Building an Economy for Life

Transcription

1 Building an Economy for Life Federal Election 2010 Your faith, your vote, your voice. Produced by The Uniting Church in Australia National Assembly

2 CONTENTS Page 1 Building an Economy for Life: Your Faith, Your Vote, Your Voice 3 2 Recognition and Respect: Justice for Indigenous Australians 6 3 Protecting the Persecuted: Compassion for Asylum Seekers and Refugees 8 4 Tackling Climate Change: Ensuring our Future 10 5 Beyond the Urban Fringe: Issues for Outback Australia 12 6 Protecting Human Rights 14 7 Justice in Income Support 15 8 Sharing our Wealth: A Just and Progressive Taxation System 16 9 A Decent Life for Older People Embracing our Diversity: A Multicultural, Multi-faith Society Justice in International Development An Election Toolkit: Ideas and Resources for Active Citizenship 22 The Uniting Church Federal Election webpage 2 Building an Economy for Life

3 1 building an economy for life Your Faith, Your Vote, Your Voice Your vote in a vibrant democracy When it comes time to exercise one of our core democratic rights and responsibilities and vote in a parliamentary election, how do we think about our vote? Do we vote the way we always have for a particular political party regardless of their current policies? Do we vote on the basis of a single issue? Will we vote for whoever is promising most in terms of tax cuts and other personal financial benefits? Is our vote based on which candidate will be better able to represent local issues at a national level? Will we think about what kind of society we want and which politicians seem to share our values? The answer to one or more or all of these questions can influence how we decide to vote. A federal election day is the one day every three years when almost every adult in the country is focused on their participation in the democratic process, even if it s just for a few minutes. There s much more to active participatory citizenship than casting a vote every few years, but it is one of the most important rights and one of the most significant responsibilities we have as citizens. Like all citizens in a democratic state, Christians have a responsibility to actively engage in the political processes of their country. As Christians, however, we have a particular responsibility to think about how we do this in a way that answers the call to be good news in the world: to bring justice, peace and hope to those processes and to seek justice, peace and hope as outcomes. An economy of life. An economy for life. Building an Economy for Life invites you to consider the values which underpin the policies of the political parties and candidates who are asking us to give them the responsibility of national leadership. The invitation is to consider your vote in the 2010 Federal Election in terms of the vision and values of God s economy of life for a flourishing world (see panel). The Twelfth Assembly of the Uniting Church in Australia (July 2009) adopted the statement An Economy of Life: Re-imagining human progress for a flourishing world. This statement describes how the Church understands God s will for the reconciliation and renewal of all creation and what this means for how we understand human progress. It considers the values and goals of the current global economic agenda and suggests that a Christian economic perspective would be based on different values and aim to achieve the wellbeing and flourishing of all people and the planet. Your Faith, Your Vote, Your Voice 3

4 The Christian faith understands that God s goal for life is wholeness. The biblical stories articulate a vision for human wholeness and wellbeing grounded in the values of the reign of God: love (of God and each other, even our enemy and especially those most vulnerable), justice, peace, grace, mercy and forgiveness, hospitality, inclusion, connectedness and compassion. This vision of wholeness is not about perfection physical or spiritual or freedom from disaster or suffering. It is not confined to the world to come but is offered as a reality for the life of this world. It is a vision of flourishing, abundant life, of peace and reconciliation, justice and transformation, love and inclusion for all creation. Its antitheses are also described in the biblical stories: the worship of idols, of which mammon (wealth, gain or possessions) is prominent; and separation and exclusion from community, often wrought by violent and oppressive social, political and religious systems. Life and all its riches are both an expression of God s very being as creative love and a gift of God. As sacred gift, the riches of life must be approached with humility, regarded with reverence and respect, and valued as precious, never being taken for granted. An economy for life, then, would be marked by regard for the common good. Economic systems which are based on values such as individualism, competition and greed deny human flourishing because the fullness of our humanity is not found in wealth but in relationship with each other and the world around us. The Church s role in the mission of God in the world requires us to be constantly asking how we might be good news in our own world. We are challenged to do this in a way that acknowledges both the huge problem of economic poverty within its complex causal context (historical, economic, social and environmental) and the impoverishment of all peoples, through the tyranny of greed, abuse, violence and obsession, disconnecting us from each other and the natural world. We are called to live out the vision of Jesus for human wholeness, an alternative understanding of what constitutes human progress the love of God, made manifest for people in the experiences of dignity and respect, meaning and purpose in life, connection with the earth and all its creatures, health and security of person and inclusion in communities of care and participation in society. This resource covers some of the most important areas of public policy in Australia and invites you to consider what approaches to policy promote the building of an economy for life in Australia and enable Australia to make a positive contribution to a global economy for life. The purpose of this document In the Statement to the Nation made by the Inaugural Assembly in 1977, the Uniting Church in Australia recognised that Christian responsibility to society is fundamental to the mission of the 4 Building an Economy for Life

