Justice Stocktake 2025

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Jennifer Kirkaldy on the housing crisis

We need urgent, large-scale investment in social and affordable housing.

Full Transcript

When thinking about social justice issues in the community, housing and homelessness was overwhelmingly the most common response, an extraordinary 71%. Having safe and affordable housing is not a luxury. It is a basic human need. Housing is the foundation for addressing almost every other form of disadvantage or injustice in Australia. The housing market is complex, but like any other market, it is shaped by decisions being made by human beings. We need urgent, large-scale investment in social and affordable housing. We need to be building over 40,000 social and affordable dwellings every single year just to meet the current demand and anticipated population growth. The housing crisis requires direct action by governments at every level.

Jennifer Kirkaldy talks about Mental Health

The best clinical care is not going to achieve the outcomes we need if people have to sleep in their cars…

Full Transcript

When people thought about social justice issues that were affecting their lives, mental health was the most common response. It was the second most common when thinking about the community. Mental ill health is a cause and a result of other forms of disadvantage, and it makes the experience of other hardships so much more difficult. Experiences of disadvantage, discrimination and stigma act as barriers to getting the mental health help people need. We need investment in mental health supports that ensure equity of access and equity of experience. To support mental health, we also need to address the other forms of disadvantage in Australia. The best clinical care is not going to achieve the outcomes we need if people have to sleep in their cars or return to unsafe homes.

Jennifer Kirkaldy talks about Financial Hardship

The Salvation Army helps someone in need around every 17 seconds in Australia.

Full Transcript

The Salvation Army helps someone in need around every 17 seconds in Australia. The need for support is overwhelming. While the current cost of living and housing crises are impacting us all, they are not impacting us equally. The current rate of working age payments, particularly job seeker and youth allowance, are so low that they effectively trap people in poverty. This is not rhetoric. This is the reality of what we are seeing in our financial counseling and emergency relief services every single day.

About the Social Justice Stocktake

Why the Stocktake and why now?

The Social Justice Stocktake is about capturing the social injustices affecting people in their local communities and empowering them to take action. By addressing hardship at a grassroot level, we can drive meaningful change.

With the Federal election approaching, the Social Justice Stocktake provides a timely tool for both the community and candidates to engage in conversations about social justice. It is a chance for candidates to understand the issues their constituents truly care about – beyond the political rhetoric.

Let’s move beyond assumptions and get on the same page about what Australians really need and want from their leaders.

Why should Australians care about these results?

Our experience is that Australians care deeply about social justice.  We all use different words for it – a fair go, equality, equity – but the idea that there should be fairness in our society is entrenched in the idea of being Australian.  These results will help Australians reflect on social justice in their local area and feel empowered to take action.

How do you see this evidence contributing to the national discourse (especially the coming election)?

They say all politics is local and in Australia our democracy works through us choosing our local representatives. But too often, we do not get local insights to guide our decisions. The Stocktake provides crucial, electorate-level information to empower conversations about social justice where it matters most: in our own communities.

Beyond the election, how will The Salvation Army use this research?

This research will help guide The Salvation Army’s social services and our areas of focus, especially at a local level.  This research will also help us engage on local issues with members of parliament at both Federal and state and territory levels.

Housing Affordability and Homelessness

Were you surprised to see housing affordability and homelessness as the number one concern in the Stocktake?

We expected housing affordability and homelessness to be a key issue in Australia but the sheer scale of the response was surprising.

Even before the pandemic, housing costs were already rising at an unsustainable rate and since the pandemic we are seeing an increase in the urgent need of community members accessing our services. Housing affordability and homelessness is not just an issue; it’s a crisis. It’s the number one concern, and it’s driving more Australians into hardship every day.

How is this issue contributing to mental health challenges in Australia?

The link between housing instability and mental health challenges is undeniable.

There is often a range of co-occurring issues, which we see increasing both in terms of prevalence and complexity at our homelessness services – most particularly mental ill-health.

The Salvation Army’s observations indicate that an experience of homelessness leads to increased impact and complexity of existing trauma, substance use and mental ill-health.

People living with mental health issues are more likely to experience homelessness. Those with severe mental illness are more likely to endure higher levels of housing stress and risk of homelessness.

Who is affected by housing affordability in Australia and what does that mean in a practical sense?

Housing affordability affects Australians across all ages and income levels. Young people, older people, and people escaping family and domestic violence are more likely to experience homelessness but housing stress is felt across our community.

What can be done to address housing affordability and homelessness?

Having a safe and affordable home is not a luxury but a basic human need.

To address this crisis, we need bold, long- term investment in social and affordable housing to relieve pressure across the housing continuum.

Australia needs to build at least one million new social and affordable rental homes for low and middle-income households over 20 years to meet current demand and keep pace with population growth (this is equivalent to 728,600 social housing properties and 295,000 affordable rental homes by 2036; or approximately 36,400 social housing properties a year and 14,800 affordable homes a year).

