SACOSS policy prescriptions for SA election 2022

MEDIA RELEASE: Public housing, digital inclusion & fixing water supply in regional and remote communities headline SACOSS’ “Cover the Basics” state election policy platform

SACOSS is today releasing its ‘Cover the Basics’ policy platform document, which outlines a series of policy prescriptions for SA political parties in the lead-up to the next SA state election and beyond it.

The community service sector peak body’s list of calls reflects key areas of longstanding SACOSS advocacy, with some concrete measures for parties to commit to.

SACOSS is also providing a preview of the Report Card it will be issuing on SA political parties’ policies in these key areas, in the leadup to South Australia’s March 19 state election.

While there are many important areas that the SA State Government needs to address to ensure a fair, strong and vibrant South Australia in the coming years, SACOSS has identified a set of critical areas for action, as well as an additional set of measures to protect and support vulnerable and disadvantaged South Australians.

“I’m sure there isn’t a voter across South Australia who wouldn’t agree that every South Australian should be able to access life’s basics,” said SACOSS CEO Ross Womersley.

“Elections are typically a time for big shiny promises and reassurances that people’s interests will be looked after. What we are talking about isn’t fancy – it’s fundamental. It’s about covering the very basics. Whoever forms government post-March 19 needs to deliver on these key areas.

“We are a lucky state in an affluent country. There is no excuse for us not to ensure that all South Australians have access to things as basic as a home they can afford to live in; safe, affordable drinking water; and the basics of digital access and connection in a world where practically everything is online.

“We know that COVID-19 has amplified inequality and fed off some people’s existing vulnerabilities – low incomes, poorer health, and insecure work. That makes action in these critical areas even more important now.

“We also know that a fairer state is also a stronger state. By investing in public housing we would ease the pressures on a very hot rental market and also deliver benefits for jobs and the economy. By investing in the digital capacity of people who are currently excluded, or facing real digital barriers, we will improve health, education, job prospects and more.

“It’s not hard. It’s not complicated. It’s basic. Basic, and fair. To South Australians we would say, as election day approaches, pay attention to what the local candidates, and their political parties, say about the basics. What are they promising they’ll deliver?

“And to the parties and candidates we are saying – go ahead with your shiny promises, but just make sure, above all, that you cover these fundamentals. Cover the basics.”

You can access SACOSS’ Cover the Basics Here
A preview of our SA State Election Party Report Card is here

Scroll to Top

MICHELE WACHLA

Michele is an accomplished social services professional with a dual background in Social Work and Business, bringing over 18 years of experience to her work. She has developed a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within Regional, Rural, and Remote (RRR) environments, particularly in South Australia. Michele is a recognised leader, known for her expertise in designing and implementing place-based initiatives that address the complexities of RRR communities. Her work is underpinned by strategic planning, effective resourcing, and a strong focus on policy review and advocacy to ensure that services remain relevant, equitable, and sustainable. Michele’s commitment to community-centred approaches drives meaningful outcomes, nurturing resilience, and growth across regional South Australia.

KHATIJA THOMAS

DAVE ADAMSON

Dave moved to Australia following a 30-year academic career in the UK. He has since worked in the Community Housing sector and authored the 2016 Towards a National Housing Strategy, and helped to establish the Everybody’s Home campaign. He also researches the interface between poverty and climate change and actively supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. He has worked with government at all levels and has experience of policy development and evaluation. He is co-author of Sustainable Places: Addressing Social Inequality and Environmental Crisis (2022, Routledge). In his spare time he plays and builds guitars.

ROHAN FEEGRADE

Rohan is an experienced and forward-thinking CEO, senior executive and board director with demonstrated expertise across the not-for-profit, private and government sectors. Currently CEO of Lutheran Care, he has proven record for creating substantial organisational, stakeholder and client value, and has extensive experience in strategically positioning organisations for transformational change and growth within the health, disability, education and community service sectors. Rohan is a socially responsible professional, genuinely passionate about creating opportunities for people who live with disadvantage and disability, always acting ethically to serve those he works with and for.

JANE MUSSARED

Jane has worked in for purpose and government health and human service settings throughout her career. In June 2024 she returned to SA and joined the Maggie Beer Foundation as CEO following 20 months based in Canberra as an Advisor to the Federal Minister for Health and Aged Care. Previously she was Chief Executive of COTA SA and before that an executive of ACH Group. Jane served on a range of boards and committees prior to moving to Canberra, including the SACOSS Policy Council until 2022, as chair of the South Australian Circus Centre and as a non-Executive Director with the Maggie Beer Foundation.

NANCY PENNA

Nancy has than 30 years of experience in South Australian community services, and a a unique understanding of the political and social landscape and the issues and opportunities facing South Australia. Currently responsible for the strategic and operational oversight of AnglicareSA’s community services portfolio, she has previously held executive roles in government within child protection and disability, with her executive experience underpinned by her earlier career as a social worker in child protection and youth justice. She is also Chair of the Child and Family Focus South Australia (CAFFSA) Board and most recently on the Housing Security for Older Women Taskforce.

NICOLE CHAPLIN

Nicole is a dedicated and experienced youth support professional, specialising in solutions for disadvantaged young people in South Australia. As CEO of St John’s Youth Services, she oversees innovative programs like youth110 and Foyer Port Adelaide. With over thirty years in the community sector, Nicole has built extensive networks and her expertise spans governance, service delivery, policy development, and partnerships. Recognised with the 2018 AHI Inspirational Leader Award, Nicole is an active participant in housing and homelessness networks. She holds leadership roles in various organisations, including Anglicare Australia’s National Reconciliation Network.

EMMA CROSBY

Emma is a chartered Accountant with more than 15 years experience as a board member, finance and business professional, strategic advisor and company secretary. She has strong values and a passion for enabling and leading organisations to meet its operational and strategic direction through long-term financial sustainability, operational efficiency, innovation, leadership, transformation and partnerships. As Treasurer and Board member at SACOSS, she is committed to successfully leading and making a purposeful impact to the organisation and its stakeholders.

David PANTER

David has worked in health and social care for almost 45 years, over half of which has been as a Chief Executive. In the UK he initially worked in the NHS and more latterly in local government, where he was Chief Executive of Brighton & Hove City Council. In 2004 David was recruited to the South Australian public health system for over 10 years leading reforms including the development of the new Royal Adelaide Hospital. From 2015-2022 David was the Chief Executive of not-for-profit aged care provider ECH. At the end of January 2022 David became the Chief Executive at Minda, SA’s largest provider of services to people living with an intellectual disability.

Skip to content