The St Vincent de Paul Society has welcomed the release of the Not-for-profit Sector Development Blueprint outlining strategies and challenges for the enhancement of Australia’s vital, community-focused organisations.
The society’s national president, Mark Gaetani, said the milestone report was developed at the federal Government’s behest by the Blueprint Expert Reference Group, which included the St Vincent de Paul Society’s National Council chief executive, Toby oConnor
“I’m aware of how much work this entailed over two years for our CEO and representatives from other charities and civil society peak bodies,” Mr Gaetani said.
“The findings outlined in the blueprint are both encouraging and challenging.
“It’s under-recognised that one-in-ten working Australians is employed by a charity, with the charity workforce being comparable in size to that of the mining, manufacturing and agriculture, forestry and fisheries sectors combined.
“Yet the volunteering numbers have been dropping, which is a major challenge for charities such as ours that rely on volunteers to help those in need.”
Mr Gaetani said the blueprint, which contains 18 key initiatives organised across three strategic pillars, is the most comprehensive forward plan of the not-for-profit sector ever developed.
“This is a true codesign roadmap for sector-led initiatives as well as government reforms to boost the sector’s capacity to support and reconnect Australian communities,” he said.
“Uplifting the not-for-profit sector’s digital and data capabilities, building its diversity and protecting its right to advocate will strengthen and future-proof the sector.
Mr Gaetani said Australia’s not-for-profits – 60,000 of which are charities – “are seen as agents for positive change that enhance national wellbeing”.
“However, considerable work is needed to harmonise regulatory and legislative frameworks, reform funding and procurement processes, and invest in the wellbeing of the sector’s paid workforce and volunteers,” he added.
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Society welcomes 10-year vision for not-for-profit sector (St Vincent de Paul Society)