Without urgent, large-scale investment, the housing gap will only widen, leaving more Australians without a secure place to call home.

What support can The Salvation Army offer to those presenting as homeless?

As one of Australia’s largest providers of homelessness services, The Salvation Army offers a comprehensive range of support- from prevention and early intervention to crisis accommodation and long-term housing solutions. We specialise in services for women and children experiencing family violence, young people, and single men and couples, including those from diverse backgrounds such as CALD, LGBTIQA+, First Nations peoples, and people living with disabilities.

At The Salvation Army, we don’t just provide a roof over a person’s head – we offer a pathway to stability, dignity, and hope.

Mental Health

Does it surprise you that mental health ranked as the second biggest social justice problem in the community and first in Australians lives?

We know mental ill-health and mental illnesses are common, affecting millions of Australians. In this year’s Social Justice Stocktake even more people identified mental health as an issue in their community compared to the last stocktake and it was the highest ranked issue when people thought about their own lives.

A number of factors can contribute to a person’s experience of mental ill-health. We certainly see that mental ill-health can be driven or exacerbated by other forms of hardship. Across the country, Australians are feeling the impacts of the housing crisis, cost of living and the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is not surprising that mental health remains a prominent concern in our communities.

Unfortunately, people living with mental-ill health continue to experience stigma and difficulty accessing quality, timely and affordable mental health services, particularly in regional and rural areas.

How do other social justice issues impact on mental health challenges Australians face today?

Mental health is connected to all other major social justice issues in Australia. All economic, social and structural disadvantage can contribute to a person’s experience of mental ill-health, especially financial hardship, unemployment, homelessness, family violence and social isolation. Each of these social justice issues were identified in the Stocktake and are prevalent in Australia.

In preventing and addressing mental ill-health, we must look beyond a purely medical response, towards a holistic approach to mental health and wellbeing, complemented by actions that address underlying disadvantages. The best possible clinical care will be less effective if a person is living in their car or unsafe in their home.

Are you seeing mental ill-health impacting on the people The Salvation Army works with?

As one of the largest providers of social services across the country, through our emergency relief, specialist family and domestic violence, homelessness, youth and alcohol and other drug services, The Salvation Army sees how mental ill-health touches every part of Australia. We see how disadvantage can be the precursor to, and the result of, mental ill-health.

Dealing with mental-ill health in isolation ignores many of the factors which we have seen lead a person into ill-health or prevent a person from recovery. The Salvation Army provides wrap-around support to address the multifaceted issues that individuals and communities face to help improve mental health and wellbeing across Australia.

Financial Hardship and inclusion

What do you believe are the primary drivers of financial hardship in Australia?

People may think that cost of living pressures are the major drivers of financial hardship in Australia, and that is the largest single reason that people access The Salvation Army’s emergency relief services. But a more fundamental issue sits beneath this. A lack of affordable housing, along with insufficient investment in public and social housing stock, has led to increased housing costs across the entire continuum of housing. Similarly, failures within the social security system have led to incomes support payments, like JobSeeker and Youth Allowance, becoming insufficient for recipients to live with dignity.

Cost of living pressures are the single largest reason people access emergency relief from The Salvation Army. In our experience, lack of affordable Housing and inadequate income support measures underly these issues at a deeper level.

Are you seeing that financial hardship and cost of living is affecting even those in full time employment?

Yes, The Salvation Army has come to see more community members accessing our services who are in full time employment, including those in double income households who are struggling to make ends meet.

What role does The Salvation Army play in assisting those experiencing financial challenges?

The Salvation Army helps by providing direct emergency relief which can take the form of vouchers for food and petrol and other expenses, as well as goods in kind from our pantries. We also help people who are experiencing hardship as a result of debt or unmet expenses through our financial counselling service. Further, we are also a provider of no interest loans, meaning we can help prevent community members entering unmanageable debt by providing a safe and suitable loan for a necessary purchase.

The Salvation Army provides direct relief and support, as well as financial counselling to those experiencing financial hardship.

What are the key recommendations from The Salvation Army for policymakers to address financial hardship?

The single most effective action policymakers could take immediately to affect financial hardship is to increase income support payments to a liveable level. The current base rate of JobSeeker and Youth Allowance are such that community members experiencing unemployment cannot afford necessities.

The Salvation Army’s evidence, supported by practical experience and research, is that people reliant on income support payments are going without essentials such as food, utilities, housing or medication which is detrimental to their wellbeing, or they are going into debt to meet these essential needs, which is not sustainable. The current system does not allow recipients of these payments to live with dignity.

The current base rate of JobSeeker and Youth Allowance are such that community members experiencing unemployment cannot afford necessities. We need to rethink the income support system to allow recipients of these payments to live with dignity.

