When division and conflict appear universal, the news three peak bodies have united to address entrenched disadvantage in Australia is welcome.
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The involvement of the Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS) is hardly a shock, and that of the Australian Council of Trade Unions won’t raise too many eyebrows, but the third party involved may surprise some.
The Business Council of Australia is the third leg in this effort to eradicate financial disadvantage – because chief executive Jennifer Westacott and her team believe it makes good business sense.
Ms Westacott hit the airwaves this week with her ACOSS counterpart, Cassandra Goldie, to push the merits of their combined approach.
It made for compelling listening.
The three parties will never agree on everything, but on the need for a financially strong population, able to fully participate in a strong economy, they are united.
The three groups have released a joint statement outlining how they intend to co-operate on initiatives to boost financial security and the economy.
The joint statement, Opportunity for All, explains how they will work together to see more employment opportunities for Australians who are disadvantaged in the labour market.
This also means giving employers access to the skilled workers they need.
They intend to convene an expert panel to discuss the best employment assistance for disadvantaged job seekers – which will hopefully think outside the welfare square.
They want training to be linked to areas of high labour demand and they intend to hold a forum on how best to reduce inequality and entrenched disadvantage.
The three groups believe Australia’s future economic growth and prosperity depends on, if not a level playing field, then on making sure everyone who can participate in the economy and in building wealth has the support they need to do so.
It was encouraging to hear the goodwill and determination all parties have for the project.