ACOSS 2013 Election Statement

Australian Council of Social Service

As we go to the polls on 7 September, the nation faces some hard facts and some big choices. Whilst we have enjoyed over two decades of strong economic growth, fault lines are emerging in our economic and social foundations:

• A growing gap between community expectations about the services that governments will provide and the money available.
• Major holes in our social safety net: affordable housing, quality education, disability services, mental and dental health services, and community controlled services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
• A growing number of people living in poverty and homelessness and a rise in unemployment.
• A slowing of the economy and rates of productivity.
• A disturbing disconnect between government policy making and community aspirations; undermining the capacity of communities to identify their priorities, develop locally-owned solutions and build a shared vision for their community.

The longer we delay fixing problems the more difficult and costly it will be. In this election, we must be bold with our commitments. The next Australian Government must:

• Secure the revenue to meet community needs.
• Make essential services available and affordable.
• Reduce poverty and increase employment.
• Improve our democratic economic, social and environmental public policy processes.

In this election, ACOSS looks to our political leaders for a clear plan to meet these challenges.
ACOSS has developed four concrete steps for a new Australian Government to take in its first 100 days. These actions will demonstrate a clear commitment to deliver a fairer future for all, one in which every adult and child can enjoy a hopeful, healthy, decent and productive life.

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