Access to Healthcare

What are some of the challenges identified in the Social Justice Stocktake that Australians face in accessing healthcare?

Having access to quality healthcare is critical to support health and wellbeing, and social and economic participation. Unfortunately, we know that many Australians lack access to suitable healthcare due to cost, availability and other barriers. Certain groups of people in Australia are more likely to experience barriers including rural and remote communities and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Over half of all Stocktake respondents identified access to health care as a social justice issue.

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed and exacerbated inequalities in our communities and structural issues in our health system. These issues continue to be prevalent across the country.

Many of the top social justice issues identified in the Stocktake can impact on healthcare access. Financial hardship, family and domestic violence and homelessness can make it difficult to afford and access suitable healthcare. Individuals who use drugs and alcohol or experience mental ill-health can face discrimination and receive poor care when accessing the health system.

How has the rising cost of healthcare impacted Australians facing financial hardship?

Rising healthcare costs, and other cost of living pressures, have a significant impact on Australians, but they do not affect everyone equally. Financial hardship and poverty can force people to make impossible choices such as deciding whether to pay their rent or pay for their medications. People who rely on income support payments are unable to afford necessities, which can mean forgoing essential healthcare. Untreated minor health conditions can become serious chronic conditions, and can impact other areas of life, including relationships with others, and housing or employment security.

What do you think policy makers can do in addressing this issue?

Governments must take steps to ensure that health care is safe, accessible and affordable for all Australians, no matter where they live across the country. One step towards achieving this would be to increase funding and flexibility in primary health care to encourage more bulk-billed GP visits and to provide more clinicians in primary care such as nurses and allied health professionals.

Governments must identify and address barriers that exist across the nation to ensure health services are safe and equitable for all. This should include increased investment in Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) to provide culturally informed health services which address local community needs and work to close the gap for First Nations peoples.

Alcohol and Drug Misuse

There are many enduring misconceptions about people who use alcohol and other drugs in our communities. These misconceptions can be harmful.

One of the most prevalent and harmful misconceptions we see is the belief that tough criminal justice responses to illicit drug use, such as heavy fines and incarceration, will decrease drug use and reduce harm. This approach has not been effective. In fact, punitive responses perpetuate stigma, prevent help seeking and contribute to the cycle of disadvantage.

The Salvation Army advocates for a compassionate and health-focused response to alcohol and drug use in our communities. Laws and policies should be geared towards preventing and reducing contact with the criminal justice system.

The Salvation Army has a long and recognised history as a leading providing of alcohol and other drug services across Australia. The Salvation Army’s Alcohol and Other Drug services provide person-centred, holistic support, in partnership with other services. We are dedicated to creating pathways for people to build their lives in ways that are meaningful and purposeful.

Our services include primary health and harm reduction services, withdrawal management, day programs, counselling, case management and residential rehabilitation programs. Each year The Salvation Army provides support to over 12,000 people experiencing drug or alcohol related harm through our rehabilitation services.

What do you think policy makers can do in addressing this issue?

Alcohol and other drug-related harms have wide-reaching social, economic and health impacts on individuals and communities. Alcohol and other drug misuse can be driven by a range of individual, social and structural factors, including other forms of disadvantage.

Support and treatment must be available, where and when it is needed. Governments can have an impact by increasing investment to improve access to harm reduction strategies and evidence-based alcohol and other drug treatments across Australia, particularly in regional and rural areas. Treatment and support provided must be embedded within the wider welfare system to address interconnected forms of disadvantage such as poverty and mental-ill health.

Governments must address the criminal justice response to illicit drug use. It is not working and must be reformed to ensure laws and policies are evidence-based, proportionate, compassionate and do no further harm.

Family Violence

Why would the SJS see a drop in concern for family violence issues in the 2025 Stocktake?

Around the same proportion of people identified family and domestic violence as a major issues in their community between the 2022 and 2025 Stocktakes (35.4% to 32.7%). Shockingly, 12.5% or around one in every eight respondents identified that family violence is an issue in their own lives.

While a shift in the concentration of concern around other issues makes it look like family violence might be lessening as a concern the sad fact is that family violence remains as prevalent and distressing as it was when the Stocktake was first published.

What is the reality of family violence as witnessed by The Salvation Army?

Family and domestic violence can impact all people, of all ages, from all backgrounds, but it mainly impacts women and children. Family and domestic violence rates remain high, impacting around one in four Australian women. However, it is often hidden, with persons using violence utilising social, financial and psychological abuse, as well as coercive control, to exert power and isolate victim-survivors.

What programs and initiatives do you identify as successful in the family violence arena?

We have seen great success come from integrated family violence response models that meet the needs of whole families such as our Alexis Model. Alexis was developed in conjunction with Victoria Police to meet the need for more coordinated, effective, and specialist responses to family and domestic violence. The model embeds a specialist family and domestic violence practitioner within a targeted police family violence unit and specifically works with families who are at high risk of recidivism or have complex intersecting needs. Alexis works with the whole family, supporting both victim-survivors and the person using violence, and has shown an 85 per cent reduction in recidivism.

