Annual
report
2024 — 2025
Sonder acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Peoples of Australia. We pay respect to them, their cultural and spiritual heritage, and to Elders past, present, and emerging. We acknowledge the ongoing impact of intergenerational trauma that has occurred since colonisation and commit to truth-telling as we walk alongside them toward reconciliation.
Sonder welcomes people from all cultures, faiths, backgrounds, and experiences, and celebrates all identities, genders, sexes, orientations and abilities. We embrace diverse voices in our decision-making to ensure we deliver inclusive services.
What we do
Sonder is an inclusive, not-for-profit organisation that has been providing better quality health and support services to the South Australian community since 1993.
We support thousands of children, young people and adults each year to access multiple services that address their needs, delivered from a range of centres located across SA.
Our focus is on supporting individuals across seven key domains – mental health, homelessness, Aboriginal health, alcohol and/or other drugs, employment, disability, and community health.
Vision
Better Care, Better Health
Purpose
To deliver high-quality, local healthcare and community services.
Goal
We will be the leading organisation at delivering integrated primary care and community services to the most vulnerable people across South Australia.
CEO message
This year has been defined by strengthening our foundations, amplifying our impact, and positioning the organisation for sustainable growth and innovation.
As we close the 2024–25 financial year, I am proud to reflect on a period of transformation in both governance and operations, enhanced financial and systems resilience, and increased achievements in services and outcomes across Sonder. This year has been defined by strengthening our foundations, amplifying our impact, and positioning the organisation for sustainable growth and innovation.
The first half of the year was focused on repair — rebuilding our financial systems and operational frameworks to secure Sonder’s long-term stability. These efforts were not without challenge, but they were essential. Thanks to the commitment of our executive team and staff, we now stand on firmer ground, with improved financial clarity and streamlined systems that better support our goals.
With these foundations in place, the second half of the year enabled us to look forward. The amalgamation of the Community Services and Innovation & Excellence portfolios reflects our renewed alignment with our strategic goals and has introduced stronger, data-informed processes that are improving service delivery and rebuilding funder confidence in our ability to deliver on program outcomes.
We continued to enhance our governance arrangements, with the adoption of a new Constitution and a revised membership structure. One of the most tangible outcomes of this renewal was the launch of the inaugural Sonder Staff Awards in 2025. Replacing the traditional Annual General Meeting, this event now highlights and celebrates the exceptional contributions of individuals and teams across the organisation – strengthening our culture and values.
Several new programs commenced during the year, but a clear highlight was the success achieved through our partnership with NINI (lead agency) and OARS Community Transitions in delivering the Aboriginal Social and Emotional Wellbeing Centre. While this service will only be fully implemented in FY 25 - 26, news of NINI’s success with this tender has cemented not only a strong partnership with NINI but also given Sonder renewed impetus to build on our Aboriginal cultural capability. We look forward to supporting our partners in bringing this landmark service to life and contributing our expertise.
Looking ahead, the coming year will also see the implementation of the Inclusive Employment Australia program, further extending our role in providing services to people living with disability and strengthening our capacity to deliver inclusive employment pathways.
Financially, Sonder has emerged stronger. In a sector facing rising costs and consolidation pressures, we have maintained our independence and stability. Our vigilance in financial stewardship is not only a source of pride but also essential to ensuring our communities continue to receive the care they deserve in times of economic uncertainty and growing social need.
Innovation has been another theme of the year. We have taken careful steps in exploring generative artificial intelligence within our clinical and therapy settings. While we remain cautious about governance and privacy considerations, we also recognise the potential of these technologies to create new service options for our clients and their families, provided they align with our values and purpose.
As we enter the final year of our current strategic plan, Sonder is determined to build on the achievements of FY24 – 25, the most notable being our return to an operating surplus and an increase in our impact - both in the number of clients supported and our geographic reach. With a strong foundation, renewed partnerships, and a culture of innovation, we are ready to navigate the complexities of our sector and deliver even greater impact.
To our staff, stakeholders, and clients — thank you for your continued support, dedication, and belief in Sonder’s goal and purpose. Together, we have achieved much, and together, we will continue to make a difference.
Sageran Naidoo
Chief Executive Officer
Chair message
At the heart of these achievements are our staff. Sonder’s strength lies in their dedication, compassion, and professionalism.
