK COMMUNITY CENTRE
With the support of Workforce Australia, Glen Park Community Centre has proven to be a valuable venue for our Carers Cuppas, enabling carers to learn about and explore supports and services offered by the community centre and take up opportunities such as woodworking.
BLOKES EVENTS
roles.
These gatherings provide a supportive space for men to share their experiences, discuss the challenges and rewards of caregiving and enjoy a meal among like-minded individuals. In doing so, our attendees form connections with other carers and exchange information about accessing services and supports.
Currently, we host Blokes events in Bendigo, Ringwood and Lower Plenty. These events have been developed and facilitated by male carer peer support staff members.
Seane Cumming, one of our Senior Carer Peer Support Officers, brings his background as a mental health nurse to the Blokes Events.
In Ringwood, Darren Ayton leads the gatherings, while in Bendigo, our Carer Peer Support superstar, Daryl Giles, frequently attends alongside Tim Calderan for additional support.
“I have not laughed this much for ages!”
Our Blokes Events are designed to empower men to embrace and celebrate their caregiving
New attendee Ringwood Blokes Event
ONLINE COMMUNITIES
In the past 12 months, our reach on Facebook has expanded by 155%, connecting us with a significantly larger audience than ever before.
This growth is primarily due to the introduction and optimisation of targeted strategies, including the use of Facebook events to engage the right people. The continuous introduction of new events has attracted new audiences, reflecting our ability to reach and engage more people effectively.
Our website traffic has nearly doubled in the past year, showcasing the growing interest in our services, the engaging content we provide and the increasing need for our offerings.
1000+
We have established ourselves as a hub for trusted information, with over 1,000 downloads of our resources.
Our most popular downloads include police resources, social stories and education packs. This impressive growth is attributed to significant investments in Google Search and Google Ads, as well as the redevelopment of our website to better serve the community.
Among the achievements spearheaded by Marketing Manager, Angus Appleby this year, was elevating his Google Ads Search Certification to Google Partner Status. This prestigious achievement not only highlights his dedication to Different Journeys but also showcases his ability to maximise the Google Ad Grant for nonprofits, driving greater impact with a wider audience.
DIFFERENT JOURNEYS – BORN FROM MOTHERS’ LOVE
When my son was in Year 10, he was so socially isolated. He was aware that he was different but couldn’t understand why he didn’t have friends, why peers walked away from him if he walked up to say hello, why bullies always teased him because he said or did something they didn’t like.
As a parent, hearing this is heartbreaking. For a teen, it is earth shattering.
Thankfully, Mel Spencer and I met – we were both in desperate need to find somewhere to take our eldest child where they would be included, accepted and maybe even find a friend. The idea to start a small social group for our teens began the Different Journeys seed began to grow.
That seed has continued to grow and blossom into a wonderful organisation that has provided me with personal support as well as a career.
It is so rewarding to see a teen, who has attended our teens’ social event for the first time, meet another teen who will not only listen, but will also chat with them 1:1 about their pet interest. To see them at the end of the night exchange contact details is priceless. To hear at the next monthly event, they have had a playdate is so satisfying. It could be the first time they have ever had someone over to play or the first time someone invites them over to play. For the first time they have made a friend who “gets them”.
I share that joy felt by our participants and their family, because I’ve been there.
My son is now 23 years old and thriving. He has found his tribe and passion. He is currently in his second year at JMC Academy –he is studying to be an actor. At the end of the year, he will graduate with a Bachelor of Arts. My husband and I are very, very proud and in awe of our son and what he has achieved.
Merrin Ayton Different Journys Co-Founder
it gave me a lot of hope to talk with other parents who had children around the same age, and talk about what their futures might be like.”
Annette Maroondah Adults Event attendee
VOLUNTEER SUPERSTAR
Always the first to lend a hand, dedicated volunteer, Jonathon Tan has been a part of the Different Journeys community since 2017. His dedication, consistency, loyalty, and leadership have made a profound impact, inspiring autistic members and their families, and helping to create a stronger, more
Jonathon’s endless enthusiasm and goodwill underpin the vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, making every event a memorable experience for all involved. His exceptional networking skills, showcased at expos like the Maroondah Festival, further amplify his positive impact on the community.
When not volunteering at Different Journeys, Jonathon works as a kitchen hand at Becca Foodstore in Alphington and enjoys attending cooking classes, personal training and basketball.
He has participated in fun runs including the City2Sea for the past six years, and last year raised more than
Our People
OUR BOARD
Our board members are all volunteers who bring significant experience from their fields of expertise.
The board meets regularly to guide and assist the organisation to achieve its strategic goals.
