The Parliamentary Secretary for Social Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector, Senator Ursula Stephens, today said the Australian Government’s commitment to social inclusion is only going to gain momentum in the face of the challenges facing us as a nation and as a global community.
Addressing the Australian Red Cross National Conference 2008, Dr Stephens outlined the important contribution from the not-profit sector in progressing the Government’s social inclusion agenda.
“Non-profit organisations such as the Australian Red Cross are at the forefront of changing lives and tackling disadvantage and poverty.
“I congratulate the Australian Red Cross on your new strategic framework that adapts your policies and services to better address the needs of disadvantage in the context of a changing world,” Dr Stephens said.
Senator Stephens also provided an update on the government’s consultations with the non-profit sector on a national compact or similar mechanism. The first round of consultations revealed strong support in the sector for strengthening the sector-government relationship.
“I am heartened by the large number of people and organisations who provided feedback and ideas. There is a level of passion and commitment to ensuring the success of a compact between the Government and the non-profit sector that holds much promise for our continued dialogue next year.
“The Compact will be an historic national agreement that will outline how we will work together to improve and strengthen our relationship, now and into the future,” Senator Stephens said.
Further information on the National Compact can be found at www.socialinclusion.gov.au/A_National_Compact/Default.htm