On behalf of the Board, I extend my sincere thanks our staff for their dedication and hard work. The 2024-25 financial year has been a period of significant achievement for Sonder, reflecting the passion and commitment of our people.
I particularly acknowledge our CEO, Sageran Naidoo, and the Executive Management Team for their outstanding leadership in financial management. Their diligence has enabled Sonder not only to deliver a surplus budget but also to secure several new contracts, expanding our capacity and strengthening our position as a trusted leader in the sector.
Over the past 12 months, Sonder has experienced strong growth both in client numbers and occasions of service, ensuring that more people receive the support they need. This has been achieved alongside a reduction in corporate costs, as mandated by program funders. Improved financial oversight and budget monitoring allowed us to retain a modest surplus, reinforcing our financial resilience and enabling confident planning for the future.
This year also marked an important phase of governance reform. Guided by the findings of an external governance review, Sonder introduced measures to make our governance systems stronger, more innovative, and fit for purpose. Constitutional changes streamlined our corporate governance, including a reduction in the minimum number of directors, the introduction of capped terms to promote renewal, and the removal of membership classes. As a result, only Board members now hold membership status, while former associate members have transitioned into valued Supporters of Sonder.
In May 2025, we farewelled Director Dr Kali Hayward and acknowledged her outstanding contribution. We were also pleased to welcome her successor, Dr Matthew Bourke, whose expertise and commitment to representing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities will add valuable perspective at the Board level.
The Board has continued to strengthen its oversight of risk and performance. We reviewed our high-level strategic risks, risk management framework, and risk appetite statement, ensuring alignment with organisational priorities. The introduction of Sonder’s Impact Framework has also enhanced accountability by providing clear measures of progress against our Strategic Plan.
At the heart of these achievements are our staff. Sonder’s strength lies in their dedication, compassion, and professionalism. We remain committed to ensuring our people feel valued and supported, and to fostering a positive workplace culture that sustains our success into the future.
Sonder continues to establish itself as a leader in the sector. By combining robust governance, innovation, and high-quality, person-centred services, we are setting benchmarks for best practice while remaining deeply connected to the communities we serve.
I am proud of what Sonder has achieved this year and the strong foundation we are continuing to build for the years ahead. With financial stability, sound governance, and a thriving workplace culture, Sonder is well positioned to continue making a real and lasting difference in the lives of the people and communities we support.
Dr Rizwan Latif
Board Chair
Our impact
Throughout the 2024-25 financial year, we supported 18,942 people in metropolitan and regional communities across South Australia.
-
Sonder
-
headspace
-
Solasta
-
Other
We supported individuals across 29 programs and services.
Mental health
- Northern Adelaide Medicare Mental Health Centre
- Enhanced Mental Health Services
- Safe Haven
- Western Wellbeing Hub
- Adult Wellbeing
- Clinical Care Coordination
- Palliative Care Connect
- Country Wellness Connections
- Booked Psychiatric Assessments
- Shared Care with GPs
- Residential Wellbeing
- Solasta
Alcohol and/or other drugs
- Partners Toward Wellbeing
- AIM
- In-Home Withdrawal Service
Youth
- headspace Adelaide
- headspace Marion
- headspace Edinburgh North
- headspace Onkaparinga
- headspace Early Psychosis
- headspace Work & Study (Edinburgh North & Onkaparinga)
Community health
- Healthy Habits
- Integrated Primary Care
- Social Worker in the Library
- Play Our Way
Homelessness
- Toward Home
- Hutt St Health
Aboriginal health
- Closing the Gap Integrated Team Care
- Dietetics and exercise physiology
Our people
72%
of our workforce are women.
3%
of our workforce identify as gender diverse.
16%
of our workforce are men.
8%
of our workforce identify as having a disability.
44%
of our workforce identify as having a lived experience of mental health challenges and recovery.
4%
of our workforce identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.
15%
of our workforce identify as culturally and linguistically diverse.
“The culture at Sonder is one of collaboration, inclusivity, and continuous learning. The support from my colleagues and leadership has been invaluable in my professional journey, helping me grow from a placement student to my current role in management. I’ve also been incredibly fortunate to receive investment in my professional growth, including the opportunity to complete a 12-month leadership training program. Sonder truly values the development of its people, and I feel very privileged to have been supported in my journey.”
