Change of heart needed to combat growing apathy to those in need

As a matter of urgency, Catholic Welfare Australia appeals to all Australian people to make clear to political leaders that now is the time to implement a nation building project of poverty eradication and social justice.

The call came at the conclusion of a three day national gathering of community based workers in the social welfare sector, from every state and territory, representing the Membership of Catholic Welfare Australia. 

Participants at the Annual Conference reported on an Australia that is fast becoming a deeply divided nation with pockets and regions entrenched in grinding poverty.

While Australia has been enjoying a decade of unprecedented growth and prosperity the most vulnerable have been left behind.

Of greatest concern are:

1) the levels of poverty, violence and ill-health in indigenous communities; 

2) the plight of people who are long-term unemployed and the lack of opportunity in certain urban, regional and remote locations;

3) the physical, mental and spiritual welfare of children and young people in detention.

Now is not the time for tax cuts it is time for the careful and targeted funding of anti-poverty measures for Australia’s most disadvantaged individuals, families and communities.

For an interview please call:  Jackie Brady, Communications Officer, 0417 220 779