Catholic Social Services Australia is part of an alliance of Christian community organisations that is committed to partnering government, individuals and communities as they face the challenges of a COVID-19 recovery.
The organisations, involved in the spheres of education, social services, aged care, indigenous health, disabilities and international development, were to meet on Monday, 22 February with the Prime Minister, Opposition Leader and a number of relevant government ministers, in order to gain a better understanding of government priorities in a post-COVID Australia, as well as determine strategies and opportunities for greater community support.
CEO of Catholic Social Services Australia, Dr Ursula Stephens, reiterated the importance of Christian community organisations and government working collaboratively to support our communities.
'Faith-based organisations provide more than half of all welfare services in Australia, and those represented here today recognise the vital role they can play in restoration in response to the impacts of COVID-19.
'It is important to recognise the role that civil society will have in the provision of services and support. We look forward to discussing with government where the areas of greatest need lie and how we can best work together in the recovery ahead.'
The CEO of Mission Australia, James Toomey said:
'After many of our nation’s biggest crises – World War I, the Spanish Flu pandemic, the Great Depression, World War II – Christian community organisations have been at the forefront of relational, social and economic restoration.
'We are committed once again to rolling up our sleeves, supporting our communities and working together through these challenging times so that everyone is included in the recovery ahead.'
The reading of the joint letter was to be held at Parliament House at 1pm on Monday, 22 February.