Jacqui,
Operational Services Manager,
Child, Family & Youth Services
Workforce development
In 2024-25, Sonder invested in growing and strengthening its workforce through a range of initiatives designed to build talent pipelines, enhance leadership capability, and create diverse opportunities for professional growth.
Investing in the future workforce
Sonder continued to deliver high-quality student placement and internship programs. Over the past year, we hosted 70 student placements in partnership with Flinders University, University of Adelaide, University of South Australia, La Trobe University, and University of Canberra.
Our commitment to nurturing emerging professionals is evident in the 12 former students who transitioned into clinical roles at Sonder, including Psychologists, Mental Health Workers, and Intake Workers.
Through our 5+1 Provisional Psychology Internship, we provide a supervised, one-year pathway to general registration. The program offers in-house primary supervision, accelerated professional development, and structured career growth opportunities. In 2024–25, four interns successfully completed the program, helping address workforce shortages in the organisation.
Creating pathways for social workers
To further strengthen our clinical workforce, Sonder supported five staff members to obtain Accredited Mental Health Social Worker status. Through this initiative, staff are provided with a reduced workload and additional study leave to ensure they can progress confidently toward accreditation while continuing to deliver high-quality care to clients.
Empowering our lived experience workforce
Acknowledging the vital role of lived experience in mental health care, Sonder expanded opportunities for Peer Practitioners. Through our Peer Upskill program, five Peer Practitioners obtained a Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work, with course costs subsidised by Sonder and complemented by supervision training.
Beyond training, we provide diverse peer-focused career pathways - including supervisor, senior, and leadership roles. These efforts have led to a strong retention rate and a growing presence of lived experience within our workforce, now representing 13% of our total workforce.
Building future leaders
In 2024–25, 19 staff members participated in our Leadership Development Program, designed to nurture confident, capable leaders. By strengthening leadership capability, the program not only supports individual growth but also fosters high-performing teams and drives innovation across the organisation.
Mental health services
In 2024-25, demand for mental health support for adults,
children, and families remained high across both metropolitan
and regional South Australia.
79%
of individuals reported improvements in wellbeing, while 93% expressed satisfaction or high satisfaction with the support they received.
Collaborating for better access
Collaboration remained central to our approach. New partnerships with Carers SA and Thorne Harbour Health strengthened access for carers and LGBTQIA+ communities, while also building workforce capability. Partnerships with local psychology providers were introduced to help meet demand, ensuring community members retained both choice and timely access to care when service demand was high.
Sonder also expanded the Northern Metropolitan Adelaide Integrated Practice Unit for Youth Initiative to include adults, building on its success in youth mental health. This integrated model brings together State Government services, Sonder’s mental health and AOD programs, and community partners to deliver coordinated, wraparound support. By aligning care across providers, the initiative prevents service gaps and ensures continuity of support across the lifespan.
Building quality and safety
Our focus on quality and safety was further strengthened through a partnership with the University of Adelaide, where staff participated in simulated learning activities. These controlled training environments enabled teams to practise real-world scenarios, build confidence, enhance preparedness, and embed a culture of continuous improvement in client care and safety.
One year of impact: Northern Adelaide Medicare Mental Health Centre
In June 2025, Sonder celebrated the first anniversary of the Northern Adelaide Medicare Mental Health Centre. During 2024-25, 4,696 guests accessed this free, walk-in service, with 73% walking in without an appointment or referral.
At the anniversary event, more than 70 attendees - including staff, funders, partners, and other local service providers - reflected on the Centre’s impact. Sonder’s CEO described it as “a place of safety, welcome, and hope,” while partners emphasised the centre’s role in reducing pressure on emergency departments and offering timely, accessible support to those in distress.
“Wow I was listened to and supported. No judgement and talking with a peer worker with lived experience. I finally found a place for me. They get me 😊 they understand me.”
Expanding impact through our social enterprise
Through Solasta, our Social Enterprise, we continued to deliver high-quality assessment and therapy services to children, young people, and adults. Since launching in Klemzig in June 2021, Solasta has expanded to a second location in Christies Beach and now employs 31 clinical staff across both sites.