Programs like Alexis save lives.

What do you see as the biggest impediment in meeting the needs of victim-survivors?

Across the nation, there are insufficient safe accommodation options for victim-survivors, and social housing waitlists in metropolitan, regional and rural areas are at an all-time high. A lack of exit pathways into long-term accommodation leaves victim-survivors in crisis accommodation for extended periods, meaning other victim-survivors in need cannot enter crisis services. Most concerningly, when safe and affordable accommodation is not available, victim-survivors feel they have no choice but to remain with, or return to, violent situations.

Access to safe and stable accommodation is critical to victim-survivor safety and long-term recovery and healing from violence. Without stable housing other factors, such as education and employment, are seen as aspirational.

What key recommendations would you make to policymakers to address family and domestic violence?

The specialist family and domestic violence sector does not have the systems in place to manage an increase in victim-survivors seeking assistance. Services are not widely accessible across the nation and, where available, are working at capacity.

Policy makers must work to significantly increase funding to the specialist family and domestic violence sector to ensure those impacted by violence can access supports when they need it. Alongside operational funding, areas for investment include developing primary prevention initiatives, specialist supports for children and young people, a broad range of serious risk programs to hold persons using violence accountable, and recovery and healing supports.

It is unacceptable that people considered “high-risk” are denied a service simply because the sector does not have the capacity to keep them safe.

Systemic gaps trap victim-survivors in violent situations.

Climate change

What is striking about the survey results on climate change?

It was striking to see how much people’s concerns about climate change have increased in this Stocktake, compared with the last. Even amongst the more immediate, day-to-day social injustices, concerns about climate change overall rose, with about 30 per cent of people identifying this as a top issue when thinking about their community, and when considering their own lives. This trend was reflected consistently across all states and territories.

Climate change was identified as the fourth largest concern for people when considering themselves, ahead of access to healthcare and social isolation and loneliness. Climate change carries impacts beyond the environment and can cause harm to both physical and mental health, people’s increasing level of concern indicates a high level of awareness about the impacts this issue might have on people’s own life.

The Australian community is feeling a growing sense of urgency about climate change.

Did the recent increase in natural disasters such as floods and bushfires change Australians’ views on climate change and if so, how?

The devastating impacts of natural disasters are being felt by communities across Australia.

Disasters such as the 2019-20 bushfires are occurring more frequently and are more extreme. Day-to day impacts of climate change are being felt across Australia with more hot days than cold, changing rainfall patterns and extended fire seasons. Nobody wants to see Australians lose their life in a disaster. Nobody wants to see land and wildlife destroyed, or homes, businesses and communities devastated.

This year’s Stocktake demonstrates increased concerns about climate change is reflective of the community’s hastening calls to act now.

What are your key recommendations to policy makers on climate change?

As a nation we need policy makers to meaningfully commit to creating, investing in, and upholding policies which prioritise sustained reductions in Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions, renewable energy, energy conservation and efficiency.

Policy makers must actively prioritise supporting communities to be climate resilient and resourcing them to adapt and prepare for the increasing likelihood and severity of natural disasters. We know that the effects of climate change are felt disproportionately by those who are already experiencing disadvantage, so policy makers must ensure they are at the forefront of decision-making processes.

Unemployment and Underemployment

Are there specific demographics that are affected by this more than others?

Unemployment and Underemployment are difficult issues for anyone who experiences them, but there is a disproportionate occurrence with younger people, as well as women, including those with caring responsibilities.

The issue of unemployment and underemployment does hit various demographics differently.

Underemployment of women has tended to be higher than that of men.

Many older Australians find it harder to re-enter the work force after a period of unemployment.

Younger Australians and women are overrepresented in part time employment, often because this flexibility is more conducive to study and caring responsibilities. Part time and causal employees are the groups who most experience underemployment.

Women with caring responsibilities face additional barriers to employment in general, due to a lack of accessible childcare.

What impact does underemployment have on financial and mental wellbeing?

Unemployment, particularly long term unemployment, can have very significant implications for mental health and wellbeing. People can find themselves feeling isolated, and financial pressures can place additional stress on their mental health. In some cases, people will be unable to afford necessary medications, which has negative impacts on physical and mental health.

Unemployment and underemployment represent significant financial pressure and the current rate of payments such as JobSeeker and Youth Allowance are such that many people cannot afford necessities such as housing, food and medical expenses. The Salvation Army’s experience shows that JobSeeker recipients cannot afford necessary expenses, and so must enter debt, or go without essentials to get by.

What can The Salvation Army offer someone presenting with employment issues?

