UnitingCare Australia welcomes the announcement today that the Albanese Government is strengthening support for community service organisations. 

“As the largest community services network in Australia the UnitingCare network supports over a million people in 1,600 locations each year. It is a privilege to serve those in need, but our services continue to face rising demand and reduced resources,” said UnitingCare Australia National Director, Claerwen Little.  

“On the ground we see that the cost-of-living crisis is severely impacting people already facing financial stress, but concerningly we are seeing families on dual incomes, small business owners and workers seeking support such as emergency and food relief. The escalating housing and homelessness crisis is undeniable. 

“We welcomed the additional funding of $114 million announced by the Albanese Government for emergency relief, and we know that every dollar makes a difference. But the way funding is administered also makes a difference. 

“The announcement today to mandate that Government agencies pass on indexation to grant recipients where grant programs are linked to one of the wage costs indexes is an important step forward. For the UnitingCare network organisations impacted by this decision, it will result in modest but much needed additional funds to support ongoing service delivery. 

“We look forward to working with the Albanese Government to develop the Community Sector Partnership Framework, including through our role in the Community Services Advisory Group.

“It is more important than ever to support dedicated community services who are unwavering in their commitment to support Australians most in need.”  

About UnitingCare Australia
UnitingCare Australia is the national body for the Uniting Church’s community services, the largest social services network in Australia. The UnitingCare network supports 1.4 million people every year across 1,600 sites in urban, rural, and remote communities, with over 50,000 staff and 30,000 volunteers. It is the largest network of not-for-profit aged care providers nationally, supporting 97,000 older people, comprising 8.5% of total residential beds and 10% of Home Care Packages nationally. Over 80% of our workforce and 60% of our services recipients are women.

Contact – Anna Page – annap@nat.unitingcare.org.au 0432 560 975