In 2024/25, Solasta delivered 9,085 occasions of service to 1,826 individuals - a 19% increase from the previous year.
This year, Solasta was also proud to have been appointed to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) Open Arms Outreach Program Panel. This national panel engages private practice psychologists and accredited mental health social workers to deliver trauma-informed, military-aware counselling and support to veterans and their families. Our inclusion on the panel affirms Solasta’s expertise and extends our ability to support veterans and their families. Through this partnership, Solasta will work alongside the DVA and other providers to ensure veterans and their families have access to timely, confidential, and comprehensive support tailored to their unique needs.
To learn more, visit solasta.net.au.
Alcohol & other drugs services
In 2024–25, Sonder delivered specialist support for
individuals experiencing alcohol and other drug (AOD) use
concerns through a range of programs, including the In-Home
Withdrawal Service, AIM, and Partners to Wellbeing.
A total of
671 people accessed
support through 8,741 occasions of service.
Our In-Home Withdrawal Service has been particularly effective, with:
86%
of clients decreasing their substance use and improving their wellbeing. This unique service enables individuals to safely withdraw from substance use in the comfort of their own homes.
These outcomes reflect the importance of person-centred care in an area that is often complex and challenging. While wellbeing gains can be harder to achieve in AOD services, the consistently strong satisfaction scores reflect the importance of the safe, compassionate, and non-judgemental environment created by our team.
Individuals accessing these services experienced meaningful progress:
67%
reported improvements in wellbeing, while 97% of survey respondents expressed satisfaction or high satisfaction with the support they received.
In-Home Withdrawal Service – award-winning innovation
Our In-Home Withdrawal Service was a standout in 2024–25, with the program receiving the prestigious ‘Excellence in Treatment and Support’ Award from the South Australian Network of Drug & Alcohol Services (SANDAS) in November. This recognition reflects the program’s innovative and life-changing model, enabling people to complete withdrawal safely in the familiarity of their own home, supported by skilled clinicians.
I always felt respected and never judged during my support and couldn’t recommend them enough. They go above and beyond.
Integrated care for complex needs
Through our AIM and Partners Toward Wellbeing program, we continued to deliver targeted, integrated support for individuals experiencing co-occurring concerns with their alcohol and/or other drug use, and their mental health. Our AIM program supports people to address harmful patterns of alcohol and drug use before they escalate into more serious health and social challenges. By focusing on practical strategies, wellbeing, and resilience, AIM empowers individuals to make sustainable changes and reduce the impact of substance use on their daily lives.
Through Partners Toward Wellbeing and in partnership with Mission Australia, Sonder worked collaboratively with specialist mental health and AOD providers to ensure people with co-occurring needs received coordinated care. This integrated approach reduced barriers to support and allowed clients to access a tailored mix of services, from counselling to social connection, ensuring that no one was left navigating their recovery alone.
Expanding access through Safe Haven
During the year, Sonder also extended the delivery of AOD services to Safe Haven, our welcoming, non-clinical therapy space located in Salisbury in Adelaide’s north. This expansion increased accessibility for people seeking a safe, non-clinical environment in which to begin or continue their recovery journey.
Delivering impact with compassion
Across all AOD programs, Sonder combined evidence-based practice with innovation and compassion. The outcomes achieved in 2024–25 demonstrate the tangible difference this approach makes for individuals, families, and communities affected by alcohol and other drug use.
Youth services
In 2024-25, we delivered 57,996 occasions of service to
4,645 young people
experiencing mental health challenges through headspace
centres at Adelaide, Edinburgh North, Onkaparinga, and Marion
– a 17% increase from the previous year.
In the past year, we focused our efforts on harnessing data to drive more efficient operations. By refining the way we capture and analyse information, we have developed a clearer understanding of service demand and outcomes, enabling us to adapt quickly and respond more effectively to the needs of young people.
We also began integrating artificial intelligence into our processes, creating opportunities to streamline administration and reduce manual tasks. This innovation allows our teams to spend less time on paperwork and more time where it matters most - supporting young people on their mental health journey.
Our headspace centres
In 2024–25, our headspace centres at Adelaide, Onkaparinga, Marion, and Edinburgh North continued to provide safe, inclusive spaces for young people across metropolitan Adelaide. Each centre marked significant achievements and strengthened partnerships.
