RIVERLINK INTERCHANGE INCORPORATED

Riverlink is a community based non-profit organisation. It was established in 1987 and became an Incorporated organisation in 1988. A voluntary Management Committee is ultimately responsible for the efficient, effective and accountable management of the organisation. The Management Committee is comprised of members who are service users, community service representatives and individuals with the appropriate financial and administrative skills who are elected annually by the general membership of Riverlink.

Riverlink is a member of Interchange NSW which is a Peak body for Respite Care services in NSW. A ‘peak’ body is an organisation that represents a number of similar organizations for example, in discussions with the government regarding funding for community services. ‘A Peak Body’ also acts as a means of information exchange and networking between member organisations.

Riverlink currently receives the majority of it's funding through Government grants. These grants are currently from the Home and Community Care Program (HACC) which is a national program funded by both the Commonwealth and State Government through the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care (DADHC) in NSW and the  Disability Services Program (DSP) which is part of the NSW Government  Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care (DADHC). Where appropriate Riverlink may also apply for annual Community Grants through relevant local government and other sources.

Riverlink may also receive donations from the public. As an Income Tax Exempt Charity ( ITEC) the Australian Tax Office has granted Riverlink Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status. This means that all cash donations over $2 received by Riverlink are tax deductible to the donor.

The majority of Riverlink's membership are the consumers of Riverlink services, i.e. the Carers of people with a disability. However membership is optional and not part of the eligibility criteria to receive a service. As a general member, Carers will be able to attend, participate in and vote at general meetings of the association, nominate and elect office bearers and stand for election to the Management Committee. As at 1 July 2000 membership fees are $5.50 GST inclusive and all monies received are directed into the general revenue of Riverlink.

Annual Membership application forms are available by contacting the Riverlink office.