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Who are we and what do we do?

CODA Inc. has been operating in the Colac Otway Shire since 1979, when a group of parents formed the Colac Hostel Association, with the aim of creating a community based accommodation option for their family members.

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Since then the organisation has grown, and now provides:

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  • Shared Supported Accommodation

  • Short term accommodation

  • Individual Support

  • Community Participation Activities

  • Children and Specialist Services

  • Recreation services

  • Skill development programs

Our Mission

CODA Inc. is committed to providing our clients with a range of quality, community based support programs which are flexible, accessible, affordable and safe while promoting each persons’ Independence and value as a member of the community.

Our Vision

An inclusive community in which all people have the opportunity to fulfil their unique potential.

Our Values

All organisations have a culture which is built on the shared values of its people.  These values guide us in all our decisions and are fundamental to compliance with CODA's code of conduct.

Respect

As an organisation, CODA demonstrates respect through:

  • Acknowledging and embracing the unique qualities of our participants, families and staff

  • Ensuring safe systems of work for all

  • Ensuring the active participation and engagement of all stake holders in the development of the organisation

Integrity

As an organisation, CODA demonstrates integrity through:

  • High standards of ethical behaviour, personal conduct and character at all times

  • A genuine commitment to the success of individuals

  • Dealing openly and promptly with any suspected wrongdoing

  • Fully and promptly disclosing conflicts of interest

  • Creating a framework of trust in all facets of the finances of the Organisation

Honesty

As an organisation, CODA demonstrates honesty by:

  • Taking responsibility and keeping our promises

  • Being clear and transparent in our communications

  • Complete trustworthiness when handling money, property and information

Independence

As an organisation, CODA demonstrates independence by:

  • Effectively advocating for systemic improvement and reform

  • Promoting continuous development and lifelong learning for all

  • Understanding and championing our region and the needs of our community

Empowerment

As an organisation, CODA demonstrates empowerment by:

  • A commitment to social justice and making a positive difference to people’s lives

  • Placing people with a disability at the centre of our decision making and promoting active participation models

  • Proactively pursuing outcomes for people through innovation

  • Supporting self-determination and freedom of expression

Board Members

The Chair of the Colac Otway Disability Inc. Board

Karen Brady

Chair

Community Representative

Expertise in community services and finance

Community Representative of Colac Otway Disability Accommodation Inc. Board

Mary Carew

Community Representative

Lifetime Member

Expertise in education and community service volunteering

Placeholder image for Community representative of Colac Otway Disability Accommodation Inc. Board

Robert Tebbs

Community Representative

Vice-Chair of the Colac Otway Disability Accommodation Inc. Board

Ed Morrissey

Vice-Chair​

Expertise in organisational risk

Community Representative of Colac Otway Disability Accommodation Inc. Board

Chris Houtsma

Community Representative

Expertise in accounting, taxation and business

Treasurer of the Colac Otway Disability Accommodation Inc. Board

Tim Clarke

Treasurer

Expertise in accounting, taxation and business services

Community Representative of Colac Otway Disability Accommodation Inc. Board

Ross Suares

Community Representative

Expertise with state level governance 

CODA Life Members

Respect. Integrity. Honesty. Independence. Empowerment.

Lifetime member of Colac Otway Disability Accommodation Inc. Board

John Scarrott

CODA Board Member

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2005-2023

Lifetime member of Colac Otway Disability Accommodation Inc. Board

David Schram

CODA Board Member

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2003-2022

Lifetime member of Colac Otway Disability Accommodation Inc. Board

George Roberts OAM

CODA Board Member

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2004-2020

Lifetime member of Colac Otway Disability Accommodation Inc. Board

Mary Carew

CODA Board Member

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1998-Present

Lifetime member of Colac Otway Disability Accommodation Inc. Board

Jacqui Suares OAM

CODA Volunteer and CEO

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1990-2016

Lifetime member of Colac Otway Disability Accommodation Inc. Board

Bertha Langdon

Colac Hostel Association Committee Member

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1978-1991

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