Case study: Kith & Kin

Community North Queensland

Kith & Kin is a small local disability and mental health service. Based in Townsville for over 40 years, Kith & Kin offers a diverse range of opportunities for people with psychiatric, physical and intellectual disabilities. The team provides National Disability Insurance Scheme services, training and support for First Nations Peoples, and centre-based activities and training for all abilities.

Kith & Kin has been associated with the ecoBiz program since 2020. The team has used the program to build on its existing sustainability initiatives and its ongoing commitment to creating a better environment.

Key initiatives to reduce energy use

  • A 30-kilowatt solar system was installed following a detailed energy audit in 2016.
  • Lights were upgraded to energy-efficient LEDs.
  • An inefficient central ducted air conditioning system was removed; replaced with a combination of split systems and a four-way ceiling mounted cassette system.
  • Much of the roof was painted white, a cost-efficient way of improving energy performance.
  • Food waste is fed to pet chickens on site.

Register now for ecoBiz: a free program funded by the Queensland Government and run by Business Chamber Queensland. ecoBiz helps Queensland businesses audit their resource use, understand their carbon emissions and reduce costs from waste, water and energy bills.

With 2030 fast approaching, we are very happy to have partnered with ecoBiz. By becoming cleaner, greener and more sustainable, our team feels like we are ‘doing our bit’ to help Australia meet its carbon reduction targets.

Alfred Wimblett, Kith & Kin