5 Church. It promised that the Uniting Church response to the Christian gospel would always involve us in social and national affairs. This document is an expression of our faith as Christians and citizens of this country, and our commitment to share with all Australians in the search for meaning, purpose and community in life. It is not the intention to lead the reader to any particular conclusion about whom they should or should not vote for. It does not rate the policy platforms of political parties. The material is nonparty political. It seeks to explore the implications of the gospel for aspects of Australia s national life. It contains material to help Church members identify important issues facing Australia, listen to politicians and political parties with discernment, and cast an informed vote. As Christian voters we can make an impact before during and after the election: sharing and working for a vision for the future of our country that arises out of a deep and abiding Christian hope, sure in the knowledge that together we can build a world of peace, justice and equity for all. Jesus call to us to live as faithful disciples is a call to be bearers of this hope so that all may know the love of God. Finding out more More detailed papers on the policy issues covered in this booklet, as well as Hot Issues Briefs which focus on some particular topical issues, and other resources, can be downloaded from the election website, If you cannot access this website, please contact the Assembly office or your local synod for hard copies of the papers. Information about the Uniting Church in Australia s role, mission and activities can be found on the website of the National Assembly, and from the websites of its agencies, Synods and groups which are accessible from the Assembly website. Acknowledgements This booklet and the full set of Building an Economy for Life resources have been produced for the National Assembly by UnitingJustice Australia and includes material prepared by various Assembly and synod agencies and Uniting Church members. We would like to thank everyone who has contributed. Your Faith, Your Vote, Your Voice 5

6 2 Recognition and Respect Justice for Indigenous Australians Our vision We dream of Australia as a nation which values Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage and respects the land on which we live. We hope for a nation which recognises the injustice and violence done to Indigenous Australians and which is committed to justice and equity for all. We hope for a nation actively building upon the goodwill of the Government s formal Apology to the Stolen Generations by acknowledging the rights of Indigenous Australians as the First Peoples of this land. Ours is a vision for an inclusive, equal, mutually supportive community that measures justice by the shape of our community and by the treatment we afford to the most disadvantaged. Facing the issues Indigenous communities, both remote and urban, experience heightened levels of disadvantage across all socio-economic indicators. For example, according to the Australian Medical Association, an Indigenous boy born during has a life expectancy 11.5 years less than a non-indigenous boy born in the same period. This is linked to the effects of racism on people s lives, intergenerational poverty and reduced access to basic services that other Australians take for granted. This situation is the legacy of our colonial past and the flawed policies that have contributed to the breakdown of Indigenous families and communities, such as those outlined in the Stolen Generations report of a decade ago. Indigenous people suffer from both a lack of respect and a lack of basic human rights. The Close the Gap pledge, a statement of intent between the Government of Australia and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples of Australia, supported by non-indigenous Australians and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and non-indigenous health organisations, signed in March 2008, was a very welcome first step in addressing the Indigenous health crisis. Also welcomed has been the increase of 87 percent in total investment across the Health and Ageing portfolio for Indigenous people since , to $1.16 billion in the budget. We look forward to a sustained commitment to address all areas of deprivation and exclusion experienced by Indigenous people. The Northern Territory Emergency Response legislation (or Intervention ) is an example of how far we still have to go towards building an economy of life that supports the flourishing of all people. Even though aspects of the policy have been changed since its introduction in 2007, the Intervention remains a highly divisive and discriminatory policy. 6 Building an Economy for Life