The Salvation Army’s Employment Plus sites are located around Australia with trained staff ready to help people find work. Whether a job seeker is new to the workforce or is returning after a break, Employment Plus has strong local industry links to connect jobseekers to the ideal employer.

Some of the assistance we can provide includes training, career counselling, help with resume writing, interviewing and job search tips as well as work trials, work experience and links to local employers.

Social Isolation and Loneliness

Do you see a correlation between social isolation and loneliness and other social justice issues listed in the Stocktake?

Social isolation and loneliness are prevalent issues in Australia, and they have an effect across all communities. For many people, loneliness is driven and compounded by other forms of disadvantage. Loneliness can also lead to poor mental and physical health, which can lead to other forms of disadvantage, including difficulty maintaining employment and issues with relationships.

Financial hardship and homelessness were amongst the top issues identified in the Social Justice Stocktake. We know that issues such as poverty and homelessness can push people to the margins and cause them to withdraw. Without sufficient resources to even meet their basic needs, it can be near impossible for people to be able to meet their social connection needs.

Money, time and energy for social activities are sacrificed to prioritise food or rent. If you cannot afford enough food for the week, you cannot afford a cup of coffee with a friend.

What is the relationship between social isolation and mental ill-health?

It is an incredibly common experience for social isolation and mental ill-health to co-occur and impact one another. Research indicates nearly half of people with a mental health condition experience persistent loneliness. Symptoms of mental-ill health or stigma can cause people to isolate themselves. Isolation can lead to loneliness and psychological distress and make it more difficult to reach out for support. This can become a downwards spiral that can be difficult to break. It is essential we take a holistic approach by providing solutions which address the social, emotional and wellbeing needs of individuals and communities.

Does The Salvation Army run any initiatives or programs to support clients that present with this issue?

Every day, all across our social services and Corps (churches), The Salvation Army walks alongside people experiencing loneliness. We treat every person with compassion, respect, and work to holistically address their needs, above and beyond their primary reason for reaching out to us.

Across the country our Corps bring people together and create community and connections through mission work, welcoming spaces, community meals and social activities. Our social services, including emergency relief, specialist family and domestic violence and homelessness services, work together flexibly to meet people where they are.

What do you recommend policymakers do to address social isolation and loneliness?

Social isolation and loneliness are complex issues. Each individual experience will be unique, just as each individual’s social connection needs will be unique. We continue to see significant stigma, shame and misunderstanding within the community. This has an impact on people who experience loneliness, their wellbeing and willingness to ask for help.

Governments must take the lead in a coordinated response to loneliness, bringing together government departments, social services, community groups and individuals. By working together, we can expand opportunities for social and community engagement, address the systemic, structural and individual issues which contribute to loneliness and create a culture that values connection.

Opportunities for Children and Young People

Why are opportunities for children and young people so important?

The early years of life are foundational in shaping children’s future health, wellbeing and development outcomes. These critical years are the starting point for children and young people to understand, explore and navigate the world, and their place in it.

We know that children who do not get the best start in life, whether it be due to poverty, trauma or other adverse childhood experiences, are more likely to experience disadvantage in later years. These challenges disrupt brain development and impact a child’s belief about themselves and the world, causing lifelong impacts.

Ensuring children and young people can access supports that are flexible and responsive to their needs, and preventing or intervening in adverse experiences early, can prevent intergenerational disadvantage and future encounters with systems and institutions. By providing opportunities to speak up and be heard, we can help children and young people to build skills and reach their full potential.

How does The Salvation Army advocate for youth development and empowerment?

The Salvation Army recognises that all children and young people must be afforded the opportunity of a full life. To thrive, forge strong connections and to experience a sense of stability and belonging.

We advocate for children and young people to be engaged and supported as individuals, through systems that recognise their needs and do no further harm. We support the expansion of integrated and holistic services which promote participation and are well-equipped to respond to the intersectional needs of children and young people. The Salvation Army highlights the need to promote choice and autonomy as a fundamental element to improve outcomes for children and young people. We identify the need to prioritise consistency and quality relationship building to ensure they feel heard and genuinely cared for, and to break down barriers and stigma to seeking support.

How can policy makers provide more empowering opportunities for young people?

Children and young people are often ‘seen and not heard.’ We recognise the need for systems to promote meaningful participation of children and young people in discussions and decision-making processes which impact them.

Policy makers must actively prioritise the lived expertise of children to ensure that policies, systems and support services which are geared for children, are fit-for-purpose. The Social Justice Stocktake recognises that legislative and administrative processes at every level must uphold the rights of children and young people and must consider their unique needs and experiences. Greater investment is needed across the frontline sector, including in schools, healthcare and community-based services to ensure that children and families experiencing disadvantage can access support when and how they need it. This support must be flexible, trauma-informed and tailored according to age and development.

Older Australians Discrimination and Disadvantage

What are some of the concerns you see in elderly clients approaching The Salvation Army for help?