Rachel Power Treasurer
Rachel is a passionate people leader with over 20 years’ business experience in retail and technology.
As a mother and carer, she has a lived experience with autism through her children and wanted to make an impact through inclusion, connection and supportive opportunities for individuals, families and carers.
Jesse Baker Secretary
Jesse is a dedicated professional who has a passion for creating tailored opportunities for young people in the community.
Currently working at the Data & Technology Manager at Anglicare Victoria, Jesse has vast experiences and a detailed passion for both volunteer development and LGBTQIA+ inclusion.
Dr Ru Ying Cai Chairperson
Ru chairs the Different Journeys Board. She is a Research Fellow at Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia) where she leads a pioneering program of work that explores the self-compassion experiences of autistic adults and parents of autistic children. She is interested in understanding the relationship between self-compassion and mental health and well-being.
Fred Brumhead General Board Member
Fred has devoted his career to supporting people with disabilities and their families.
For over 30 years, he has been the CEO of Interchange Outer East, where he has focussed on steering and shaping the organisation to ensure its success and the effective delivery of services for families of children and young people with disability.
Daniel Munter Deputy Chairperson
Daniel is a passionate autistic person who adopts a ‘person-first’ approach to the development of autistic youth. He strives to enrich the Autistic community, as well as create opportunities for individual personal development. He is currently employed as Lead Engagement (Strategic Convening Team) at the Investment Dialogue for Australia’s Children.
Dr Stacey Rabba General Board Member
Stacey is a clinician-researcher who works at Monash Health as an Educational and Developmental Psychologist and Monash University as a Lecturer and Researcher. During her career, she has worked across not-for-profit, education, disability, government, and private sectors all with a mindset of optimising well-being through strengths-based and compassionate care.
Mel Spencer OAM Co-founder/CEO
Mel is a fierce autistic advocate, carer and co-founder of Different Journeys. In 2020, she was inducted into the Victorian Women’s Honour roll that supports outstanding achievements by women.
In the King’s Birthday 2023 Honours List she was awarded an Order of Australia (OAM) medal recognising her work in autism support and advocacy.
Raj Hillary General Board Member
Raj Hillary, founder and CEO of Indie Lifestyle, has dedicated his career to making a significant impact on the lives of young adults with disabilities and their families.
He has held senior leadership positions in humanitarian efforts across East Coast Africa and Southeast Asia, and has extensive experience in HR, retail, manufacturing and operations.
Merrin Ayton Co-founder/Manager Carer Support Team
Merrin Ayton, co-founder of Different Journeys, has been a passionate advocate for the autistic community since her eldest son’s diagnosis in 2001. With her lived experience and extensive teaching expertise, Merrin leads the Carer Peer Support Team, providing guidance and support to carers as they navigate the complex service system.
James Gan General Board Member
James is a passionate advocate for social causes, committed to providing people with the support they need to become the best versions of themselves. He brings a wealth of experience in grassroots campaigns and advocacy across various levels of government, along with a broad network of community organisations.
EXECUTIVE TEAM
United by their personal connections to autism, our Executive Team is dedicated to:
Creating a supportive, inclusive environment for the autistic community
Fostering meaningful connections
Empowering individuals and their families to lead fulfilling lives
SUPPORT UNDERPINNED BY EMPATHY AND EXPERTISE
Megan is a Senior Carer Peer Support Officer and a member of the Different Journeys Executive Team.
As a mother and stepmother to four children, three of whom are on the autism spectrum, and a caregiver for her ageing mother, Megan brings a wealth of personal experience and empathy to her role.
In her youth, Megan’s extensive travels equipped her with diverse life skills. She pursued a nursing career, gaining a broad range of experiences across various specialties. Her passion for helping others inspired her to complete a Certificate IV in Disability, enabling her to support people with disabilities in achieving their full potential.
Megan is dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities, as well as their families and carers, with great care and understanding. She prides herself on her ability to listen deeply and provide meaningful support to carers.
Megan has been involved with Different Journeys for eight years; firstly as an event attendee, then a volunteer, and now an employee.
STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS
Everything we do is about lived experience.
We are neurodiverse and carer affirming in all we do and say.
We always live our values centred around building communities, striving for social justice, embracing diversity and working towards our vision where autistic people fully participate in public life.
“Working for an employer which provides flexible working arrangements for me as a carer is beyond valuable. Different Journey’s provides me with the capacity to be a productive member of the workforce and community, while giving me the capacity to still provide the care that is needed to my loved ones.”