7 Seeking just policy Jesus is the love of God breaking into the world, reaching out beyond the barriers that separate people from each other and offering reconciliation and peace. As followers of Jesus in this land we are challenged to ask how we might be good news in our world, in ways that acknowledge the dispossession of Australia s Indigenous peoples and the ongoing damaging effects of racism and long-term injustice on people s wellbeing. We are challenged to seek alternatives that build new relationships of mutual understanding and respect. Such alternatives would promote policies which express genuine commitment to community development which is culturally-sensitive and empowering. In the development of Indigenous policy, governments must engage with Indigenous people and communities in appropriate and respectful processes of consultation Justice for Indigenous people will depend on policies which ensure appropriate resourcing in the areas of health, housing, education, employment, and welfare support, to build on the Government s Close the Gap pledge. There is a need for policies which respect self-determination and the ability and desire of Indigenous people to address their own disadvantage. Just policies will recognise the unique place of Indigenous people in Australia, and the particular needs and disadvantages they face, by the separate funding and provision of services. The recognition of Native Title is a crucial aspect of just policy. We seek policies that support and strengthen culture and language. Economic empowerment needs to be facilitated through support for local initiatives and Indigenous businesses. Just policy will include a reconciliation process which builds on the National Apology, and include a commitment to overcome racism and develop the capacity of non-indigenous Australians to be respectful of Indigenous culture and peoples. Australians for Native Title and Reconciliation (ANTaR) are promoting Success Stories in Indigenous Health examples of best practice which highlight the active role Indigenous people play in identifying and implementing successful solutions to improving Indigenous health outcomes. Your Faith, Your Vote, Your Voice 7

8 3 Protecting the Persecuted Compassion for Asylum Seekers and Refugees Our vision In the Hebrew Scriptures God is often identified as the God who cares for the exiled and the stranger. God brings justice to the oppressed and calls on the people of faith to care for the strangers and aliens in their midst as they care for each other. Hospitality to the stranger became one of the strongest moral forces in ancient Israel. The Christian story continued to uphold God s call to solidarity with the homeless. Jesus called on people to love their enemies, give all they had to the poor, and offer hospitality to strangers. He taught that faithful obedience to God was marked by such deeds and that it would be how well people responded to strangers and to the poor that would identify them as people of faith. Facing the issues There are currently around 42 million people worldwide forcibly uprooted by conflict and persecution, including more than 15 million refugees and over asylum seekers. There is no queue for these millions of people, and the UNHCR (the United Nations Refugee Agency) does not have the resources to provide adequately for all of them. Did you know? The burden of housing displaced people is borne by the developing world, with 80 percent of refugees situated in developing countries. The Uniting Church has spoken out against many of Australia s policies on asylum seekers and refugees. We are particularly concerned that national policies focus on security, border protection, deterrence and punishment rather than on humanitarian need. Asylum seekers are in need of compassion, but the language is instead about being tough. Australian governments have spent billions of dollars ensuring that asylum seekers who arrive outside of our offshore resettlement program do not reach the Australian migration zone. Those who do have been punished through various mechanisms such as offshore mandatory detention and temporary protection visas. Such policies are intented to deter other asylum seekers, but their impact in this regard is questionable. People flee situations of persecution and violence. The numbers of asylum seekers seeking protection in Australia will fluctuate as conflicts escalate or ease. Even when they swell, the numbers of asylum seekers arriving by boat to Australia continues to be exceedingly small compared to the tens of thousands of people who arrive each year in European countries. 8 Building an Economy for Life

9 Seeking just policy An economy for life is not served by maintaining a fear of the stranger, building barriers and refusing to help those who approach us with desperate pleas for assistance. Our national interest is not served by blocking out the suffering of people who flee their homeland in fear for their life. It is served, rather, by Australia upholding our obligations to protect the human rights of all people, regardless of where they come from and how they arrive, and by contributing positively to build peace and alleviate injustice in regions where conflict exists. Australia s policy responses should be focused on refugees need for inclusion, healing, and participation in society, and guided by the overarching aim of building safe, inclusive, and peaceful communities worldwide. By responding compassionately to those who travel to Australia in their search for protection through just and humane treatment, fair processes, and provision of adequate care, we can ensure that we do not punish the victims of conflict and oppression. We seek an end to the mandatory detention of asylum seekers, permanent protection for all refugees and an end to the use of the Christmas Island detention facilities. There is no reason for governments to treat asylum seekers who arrive by boat differently to those who come by air all asylum seekers should be permitted to live lawfully in the community while their applications are being processed. Australia should act as a responsible global citizen, assisting the global community to move toward long-term solutions for refugees, and in finding ways to address the causes and conditions that displace people and result in the forced movement of people. We seek an end to demonising vulnerable people for perceived electoral gain and look for strong and ethical leadership from our politicians. Find out more about the Uniting Church s work for just policy for refugees and asylum seekers. Your Faith, Your Vote, Your Voice 9

