Dear *|FNAME|*,

This week we welcomed the announcement by the State Government to extend the moratorium on rental increases and evictions for a further six months. While unemployment figures are improving, underemployment still remains alarmingly high. The Government can't afford to end the moratorium at a time when families and children are at risk of becoming homeless.

We have also heard from services who are feeling the flow-on effects from the pandemic. Last week in a national survey released by the Australian Council of Social Service, service providers reported that they are struggling to meet the needs of people reaching out for their services, while also adapting to the challenges that COVID-19 presents to service delivery. Some of the high level feedback from community services that is of concern:

• 61 per cent observed that overall level of demand had increased for their service; 
• 76 per cent have experienced an increase in the complexity of need people are presenting with; and 
• 54 per cent are reporting an increase in the numbers of clients they are supporting. 

If the sector is to continue supporting people experiencing the social and economic impact of COVID-19, the Federal Government needs to provide adequate funding to the sector, in line with ERO requirements, so that we can continue to help those who need it through this incredibly difficult and uncertain period.

Yours sincerely,

Louise Giolitto
Chief Executive Officer

COVID-19 Update #40

Stay up-to-date on all COVID-19 health matters via the WA Government Coronavirus webpage. Community service organisations can visit the WACOSS Community Services COVID-19 resources page on the website for resources and information relevant to the sector. 

The State Government opened a third COVID-19 testing clinic on 16 September in Kununurra, which is in addition to the clinics in Broome and Bunbury. The Government has also introduced new event guidelines and plans to enable more events in WA. The Guidelines will take effect from Friday 25 September and apply to public and private events involving more than 500 patrons. 

Get the lowdown on the State Budget at our Briefing on 9 October

The State Budget will be handed down on Thursday 8 October, and we will deliver our State Budget Briefing and what this year's budget means to the sector via webinar at 2:30pm, Friday 9 October. This year's budget will be crucial for economic and social recovery in WA. Come along and listen to the policy team who will provide an analysis on its implications, to enable the sector to plan and respond to changing need. Special guests, Michael Barnes, Under Treasurer, and Michael Andrews, Acting Executive Director of Strategic Policy and Evaluation, will be joining the webinar for their presentation on the trends and implications of the Budget. Register now.

Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Bill 2020 - information sessions

Final consultations are underway on new legislation to improve protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage. Following two years of consultation, the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Bill 2020 has been drafted to replace the outdated and inadequate Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972 and reflects the feedback of Aboriginal people, industry and other stakeholders. Register for an information session and have your say.

Counsel Communications offering media workshops for sector

Counsel Communications is offering a series of workshops designed to enhance your skills and support your business outcomes. Three workshops will be held on 21, 22, 23 October, in Media Performance, Crisis and Issues Management, and Creating Content. WACOSS members can receive a 10% discount on individual sessions and packages, and Counsel Communications is offering a scholarship valued at $1,400 for an individual from a WACOSS member organisation to participate - apply by 2 October.

Congratulations to NAIDOC Perth Award nominees and recipients

Perth NAIDOC award winners were announced on Friday at an event at Crown. Of the incredible winners and finalists, we congratulate you all for the work that you do. A special mention to WACOSS Board member, Joanne Della Bona, Runner up of 2020 Community Person of the Year Award. View photos from the event.

Perceptions of poverty - West Aussies back JobSeeker increase

In a report released by Anglicare WA, Communicare, Foodbank WA, Ruah Community Services, Uniting WA and WACOSS, Above the Line - Perceptions of Poverty in WA, nearly 75% of West Australians surveyed said that they supported an increase in JobSeeker.

Power to the People Conference 2020

This year's Bank of I.D.E.A.S conference will create a space for participants to explore how communities can strengthen and become more resilient by activating their local assets. The conference program has just been launched, and includes additional optional masterclasses and a cultural tour, and there are both online and face-to-face registration options available. 

Preventing Violence Together questionnaire

Work to address violence against women and children fits into three broad categories: primary prevention, early intervention and response. Stopping Family Violence, the Women’s Community Health Network and the Women’s Council for Domestic and Family Violence Services would like to build a picture of the primary prevention work currently occurring in Western Australia and learn how to better support this work in community or to support services to build the knowledge and skills required to undertake primary prevention of violence work. Complete the survey by Friday 2 October and email to [email protected]

WA Digital Inclusion Blueprint consultation

The Office of Digital Government has updated its digital inclusion consultation materials to make it easier to share experiences and engage with the draft Blueprint, while also extending the consultation period to 30 October 2020. Download materials, complete the lived experience survey, and have your say on a digital blueprint for our state.

10% discount on all project quotes by DropIN Solutions

DropIN Solutions is a social enterprise by WACOSS, focused on providing professional graphic design, web and IT solutions and marketing services tailored for community services organisations. If you are working on an important publication, thinking of redesigning your logo and brand, or planning on changing your website, then this is the right time to contact the DropIN Solutions team at WACOSS. They are offering a 10% discount on all service quotes until the end of September. Email Jaime via [email protected] or 08 6381 5300 and explore all the possibilities. Check out some of their other projects.

Nominate someone for the HESTA Impact Awards

Do you know a professional in the health or community sector who is dedicated to creating a better future? Nominate them for one of the three categories in the 2020 Impact Awards. Nominations close Sunday 1 November.

Webinar: Quick fixes or here to stay? The COVID-19 overhaul of Australia’s social safety net

Register for the policy event co-hosted by Anglicare WA and UWA, Quick fixes or here to stay? The COVID-19 overhaul of Australia's social safety net, on Thursday 15 October from 12noon. Chris Twomey, Leader of Policy and Research will feature on the panel of experts.