PeakCare Queensland’s Post

Register Now - Families Australia Changing the Balance sector consultations It's not too late to register for Brisbane/Queensland based 'Changing the Balance' sector consultations being held on Wednesday 3 April. Click below to register. JUST ANNOUNCED - WA Changing the Balance consultation dates! Families Australia will be in WA on Tuesday 16 and Wednesday 17 April for WA based 'Changing the Balance' sector consultations - online and in person events. Click below to register. Dates, times, registration details and further information can be accessed by clicking the banner below. Consultations will contribute to the development of The National Child and Family Investment Strategy and seek to explore opportunities and better understand the impacts on non-Indigenous NGOs as sector funding profiles change, and greater proportionate investments in ACCOs for child and family support services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, are made.

  CLOSING SOON - Families Australia’s Changing the Balance Survey   Families Australia is currently leading an important research and sector consultation project called Changing the Balance. Changing the Balance seeks to better understand the potential changes and impacts on non-Indigenous NGOs as sector funding profiles change to accommodate a shift in proportionate investment for child and family support services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, towards Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs).   The project primarily relates to non-Indigenous NGOs receiving Commonwealth Department of Social Services (DSS) funding for child and family services.   An online survey has been open across April to capture the views and perspective of as many organisations from across the country as possible.   We want to hear from services about the potential impacts on the non-Indigenous NGO sector including: * organisational and / or operational challenges that may be encountered as funding profiles change * information, resources, and initiatives to assist the sector to prepare for, and work through the transition and * suggestions to ensure service continuity to families, children and young people during a time of change and beyond.   This survey seeks to capture the perspective of managers, senior managers and executive staff (including board members) of non-Indigenous non-government organisations (NGOs) who are receiving Commonwealth Department of Social Services (DSS) funding for child and family services. The survey will take no more than 20 minutes to complete. The survey closes Friday 3 May 2024. To submit a response click the banner below or cut and paste the following link into your browser: https://lnkd.in/gHgDVmJc I encourage organisations receiving Commonwealth Department of Social Services (DSS) funding for child and family services to make a submission and contribute your views. Jamie Crosby CEO Further information available at: https://lnkd.in/gZ3Z7kDP

Sector leaders will recently have been invited by PeakCare Queensland and Families Australia to participate in sector consultations to inform a new research project, Changing the Balance, exploring potential impacts on mainstream non-government organisations when future proportionate investment in child and family services shifts to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs). Supplementing these sector consultations, the Changing the Balance survey is now live for organisations receiving Commonwealth Department of Social Services (DSS) funding for child and family services. The survey asks how to best support a smooth investment transition across the sector, including: - the primary organisational and operational challenges faced by non-Indigenous NGOs from the transfer of funding allocations to ACCOs - potential issues concerning future funding sustainability for mainstream NGOs in the child and family services sector - suggestions and recommendations to address the potential risks to be faced by the sector, such as potential changes/disruptions to workforce, service delivery and/or organisational financial viability - ensuring service continuity to families, children and young people during periods of transition and change Take the survey at https://lnkd.in/gCzmpSYg before Friday, 3 May To find out more about Changing the Balance, visit https://lnkd.in/gtAYSfuJ . . . . . #changingthebalance #investment #strategy #queensland #government #policy #ACCOs #childprotection #justice #FirstNations #rights #sectorsurvey #consultation

#Utilizing Public Funds for Youth and Women Empowerment: A Call to Action for Governors Executive Summary: As governors receive the N570 billion funds, they must prioritize the welfare and empowerment of their citizens, particularly youths and women. This position paper emphasizes the importance of accountability, transparency, and responsible governance in the use of public funds. We urge governors to emulate the Ebonyi state government's empowerment program and invest in small scale businesses, education, and job creation. Introduction: The N570 billion funds present an opportunity for governors to make a meaningful impact on the lives of their citizens. However, this also comes with a great responsibility to ensure that the funds are used wisely and for the intended purposes. Argument: The Ebonyi state government's empowerment program is a shining example of how public funds can be used to benefit the people. By giving N1 million to each of 13,000 people to start small scale businesses, the government has demonstrated its commitment to economic development and poverty reduction. We believe that other governors should follow suit and prioritize the empowerment of youths and women in their respective states. Recommendations: 1. Governors should prioritize the employment of youths and women in their respective states. 2. Governors should invest in small scale businesses and education to promote economic development. 3. Governors should ensure transparency and accountability in the use of public funds. 4. Governors should emulate the Ebonyi state government's empowerment program and adapt it to their state's specific needs. Conclusion: The N570 billion funds are a trust that governors must not betray. We urge them to use these funds to make a positive impact on the lives of their citizens and to prioritize the empowerment of youths and women. By doing so, they will be contributing to the economic development and poverty reduction in their respective states.