Onkaparinga: Youth voices leading the way
At Onkaparinga, young people played an active role in shaping services through the Southern Youth Panel - a collaborative event that brought together youth from across the region to share ideas directly with headspace staff and influence future service delivery.
Members of the Youth Reference Group were recognised at the City of Onkaparinga’s Youth Awards, recognised for their outstanding leadership and advocacy.
To reduce barriers to care, school in-reach was expanded at Wirreanda and Willunga High Schools, and partnerships with Clontarf College were strengthened to create culturally safe and accessible pathways to support.
Marion: Building safe, creative, and inclusive spaces
At Marion, the centre achieved a significant milestone, successfully meeting headspace Model Integrity Framework certification standards - a testament to the quality and consistency of services provided.
Partnerships with schools such as Unley High School supported early intervention and improved accessibility, while creativity flourished with the launch of the Healthy headspace Zine, co-designed with young people, and featuring art, poetry, and wellbeing stories.
Therapeutic programs, including Cognitive Processing Therapy and the much-loved dogspace animal-assisted therapy group, expanded support. A refreshed Sexuality and Gender Alliance (SAGA) group also provided a safe, affirming space for LGBTQIA+ young people aged 12–17 to connect and celebrate identity.
Edinburgh North: Strengthening community connections
At Edinburgh North, partnerships with Anglicare to deliver the Reconnect program provided wraparound support, bridging family, school, and community.
The centre played a key role in the City of Salisbury’s ROAR event, celebrating the launch of a new outreach presence at the Twelve25 Youth Centre, bringing services closer to home for young people in Salisbury.
Adelaide: Expanding Access and Inclusion
At Adelaide, additional funding secured through the Adelaide PHN’s Demand Management Grants enabled support to be expanded for culturally and linguistically diverse young people and their families, as well as the creation of safer, more inclusive spaces for LGBTQIA+ communities.
Clinical services also grew with the introduction of the Brief BEAT program, an early intervention model supporting young people experiencing eating disorders.
A revitalised Consortium brought stronger partnerships, with Lutheran Care joining to provide on-site support to young people and families facing financial stress, ensuring more holistic and accessible care.
Empowering young people to achieve work & study goals
Young people experiencing mental health challenges are significantly more likely to be disengaged from work or study. Our headspace Work & Study program at headspace Onkaparinga, Edinburgh North, and Adelaide provides support to help young people start careers, find employment, or pursue education.
In 2024-25, we supported 267 young people through 2,803 occasions of service, resulting in 122 successful transitions into work or education.
As part of our commitment to workforce development, staff in the program commenced training with re:think dyslexia to further enhance their skills in working with neurodiverse young people.
In 2024-25, we supported 267 young people through 2,803 occasions of service, resulting in:
122
successful transitions into work or education.
In the past financial year, we supported 210 young people through 2,014 occasions of service, resulting in:
83
successful transitions into work or education
Client story
Vlad's story
Vlad came to headspace Onkaparinga experiencing anxiety, depression, and low motivation, and struggling to find support through traditional employment services. With the help of Ruth, his Employment Specialist in the Work & Study program, he began taking small steps toward his goal of finding work.
Vlad came to headspace Onkaparinga experiencing anxiety, depression, and low motivation, and struggling to find support through traditional employment services. With the help of Ruth, his Employment Specialist in the Work & Study program, he began taking small steps toward his goal of finding work.
Together they built his confidence, created a resume, and practiced job search skills. Vlad also enrolled in a short TAFE course in retail to develop routine and independence. Soon after, Ruth connected him with a local KFC manager, where he was offered a traineeship providing regular hours and a Certificate III in Retail.
Since starting work in March 2024, Vlad’s life has transformed. He now travels independently, manages his own finances, has moved out of home, and enjoys a stronger relationship with his mum. Reflecting on his journey, Vlad shared: “If I hadn’t joined headspace and switched to the Work & Study program, I’d probably still be at home gaming and feeling miserable.”
Supporting young people experiencing or at risk of developing psychosis
In 2024–25, the headspace Early Psychosis program at headspace Adelaide supported 625 young people experiencing, or at risk of, a first episode of psychosis. Despite operating above capacity, the program maintained strong outcomes, with an average satisfaction score of 4.58/5 and 56% of participants showing significant improvement in social and occupational functioning.