10 4 TACKLING CLIMATE CHANGE Ensuring our Future Our vision The Christian commitment to the environment arises out of the belief that God, as the Creator of the universe, calls us into a special relationship with creation a relationship of mutuality and interdependence which seeks the reconciliation of all creation with God. While the natural environment is a gift to us its resources being necessary for our survival it has intrinsic value as part of God s good creation. We believe that God s will for the earth is renewal and reconciliation, not destruction by human beings. Facing the issues Climate change is a major social, environmental and economic issue. If greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise, we will see irreversible changes in natural environments around the world which will have devastating consequences for all of us but especially for those who already live in poverty. Social justice and environmental sustainability are inherently connected to each other and must always take precedence over the desire for increasing profits and the amassing of wealth by a relative few. The climate change crisis is a clear demonstration that some of us are consuming too much and that we need to consider the limits to growth. Tackling climate change requires global collaboration and a commitment from all nations to do their fair share. Recently, we have seen the failure of international talks which many had hoped would lead to a binding international agreement. At the United Nations climate change negotiations in Copenhagen, Denmark in December 2009, The National Assembly s statement on climate change is available on the UnitingJustice Australia website. the leaders of small, developing nations and island states and representatives of environmental and social justice organisations from all over the world expressed their frustration with the negotiation process and its outcome a decision to note the Copenhagen Accord. The Copenhagen Accord is not a formal agreement within the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change system and so it is not clear how it will be implemented. There are no firm targets for developed countries or commitments for developing countries and very weak provisions for climate change assistance for developing countries. Countries are now working on implementing the Accord and identifying the most fruitful directions for future negotiations. 10 Building an Economy for Life

11 Australia s submission to the Copenhagen Accord of an unconditional five percent reduction in emissions by 2020 is not comparable with Australia s responsibility, as a developed, prosperous country with a very high level of per capita emissions, to do its fair share in reducing global greenhouse gas emissions. It also risks leaving Australia behind in the global transition to a clean economy. The current Government and Opposition share the view that it is in Australia s national interest to secure a global response that stabilises atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations at 450 ppm CO2-e, or lower Australia s five percent reduction commitment is not in keeping with this aim. Furthermore, many of the conditions which the current Government has set for movement towards a 25 percent reduction in emissions have already been met, including substantive commitments and actions being taken by major developing economies. Seeking just policy Tackling climate change presents us with the opportunity to reassess our relationship with the natural world and the ways our economic systems can, and have, helped or hindered ecological flourishing. To ensure the future of our planet, we must begin to transform our economy from one based on fossil fuels to a green economy that reflects respect for the limited resources of the planet and the need for justice and equity among all people. Australia must commit nationally and internationally to strong and binding greenhouse emissions reduction targets. We must urgently implement a range of policies, including a carbon price signal, that will effectively drive down our domestic emissions and force the redirection of resources towards the research, development and implementation of renewable energies. Nationally and internationally, we must develop and distribute new technologies that reduce our consumption of resources and production of waste products. Our approach to managing our natural resources must be informed by the best scientific research and not by political expediency. Just environmental policies would support all people in making necessary transitions to a more sustainable way of living. A strong global agreement will only be achieved when adequate assistance is given to developing countries to help them address their own emissions levels and adapt to the effects of climate change while allowing them to continue to increase their prosperity. Your Faith, Your Vote, Your Voice 11