The International Monetary Fund working paper - 𝙀𝙭𝙥𝙡𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙍𝙤𝙡𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙋𝙪𝙗𝙡𝙞𝙘 𝙀𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙞𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝘼𝙙𝙫𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙁𝙚𝙢𝙖𝙡𝙚 𝙀𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙤𝙢𝙞𝙘 𝙀𝙢𝙥𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙂𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙀𝙦𝙪𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙮 - lists #FamilyPlanning among the most cost-effective development interventions. “#Kenya, #Nigeria, and #Senegal could each increase per capita income up to 13% by meeting one-third of the unmet need for #FamilyPlanning in 2030”. “In 69 countries tracked, 48% of #FamilyPlanning funding came from international donors, with 35% from domestic governments and 17% through out-of-pocket spending”.  https://lnkd.in/ekvfUjm7

Jordan Launches the Shamil Project supported by the UK to Strengthen Social Protection in the Country Under the sponsorship of His Royal Highness Prince El Hassan bin Talal the Shamil project “Moving Forward with a Shared Agenda for Social Protection” was launched on Wednesday, 6 March 2024. Funded by the UK’s Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), Shamil is a consortium led by UK consultancy firm Development Pathways in collaboration with national partners Arab Renaissance for Democracy and Development (ARDD) and MMIS Management Consultants, which aims to advance efforts towards building an inclusive and sustainable social protection system in Jordan. The Shamil Technical Assistance project is a core component of the UK’s five-year, Strengthening Societal and Economic Resilience in Jordan (SSERJ) program. Underlining the significance of the Shamil project, former minister and representative of Prince El Hassan bin Talal, Dr Hala Lattouf, delivered a keynote speech. This emphasized the crucial role social protection plays in enhancing Jordan’s development and strengthening trust between citizens and the government. She also called for a flexible and comprehensive approach to social protection systems, and close cooperation between different parties. Lattouf added that building trust, reducing discrimination between women and men, and ensuring a more equitable society is the ultimate goal for Jordan. She pointed out that the multidimensional poverty index allows us to improve and develop our approach and that we need to focus on building a strong social system that targets different segments of society. Shedding light on the UK government’s support for social protection in Jordan, the British Ambassador H.E. Philip Hall said “The UK prioritizes social protection because it is one of the most effective tools for reducing poverty, promoting social stability and increasing standards of living. It can be a powerful driver for economic growth by enhancing productivity, and it can promote social stability and resilience by mitigating the effects of shocks and economic reforms. Through the Shamil project, we want to help Jordan achieve its objectives for its social protection system by ensuring the availability of national and international expert advice.” For more: https://lnkd.in/eyWvtd93 #InclusiveSocialProtection

Why it is necessary to have development actors in a community ? In today's rapidly changing world, the presence of development actors in our communities is more crucial than ever. But why is this the case? Let’s explore some key reasons. 1️⃣ Empowerment and Capacity Building : Development actors bring knowledge, skills, and resources that empower local individuals and groups. For example, initiatives led by development professionals in rural areas often result in educational programs that equip community members with vital skills, enhancing their ability to create sustainable livelihoods. 2️⃣ Sustainable Solutions to Local Problems : Development actors work closely with communities to identify their unique challenges and devise tailored solutions. Consider the impact of a local NGO providing clean water solutions in a village lacking basic sanitation. This not only improves health outcomes but also fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility among community members. 3️⃣ Economic Growth and Opportunity : Through microfinance programs, vocational training, and small business support, development actors can stimulate local economies. A successful example is the introduction of micro-loans to small-scale farmers, enabling them to purchase better seeds and equipment, leading to increased agricultural productivity and income. 4️⃣ Social Cohesion and Inclusivity : Development actors often focus on marginalized groups, ensuring that all community members, regardless of gender, age, or socio-economic status, have a voice and opportunities. Programs aimed at empowering women and youth have shown remarkable results in creating more inclusive and harmonious communities. 5️⃣ Advocacy and Policy Influence : Local development actors can serve as powerful advocates for community needs, influencing policy changes at regional and national levels. For instance, grassroots organizations have successfully lobbied for improved infrastructure, education, and healthcare services, benefiting entire communities. By fostering empowerment, creating sustainable solutions, stimulating economic growth, promoting inclusivity, and advocating for community needs, development actors play an indispensable role in the prosperity and well-being of our communities. This is why since August 2020, the YDA's organization based in Haiti has been striving to train and create development actors. 🌟 Young Development Actors 🌟 #CommunityDevelopment #Empowerment #Sustainability #EconomicGrowth #Inclusivity #Advocacy #YDAs

