Released Monday 10th of November 2008
The second meeting of the Expert Panel advising on consultations towards the development of a National Compact between government and non-profit organisations was held in Canberra on Wednesday 5th of November.
The Parliamentary Secretary for Social inclusion, Senator Ursula Stephens provided a brief overview of government activities in relation to the proposed Compact and other relevant national developments underway including policy and regulation reviews.
The Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS) presented an overview of its initial consultation with over 300 non-profit organisations across Australia. The consultation identified key issues, including the need to improve relationships between government and non-profit organisations, the perception that the value of non-profit organisations is not fully acknowledged in government or across the broader community, and the need to find a path forward that will benefit the whole Australian community.
The commitment by the Rudd government to developing better ways of working with the not for profit sector was seen as an opportunity to make real gains for government, non-profit organisations and most importantly, the community.
The ACOSS consultation process indicated cautious support for the development of a National Compact between government and non-profit organisations, but emphasises the need to undertake a broader government and non-profit organisation consultation and engagement process to ensure it is actively embraced rather than ‘just words’.
The Panel commended ACOSS for its work on the initial consultation process and noted the need to engage with the broader not for profit sector and community beyond those involved in early discussions.
The Panel focused on how best to move forward in the consultation process to enable a National Compact to achieve this meaning and relevance beyond those already actively engaged.
It was noted that tougher economic times are likely to lead to greater involvement of non-profit organisations in the lives of Australians and more demand for non-profit services. The Panel will directly advise Senator Stephens to help ensure the next stage of developing a National Compact builds on stakeholder feedback and the initial work both within and outside government. The goal remains to establish more effective relationships between government and non-profit organisations and a more valued and effective non-profit sector.
More information is available at www.socialinclusion.gov.au/A_ National_ Compact.htm and additional submissions can be posted to australiancompact@fahcsia.gov.au
For further discussion of this Communiqué please contact:
David Crosbie 0419 624420 (Expert Panel Co Chair)