There are a wide range of concerns among older Australians approaching The Salvation Army for help. Much of this comes from financial hardship, and housing insecurity, but also social isolation and loneliness.

One of the fastest growing groups of people experiencing homelessness is women over 55. So much of our pension system is predicated upon recipients already owning their own home that where this is not the case people can experience housing insecurity and financial stress.

We also see concern around incidences of elder abuse towards older Australians, including financial abuse. Our financial counselling services work to instill financial confidence and empowerment in community members, including older Australians to prevent instances of financial abuse.

There are a wide range of concerns among older Australians approaching The Salvation Army for help. Much of this comes from financial hardship, and housing insecurity, but also social isolation and loneliness.

What are the main issues around discrimination against older Australians that contribute to social injustice?

Ageism can be a real barrier to opportunities for social and economic engagement, including workforce participation of older Australians, for example those over 55 years but in pre-retirement who are interested in entering or re-entering the workforce.

Older Australians can face assumptions about their level of ability, vitality and competence in many areas including their digital literacy, which can impede the realisation and full enjoyment of the rights of older people.

Older Australians have a lot to contribute. Too often preconceived misconceptions lead to discrimination and isolation from opportunities which impedes their participation and employment.

What would you recommend policy makers to do to support the elderly in our country?

All levels of government must work collaboratively with older Australians and the community sector to develop a national policy to promote healthy aging. This will go to opportunities for older Australians to age within their community, remaining active and connected to services. These must be informed by the evidence and the lived experience of older Australians to maximise their efficacy.

We would like to see dedicated policy development of policies and programs at all levels for opportunities for older Australians to age within their community, remaining active and connected to services.

Racism and Discrimination

What impact does discrimination have on mental health and wellbeing?

The impacts of racism and discrimination goes far beyond what we see and hear.

Racism and discrimination take a heavy toll on mental health, resulting in feelings of isolation, anxiety and depression. The emotional stress of facing prejudice undermines wellbeing and can prevent individuals from seeking support. The Social Justice Stocktake underscores how discrimination exacerbates mental health struggles for many Australians, making it harder for them to access opportunities and support.

What can members of the community do to make all people feel welcome and included (to help address the hardship that comes from racism and discrimination)?

Stand up, speak up and show support.

Communities can make a real difference by promoting respect and inclusion. Speaking out against prejudice, supporting those affected by discrimination, and fostering understanding across cultural differences can create a welcoming environment for all. The Social Justice Stocktake calls for collective action to build an Australia where diversity is celebrated, not feared.

What do you recommend policymakers do to address racism and discrimination in our communities?

Policymakers must take stronger action to combat racism and discrimination. This means enforcing anti-discrimination laws, funding education initiatives, and ensuring equal opportunities across all sectors. The Social Justice Stocktake highlights the need for policies that challenge prejudice and foster inclusive communities.

Gambling Harm

What do you believe is the biggest misconception about gambling and gambling harm?

Gambling harm is a health issue which has wide ranging impacts on individuals and their families, harming their financial wellbeing, and their mental and even physical health, and relationships.

Some people think that gambling that leads to harm is a personal weakness but this is not accurate. It must be addressed as a health issue due to the highly addictive nature of many forms of gambling, and the prevalence of gambling advertising requires significant governmental reform.

Gambling harm is a health issue with wide ranging impacts upon individuals and their families, harming their financial wellbeing, mental and physical health, and relationships.

How does gambling impact on other concerns listed in the Stocktake such as homelessness, family violence, poverty and financial hardship and mental health?

Financial harm from gambling can lead to broader financial hardship and this can push people into housing insecurity. Stress from gambling harm can negatively impact the mental health of community members. Family and Domestic Violence can also be associated with gambling harm, as well as financial abuse.

Gambling harm can impact on a community member’s financial and mental wellbeing, as well as that of those closest to them.

How does The Salvation Army support those who present with issues of gambling harm?

The Salvation Army’s service offerings work collaboratively to address the presenting and underlying concerns of community members experiencing gambling harm.

The Salvation Army supports people experiencing gambling harm with holistic support. Our services are integrated, allowing us to wrap support around community members in need, meeting their immediate needs such as housing and access to food relief, and referral to internal and external services to provide support and treatment for gambling harm.

We can provide specialised financial counselling to assist community members to manage debts which have accrued as a result of gambling harm; as well as general financial counselling to assist other financial impacts.

The Salvation Army supports people experiencing gambling harm with holistic support. Our integrated services allow us to wrap around community members in need, meeting their immediate needs such as housing and access to food relief, and provide internal and referral to external services to provide support and treatment for gambling harm.

What would The Salvation Army recommend policy makers do to minimise gambling harm?

The Salvation Army advocates for a harm minimisation approach to gambling harm. This includes consumer protections such as preventing online gambling advertisement, reducing the availability of electronic gaming machines (‘pokies’), and increasing the obligation of gambling venues to identify problem gambling behaviour which could lead to harm.

