NCOSS Director, Alison Peters said, “NCOSS supports recent announcements which increase spending on much needed physical infrastructure, especially public transport. However, there is also an urgent need to address significant underinvestment in human infrastructure and community services in recent years. This social infrastructure is vitally important to ensure strong resilient and fair communities that support people regardless of their circumstances.”

“We all want a community 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 those who are disadvantaged” she said.

NCOSS has put forward many spending recommendations in its Pre Budget Submission to the NSW Government including:

• Increased funding of $50 million for neighbourhood centres and other community services  to meet increasing demand for services under the Community Services Grant Program (CSGP)
• An additional $102.5 million to meet the existing demand for public dental services
• $1.45 million over 3 years to enable the non government community services industry to develop strategies to meet growing demand and skills shortages in this vital sector.

“We know that these are difficult times for Government and that there are many competing priorities to be considered but NCOSS will be looking at the State Budget closely to see that it delivers for low income and disadvantaged people and that it promotes fairness,” Ms Peters said.

Media Contact:
Alison Peters (NCOSS) Mob: 0425 231 814 Tel: (02) 9211 2599