SA: SA opposition releases social justice strategy

AAP General News (Australia)
04-13-2001
SA: SA opposition releases social justice strategy

ADELAIDE, April 13 AAP - Students dropping out of school, mental health, homelessness,
Aboriginal health and youth suicide are key targets of a social justice strategy released
by the South Australian opposition today.

Opposition leader Mike Rann said he would set up a Social Inclusion Unit, made up of
representatives of the government, community groups and church groups, if elected at the
next state election, which is due by next April.

Mr Rann said the strategy was a reaction to a complex set of problems, which appeared
to be the result of a weakening social structure in the state.

"We have seen the emergence of disturbing trends, which are direct indicators of the
weakening of our social fabric," Mr Rann said in the strategy statement.

"These have included massive falls in the percentage of our young people who are completing
high school, increased problems regarding issues surrounding mental health, the volatile
mix of alcohol, violence and homelessness, and the senseless and tragic youth suicides,
particularly among young men in rural areas."

Mr Rann said social issues were complex and needed to be dealt with by different government
departments working together with community and church groups.

"These are the people and organisations in the front line in dealing with the problems
of the socially excluded. They deal on a daily basis with the consequences of poverty
and social and family breakdowns," he said.

Mr Rann said unemployment, lack of education and skills, poverty, sub-standard housing,
family breakdown, low self-esteem and poor health were all aspects of the problem.

He said Labor was determined to provide opportunities for everyone in the state, regardless
of income, circumstances or background.

"We are determined to work hard at preventing social exclusion before it harms a person's
or a community's chances. Where there has been social exclusion, we will work to repair
the damage," he said.

The strategy received immediate support from Adelaide Central Mission, a Uniting Church
charity organisation.

The mission's minister, Geoff Scott, said some sectors of the community suffered from
multiple disadvantages and poor social skills and could not take advantage of current
government services.

"The type of principles outlined by Mr Rann will be of great benefit if they lead to
service responses that include people who would otherwise be alienated and build on the
strengths of all individuals," Reverend Scott said.

AAP scl/wjf/bwl e

KEYWORD: SOCIAL

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