Supporting Our Community Through Thoughtful Planning
Each year, GAC carefully considers how available funding can best meet the needs of our members; not only today, but for future generations. This year’s program reflects that commitment, introducing and strengthening dedicated support in areas members have told us are important.
You may notice that this year’s Flexi Program looks a little different from last year. The biggest change isn’t the total amount of funding — it’s how that funding has been allocated, to provide support at different times throughout the year.
Last financial year, members received:
- Two Hardship distributions totaling $4,000 through the Flexi Program
- Underpayment funds on top of Flexi, in $3,000 and $4,000 payments
- No dedicated Over 55s Program
- Culture/Funeral support of $800
- No dedicated support during times of hardship, e.g. Christmas, Easter, Economic downturns etc. any assistance came from the underpayment allocation
This financial year, the Board has invested in dedicated programs that provide targeted support across our community:
- Over 55s Program – $1,000 for eligible members, recognising and supporting our Elders
- Culture/Funeral Program – increased from $800 to $1,000, acknowledging the importance of supporting members with cultural and family responsibilities
- Families Support Program– a new dedicated payment, budgeted at approximately $1,300 per eligible Member, to become available mid-December
If these dedicated program allocations were combined back into the Flexi Program, the available Flexi funding would sit at approximately $4,000 – in line with last year’s budget.
The table below breaks this down even further:
As shared at previous AGMs, royalty income has reduced. The Board has carefully considered how available funds can create the greatest benefit across the community, while continuing to protect the long-term sustainability of GAC.
These decisions have been made with our members in mind – to recognise our Elders, strengthen support for culture and family, assist families during the holidays, and ensure our programs continue to deliver meaningful benefits for years to come.
We understand change can raise questions, and we’re committed to keeping our community informed. Over the coming weeks, we’ll continue sharing more information about each program and the thinking behind these decisions.
