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SACOSS State Budget response: Steps in the right direction of a much longer journey

MEDIA RELEASE: The South Australian Council of Social Service (SACOSS) has welcomed a range of measures captured in the state budget, but stresses that much more is needed over the new government’s term.

“We are encouraged by the new government’s attention to areas such as housing and homelessness, health and mental health, and cost of living, among others. There are certainly notable positives in this state budget, that speak to real areas of need,” said SACOSS CEO Ross Womersley.

“We also recognize that the Government has a focus on delivering on its election promises. Our call now is for the government to take these positive budget measures and build on them.

“We know that a lot of South Australians continue to really struggle. The repercussions of COVID are still being felt. We have a genuine crisis around rental affordability and cost of living pressures mount by the day.

“We now urge the new Government to be bold and step up to invest in a more inclusive future for our state. With a four-year term just beginning, and with surpluses forecast across the forward estimates, now is an ideal time for a really big-picture view.

“These investments in what’s planned now are down-payments on the tomorrow that South Australians want for our state.  We want to see a state that is strong, equitable, and future-focused. That means investing in the basics so that no-one is left behind.

“There is absolutely no doubt we need more action and long-term investments in public housing to help address rental affordability. Far too many people are struggling to find a home, let alone one they can afford. The Government has significant power to intervene here. By building further on its investment in public housing, the State Government would not only create much-needed homes, but ease pressure on the market to make rental housing more affordable across the board.

“It’s not just spending – it’s an investment in an asset to the community. And a stimulus for the economy and jobs.

“Attention to cost of living via concessions is also welcome, but we need to ensure renters get at least the same level of protection as homeowners. And there is more work to do in making concessions fairer overall. We look forward to working with the State Government on a full review of the concessions provided by Government.

“Another residual concern for SACOSS remains ensuring everyone gets access to the benefits of digital technologies. While we welcome the Government’s intention to extend the hours of service at Service SA outlets, which remain crucial connection points for people who might otherwise struggle with online services, this budget makes no mention of any initiatives likely to enhance digital inclusion. This was a lesson hard-learnt during COVID. We need to future-proof, and that means stepping up on digital access and connection across our community.”

“Again, the Government has made big commitments to improving hospital health services, but the next series of investments must be heavily focused on getting support to people that prevents illness and supports people to stay out of hospital.

“We look forward to talking more with the new State Government about how we can build a better future for all South Australians, taking the investments of today and stepping up towards the tomorrow all South Australians deserve,” Mr Womersley stated.

The SACOSS State Budget Snapshot is available here

About the SACOSS State Budget Snapshot

The SACOSS State Budget Snapshot provides some brief highlights, summarising expenditure changes and new policy measures in areas of interest to vulnerable and disadvantaged South Australians, and to the non-government health and community services sector. We will also be producing a more detailed analysis, which will be available next week.

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08 8305 4222

sacoss@sacoss.org.au

Marjorie Black House
47 King William Road Unley SA 5061

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SACOSS acknowledges the traditional owners of unceded country throughout South Australia, and recognises their continuing connection to lands, waters and culture. We recognise the sovereignty and cultural authority of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, and pay our respect to elders both past and present.

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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.

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