CEO UPDATE
As we reflect on 2025, I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together at Lions Assistance Dogs as a community. 2025 was a year defined by growth, impact and big steps towards our future. We successfully saw the delivery of 41 Assistance Dogs across Australia, the most we have ever delivered in a calendar year. Each placement represents a life-changing partnership offering a recipient newfound independence and security. Out of the 41 Assistance Dogs delivered there were, 25 Hearing Assistance Dogs, 10 Psychiatric Assistance Dogs and 6 Medical Assistance Dogs.
Behind every successful Assistance Dog placement is the journey, and it starts in the Breeding Centre. In 2025, we welcomed 28 puppies into our Puppy Program, through our Breeding Program. We also celebrated 33 accreditations of placed Assistance Dogs. This is a testament to the high standards our team upholds and the extraordinary capability of our Assistance Dogs.
We proudly made steady progress on the expansion of our National Training Centre, undertaking detailed planning and design work as we prepare to enter Phase 1 of the build in 2026. This development will ensure we can meet growing national demand and expand our impact for decades to come. In addition, we embraced an exciting new chapter with our rebrand from Australian Lions Hearing Dogs to Lions Assistance Dogs. This change reflects the variety of support we now provide and positions us strongly for future growth.
None of this would be possible without our staff, volunteers, Lions Clubs, donors and supporters. Thank you for being part of this journey and for helping us transform lives. Stay tuned for an exciting 2026.
Yours in service,
PCC David Horne
Chief Executive Officer
