In the lead up to the 2007 NSW State Election NCOSS released 'A Fairer NSW: Bold Solutions and Real Results'. The document aimed to build consensus on what needed to be done to secure social justice and how we will know if we have succeeded. It identifies problems, solutions and results to some of the thorniest social issues facing our state. These proposals are not a shopping list, but a set of opportunities for action by the Government, business, the non-government sector and the community. We believe these 21 proposals, organised across eight cross cutting themes, can achieve real results for people, families and communities that live on the wrong side of the economic and social divide.

In 2007, NCOSS developed its policy for the NSW Election, A Fairer NSW: Bold Solutions and Real Results . The document was the result of extensive research and consultation and was what we believed the NSW Government should do to make NSW a strong and fair place. This Pre-Budget Submission is based on delivering what NCOSS sought in A Fairer NSW and its measures are linked to priorities in the NSW State Plan.

We all want a society in which everyone can participate, where people feel safe and where they get a fair go. This can only happen if governments invest in both social and physical infrastructure and pay particular attention to the needs of those on low incomes and who are disadvantaged. Such investment builds confidence and resilience and is vital if we, collectively, are to flourish and prosper. In this PBS, we are calling on Government to give human and social services the same priority it gives its financial standing with credit rating agencies. That's why its now time for investment in triple A rated services.

The PBS seeks to balance the many pressing priorities in the community with the fact that there are limited resources available. The recommendations, therefore, represent where we believe Government can get the best return for their investment in the current environment and to ensure the best possible outcomes for vulnerable and disadvantaged people and communities.

This Pre-Budget Submission (PBS) follows on from Vote 1 Fairness in NSW, our election platform, and seeks through its recommendations to ensure budgetary measures are adopted to enhance the lives of those in our communities who are the most vulnerable and marginalised.