Volume 4 No 2. Spring 2008 Good Newsletter of the good shepherd youth and familyPolicy service Social Policy Research Unit

ABN 61 354 551 576 ISSN: 1833-1130

Social Justice Beyond our Borders In this issue

A recent gathering in Malaysia of contribution to state and national public policy Social Justice Good Shepherd people, those who debates. Beyond our Borders 1 work for or identify closely with In particular we might mention the already Addressing Transport Good Shepherd organisations and strong determination of this Agency to work Disadvantage and for change at the points where poverty, Social Exclusion works, made a strong commitment in Victoria 2 violence against women and lack of access to to organising for social justice affordable credit and financial services intersect Young and Homeless 5 across the Asia-Pacific region. both here in Australia and throughout Asia. Knowing from experience that poverty impacts Partnerships >> Delegates from 18 countries recognised the Volunteering and potential impact for change that such a diverse, most deeply and painfully upon women and Inclusion at Good international group sharing the same mission, children, Good Shepherd has an international Shepherd St Kilda 6 spirit, tradition and values might have on major network tracking and combating trafficking of Partnerships issues such as human rights, poverty and women as well as an international network of microcredit, microsavings and microenterprise for Inclusion >> the impact of climate change on the region, Promoting the especially upon its poor. projects focussed on women in poverty. Wellbeing of Women 8 These concerns and projects are mirrored Good Shepherd is not so pretentious as to here in Australia. A more sophisticated system NEWS >> 11 believe that it has the resources, influence or of communication, exchange and resource Respite Care Project 11 power, even internationally, to effect major sharing can only enhance the effectiveness change in such areas as human rights, climate of the continuing battle against poverty and Standpoint Project 11 change and global poverty. Nevertheless, as violence towards women here and in the Asia- Women and Financial readers of Good Policy would have perceived, Pacific region. Capability Project 11 we make our own the attitude of Mahatma Gandhi that each contribution to social change, The Prime Minister has pledged to make ‘Which Way Home? no matter how small, is indispensable to the Australia “the most Asia-literate country in the A New Approach to Homelessness’ 11 impact of the whole and that the greatest English speaking world” (interview 12th August tragedy is the belief that our contribution 2008). We endorse this strong affiliation with Submissions 12 cannot make a difference. Asia and its concerns. We also pledge Good Youth Services Project 12 Shepherd resources to not just be conscious Over the next five years, the more clearly of the issues affecting the Asia-Pacific region, ‘Spirit in the Pub’: focussed organising of Asia-Pacific Good but in so far as we can, to work tirelessly with Youth and Transport Shepherd resources to address the growing our Asian Good Shepherd partners for social in the West 12 needs of the region will draw Good Shepherd justice beyond our borders. Youth and Family Service more deeply into contributing to issues identified as important Michael Yore to the region, as well as continuing our EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

‘We are Good Shepherd. Our mission is shaped by our inheritance of the vision, courage and audacity of Saint Mary Euphrasia Pelletier and the Good Shepherd tradition she began. Ours is a vision for promoting a world of justice and peaceful co-existence. Ours is the courage to embrace wholeheartedly innovative and creative ways of enabling people of all cultural, religious and social backgrounds to enjoy the fullness of life, which is the right of every human being. Ours is the inheritance to boldly challenge those structures and beliefs that diminish human dignity. We work to ensure the value of every human being, the communities that enable us all to thrive and the integrity of the environment that guarantees both.’ 02 | Good Policy

Addressing Transport Disadvantage and Social Exclusion in Victoria

Jess Fritze Transport and Disadvantage Policy Officer, Victorian Council of Social Service (VCOSS)

Transport disadvantage – Addressing disadvantage and infrastructure. By contrast, communities what’s the problem? promoting social inclusion on the urban fringe of Melbourne and major regional centres such as Geelong, Social exclusion has three major Ballarat and Bendigo struggle with a “If you can’t afford transport, dimensions: social disengagement; lack of social and transport infrastructure you can’t do anything can ya.” service exclusion; and economic as well as relatively long distances from Sam, Coburg – participant in VCOSS’ exclusion.4 The availability of affordable services and retail outlets. Rural and Social Mapping Project1 and accessible transport plays a critical regional communities have even less role in addressing all three by linking access to public and active transport people to employment, social networks, People who experience transport alternatives and often have to travel education, health and other services. disadvantage cannot get to where long distances to access increasingly they need to go or cannot do Victoria’s transport system should aim centralised services in regional centres so easily, safely or affordably. to provide equity of opportunity to all or Melbourne. The small population Increasingly, people need to travel Victorians – the opportunity to meet base and low population density of rural further and more often to meet basic their basic needs, access services and communities also creates challenges needs and participate in community participate in employment, education for transport provision – whether public life. Where people are ‘transport and community life. Equity of opportunity transport, community transport or disadvantaged’, they are at risk of relies on transport policy which provides country taxis. social exclusion and by extension, both horizontal and vertical equity. As affordable housing options are poverty. The relationship between Horizontal equity supports an equal increasingly only available in outer ‘transport disadvantage’ and social distribution of transport resources and suburban, regional and rural areas, more exclusion was established by the UK costs across the whole community. people who are likely to experience Social Exclusion Unit in their 2003 Vertical equity ensures that the transport 2 transport disadvantage are located in report Making the Connections . needs of community members who these areas. This has resulted in areas at are disadvantaged in terms of income, An individual or community’s level of high risk of entrenched social exclusion. transport disadvantage is affected by: socio-economic status or mobility are met.5 A growing and aging population » availability of transport options – Victoria’s population access to a car or public transport Figure 1: Equity in transport services which connect to desired is predicted to grow destinations; substantially with much of » affordability – cost of car ownership, Equity of opportunity this growth occurring in petrol or public transport fares relative transport disadvantaged 6 to income; outer metropolitan areas. Victoria’s population » personal mobility – people with is also aging, and a disabilities, the elderly, people with Horizontal equity e.g. minimum public Vertical equity disproportionate number health issues and young children may e.g. transport concessions transport service standards of older people live in require assistance or be unable to areas with poor transport use transport options available due to access such as rural and physical or cognitive constraints; and 7 Locational disadvantage: outer suburban areas. » useability – ability to safely travel, transport, land use perceptions of risk and quality of This has significant implications for and service planning demands for transport alternatives information available on transport The post-war development of car options. to the private car as a significant based transport and land use planning proportion of older people are largely Nine per cent of Victorian households have created an unequal distribution dependent on door-to-door transport have no motor vehicle and within single of transport infrastructure and services for their independent mobility. As rates vehicle households, access to a car may across Victoria. of disability, as well as frailty, increase 3 be limited. People who are transport Inner-city Melbourne has high quality and with an aging population, accessible, disadvantaged tend to rely on public relatively frequent public transport, as supported and flexible transport options transport, taxis and lifts to get around. well as growing cycling and pedestrian will need to become a more integral part of the transport system. Good Policy | 03

