Choosing A Better Future

The NSW Council of Social Service calls upon the NSW Government to choose a better future for our state. The Government has the opportunity to choose to support those doing it toughest right now in the face of a cost-of-living crisis, and implement strategic policy interventions that dismantle deep inequities. Failure to act will further entrench poverty for generations to come. This submission recommends actions that provide immediate help to those in greatest need, as well as the investments that are required for long-term change, across five key areas:

Cost of Living: Urgent and targeted support for communities barely hanging on.
Housing: Invest in the housing system to address decades of neglect.
Children, Young People and Families: Invest in children, young people, and families so they can thrive.
First Nations: Enable self-determination for First Nations communities.
Social Services Sector: Strengthen the social service sector to provide essential support for those most in need.

The detailed recommendations have been designed through consultation with our members, review of NCOSS research and evidence, and engagement with the sector.

It is incumbent upon the Government to address the systemic barriers faced by communities. Inaction and inadequate investments are a choice. A choice that will perpetuate the cycle of disadvantage, entrenching concentrated poverty that has momentous life-long and intergenerational costs for individuals, families, communities and the NSW economy.

Read the Summary of Recommendations

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