To promote recovery, 191 group sessions were delivered across social, creative, work and study, and wellbeing themes, while 11 Friends and Family Workshops provided education, peer support, and hope for loved ones.
“headspace Adelaide is a fantastic place. It's extremely accommodating, welcoming, accepting, and, above all, free, if you're a young person going through mental health issues and have been referred to them. Trust them. They'll take care of you.”
Raising awareness through community engagement
Over the past year, our headspace centres took part in more than 500 community engagement activities to improve access to mental health information, encourage help-seeking, and reduce stigma.
Key highlights included:
188
Youth Reference Group meetings
from meetings and portfolio work to interview panels, training, and planning sessions.
20
awareness day events and activities
including Wear It Purple Day, R U OK? Day, NAIDOC Family Fun Day, and others promoting inclusion for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
62
community outreach activities
stalls at expos, school and university wellbeing days, and joint events with councils and sporting clubs.
53
mental health literacy workshops
including Youth Mental Health First Aid in schools and Ahead of the Game workshops in football clubs.
33
service presentations
centre tours and talks at schools, health providers, councils, and conferences.
38
social engagement group workshops
such as Cityspace and creative skill-building activities.
192
stakeholder collaborations
including consortium gatherings and one-on-one meetings.
Aboriginal health services
Sonder’s Closing the Gap Integrated Team Care (CTG ITC)
program supports Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
Peoples living with chronic health conditions in Adelaide and
regional South Australia.
Through the combined efforts of Outreach Workers and Care Coordinators, clients are supported to improve their understanding and management of chronic health conditions, navigate the healthcare system, and access culturally safe services that enable greater self-management and independence.
95%
of clients reported improved confidence in managing their health since accessing the program.
Expanding support in response to need
In response to community need, the CTG ITC program introduced additional support including diabetes education, dietetics, and exercise physiology.
In 2024-25, 93 group-based exercise physiology sessions and 21 cooking workshops were delivered, providing a space for people to engage in healthy behaviours and connect socially and culturally. In addition, a further 50 individual exercise physiology sessions and 79 individual dietetic sessions were delivered.
Since launching in May 2025, the diabetes education service has delivered 40 individual sessions, focused on access to Continuous Glucose Monitoring devices to clients with Type 2 Diabetes, enabling improved self-management.
Building stronger community connections
Beyond direct client support, CTG ITC staff actively engaged with communities, participating in 72 community engagement activities to build trust, promote health literacy, and strengthen connections.
Client story
Jimmy's story
Jimmy is a proud Aboriginal man from Booleroo Centre in the Flinders Ranges. Initially referred to Sonder’s Closing the Gap – Integrated Team Care program for help managing his cardiac health, Jimmy’s life changed dramatically in July 2024 when he experienced a stroke that left him non-verbal and impacted his mobility.
During this challenging time, our team intensified support. Working alongside Jimmy’s health professionals, our Closing the Gap Outreach Worker, Brian coordinated transport, hospital visits, in-home services, and the purchase of an iPad to help Jimmy stay connected with loved ones. Simple but meaningful actions, such as arranging a haircut while in hospital, also helped Jimmy maintain dignity and a sense of normalcy.
With resilience and determination, Jimmy has progressed from being wheelchair-bound to walking with only a stick—and sometimes without one. Home modifications and ongoing allied health support have enabled him to regain independence, and he now enjoys life at home with his partner, his dog Sheba, and his garden.
Reflecting on their journey, Jimmy’s partner shared: “Brian has been exceptional with his help and advice. His support to Jim and me has been immense.”
Jimmy’s story highlights the transformative power of culturally safe, coordinated care—and the strength of spirit that drives recovery.
Community health services
Our community health programs supported 2,362 people across regional and metropolitan South Australia to build healthier lifestyles, manage chronic conditions, and stay connected. Delivered through 5,886 occasions of service.
Cultivating healthier lifestyle habits
Delivered across areas in regional South Australia, including Gawler, Nuriootpa, Adelaide Hills, Port Pirie and Port Lincoln, our Healthy Habits program offers nutrition and exercise services to support improved health and wellbeing outcomes.