Addressing Transport Disadvantage and Social Exclusion in Victoria

What are the solutions? maximum useability, including effective young people are also more likely In consultation with members and and easily accessible transport to use public transport to access stakeholders, VCOSS has developed information. An accessible transport essential services such as Centrelink the following principles for Victoria’s system meets needs not just of people and medical appointments, and to transport system. with disabilities, older people and shop for food. carers with young children but is also Victoria’s transport system should – supporting people experiencing severe easier and safer to use for the whole financial hardship to access public 1. Provide ‘equity of opportunity’ community. transport without the risk of accruing by facilitating timely access some people require door-to-door fines assists them to remain engaged to employment, services and or assisted transport due to physical with education, support services and participation in community life for all or cognitive impairment. This group social networks. Victorians is largely ignored in transport policy People dependent on door-to- transport plays an important role in and funding in Victoria. The Victorian door transport to get around face supporting economic participation. Government should investigate the significantly higher transport costs. Access to high quality public transport most effective ways to meet the This is due to the relatively high cost is critical to participation in training transport needs of this group through of taxi travel, lack of viable alternatives and employment, especially for those a mixture of affordable transport such as adequately funded community entering the workforce and those in options including public transport, transport and the inadequacy of marginal and low paid roles. A lack of demand responsive services, government concessions such as the transport options can contribute to a community transport and taxis and Multi Purpose Taxi Program (MPTP). cycle of economic exclusion.8 mobility support services. People living on low incomes who however, travel to work makes up only 3. Be acknowledged as an essential are reliant on door-to-door transport a small percentage of total transport service which is affordable for the and people who live in areas without needs. People need to get to local whole community and available accessible public transport should medical services, shopping, childcare, without penalty to those in financial have access to affordable transport education and social activities. hardship who do not have the options. Better public transport options are capacity to pay needed between residential areas 4. Contribute to inclusive and safe Public transport is an essential service and local activity centres as well as to urban environments for people who do not have access employment hubs such as the CBD Inclusive and accessible urban to a car. Recent measures to increase and industrial areas. environments provide footpaths, the affordability of public transport resting points, shelters and adequate Better coordination of land use and in Victoria such as the removal of separation between pedestrians and service planning is also required to Zone 3, reductions in VLine fares traffic.10 Environments which are ensure that higher density residential and discounted off-peak travel have safe and inclusive for children, people areas and activity centres are located improved the affordability of Victorian with disabilities and older people are close to high quality public transport. public transport. likely to be more liveable for the whole 2. Be accessible and usable for all however, for people in financial community. Victorians through incorporating crisis, such as people experiencing Public transport is still considered principles of universal design and homelessness, public transport fares unsafe by many people in the door-to-door supported transport are simply unaffordable. While other community. This is a particular issue options essential services such as utilities have for young people, women and older hardship provisions, people unable to the Disability Standards for Accessible people especially when travelling after pay for public transport are subject to Public Transport (2002) set out the dark. Increased staffing levels across fines and harassment from Authorised legal requirements for an accessible the public transport network would Officers. Research undertaken by public transport system. However, it is provide not only an enhanced level of YouthLaw for example has found not enough for the transport system customer service and better access that young people experiencing to merely comply with minimum to station facilities, but also enhanced homelessness have three times the legislated standards. The Victorian passenger safety. transport system should aim for best number of outstanding fines than practice in physical accessibility and other at-risk young people.9 Homeless

continued next page > 04 | Good Policy

Addressing Transport Disadvantage and Social Exclusion in Victoria < continued from previous page

