Conference to tackle ways of reducing poverty

Key community services workers from across the state will meet at a conference in Brisbane next month to discuss ways of reducing poverty in Queensland.

Communities Minister Warren Pitt said the two-day conference, Poverty, prosperity and progress: ensuring the inclusion of all Queenslanders, was expected to draw up to 400 people including delegates from interstate and overseas.

He praised the Queensland Council of Social Service (QCOSS), the state’s peak social and community services body, for organising the conference, which will receive $17,000 in sponsorship from the Department of Communities.

“This biennial event will give the sector a chance to take stock and see what needs to be done to create a more equitable Queensland for the most disadvantaged members of our communities,” Mr Pitt said.

“It has all the elements of being a very productive gathering as it mixes the ‘big-picture’ view with stories from those working on the ground.

“I’m sure it will inspire delegates to consider new ways of helping every Queenslander to get a fair go no matter what their circumstances or where they live.”

The first day of the two-day conference, which starts on 26 March, will focus on poverty and inequality and the development of an action plan to create a fairer Queensland. Day two will involve discussion on building a stronger community services sector.

Keynote speakers will include: European Anti-Poverty Network Ireland coordinator Robin Hanan; Australian Council of Social Service president and director of UnitingCare Australia Lin Hatfield Dodds; and Robert Fitzgerald from the Australian Productivity Commission.

More information about the conference is available at www.qcoss.org.au

Media contacts: Peter Nibbs (for Minister Pitt), 3235 4280
Mark Jeffery (for QCOSS), 0419 732 583