Advocacy
We speak up for better health and social services in Australia.
On this page
We push for change to help everyone live well, especially those who are less often heard. We listen to what people in our communities need. When we see gaps in health services, we work with government and other organisations to make positive changes.
Areas of focus
Healthcare and support delivered in the community and close to home helps people stay well and out of hospital. We're asking for:
- more funding for local health services
- regular funding increases to match rising costs
- services that help you get care in your community instead of hospital.
People who are dependent on sleeping pills and antidepressants (benzodiazepines) need support to safely reduce their medication. We’re asking for funding to keep Australia’s only specialist service for benzodiazepine dependence running. This service, called Reconnexion, is based in Victoria. Without this funding, many Australian lives will be at risk.
Financial abuse is a hidden form of family violence that many people don't recognise. We aim to raise awareness about this serious issue in our community. We work to train bank staff and government workers to spot the signs and help people at risk. We support those harmed by financial abuse. We push for a fairer, safer systems for all.
Young people should be able to get mental health support when they need it. We're working towards:
- more headspace centres
- better support in schools
- new partnerships for youth programs.
How we help
Address inequalities
We help make sure everyone has equal access to good health care
Influence policy
We act to improve policies and systems that affect people’s wellbeing
Fight for funding
We focus on securing funding for community-based health services
Build partnerships
We build strong partnerships to strengthen our impact
Speak up
We use our voice for the issues that matter most to our communities
Submissions
July 2024
Federal inquiry into drugs and alcoholRead the full submissionBased on our 50 years helping people with medication dependence, we showed the need for:
- support services across Australia
- better training for doctors
- increased awareness of medication risks.
July 2024
Federal inquiry into financial services and financial abuseRead the full submissionOur counsellors understand how government systems need to change to protect people, especially women, from financial abuse. We suggested changes to:
- tax systems
- Centrelink processes
- banking rules
- support programs.
July 2024
Victorian family violence rolling action planRead the full submissionWe explained how financial abuse affects families and recommended ways to:
- spot the warning signs
- prevent abuse
- help people affected
- raise awareness.