National leaders to deliver major addresses at ACOSS National Conference

When: June 12, 2014
Where: Brisbane Exhibition and Convention Centre

National leaders will today present their parties vision for a fair and equitable Australia, including the direction of welfare reform, at the ACOSS National Conference in Brisbane.

The annual ACOSS National Conference is the premier community sector event and will include lively discussions on the state and future of universal health and employment services, as well as inclusive policy practices that ensure the most vulnerable people in our community are protected as we move to put our national budget on a long term sustainable path.

The conference will bring together key decision-makers, experts, policymakers, and frontline workers and agencies to discuss public policy priorities to address poverty and inequality in Australia.

Media Contact: Fernando de Freitas 0419 626 155

DOWNLOWD Full Program

Speakers

Political leaders

  • The Hon Kevin Andrews MP, Minister for Social Services
  • The Hon. Bill Shorten MP
  • Christine Milne, Leader of the The Australian Greens

Key speakers

  • Mick Gooda, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner
  • Fred Chaney AO, Senior Australian of the Year
  • Patrick McClure, Chair, Welfare Review Reference Group
  • Helen Szoke, CEO, Oxfam Australia
  • Mike Callaghan AM – Director, G20 Studies Centre, Lowy Institute for International Policy
  • Senator Scott Ludlam, The Australian Greens
  • Eddie Cubillo, Executive Officer, National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Services
  • Kirsty Parker, Co-Chair, National Congress of Australia’s First Peoples
  • Peter Martin, Economics Editor, The Age

Key Topics include:

  • The direction of welfare reform in Australia
  • Health – a retreat from universalism?
  • Employment, equity and diversity
  • What does justice reinvestment look like in Australia?
  • Driving inclusive growth through infrastructure investment
  • Can inclusive growth address inequality?
  • Harnessing partnerships for community development
  • Sector sustainability: A people powered response to rising energy prices and climate change