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Date: 1st April 04 Ref No. 0704
The 79 Steps
(State Strategic Plan)
Great Strategy – Now for Community Implementation
UnitingCare Wesley congratulates the State Government on its preparedness to set long term, aspirational goals for the State and to document them in a State Strategic plan.
“Of particular significance is the inclusion of ‘Social’ and ‘Environmental’ goals” said Mark Henley, Manager of Advocacy and Communication.
UnitingCare Wesley is particularly heartened by the inclusion of significant health and quality of life targets, in particular:
· “Reduce the gap between the outcomes for South Australia’s
Aboriginal population and those of the rest of South Australia’s
population, particularly in relation to health, life expectancy, employment …”
·
“Halve the number of ‘rough sleepers’ in South Australia
by 2010” and “Halve the number of South Australians experiencing
housing stress within 10 years”
·
Improve mental wellness over the next decade.
·
Early intervention to arrest the apparent increase in reports of
child abuse and neglect.
“Progress on these 4 goals alone, will make a significant difference to the quality of life for a large number of South Australians” Mr Henley said.
The 6 objectives of the plan are supported as providing a base for the goals of the plan. The objectives relate to a “triple bottom line” accountability approach with UnitingCare Wesley being particularly supportive of the 6th objective, “Expanding Opportunity”
UnitingCare Wesley recognises that achievement of these significant goals requires a contribution from the whole community. “UnitingCare Wesley will consider the 79 goals and determine what actions we can take to be part of achieving the goals, we urge the SA community to join in to reach the goals,” concluded Mr Henley.
Further Comment
Mark Henley 8202 5135
Manager Advocacy and Communication 0404 067 011
8370 1112 (ah)