5. Provide sustainable alternatives VCOSS shares the concerns of References to the private car and road freight other community and environmental 1 Morabito, D Snapshots of life: exploring barriers to support Victoria’s economy organisations that low income and faced by people experiencing disadvantage, what can planners do?, Melbourne, Victorian Council of and community to adapt to disadvantaged groups are likely to be Social Service, February 2001, p.13. high petrol prices and a carbon disproportionately disadvantaged by 2 social Exclusion Unit, Making the connections: final constrained future the effects of climate change.13 report on transport and social exclusion, London, Office of the Prime Minister, February 2003. Low income outer suburban, rural While Victoria has a greenhouse gas and regional communities are highly emission reduction target of 60% by 3 Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2001 Census of population and housing: basic community profile dependent on private cars to meet 2050, recent evidence is indicating that (Victoria), B29, Canberra, 2002. their mobility needs due to a lack of even greater reductions are required to 4 saunders, P, Naidoo, Y, and Griffiths, M,Towards transport alternatives. Car dependence avoid dangerous climate change.14 new indicators of disadvantage: deprivation and social exclusion in Australia, Sydney, Social Policy locks households into high transport Greenhouse gas emissions from Research Centre, University of NSW, November costs as they are required to invest transport in Victoria, in particular road 2007, p. 12. significant capital, or accumulate debt, transport, are significant and rising. 5 Litman, T, Evaluating Transportation Equity: to purchase multiple vehicles. The The Bureau of Transport and Regional Guidance for Incorporating Distributional Impacts in Transportation Planning, British Colombia, Victoria ongoing costs of car ownership and Economics predicts that greenhouse Transport Policy Institute, March 2006. fuel represent a significant percentage gas emissions from the transport 6 Australian Bureau of Statistics, Regional Population of household expenditure. Transport is sector will increase by 47% over 1990 Growth Australia, Report number 3218.0, Canberra, the third highest category of Victorian levels by 2010 and 68% by 2020.15 ABS, July 2007. 11 household expenditure after food. Investing in transport projects which 7 Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE), Regional matters: an atlas of regional Victoria, Victoria’s high level of car dependence do not significantly reduce greenhouse Melbourne, Victorian Government, 2005, p.14 creates vulnerability to rises in petrol gas emissions is no longer a feasible or Retrieved 15 September 08 from http://www.dse.vic. prices. Peak oil theory suggests that oil ethical option. gov.au.pdf production will shortly begin to decline 8 Currie, G et al, Rural and regional young people and VCOSS is concerned to ensure that transport: improving access to transport for young while world oil markets experience responses to climate change are people in rural and regional Australia, Canberra, increasing demand leading to ongoing National Youth Affairs Research Scheme, January both equitable and effective and 2005. high and unstable petrol prices. While to ensure that the needs of those there are a variety of opinions about 9 YouthLaw, Getting there: a homeless youth transport most vulnerable to the effects of policy proposal, June 2008. when this phenomenon will occur, it is climate change and climate policy suggested that peak oil could happen 10 World Health Organisation (WHO), Global age in our community are addressed friendly cities: a guide, Geneva, World Health from now to 2050. as a priority.16 All pathways to Organisation, 2007. VCOSS’ primary concern with this reducing greenhouse gas emissions 11 Department of Sustainability and Environment, issue is not increases in fuel prices per are important. However, VCOSS Melbourne Atlas, 2006, 5.10. se, but the vastly disparate capacity of is concerned that over-reliance on 12 Garnaut, R, Garnaut climate change review: draft Victorian communities to adapt to high technological changes such as report, Commonwealth of Australia, June 2008. and unstable petrol prices due to car expensive hybrid cars and more 13 Garnaut, R, Will climate change bring an end to the platinum age?, Paper presented at the inaugural dependency and unequal distribution efficient new vehicles will leave low S.T. Lee Lecture on Asia & The Pacific, Canberra, of alternative transport services and income households unable to avoid Australian National University, 29 November 2007. infrastructure. rising transport cost from high oil 14 D Spratt and P Sutton, Climate code red: the prices and carbon pricing through lack case for emergency action, Scribe Publications, ensuring that people in rural, regional Melbourne 2008. and outer suburban areas have access of alternative transport options. 15 Bureau of Transport and Regional Economics to affordable high quality transport For this reason, increased investment (BTRE), Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Transport: options which link them to employment in public transport, walking and cycling Australian Trends to 2020, Commonwealth of Australia, Canberra, 2002. and services will be critical in infrastructure which links low income 16 J Paavola, N Adger and S Huq, Multifaceted preventing the high cost of private areas to activity centres should be justice in adaptation to climate change, in N Adger, transport leading to more entrenched a priority response to addressing J Paavola, S Huq and M Mace (eds), Fairness socioeconomic disadvantage in greenhouse gas emissions from in Adaptation to Climate Change, MIT Press, Cambridge, Mass., pp. 263-278. these areas. transport. 6. Contribute to achieving greenhouse For more information on VCOSS work gas emission reduction targets to on transport please visit our website prevent dangerous climate change at www.vcoss.org.au or contact Jess Fritze on 9654 5050 or Australia is extremely vulnerable to at [email protected]. the impacts of climate change.12 Good Policy | 05

Young and Homeless

Karen Mak Senior Youth Housing Support Worker and Jim Dellis Former Program Manager, Youth and Community Team, Good Shepherd Youth and Family Service Collingwood

‘Crisis’ may seem an overused word While the largest group (29%) had been System constraints facing young in our sector, but our experience is homeless for a relatively short time people and staff that there really is a housing crisis for (between one and three months), 20% of For many young people housed in our everyone who is homeless; even more these young people had been homeless program, public housing is the only so for someone who is young. Policy for one to two years, and another 20% affordable option available to them once initiatives to address the shortage of for six months to one year. A disturbing they leave supported housing. For most, housing are urgently needed. In the 6% had been homeless more than five private rental or shared private rental is Federal Government the focus on youth years. The past 12 months has seen not affordable in the current rental climate is primarily concentrated on economic an increase in referrals of single parents with income benefits like Youth Allowance participation through social inclusion, needing accommodation and support: at $330 per fortnight. The many who increased education and training, nearly one in five assisted over the past apply for public housing await a long, although homelessness is the subject of a year had accompanying children. rigorous, frustrating process waiting for recent Green Paper ‘Which Way Home? – an offer, often for more than two years. Attending school is a real difficulty for A New Approach to Homelessness’1. Of the eight young people staying in our many young people who are homeless: At the State Government level youth properties in the last year, three have 63% of young people were not at housing is the topic of a major initiative, been offered a public housing property, secondary school or in employment the 2006 Youth Housing Action Plan two of whom had been waiting for over training when they approached the ‘Creating Connections’ which is two years. Much of the delay is due to the service. Many find it hard to get back into concentrating on establishing Local scarcity of one-bedroom public housing the school system even after they have Area Service Networks to coordinate properties, often the most suitable stable accommodation. Most seeking the delivery of services. Whatever the accommodation for this group. assistance are either on income security benefits this innovation brings, increased benefits or have no income. Many These long delays in the public housing coordination is sadly not a substitute for struggle to maintain their income security system impact on the youth housing increased housing stock. with no fixed address. sector itself. Services such as ours Our aim in this article is to provide a often accommodate young people for The reasons for seeking housing snapshot of the issues of young people longer periods because of the wait assistance were varied and often coming to our youth housing service, for accommodation. This then limits multiple. Over half gave budgeting and the challenges in working in this vacancies, creates long waiting lists and and financial difficulties as the reason, program and sector. causes longer periods of homelessness and approximately a third nominated for those not yet in the system. The Support and Housing for Young relationship or family breakdown. The People (SHYP) operates from Good other most frequent reasons were For young people who are not eligible for Shepherd Collingwood, providing eviction (13%), previous accommodation public housing and are forced to choose assistance to 16 to 25 year olds who are ended (11%), health issues (11%), and private rental, there is added pressure homeless or at risk of homelessness. It overcrowding issues, substance use, from the Department of Housing to leave provides information, referral, advocacy, and recently left institution (9% each). It our program within12–18 months, earlier support, outreach and transitional is worth noting that 65% of the young than those awaiting public housing. accommodation for young people in the people assisted were already in the This seems to assume that this group City of Yarra and surrounding suburbs. system and referred by other non- requires less support in our programs Supported Accommodation Assistance government organisations. than those seeking public housing, which Program (SAAP) funding provides for 1.5 is not the case. Many young people who are homeless staff to run the program – a small support not only require accommodation, they team with limited capacity to respond to The bigger cause of homelessness also require intensive support and the high volume of referrals. Working with young people who are assistance to help with complex life homeless is often difficult. It is important The facts struggles. While our service supported to acknowledge that homelessness Data collected in the past 12 months some young people for just a few weeks, is a complex and multi-dimensional of the program tell the story. Of 282 37% stayed for one to six months, and problem. It is not just about the loss of referrals, 200 young people could not 14% were supported for more than a accommodation. Often what contributes be assisted due to lack of year. However, only a small number of more significantly to someone becoming accommodation and limited supports. these were actually able to be housed. homeless are complex individual or Of the 82 young people assisted, most Understanding these experiences interpersonal issues. Many young people were in the older age group (48% 20–25 and life circumstances of the young coming to housing services struggle years) with the next largest group (25%) people coming to our service is vital to manage their life due to issues with aged 15–17 years. to addressing shortfalls in the current mental health, substance abuse, sexual, service system. physical and emotional abuse, domestic continued page 10 > 06 | Good Policy

