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Before an election, the Australian Government assumes a caretaker role. Limited updates will be made to this site in line with the Guidance on Caretaker Conventions.

Have your say on ways to help strengthen the community sector

The Australian Government is committed to developing a stronger, more diverse and independent community sector.

Public consultation is now open on an issues paper. Your feedback will inform a package of recommendations the department is developing on innovative approaches to grant funding for the community sector.

The issues paper has 5 focus areas for discussion:

  1. Giving the sector the voice and respect it deserves through a meaningful working partnership.
  2. Providing grants that reflect the real cost of delivering quality services.
  3. Providing longer grant agreement terms.
  4. Ensuring grant funding flows to a greater diversity of Community Service Organisations.
  5. Partnering with trusted community organisations with strong local links.

To share your views and help support long-term change for the sector that provides support to individuals, families and communities when they need it most, visit the DSS Engage website.

Submissions close on 7 November 2023.

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