UnitingCare Australia hosted its 9th Leaders Forum at Old Parliament House and the National Press Club in Canberra this September, bringing together leaders from across the UnitingCare Network and the Uniting Church in Australia. 

This year’s theme, Lead the Conversation, Lead the Change, focused on the challenges we face as a society and how the UnitingCare Network can work collectively to maximise its impact. Through a diverse program of speakers, presentations, panel discussions, and informal conversations, delegates were encouraged to reflect on the conversations necessary to drive meaningful change. 

Leading conversations for change

The day opened with a Welcome to Country from Ngunnawal Elder, Uncle Warren Daley, which set the tone for a day grounded in respect and listening. UnitingCare Australia National Director, Claerwen Little, encouraged delegates to engage in conversations about leading change on the issues most pressing to them. 

Throughout the day, discussions brought to life the shared mission of the Uniting Church and the UnitingCare Network: to serve and support the most vulnerable members of society. Progress from last year’s Leaders Forum was shared, including the establishment of several new Communities of Practice (CoPs), the success of the Escaping Violence Payment Trial Program (EVP), and the release of key reports, such as the Child Social Exclusion Report Index. 

A significant reflection came from Rev Charissa Suli, President of the Uniting Church in Australia, who reminded delegates of the importance of love and collaboration within the Church and its agencies. Her question, “What threads are you using in your work?” served as a powerful reminder of the collective effort required to bring about positive change. 

Rev Mark Kickett, National Chairperson of the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress (UAICC) reflected on the work of Rev Harris and Rev Gondarra who changed the way the Uniting Church connected with First Nations people, establishing the UAICC and the Covenant, emphasising the importance of partnerships grounded in justice, self-determination, and respect between First and Second Peoples.

Navigating complex times

Heather Watson, Chair of the UnitingCare Australia Board, reflected on the value of drawing on the lived experience of agencies to inform the Church and strengthen governance. She emphasised the complexities of governance within the Church and its agencies, focusing on addressing Federal and State policy gaps and the importance of meaningful partnerships with First Peoples in particular. 

Further insights came from the Hon Kate Thwaites MP, Assistant Minister for Women, Social Security and Ageing, and the Hon Michael Sukkar MP, Shadow Minister for Social Services, Housing and Homelessness and the NDIS, who both reaffirmed the role of the UnitingCare Network as a trusted partner in creating a fairer society. Their remarks on issues such as aged care, housing, and homelessness, highlighted our ongoing contribution to shaping government policies. 

Politics, parliament and public policy

Professor Mark Kenny’s keynote delivered a sharp analysis of the current political landscape, stressing the urgent need for reform in housing, aged care, and the cost of living. Professor Kenny emphasised the need for evidence-based advocacy, particularly at a time when trust in institutions is waning. He also highlighted the vital role of UnitingCare Australia in bridging the gap between frontline services and public policy, urging the UnitingCare Network to remain bold and focused in its advocacy for meaningful, lasting reform. 

Showcasing the Network’s impact

The Forum showcased the broad scope of work undertaken across the UnitingCare Network. Presentations from Rev Stu Cameron of Wesley Mission and Chelsey Potter from Uniting Communities were particularly impactful, highlighting critical issues such as gambling reform, loneliness, and social isolation—reinforcing the vital role the Network plays in addressing these concerns in the communities we serve. 

Our shared future, together

In the afternoon, an interactive discussion was led by renowned journalist Tony Jones, and a panel featuring Rev Charissa Suli, Heather Watson, and Claerwen Little. The panel highlighted that continuing to nourish strong relationships across the life of the Uniting Church and the national UnitingCare Network is essential to achieving our shared mission and vision.  Moreover, these relationships are key to navigating the complex challenges ahead, including poverty, inequality, and aged care reform. The discussion underscored that while these challenges are systemic, they are not insurmountable. 

Continuing the conversation

Following a rich day of discussion, delegates gathered at the iconic National Press Club for an evening to talk politics. The dinner featured an intimate fireside chat with Karen Middleton, Political Editor of The Guardian Australia and Anna Page, UnitingCare Australia’s Director of Communications and Public Affairs. The discussion about Ms Middleton’s biography on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese provided rich insights into his leadership style and political journey. The conversation unpacked the intersection, and reality of, politics and public policy – which was especially relevant to a room full of passionate social justice advocates.

As we reflect on the outcomes of the 2024 Leaders Forum, there is a strong sense of optimism about the future. We will continue to lead the conversation. And together, lead the change.