Families Australia are holding a series of sector consultation sessions across Australia as part of a research project, "Changing the Balance," which they have been engaged by Department of Social Services (DSS) to undertake on behalf of the National Coalition under the "Supporting a National Child and Family Investment Strategy". The aim of the consultations is to "explore how non-Indigenous NGOs can best work collaboratively with First Nations organisations in supporting the growth and capacity of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) sector and better understand the potential changes and impacts on non-Indigenous NGOs as sector funding profiles change to accommodate a shift in proportionate investment for child and family support services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples towards ACCOs." Find out more: https://lnkd.in/gtAYSfuJ 𝐈𝐧 𝐐𝐮𝐞𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝, 𝐭𝐰𝐨 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐛𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐝 𝐨𝐧 Wednesday 3 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥: Brisbane metro in-person, Victoria Park, 10.00am-12.30pm (includes morning tea) – Victoria Park, Herston Road Herston, QLD. Info and registrations: https://lnkd.in/gTkV7sGs Regional Queensland online, 2.30pm-4.00pm. Info and registrations:  https://lnkd.in/g68hcPnC

🌍💼 Key Takeaways: Strengthening Social Protection for Inclusive Development 💼🌍 JUST SOCIETY, University of Southern Denmark together with RAISE - Research & Action for Income Security, convened representatives from the Danish civil society, the academic community, and political parties for a half-day seminar. The goal was to discuss how Danish development aid can better support the expansion of welfare programs in the Global South. Reflecting on insightful presentations and vibrant discussions, here are the key takeaways: 🔍 Focus on System Strengthening: Danish development aid should prioritize supporting the development of inclusive national social protection systems. This entails investing in universal tax-financed programs and expanding social insurance to ensure comprehensive coverage. 🌐 Global Standards: Base support on the ILO Social Protection Floors Recommendation, aligning efforts with the main global standard on social protection to ensure coherence and effectiveness. 🤝 Human Rights Approach: Advocate for human rights-based social protection programs to ensure dignity, equity, and justice for all individuals, especially the marginalized. Why Social Protection Matters: 📉 Poverty Reduction: Social protection holds immense potential for poverty alleviation and reducing inequality, thereby fostering sustainable development. 🤝 Social Contract Strengthening: Strengthening social protection mechanisms contributes to reinforcing the social contract between governments and citizens, promoting trust and stability. ☮️ Peace and Stability: Accessible social protection for broad segments of the population plays a crucial role in fostering peace and stability within societies. Strategies for Action: 🤝 Bilateral Aid: Provide long-term bilateral aid to governments to bolster universal social protection systems, laying the foundation for sustainable and inclusive development. 📢 Advocacy and Monitoring: Support civil society organizations in global and national advocacy efforts for the expansion of social protection and the monitoring of existing programs. 🌍 Global Fund for Social Protection: Advocate for the establishment of a Global Fund for Social Protection, with a focus on encouraging the EU to take a leading role in its creation. 🌐 Influence Policy: Utilize Danish influence on platforms like the World Bank and EU to advocate for policies that prioritize social protection, leveraging positions such as the Nordic-Baltic constituency's seat on the World Bank's Board of Directors. 🔍 Research Support: Invest in research, particularly focusing on often overlooked outcomes such as political impacts and the effects on state-society relations, to inform evidence-based policymaking and program implementation. Together, let's commit to advancing social protection as a cornerstone of inclusive development, fostering resilience, equity, and opportunity for all. hashtag #SocialProtection

#Transforming Lives Through #Social #Protection: The Remarkable Journey of #BISP When many focus on challenges, few recognize the incredible opportunities and achievements. Just as some see a glass half-empty, others see it as half-full—and Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) exemplifies this perspective in action. As South Asia's largest social safety net, BISP has been a beacon of hope, currently serving 9.3 million beneficiaries, with plans to reach 10 million in the near future. Its impact spans the entire country, ensuring that no corner of Pakistan is left behind. What sets BISP apart isn't just its scale, but its efficiency and dedication to uplifting the most vulnerable. Despite its expansive reach, BISP operates on a minimal operational budget, channeling resources where they are needed most—directly into increasing stipends for beneficiaries. This unwavering commitment ensures that families have the support they need to face economic challenges and build a better future. BISP’s success has made it a model for social protection programs worldwide. Representatives from other countries frequently visit Pakistan to learn from BISP’s innovative practices and operational excellence. It is inspiring to see how this program not only delivers results but also fosters international collaboration in the fight against poverty and inequality. As someone who has witnessed BISP’s transformative work firsthand, I am proud to share this story of resilience, innovation, and dedication. Programs like BISP remind us that social protection is not just a necessity—it’s a pathway to a more equitable and inclusive society. Let’s celebrate the efforts of BISP and the millions of lives it continues to transform. Together, we can inspire more such initiatives around the world. #SocialProtection #BISP #PovertyAlleviation #ImpactfulChange #Inclusion Muhammad Noman A. I Asiya Mughal I Muqtida Bin Syed Gillani I Zahid Jamal I Muhammad Arif