Partnerships >> Volunteering

Gendrie Klein-Breteler Manager, Good Shepherd Youth and Family Service St Kilda

Since the beginnings of Good Shepherd’s St Kilda presence in 1984, partnership with the community has been central. That partnership is a core value for transition from a private to government- Volunteering as a pathway Good Shepherd was reinforced by the owned prison, and through numerous to inclusion ‘Developing Partnerships’ theme of custodial staff changes. Volunteers have the recent Asia-Pacific Gathering of also been offering health and wellbeing Reflections on giving and receiving Good Shepherd Sisters and partners services to women in boarding houses Volunteering and partnership are a in Malaysia1. The St Kilda Centre seeks over the past 15 years, as well as a two-way street. Giving and receiving to embody in all its activities the four weekly community Reiki evening and are impossible to separate – we take key partnership principles universal workshops for almost 20 years. turns in being in both places. We may to Good Shepherd Youth and Family Volunteers also engage in mentoring think that the lucky ones are those with Service: young women, initiating new ideas something to give, but the receiver also 1. In partnership, we identify with for programs and participating in has something to give. Without the Good Shepherd spirit from whichever organisational activities such as the receiver the giver is nothing. The receiver place we come and we recognise it in Agency Mission and Spirit Sub- meets the giver’s needs by providing the each other. committee. Volunteers also help with opportunity for giving. The receiver in fact fundraising, which for Good Shepherd gifts the giver. 2. The strength of our partnership lies St Kilda is a community-building activity in equality and inclusiveness in our There is another vital aspect of in itself as well as a way of providing relationships. volunteering partnerships that we have women with resources to move forward witnessed through our work. Being 3. Partnership enriches us personally on their life’s journey. able to make a contribution, whether and communally. Volunteers are drawn to the work we are reaching out to another person, to the 4. Partnership involves tasks, processes, doing. Our volunteers are easy to work community, or to the planet, can help reflection, communication and with because they choose to be here. to overcome depression, alienation and commitment.2 Working with volunteers requires lateral isolation. This is now well-recognised. thinking to create avenues for them For example, local government uses At the St Kilda Centre these principles to share what they have to offer. levels of volunteering as an indicator are expressed through working with One volunteer has been with us for of community well-being3. Making a volunteers, undertaking community over 20 years; some may stay a few contribution creates a relationship with development, and developing initiatives months. The manager role includes: something or someone outside oneself together with local organisations. and can be the difference between » being open to volunteer participation isolation and inclusion. Volunteers at Good Shepherd » orientating volunteers to Good Youth and Family Service St Kilda Shepherd and the St Kilda program Volunteers have always participated People usually come to volunteering in our work and over the years have » providing training via a relationship with a significant person in the organisation. The health become an integral part of the programs, » creating or adapting programs so that and wellbeing program provides an partly through necessity but also through the person can contribute, or referring easy pathway for people to become a genuine commitment to partnership. people to an organisation more suited volunteers. Women begin by identifying We currently have 31 volunteers and to their skills they are fundamental to our work rather skills to benefit their own wellbeing than part of a distinct volunteering » creating rosters and are then offered the opportunity for further training in that skill, using program: there are two staff members, » liaising with volunteers but a team of 33. that training either for themselves or to » briefing and debriefing for each session contribute back to the women using Volunteers have been particularly the Centre. active in our health and well-being » general support for the volunteers; and programs. This includes outreach to the » supporting the volunteers to look after Local community development women’s prison where we are about themselves. and initiatives to celebrate our tenth year of service. Partnership is also pursued in other This partnership has thrived through the ways. Every year we are active in a Good Policy | 07

and Inclusion at Good Shepherd St Kilda

Organising around partnership Within and between organisations, partnerships succeed through teamwork. They need equality, inclusiveness and interaction between members during the process of planning and making decisions. Each person in such a partnership network is recognised for their wisdom, experience and unique contribution. By its nature this involves a redistribution of power within the group, which does not leave the named leader powerless but allows for sharing responsibility and mutual empowerment. In a partnership network members share a common goal which enables people from different backgrounds, with different expectations and experiences, to bring their ideas together to form a new vision. Partnership members combine independent action with a team consciousness.4