In 2024-25, 299 individuals were supported through the program through a range of nutrition, exercise and wellbeing services, including 18 group-based workshops and programs such as gym-based workouts, walking groups, and nutrition information sessions.
80%
reported improvements in physical activity and behaviours.
Bridging healthcare gaps
Our Integrated Primary Care program continued to play a vital role in supporting people living with chronic health conditions across regional South Australia.
By coordinating access to a range of allied health services - including physiotherapists, dietitians, diabetes educators, exercise physiologists, and podiatrists, the program empowers individuals to take control of their health and enhance their overall wellbeing.
In 2024-25, the program supported 1,580 clients, facilitating access to 3,591 allied health services. A key milestone was the expansion of dietetics and diabetes education to Kangaroo Island, ensuring these essential services are now available to people in this remote region,
Client outcomes remained strong: 96% of clients reported a positive experience with the program, 62% demonstrated improvements in their chronic condition, and 67% recorded improvements in their pain scores.
These results highlight the program’s success in closing service gaps, strengthening local access to care, and improving the lives of people living with chronic conditions.
“I was very happy with the help and advice I received. It helped me a lot. I try to follow the guidelines I was given, and it has been successful. Thank you.”
A new model of community support
In a South Australian first, Sonder partnered with the City of Salisbury to pilot a Social Worker in the Library program, based at the Salisbury Community Hub.
Launched in November 2024, the initiative responds to the growing role libraries play as safe, public spaces where people can access resources, technology, and support at no cost.
The model places a qualified social worker on-site to act as a liaison for patrons who may not otherwise engage with, or be aware of, available services. By offering immediate support and referrals, the program helps connect community members with the right care, while also building the capacity of library staff to respond to complex needs.
This dual focus ensures both the community and the staff who serve them feel supported, listened to, and empowered.
By embedding skilled practitioners in everyday community settings, Sonder is helping to break down barriers to support and ensure people receive help where and when they need it most.
“Your guidance has been vital, thank you for helping us”
Creating pathways to participation for women and girls
In 2024–25, Sonder was proud to be selected as a grant recipient for Play Our Way, a federal initiative designed to break down barriers that women and girls face in accessing physical activity and sport. The program creates safe, inclusive environments by providing resources and support so that everyone can feel welcome.
With this funding, Sonder has expanded opportunities for women and girls by offering swimming lessons, and volleyball and basketball sessions in schools, subsidising membership fees, and providing essential equipment and uniforms. Tailored group exercise programs were also offered to meet the needs of teenagers, new mums, women experiencing menopause, and those seeking general fitness.
At the grassroots level, Sonder partnered with the Onkaparinga Rugby Club to rejuvenate its women’s team. Support included half-price player fees, access to professional coaching and rehab therapies, and team-building activities that strengthened both skill development and social connection.
“This grant covers costs that ease financial pressure on our players. All players can participate fully and make use of shared team gear, creating a strong sense of belonging for everyone.”
In its first year, the Library Social Worker provided:
483
instances of direct support to community members, including brief interventions, resources, and referrals to local services.
Homelessness services
Sonder supports people experiencing or at risk of experiencing homelessness through Toward Home - an alliance funded by the Department of Human Services. The alliance brings together Lutheran Care, Baptist Care SA, Mission Australia, The Salvation Army, Aboriginal Family Support Services, Hutt St Centre, the South Australian Housing Authority, St Vincent de Paul, and Sonder.
Together, these organisations work across the Adelaide CBD, inner and outer southern metropolitan areas, and the Adelaide Hills, with a shared goal of preventing, diverting, and resolving homelessness. The model shifts the focus from crisis management to early intervention and long-term stability.
Individuals experiencing homelessness often face a range of complex challenges related to their health and wellbeing, creating barriers preventing them from accessing secure, safe and long-term housing.
As a proud member of the alliance, Sonder provides specialist case management for individuals with high and complex health needs. The recently revised model strengthens our focus on helping people stabilise their housing so they can also address interconnected challenges with health, wellbeing, and social inclusion.
Sonder also leads outreach to people sleeping rough, working closely with councils and community groups to connect people with immediate support and pathways into safe accommodation.