Megan Spencer Manager Carer Peer Support
13% 13%
80% of staff are carers
16% culturally or linguistically diverse staff
64
38% staff under 25 years old LGBTQIA+ staff neurodivergent staff staff
63% volunteers of volunteers are autistic
23
Partners and Supporters
We are grateful to our partners and supporters who provide the space, resources and time to enable us to build a safe and inclusive environment for autistic people and their carers to socialise and seek support.
• Access Workwear
• Amaze
• Arc Blue
• BAAG
• BDAC
• Belgravia Leisure
• Bendigo Health
• Bendigo Library
• Bendigo Tafe
• Bendigo Times
• BlueFit
• Boronia Rotary
• Box Hill Tafe
• Brimbank Council
• Brimbank Leisure Centre
• Carer Gateway
• Chirnside Park Country Club
• Club Kilsyth
• Consulting by Design
• Croydon Library
We’d like to make a special mention to Briohny Lawson who set up the Peace for Patryk via MyCause fundraising and nominating both Different Journeys and headspace Knox to be the beneficiaries of her fundraising efforts. Bree’s eldest son, Patryk passed away after a long battle with mental illness on 10 February 2023. Bree organised a special fundraising day to mark what would have been Patryk’s 18th birthday.
Adolescents with disabilities are at a higher risk than their peers for taking their own lives. The obstacles they face, such as limited access to services, long wait times, and financial barriers often prevent them from getting the help they so desperately need.
• Department of Families, Fairness and Housing
• Department of Health
• Eastern Volunteers
• Engage Grant
• Gaffney’s Bakery
• Glen Park Community Centre
• Greensborough RSL
• Hairjamm
• Headspace Greensborough
• Heathcote Community House
• Heathcote Health
• Interchange Outer East
• Investor Relations Strategy
• Kincrome
• Knox City Council
• Knox Leisureworks
• Life Saving Victoria
• Lifely
• Lilydale Village
• Lower Plenty Hotel
• Maroondah Council
• Merri Health
• Moonee Valley Council
• Mullum Road Clinic
• Multi Marketing Solutions
• MyAbility
• Nillumbik Council
• Noble Park Aquatic Centre
• Peace for Patryk
• Pressroom Partners
• Phil Taylor Foundation
• Redwell Café
• Riverside Kitchen and Bar
• Sandringham Leisure Centre
• Services Australia
• SodaStream
• Stephanie Crawford & Associates
• Swinburne TAFE
• The Bendigo Club
• The Coach
• The Suburban
• Third Chapter
• Uniting
• Urban Grooves
• Victorian Department of Education
• VMCH
• Westfield Knox
• Windy Hill Fitness Centre
• Workforce Australia North Eastern Melbourne
• Your Library Thank You
From everyone at Different Journeys
ended 30 June 2024.
How to give to Different Journeys
DONATE
Different Journeys is a small not-for-profit organisation. We operate on small budgets and are reliant on government grants to do our work.
We welcome and greatly appreciate donations and bequests to help us achieve our vision –A future where autistic people fully participate in public life facilitated by community awareness and understanding.
By donating to Different Journeys, you contribute to transforming the lives of autistic individuals and their families. Your support helps create inclusive, safe, and supportive environments where autistic people and their carers can connect and build community.
This reduces isolation, enhances mental health, and improves educational and employment opportunities for autistic people and their families
Your donations also allow Different Journeys to maintain affordable event costs, ensuring accessibility for everyone, including those not on the NDIS. With your help, we can expand our reach, hosting more events in more locations, fostering greater connections and promoting inclusivity. By contributing, you are making a lasting impact on the autism community, replacing isolation with connection and hope.
Donate my.differentjourneysautism.com/ donations
VOLUNTEER YOUR TIME
Volunteering with Different Journeys offers a unique and impactful opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of autistic individuals and their families.
Volunteers contribute to our social events, helping to reduce isolation and improving mental health outcomes within the autism community. By contributing your time and talents, you help expand the reach of Different Journeys, enabling more events and support for a greater number of families.
Volunteering with Different Journeys also allows you to join a supportive network of passionate individuals. We provide a collaborative environment that fosters personal growth and provides a platform to develop new skills and friendships.
Volunteer differentjourneysautism.com/ vacancies-volunteering
SOCIALS
/differentjourneysautism
/company/differentjourneys
/differentjourneysautism
Different Journeys is a registered charity under ACNC (Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission) and has DGR (Deductible Gift Recipient) status. All donations over $2 are tax deductible and a receipt from Different Journeys will be provided.
*Different Journeys participant survey, May 2024 of respondents told us that our events improve their mental health and well-being. of respondents told us that Different Journeys events help them feel less isolated. 90% 81%