Primary School students celebrate their achievements in partnership It is on the basis of this approach that Good Shepherd Youth and Family Service St Kilda is known for its selected community development Currently we are also working with relationship with the community. We process, joining with local organisations a local Catholic Primary School strive for partnership at all levels of our and/or local government. We do this providing a leadership and teamwork St Kilda programs. We thrive on working work to effect a community change that development program. The students together to make a difference, whether will benefit the women using our Centre, complete groupwork in the classroom it be through being open and inclusive linking individual experiences with their to recognise and develop their own to volunteers, pursuing local initiatives in systemic causes. This year we are strengths then undertake a project within partnership with local organisations, or part of the Fitzroy Street Task Force the community that seeks to make a joining together to invest in the future of which is working to create a cohesive difference in Indigenous, environmental, our community. community within the rich diversity of or community issues. This initiative is residents, traders and visitors. We aim part of our investment in the future, For more information about volunteering to move from the ‘micro’ to the ‘macro’, undertaken in partnership with the local at Good Shepherd, contact Sue Parkes asking “What are the changes that need school and local children. on 9418 3000. to happen to enable people to have better experiences in their community?” As the following comments illustrate, References these young students have already learnt 1 Good Shepherd Asia Pacific Partnership Gathering, Working with individuals also sparks what it means to work in partnership: Our experience of Good Shepherd draws us initiatives to revolutionise service delivery. together: The strength of our Partnership propels us An example is the Street Sex Workers “I have learnt to get along with people out for mission, June 15 – June 19 2008, Malaysia Court. A number of organisations I don’t normally work with” 2 Good Shepherd Asia Pacific Partnership Gathering June 2008 Malaysia, Preparation papers worked collaboratively to identify the “If you don’t like someone and you get need for a more accessible court session 3 Victorian Government, Indicators of Community put in a group with them you might end Strength: A framework and evidence, Melbourne, for street sex workers, which they could up being friends” Department of Victorian Communities, June 2006 more easily attend and so avoid criminal “You must expect that other people will 4 Adapted from a presentation by Sister Anne charges for not appearing. This court Manning, Good Shepherd Australia New Zealand has now been operating successfully for have different opinions and you may not over two years. always get your way at all” 08 | Good Policy

Partnerships for Inclusion >> Promoting the Wellbeing of Women

Marilyn Webster

This paper was presented at the NAB Docklands celebration of International Women’s Day, March 8 2008.

International Women’s Day The Office for Women in Australia » 1966 Bar on married women as International Women’s Day (IWD) identified the following key women’s permanent employees in Federal Public celebrates the achievements of women issues for International Women’s Day Service abolished and their participation in the economic 2008: » First equal pay case – and social spheres. Its foundations lie 1969 » pay equity Commonwealth Conciliation and in the socialist struggle for wage justice Arbitration Commission determination and the vote of the late 1800s and » balancing work and leisure/home introduced ‘equal pay for work of equal early 1900s. » industrial relations value’; teaching and nursing professions The earliest action by women on March » retirement savings; and most impacted. 4 8, now celebrated as International » success in the work place. » 1972 Conciliation and Arbitration Women’s Day, occurred in 1857 when Commission principle of ‘equal pay women workers in the New York These are issues of social and economic inclusion. If these are the issues for women for work of equal value’ but only 18% garment district marched for improved of adult female employees obtained working conditions, a ten-hour day in 2008, what can we make of the social and economic progress which has marked the equal pay because females and males and equal rights for women. The first largely worked under different awards; Women’s Day was marked by socialist place of women since the arrival of the Good Shepherd sisters in Melbourne in 1863? the Commission continued to state women in the United States on the last “the male wage takes account of family Sunday in February 1908: their platform Inclusion landmarks for Australian considerations and it will not apply to called for political and economic rights, women females” including the vote, for women1. In 1910 » 1895 Women have the first right to vote » 1973 Paid maternity leave granted for the women’s movements of the United (South Australian Parliament) – property- Commonwealth Public Service States and Europe came together at based not universal the International Conference of Socialist » 1974 Married women access Women in Copenhagen, and sparked the » 1889 The Australian Women’s Suffrage superannuation in Victorian Public Society formed first International Women’s Day, which Service was held on March 19, 1911 in several » 1902 Commonwealth Franchise Act – » 1975 First Sex Discrimination Act (South European countries. A million leaflets Women have the right to sit and vote in Australian Parliament) Federation calling for action on the right to vote were » 1975 Married women join » 1908 Women have the right to vote distributed throughout Germany before superannuation fund of the teachers’ 2 in Victoria this first IWD. union in Victoria » 1912 Sarah (Fanny) Durack first woman 6 The first Australian rally for International and first Australian to win Olympic Gold » 1975 Single Parent Pension introduced Women’s Day was held on March 25th » 1921 Edith Cowan first woman elected » 1979 Maternity Leave Test Case decision 1928 by the Militant Women’s Movement to an Australian Parliament (Western – Australian Conciliation in Belmore Park Sydney, with a platform Australian Parliament) and Arbitration Commission granted calling for equal pay for equal work, an 12-month maternity leave entitlement eight-hour day for ‘shop girls’, no piece » 1933 First women elected to Victorian Parliament (Lady Millie Peacock)5 to all permanent workers guaranteeing work, the basic wage for the unemployed continuity of employment following leave » 1941 The Child Endowment Act – and annual holidays on full pay. The first for birth of a child International Women’s Day marches mothers receive an allowance for each occurred in Sydney and Melbourne in child after the first up to 16 years (five » 1979 First women elected to Victorian 1931. In 1984, International Women’s shillings/week) Upper House (Gracie Baylor & Joan Coxsedge)7 Year, the United Nations gave official » 1943 First female Federal recognition to International Women’s Day.3 Parliamentarians elected (Dame Enid » 1986 Inclusion of superannuation in Lyons, Dorothy Tangney) industrial awards – 24% of women have Women’s social and economic access to superannuation compared to » 1949–50 Basic Wage Inquiry – first inclusion today 50% of men The focus on women’s rights in the labour time women’s organisations made market which, along with the right to vote, submissions for equal pay (National » 1992 Compulsory superannuation for prompted international action remains a Council of Women and Australian all permanently employed workers 8 key theme in the struggle for the social Federation of Business & Professional introduced and economic inclusion of women and Clubs); female basic wage established their financial wellbeing. but only 75% of male wage Good Policy | 09

