About SACIM Australia
Since its inception SACIM Australia has cared for over 1,000 sick children, and has given them a chance at a better life. Most of these cases are too complex to be treated in in the public hospital system in Mauritius. SACIM Australia has funded cases to be treated in The Reunion Island, Europe, and Australia. Most recently, SACIM has funded treatments in private Mauritian hospitals as well as reputable hospitals in India.
SACIM Australia has also sponsored specialist doctors from Australia to travel to Mauritius to perform complex surgeries or to train local doctors. This was a great success as it was more cost effective, and vulnerable children did not have to endure the trauma of travelling overseas for surgery.
The generosity of our members and supporters has enabled us to consistently fund cases ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 over the years. We have also received great support from specialists in Melbourne who have generously volunteered their time.
Governance
The affairs of the association are governed in accordance with its Constitution, the Associations Incorporation Reform Act (2012), and other rules as approved by the committee.
The committee meets regularly, at least once a month, and operated under a structured agenda. Minutes of meetings are kept and presented at each committee meeting.
Financial operations are kept in compliance with Australian Accounting Standards, and the Associations Incorporation Reform Act (2012). Financial reports are tabled at the end of the financial year, accounts are audited by an external certified auditor, and the audited accounts are presented to financial members at the AGM.
Operation
Vulnerable sick children are assessed by a means test and medical criteria. Once they are declared “Inoperable” in the public system in Mauritius, they are prepared for treatment in suitable overseas countries, including Australia.
In earlier years many children came to Australia, mainly Melbourne, to undergo major surgeries. SACIM Australia organised all the support necessary for the children before, during and after treatment, and funded all medical costs. This support included, providing foster parent care to the children pre and post surgery, and for any further treatment and rehabilitation until they were ready to fly back to Mauritius.
In recent years, due to cost advantage the children are being treated either in private hospitals in Mauritius or are sent to world class hospitals in India. In any case SACIM Australia has provided financial support to the children and their families so that the children can have the best care possible.
Fundraising
SACIM Australia derives its finances from fundraising activities organised by the Committee and the generosity of its financial members, supporters, and sponsors.
The Committee organises a major raffle and a dinner dance thank its members, supporters and sponsors once a year.