ACOSS welcomes today’s signing of the new National Compact as an important foundation for stronger links between the not-for-profit sector and government.

Attending the official signing ceremony at Parliament House in Canberra are ACOSS President Simon Schrapel, ACOSS board member Maryanne Diamond and ACOSS CEO Clare Martin.

Mr Schrapel and Ms Diamond have been appointed to the National Compact Sector Advisory Group which will drive plans to implement the shared priorities of the Compact.

“This relationship is critical to building a more socially inclusive and tolerant Australian society. The Compact provides a way to work through a host of issues which have traditionally become barriers to a productive and respectful relationship,” said Mr Schrapel.

Ms Diamond said: “We have a great opportunity to collaboratively work across all of government to build the capacity of the sector and ensure the sector is recognised and valued. By working together I look forward to seeing decisions of government reflecting true consultation.”

The Compact and Advisory Group could act as an important key mechanism to pursue the recommendations of the Productivity Commission’s report into the Not-for-Profit sector.

“Key reforms that would increase the effectiveness of the sector include establishing an independent Registrar for Community and Charitable Purpose organisations and addressing funding of the community sector, including payment of market wages,” said Ms Martin.

“With over half of ACOSS members reporting that red tape hinders their ability to deliver services, streamlining contracting and reporting mechanisms should also be a priority.”

ACOSS looks forward to continuing to work with government and through the National Compact Sector Advisory Group to build closer ties.

Media Contact: Clare Cameron, ACOSS – 0419 626 155