Partnerships for Inclusion >> Promoting the Wellbeing of Women

Good Shepherd and women’s inclusion with and for people living on low incomes 600 loans have been written, worth The work of the Good Shepherd order makes a significant difference to their lives, $1.46 million, with a default rate of about in Melbourne began in 1863 during the participation in the economic mainstream 4%.13 The bank describes it as a “break gold rush, when four nuns established not welfare is the goal – “social justice, even product” but it is much more than themselves in the ‘Collingwood Flat’, not charity”. Our partnership with the that to the people accessing the loans: the flood plain of the Yarra River. National Australia Bank (NAB) has assisted “A single mother with two children Households in this deprived area were in many ways with developing inclusion applied for a Step Up loan to purchase often headed by women with the men of people on low incomes, particularly an entertainment unit. Her child has at the gold fields. There were large women. muscular dystrophy and she was numbers of orphaned children or young Support of No Interest Loan Programs hoping the entertainment unit would women without families who were improve their quality of life as mobility described at the time by the Argus No Interest Loan Programs or NILS® is becoming more limited. During the newspaper as “the sweepings of the provide small loans for household interview we talked about the fees on Irish workhouses”.9 goods and services for those living on savings accounts, most banks now offer very low incomes, creating pathways Kovesi (2006:48) describes the economic fee free accounts for concession card to participation and enriching family and social conditions at the time. These accounts. When I called to advise her wellbeing. Almost 75% of recipients are strongly echo the conditions in the old that her application for the loan had been women. NILS, established by the Good world, which gave rise to the women’s approved she had already visited the Shepherd Sisters in 1981, is the largest socialist movement and International bank to see what they could do for her.”14 microfinance program in Australia. The Women’s Day: NAB has supported the annual NILS The NAB and Good Shepherd Youth and “Wages and conditions for working women Forum since 2003, and has made a Family Service received a Prime Minister’s generally were poor, domestic service was significant difference to the profile and Partnership Award in 2006 for these the most common female employment potential of microfinance in Australia, and microfinance initiatives. As an organisation but the work was hard, wages were low to the lives of women and their families. Good Shepherd has a new understanding and women were vulnerable to sexual of how the banking system operates The NAB has also been instrumental harassment... Women who took the option and the points at which we can make in engaging support for expansion of of work in the newly opening factories this system more open to those who are the NILS scheme under the Victorian had a narrow range of jobs open to financially excluded. Government’s social inclusion strategy, them – all of which paid around half the ‘A Fairer Victoria’.11 The Government male rate for similar occupations... For Shaping progress for women welcomed the unique opportunity to deliver women without family to supplement their There are challenges ahead if economic safe affordable credit to families living on income, prostitution was often an attractive and social inclusion is to be a reality for very low incomes through partnership alternative”.10 all women. The economic outlook is far between a corporate, government and a from benign. Banks’ corporate social The house on the Collingwood Flat grew non-profit organisation. In April 2006 the responsibility programs need to be backed to become the Abbotsford Convent and NAB committed $3.3 million in capital by government and microfinance initiatives the base for the Good Shepherd Sisters’ for NILS expansion and the Government need the same recognition in Australia work with “fallen women, orphans, juvenile matched this with $3.8 million to support as in developing countries. There are offenders and young unaccompanied community organisations to deliver the further challenges, beyond access to safe 12 women”. Social changes have seen programs. The NAB also committed affordable credit, for the microfinance recognition of the social, civil and political capital and support for NILS programs movement. rights of women over the last century but around Australia, encouraging Queensland have not provided for all women, and while and New South Wales Governments to Savings the Convent has passed into community also support the expansion. To date, 108 Savings are an important component hands the work of Good Shepherd sisters programs have been allocated about of financial and social inclusion. They continues today with an emphasis on $5 million of this capital. enable women and their families support of women and their families. to develop a buffer against the life Development of StepUp low interest loans crises which bring financial stress, Partnerships in economic StepUp Loans, launched in 2004, indebtedness and family breakdown. and social inclusion provide access for people living on very Savings seem such an obvious In seeking new responses to improve the low incomes to a product offered by a component of everyday life that the lives of women Good Shepherd Youth mainstream financial institution, an exciting barriers to savings for many in the and Family Service has increasingly prospect for people who have not been community are often overlooked. explored the potential of partnerships with able to access credit or who had been For many on low incomes it is simply corporates and government. While Good pushed into the fringe credit market for impossible to save because income is Shepherd knows that the work it does relatively small sums. Approximately inadequate to meet basic living expenses.

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Partnerships of Inclusion >> Promoting the Wellbeing of Women Young and Homeless