The Salvation Army supports the Final Report of the House of Representatives Committee on Social Policy and Legal Affairs inquiry into Online Gambling and its Impacts on those experiencing Gambling Harm, also known as the Murphy Report.

The Salvation Army advocates for a harm minimisation approach to gambling harm. It is incumbent upon governments to take steps to minimise the harm gambling can have upon community members.

Disability Discrimination and Disadvantage

What barriers prevent individuals with disabilities from accessing equal opportunities?

People living with disabilities experience considerable discrimination and exclusion in our society. Just some of the systemic barriers that we have seen that result in the exclusion of this cohort include costs associated with accessing supports such as the NDIS (including assessments, medical appointments, and travel expenses), a lack of services available for those not eligible for the NDIS, and having to navigate complex systems such as healthcare and early intervention supports. These barriers can be exacerbated by long waitlists for services such as healthcare, or a complete lack of appropriate local services in local communities.

Our whole society benefits when people with disabilities fully participate and are empowered to achieve their full potential.

How does The Salvation Army support those experiencing disability discrimination and hardship?

The Salvation Army is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment in all our services and programs. The Salvation Army does not provide specialist disability services but works to ensure that people living with a disability and their families have equal access to all the community services we provide.

The Salvation Army is committed to providing programs that value and are fully inclusive of people of all abilities.

What do you recommend policymakers do to address disability discrimination and disadvantage in our communities?

We believe that to address disability discrimination and disadvantage within our communities, policymakers must work to ensure that people living with a disability have access to the support they need. This involves ensuring that the NDIS is adequately funded and fit for purpose, and that mainstream services such as housing, health and education are inclusive and accessible. People with a disability should be at the centre of all processes that relate to them and support and solutions must be disability-led and co-designed.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Discrimination and Disadvantage

How big is the disparity experienced between indigenous Australians and non-indigenous Australians?

Indigenous Australians are overrepresented in almost every service The Salvation Army provides.

The gap is still too wide. Indigenous Australians face shorter life expectancies, higher rates of chronic health issues, and limited access to essential services compared to non-Indigenous Australians. These disparities affect every aspect of life, underscoring the urgency of culturally respectful and community-led solutions to ensure a fair future for all.

Do you have any examples of where community led initiatives have led to better outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples?

The Salvation Army has garnered great success in its partnership with Red Dust, a community organisation, implementing intergenerational Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) program for men in Alice Springs. This collaborative initiative aims to enhance engagement, participation, and outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the region.

Red Dust’s strong connections with Elders, youth, and Indigenous groups in Central Australia were key to the success of its partnership with The Salvation Army. Red Dust’s local Indigenous staff led culturally informed AOD and health programs, facilitating 200 yarning circles and delivering outreach activities. Their cultural leadership ensured effective delivery and community trust. The Salvation Army supported with resources, infrastructure, and governance, while Red Dust’s cultural knowledge drove the program’s success, exceeding goals within just six months.

What does the Salvation Army do to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples?

The Salvation Army provides a range of services that include safe housing, victim- survivor support, AOD programs and employment services designed to empower and amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Our focus is on delivering community-led initiatives that place cultural practices at the centre and incorporate the voices of lived experience into our programs and services. Through advocacy and action, we aim to bridge the gap and support these communities in creating a future where they can thrive.

Gender Inequality and Inequity

How do you see gender inequality manifested in people seeking assistance from The Salvation Army?

Women are over-represented in almost all services The Salvation Army provides, but we see gender inequality most starkly in our family and domestic violence services. While any person can experience family and domestic violence, the fact remains that men are overwhelmingly perpetrating violence against women and children. Gender inequality and harmful stereotypes around gender roles are at the heart of the high incidence of family and domestic violence.

One of the main reasons women stay in violent relationships is that they are forced to choose between poverty and safety. Financial stress and economic insecurity can also exacerbate the violence and abuse that a woman is experiencing.

How do you see gender inequality impacting women over their lifetime? (Another question).

Failure to encourage gender equity has contributed to significant short- and long-term disadvantages for women, including increased risk of experiencing family and domestic violence, decreased ability to participate in the workforce, and increased risk of homelessness. Pay disparity begins at the start of women’s careers and is exacerbated by low pay rates of female-dominated occupations.

Women are also more likely to take time out of the workforce, or work reduced hours, to care for children, elderly relatives, and family members with a disability. These factors leave women with far less financial security in terms of assets, savings, and superannuation into retirement, and have led to outcomes such as the superannuation gap, and women becoming the fastest growing homelessness cohort in Australia.

How can policymakers create fairer opportunities across genders?