In 2024-25, Sonder supported 134 people. Of these, 81% were experiencing mental health concerns, 32% were living with disability, and 47% were experiencing alcohol and/or other drug use concerns.
These figures highlight the complex health challenges faced by many people experiencing homelessness, and the importance of integrated, person-centred responses.
To learn more, visit towardhome.org.au
Sonder supported
134
people
On-site health support at the Hutt St Centre
In July 2024, Sonder partnered with the Hutt Street Centre, one of Adelaide’s leading frontline service providers for people experiencing homelessness, to deliver on-site allied health services. The Hutt St Centre offers meals, showers, laundry facilities, and pathways to housing, employment, and social inclusion—creating a welcoming environment where people can access support with dignity and respect.
By embedding allied health services within this trusted community setting, the initiative ensures care is accessible, timely, and non-judgemental for people who may otherwise go without support.
Staffed by a Comorbidity Clinician, Occupational Therapist, and Diabetes Educator, the service provides a holistic range of supports, including:
- Mental health and alcohol and other drug counselling.
- Falls prevention and mobility support.
- Independent living skills and social engagement activities.
- Diabetes education and access to appropriate care.
The service has had a profound impact on engagement with healthcare. In its first year, 364 people accessed support through 1,395 allied health appointments. Importantly, 90% of clients reported they would not have spoken to anyone else about their health needs if it were not available.
By combining the Hutt St Centre’s trusted presence with Sonder’s allied health expertise, this partnership is removing barriers to care, improving health outcomes, and restoring dignity for people experiencing homelessness.
“I cannot speak highly enough about the support and kindness I have received from the Sonder OT. I have been telling all of my friends about the great support I have been receiving.”
Professional development
In 2024-25, Sonder continued to partner with Skills SA to support Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) and employers in creating inclusive, supportive environments for diverse learners.
Across the year, we delivered 12 workshops to 19 RTOs and workplaces focusing on:
- Psychological safety in the workplace and training environment.
- Supporting culturally and linguistically diverse learners and employees.
- Facilitating LGBTQIA+ inclusive environments.
We also launched a new mentorship service designed to provide tailored, one-on-one support to help employers identify gaps in their capacity to support diverse learners and develop individualised Quality Improvement Plans.
In addition, Sonder partnered with ReturnToWorkSA to deliver three RACGP-approved education sessions for GPs, equipping them with practical knowledge and skills to strengthen the management of work-related injuries in primary care.
Board of directors
Our Board of Directors set the strategic vision for the organisation and oversee the strategic directions. They also play a vital role in monitoring the practice, financial and clinical performance of the organisation.
Dr Rizwan Latif
Board Chair
General Practitioner
Dr Rizwan Latif
Board Chair
General Practitioner
Dr Rizwan Latif is an experienced General Practitioner with more than 20 years of clinical practice Craigmore, South Australia.
Alongside his medical practice, he has held roles on several State Clinical Committees, making significant contributions to medical education and regulation, in Australia.
He is a Senior Clinical Lecturer at the University of Adelaide and serves as a Clinical Examiner for the Australian Medical Council, shaping the next generation of medical professionals.
Dr Latif also holds key leadership roles in the medical community, including Chair of the Adelaide GP Council and Executive Committee Member of the Pakistan Medical Association of South Australia.
Summary of financial performance
In 2024-25 financial year, Sonder had a year of consolidation and preparation for growth. Further savings and efficiencies have improved in ICT upgrades and processes, data dashboards and migration to full cloud computing.
Sonder grew by 9.7% in revenue over the 2024-25 financial year to reach $38.8 million. The growth was derived from full year funding of new services, realised investment gains and fuller employment to increase utilisation of grant funds.
Expenses have been carefully managed across the organisation and savings measures continue to be a focus. Corporate services staffing and expenses remained steady despite the growth in organisational revenue. Staff productivity and outputs have improved significantly across the funded programs and are a testament to Sonder’s sophisticated data reporting and exceptional leadership.
The total comprehensive income for 2024-25 was a $762,764 surplus, incorporating a pleasing operating surplus of $1,072,728.
Nexia Edwards Marshall audited the Sonder Financial Statements 2024-25 and concluded that they give a true and fair view of the organisation’s financial position and performance and comply with Australian Accounting Standards.