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Recent experience of the ANZ Saver We might think here of Indigenous violence, family conflict and breakdown, Plus program indicates that people living women, refugee and migrant women, physical health or the challenge of on low incomes can save given the right women experiencing family violence becoming a young parent. encouragement, particularly matched and women with mental illness and For many young people, their life issues contributions15. There is great potential disability. A fourth wave of the women’s are present when they are housed by within the NILS program for developing a movement, economic inclusion based us and unfortunately continue to be a savings component: with the participation on recognition of the financial capability problem when they exit the program. of financial institutions the fortnightly loan of women, provides opportunities for Post program support and assistance repayment associated with NILS could further partnerships toward addressing is often requested by young people become a savings option for those on very the systemic social and economic and is a crucial part of ensuring they low incomes. exclusion of these groups. continue to improve their wellbeing and Superannuation ability to cope. The options available to A staggering 38% of Australian women References them once they have exited the program have no superannuation and a further are, however, very limited. The lack 1 ‘A History of International Women’s Day: We Want 19% have a balance of less than Bread and Roses Too’, Womankind, March 1972, of available post program support for $5,000. Figures from the Association of Retrieved 12 August 08 from www.cwluherstory.com/ young people is a growing gap. Superannuation Funds of Australia show CWLUArchive/interwomen.html 2 Australian Government Office for Women A history of The young person that in 2002, women had an average International Women’s Day, Retrieved 12 August 08 ‘super’ balance of $43,300, while men from www.ofw.facs.gov.au/iwd/iwd_history.htp Finally, we emphasise the importance amassed $78,700 – yet women’s average 3 stevens, J, A History of International Women’s Day of being mindful that the client life expectancy is 83 years, compared with in words and images, Retrieved 12 August 08 from population we are working with are www.isis.aust.com/iwd/stevens/contents.htm 77 for men. young people: many still in their early 4 Plibersek, T, International Women’s Day Retrieved 12 adolescent years, some of them Financial Literacy August 08 from www.abc.net.au/unleashed/stories/ s2184740.htm still too young to drive and some Financial literacy programs established 5 Parliament of Victoria, Women in Parliament Retrieved still in secondary school. Most are under the last Federal Government now 12 August 08 from www.parliament.vic.gov.au/ faced with the added pressures and need to be repositioned. The capability women challenges of being displaced from and needs of women should receive 6 ACOSS, Facts about Single Parents and Welfare family homes and forced to look after Retrieved 12 August 08 from www.acoss.org.au/ additional attention. While women’s upload/publications themselves with few supports. ultimate need for economic security may 7 Australian Government Office for Women A history be the same as their male colleagues, of International Women’s Day, Retrieved 12 August Compared to young people in a safe, how they arrive at economic security 08 from www.ofw.facs.gov.au/women_in_australia/ comfortable and supportive family milestones,1871_1983 and the shape of the responses are very environment, many of the young people 8 Australian Government Office for Women A history we see are forced to confront difficult different. The reality of their situation needs of International Women’s Day, Retrieved 12 August to be recognised. Good Shepherd has 08 from www.ofw.facs.gov.au?women_in_australia/ and complex issues prematurely in their undertaken significant research into the milestones,1984_2005.htm lives. They have been forced to be part financial capability needs of women living 9 Kovesi, C, Pitch Your Tents on Distant Shores: of an adult world that allows very little A History of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd room for learning and making mistakes; on low incomes to address a concern that in Australia, Aotearoa/New Zealand and Tahiti, emerging financial literacy strategies do Caringbah, Australia, Playright Publishing, 2006 most are still learning and discovering not speak to the reality of women living 10 Kovesi, C, ibid who they are as individuals. on low incomes, and to promote more 11 Government of Victoria A Fairer Victoria: progress and Being homeless is a predicament 16 next steps, Melbourne, State Government of Victoria, accessible strategies. 2006 or circumstance that no-one should 12 Fahour, A Backing People Not Just Banking Them have to go through; being young and Conclusion Speech to International Chambers of Commerce homeless is even more horrible to The women’s movement in Australia Business Forum, Melbourne 26th April 2006, come to terms with and overcome. has had three major waves – achieving Retrieved 12 August 08 from www.nab.com.au/ About_Us/0,,78042,00.html Long term supports, positive and the vote at the turn of last century, 13 National Australia Bank Ltd and Good Shepherd healthy caring environments, and achieving wage justice in the 1960s Youth and Family Service, StepUp Loan: A Step in suitable and available long term and changing social roles in the 1970s the Right Direction? A report into the StepUp Loans Program, 2004-07, Melbourne, March 2008 accommodation with continued and 1980s. However, the influence of 14 Eliadis, M A Step in the Right direction, StepUp Pilot supports are crucial for young people gender on these gains is intersected at Program Stage 2 Evaluation Report, Melbourne, most in need. every point by class, wealth, race and Good Shepherd Youth and Family Service, August geographic location. Recognising the very 2007 (unpublished) The Federal Government is expected to significant achievements in the social and 15 Russell, R, Harlim, J and Brooks, R, release its White Paper on homelessness Saver Plus 2008. Follow up survey results. May in the near future. economic inclusion of women, which are 2008, Melbourne, ANZ Bank and Brotherhood of appropriately celebrated on International St.Laurence, Retrieved 12 August 08 from www.anz. Women’s Day, should not obscure the com/Documents/AU/Aboutanz/Community/Programs References 16 Landvogt, K Money, Dignity and Inclusion: the role importance of identifying and acting on of financial capability, Collingwood, Victoria, Good 1 A summary of Good Shepherd’s submission is the needs of women who have yet to Shepherd Youth and Family Service, 2008 included elsewhere in this edition of Good Policy enjoy the full benefits of these advances. Good Policy | 011 NEWS >>

Respite Care Project ‘Which Way Home? Good Shepherd Youth and Family Service, Anglicare, MacKillop Family Services, Berry Street and Victorian A New Approach Aboriginal Child Care Association have formed a consortium to undertake research into the provision of respite foster to Homelessness’ care in Victoria. In May 2008, the Commonwealth Government of Australia The aim is to improve the availability and capacity of respite care. released a Green Paper on homelessness. Respite foster care is temporary recurrent care used to support families where there are additional pressures. Having respite care ‘Which Way Home? A New Approach to Homelessness’ is available can prevent admission to the protective care system. an initial step in developing a new approach to reducing the The consortium received $11,000 from the Nelson Alexander occurrence of homelessness in Australia. It will result in a Trust to conduct a research and practice forum and develop a ten year national plan. It is pleasing to see the complex and literature review. The literature review was undertaken by Robyn multidimensional issue of homelessness being taken seriously Hartley of Australian Catholic University. These two pieces by the Commonwealth Government, with some overdue multi- of work will underpin a major industry research partnership system reform. Good Shepherd Youth and Family Service made between the sector and a university. a submission in response to the Green Paper. In its response, Good Shepherd expressed the view that the proposals did not adequately address the multidimensional Standpoint Project aspects of homelessness. The Standpoint Project with Victoria University is funded Sufficient resourcing for public and community housing, mental by the Department of Early Childhood and Education and health services, drug and alcohol services, domestic violence ANZ Trustees Alfred Felton Bequest to develop strategies support, additional investment in the supported accommodation for inclusion in mainstream school programs of children sector and the creation of a partnership between homeless from families with very low incomes. specific and mainstream services are needed. The project is in its second year and draws on teachers’ The Good Shepherd submission recommends that the new experience in six schools in Western Melbourne. approach to homelessness include increased funding and A data gathering day was held at Victoria University on 24th resources put into public and community housing, homeless July where ideas for a program to be presented by the schools specific services, community based medium-term mental health during Anti-poverty Week in October were also developed. services, drug and alcohol treatment facilities and indigenous specific support, housing and services. The new approach to homelessness should focus on increasing support services for Women and Financial women and children who have experienced or who are escaping domestic violence, with a national policy developed allowing partnership, collaboration and cooperation between different Capability Project services and child protection. Specific services should be in On 30 June 2008, over 60 people attended the launch of place to support young people leaving state care and to support the research report ‘Money, Dignity, and Inclusion: the role people leaving the justice system. of financial capability’ at the Macquarie Bank. Partnerships are needed between homeless services and The report was launched by Claire Noone, Acting Director mainstream services to ensure a satisfactory response. of Consumer Affairs Victoria, followed by speakers Michelle Mainstream services need to be given training and resources Commandeur of ANZ Bank, Susan Campbell from the Board of to allow them to assist homeless people. The submission also Good Shepherd Youth and Family Service, and Kathy Landvogt, urges development of more crisis accommodation facilities author of the report. A further grant from the Consumer Credit targeted at specific groups (e.g. women, young people, families Fund has now been offered to produce an educational DVD and men). It is also recommended that the homeless sector based on the three short plays developed by women participants supports the skilled and knowledgeable workers already in the of this action research project. Good Shepherd will be working sector, by providing better remuneration and career progression. with Albert Street Productions to produce the DVD. There needs to be the provision of professional development and ongoing training.

