As the largest provider network of community services in Australia, the UnitingCare network has felt the increasing strain of financial hardship being borne by the community.

As we live through the largest cost of living crisis this century, one in four Australians report difficulties in getting by on their current income. The capacity of front-line services and staff to respond to those in need is increasingly constrained as a result of chronic under-resourcing and growing pressure on an already stretched workforce. In a recent submission, we argue that there has never been a more important time to invest in the services that support those most in need.