The economic empowerment of women is critical to ensuring fairer opportunities across genders_._ We need to ensure that the work of women is valued, and they have equal opportunities to participate in the workforce. Policy makers can work to do this by increasing women’s retirement savings, ensuring women are equipped to plan for the future, reducing the gender pay gap, equalising gender imbalances in unpaid work and increasing the rate of income support payments to ensure women can live with dignity.

LGBTQIA+ Community Discrimination and Disadvantage

How does discrimination affect LGBTQIA+ communities?

Because of stigma and discrimination, members of the LGBTQIA+ community can find themselves more vulnerable to disadvantage and can find it harder to seek and find appropriate help. It is important to note that there is nothing about being LGBTQIA+ that makes a person any more vulnerable to disadvantage, the issue lies entirely in how society discriminates, stigmatises and excludes members of this community.

Everyone is welcome in our services, and we are committed to providing services that are safe and inclusive spaces for members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

What can someone from the LGBTIQA+ community expect if they contact The Salvation Army for support?

The Salvation Army’s goal is to provide compassionate, professional support that is focused on meeting the needs of everyone who comes to us – irrespective of sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or intersex status.

What do policymakers need to do to address hardship experienced by the LGBTIQA+ community?

The best way to ensure services are responding to the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community is to cement the voices of lived experience in any policy or systemic response. Wherever able, services and support for the LGBTQIA+ community should be developed in consultation with, and led by, community leaders and organisations. This should be coupled with system-wide training on LGBTQIA+ inclusion and best-practice approaches.

Treatment of Refugees and Asylum Seekers

What are the main barriers to social inclusion for refugees?

Many Australians are not aware of just how much disadvantage is experienced by refugees and people seeking asylum after they arrive in Australia. Language, trauma and experiences of hardship can act as barriers to people who are seeking protection being socially included and visible within local communities.

The Social Justice Stocktake recognises that all Australians have a role to play in fostering inclusive environments and communities. We can do this by learning about the experiences of, and staying informed about, the challenges of people seeking protection, countering myths, confronting stigma and welcoming individuals and families.

Communities which welcome multiculturalism and diversity are essential in promoting social inclusion for refugees and asylum seekers.

What can The Salvation Army offer someone seeking asylum?

The Salvation Army can provide support and referrals to refugees and people seeking asylum, primarily through our community-based Doorways and Emergency Relief Programs, with some more specialised services in different parts of Australia.

We treat refugees and asylum seekers from all walks of life with compassion, empathy and support them to live a life of dignity.

What should policy makers do to address the injustice experienced by refugees and asylum seekers?

Australia must ensure our legislative and administrative processes are rights-respecting. Systemic reforms must be equitable, non-criminalising and prioritise dignity for all people who seek protection.

Complicated migration processes, llengthy delays and systems which lack transparency exacerbate experiences of psychological distress and significantly impact the wellbeing of people who seek protection in Australia. On top of this and through no fault of their own, many refugees and asylum seekers have limited access to the types of support that is available for citizens and permanent residents. These experiences compound experiences of trauma and disadvantage and increase vulnerability to exploitation.

Policy makers should reform existing policies to promote fair, just and humane treatment of refugees and asylum seekers. Increased support is needed to expand and better resource programs which provide direct humanitarian assistance and resettlement support. Policy makers can increase opportunities and reduce barriers to access safety and security in Australia.

Modern Slavery

What is the reality of modern slavery and what does it encompass?

Slavery and slavery-like practices are more common in Australia than most people would imagine. We can play a part in these cycles of exploitation through the goods and services we purchase.

Modern slavery is an umbrella term which refers to relationships based on serious exploitation and coercion. Slavery is more common in industries like agriculture, construction, hospitality and sex work, and can include, forced labour or marriage, human trafficking and child labour.

It is often hard to detect, prevent and respond to when supply chains are complex, and enforcement mechanisms are inadequate. The impacts of modern slavery are profound and cause severe physical and psychological harm. Modern slavery undermines people’s fundamental human rights and perpetuates cycles of disadvantage.

Modern slavery is a brutal reality for around 41,000 people in Australia.

How does The Salvation Army combat modern slavery?

The Salvation Army engages at every level in the fight against modern slavery

What can policymakers do to address modern slavery?

The Social Justice Stocktake calls for specialised protections, accessible and trauma-informed support systems, and effective enforcement mechanisms as critical to supporting those at risk of, or who have experienced modern slavery. Policy makers can work to do this by committing to adequately funding frontline services which provide invaluable support to victim-survivors. Investment should include a focus on prevention and early intervention efforts, and ensuring trauma-informed training is provided to law enforcement, public officials, community leaders and community members to better identify and respond to modern slavery.

Wherever able, support must be made available in-language, without victim-survivors having to navigate multiple complex systems, and with the option of engaging in support avenues outside of the criminal justice system.

We need to cement the voices of lived experience in any decisions surrounding systemic and policy reform, and legislative responses.

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