On Wednesday 15 October NCOSS officially launched our 2009-10 Pre-Budget Submission – "Towards Triple A Rated Community Services".

Each year NCOSS engages in a substantial effort of research, consultation and development to put together the NCOSS Pre Budget Submission (PBS).

The PBS is a collaborative exercise that reflects the priorities of the sector in meeting the real needs of the most disadvantaged people and communities in NSW. It is resource that the sector can, and should, use to lobby for programs and initiatives that will make a difference and lead to a more socially just and fair society.

The launch was made by NCOSS Director Alison Peters before a gathering of community sector workers as part of Anti-Poverty Week proceedings.

Ms Peters said, "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.

"The recommendations NCOSS is making to the NSW Government for the 2009–2010 State Budget will make a difference to the lives of individuals, their families and communities that are most in need of support. These people have been overlooked for too long and it is time that this is redressed in a real, meaningful way that focuses on long term sustainable improvements rather than short term politics.

"While the production of this document has involved the hard work of many, the process does not end with its publication. It is up to all of us who care about the society we live in and who wants to see a strong and fair NSW to use the PBS to advocate for the commitment of resources in the next State Budget to deliver programs and services that will make a positive difference for disadvantaged people, families and communities. We must do this to ensure a better life, with greater opportunities, for these people who we work with and on behalf of.

"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."

• download: Towards Triple A Rated Community Services