The White Paper is expected in late 2008.

The Good Policy newsletter

‘Good Policy’ is the newsletter of the Social Policy Research Unit of Good Shepherd Youth and Family Service. We aim to bring the latest news of research and policy developments in areas of importance to our supporters, colleagues, service partners, interested donors and funders, responding to the ongoing interest in the policy voice and research outcomes of Good Shepherd Youth and Family Service. Thankyou to all contributors and supporters.

Good Policy is a free newsletter, which generally comes out three times a year. Back copies available or see our website www.goodshepvic.org.au. All feedback is welcome. 012 | Good Policy

NEWS >> ‘Spirit in the Pub’: Submissions Youth and Transport in the West During recent months the Unit has Through ‘Spirit in the Pub’ Good our challenge is to make solutions to made submissions to the following: Shepherd takes social policy the growing social and environmental » the Federal Government Green Paper conversations into the community. problems for families and young people that have resulted from inadequate on Financial Services and Credit On Monday 16th June our St Albans public policy a priority. Speakers from the Reform ‘Improving, Simplifying and office, in company with the Good audience gave many examples of ways in Standardising Financial Services and Shepherd Social Policy Research Unit, which people in the west are badly served Credit Regulation’, July 2008 invited people to attend a local discussion with public transport. Youth in particular » the National Council Plan to Reduce on public transport and community are very disadvantaged in terms of access Violence Against Women and Children, needs in Melbourne’s Western suburbs. to jobs, education and recreation, a July 2008 One focus would be particular problems conclusion strongly supported by the that young people face and some of the » the Federal Government Green Paper guest speakers and the comprehensive possible public transport solutions that on Homelessness ‘Which Way Home? research of Professor Currie. A New Approach to Homelessness’, could be explored. Speakers were Ms June 2008 Tiffany Overall, Advocacy and Human Interestingly since this meeting the Rights Officer at the Youth Law Centre Eddington study has received over » ‘Australia’s Children: Safe and Well. and Mr Chris Loader from the Bus 2,000 submissions from individuals and A National framework for protecting Association of Victoria. organisations. Clearly, transport is hotting Australia’s Children: A Discussion Paper up as an issue and rising petrol prices can Tiffany gave an overview of the problems for consultation’, July 2008 only exacerbate this. faced by young people in the western suburbs and Melbourne generally. Youth Announcements by the Rudd Government Law have been undertaking research into in the May Federal budget have Youth Services the public transport fines accrued by young focused efforts on national infrastructure people. Chris used some of the research investment. This, combined with the Project carried out by Professor Graeme Currie announcement by Premier Brumby of the This project will lay the foundation for and his own work to point out the current preparation of a wider transport package an agency-wide model for working with deficiencies in public transport provision in for Victoria by November 2008, provides young people by mapping the youth serving the needs of young people. Chris an opportunity for Good Shepherd and services within Good Shepherd Youth also gave a very informative overview of the other organisations to put a case for and Family Service and by identifying current state of the Eddington study and inclusion of some socially oriented public the needs and priorities for working with the pluses and minuses of the road tunnel transport in the western suburbs. The young people. and public transport projects that have Social Policy Research Unit has resolved emerged so far. to prepare a submission to the Premier and would welcome contributions from In the general discussion a key concern interested individuals or organisations. Research Publications was how to get social justice and equity now available issues into the current debate, which Contact Barry Pullen at seems to be dominated by engineering [email protected]

Money, Dignity and $22 inc GST (plus proposals for large tunnels. In particular Inclusion: The Role $10 postage and of Financial Capability handling inc GST) NILS® Small Loans, $12 inc GST Big Changes: The (plus $8 postage and Who’s Who in the Impact of No Interest handling inc GST) Social Policy Research Unit Students Loans on Households Christopher Nicholson Reprinted 2008 Marilyn Webster Manager and Rachel Narres Respite Care Literature $12 inc GST Barry Pullen Policy Consultant Bachelor of Social Work Review, Report to the (plus $8 postage and Kathy Landvogt social Policy Researcher RMIT University Project Partners, June handling inc GST) 2008

Contact us: Good Policy is a publication of Social Policy Research Unit, Good Shepherd Youth and Family Service 21 Budd Street, Collingwood Vic 3066 Tel (03) 9418 3000 Fax (03) 9418 3001 Email [email protected] Web www.goodshepvic.org.au Publisher Good Shepherd Youth and Family Service Design Deztop Design Print Document Printing Australia. Material contained in Good Policy does not necessarily reflect the policy of Good Shepherd Youth and Family Service or the views of any of its staff members. Articles may be reproduced if full acknowledgement is given.