12 5 beyond the urban fringe Issues for Outback Australia Our vision During the days of abundance, we, like the Israelites, have failed the test. A culture of greed and selfishness has divided us. We have not paid proper attention to the needs of all the people and inequity thrives across Australia. The global financial crisis exposed the worst excesses of this culture and we must now take the opportunity to reflect on what we have learned. We need to discover new and sustainable ways of working together to build a more prosperous society for everyone; a society which measures its success not merely in financial and material terms, but more significantly by the wellbeing of people and the environment. We dream of a land of thriving communities where people have choice and opportunity and feel supported and encouraged throughout their lives. Facing the issues The health of the national economy impacts significantly upon remote and isolated areas and the people who live there. Delivery of services requires a significant and ongoing funding commitment but all too often, funding for services in rural and remote Australia is cut back or moved down the priority list. A longer term approach to addressing the needs of rural and remote communities is required so that services contribute to the sustainability of communities, enabling them to withstand the peaks and troughs of the economy and the challenges of changes in climate. For many people in remote areas, including Indigenous communities, basic health, welfare, commercial services and educational opportunities are much more difficult to obtain than for people living in coastal areas and capital cities. Rural and remote communities, cut off from major commercial and service hubs by distance and climate, are confronted by a unique set of issues and a unique experience of disadvantage. Seeking just policy Viewing personal worth and communal progress in terms of material prosperity is simplistic and short-sighted especially in the context of remote Australia. Such a view is not only contrary to the values of God s economy of life, it also neither allows nor acknowledges the value of outback Australia s important contribution to the country s cultural identity. 12 Building an Economy for Life

13 We are presented with the opportunity for things to be different, for a balance to be struck, especially for people living in remote Australia. We can foster hope for a different community a community that allows for the voices of Australians living beyond the urban fringes to be heard and which enables people s engagement with the decision-making process for government policies which significantly impact their lives. Policy development must be based on the recognition of the value of rural, regional and remote Australia to a peaceful and prosperous nation. It is critical that Australians living in rural and remote areas have access to basic services and are able to effectively participate in Australia s economy and society. Nobody should be left behind as a result of where they live. Just policy will enable the provision of modern transport and communications infrastructure and technology, including high quality broadband internet connection, throughout rural, regional and remote Australia. We seek policy which addresses the shortage of healthcare workers, especially nurses, but also general practitioners, dentists, optometrists and allied health professionals such as podiatrists, physiotherapists and occupational therapists as well as mental health workers and childcare staff. It is important that economic, social and environmental programs are delivered in a coordinated fashion so that, together with local initiatives, they will enable each region to maximise its sustainable development. Frontier Services is a national agency of the Uniting Church in Australia, committed to providing ministry and community services to remote and isolated areas of Australia. Its programs include health care, children s services, counselling, family support, aged and community care, migrant settlement services and patrol ministry. Your Faith, Your Vote, Your Voice 13

14 6 protecting human rights Our vision Human rights are basic and universal principles to guide the way we treat each other, describing the requirements for each person to live a life of dignity. Christian support for human rights rests on the understanding that the community flourishes in peace when all people are included, treated with compassion, and given the respect they deserve as beloved children of God. Facing the issues The Uniting Church has a long history of advocating for government policies which protect and promote human rights. In the past decade, we have expressed our concern over numerous policies which breach or undermine our human rights obligations, including the prolonged, indefinite detention of asylum seekers, the Intervention into Aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory, and counter-terrorism legislation. Although the Australian Government has committed at the international level to protect and promote human rights through signing United Nations human rights treaties, without comprehensive incorporation of human rights protection in domestic laws such commitments lack the impetus required to ensure that the government fully considers human rights implications in the development and implementation of policy. In Australia we do not have complete implementation of these international human rights commitments in our domestic laws. This means that governments can implement laws and policies which violate the human rights of members of our community. While Australia s human rights record may be positive by international standards, it is not acceptable for a country as prosperous and peaceful as ours to treat sections of the population as less-deserving than others. Seeking just policy Australian Government policy should uphold the human rights of all people, be free from discrimination and treat all in our community with dignity and respect. We seek the full implementation of our international human rights commitments in domestic laws and government policy. A Human Rights Act would provide the most comprehensive framework for protecting human rights in Australia and would serve as a checklist for governments in formulating their policies and activities and for the courts when examining laws. An important marker of Australia s commitment to human rights is our engagement with the international human rights system and willingness to constructively act on the recommendations of the United Nations human rights bodies. Australia has an important role to play in advocating for the worldwide abolition of the use of the death penalty, particularly in the countries of our region. 14 Building an Economy for Life

15 7 justice in income support Our vision Our vision is for a system which provides sufficient income support to enable people to meet their basic needs and which encourages and enables people to identify and build the skills and knowledge they need to participate in the community, enhance their life chances, and improve their quality of life. Such a system would reflect the vision of Jesus for human wholeness - the love of God made manifest in the experiences of dignity and respect, meaning and purpose in life, health and security of person, inclusion in communities of care and participation in society. Facing the issues Australians receiving income support payments are often stigmatised in our culture we do not fully value the contribution they can make to our communities nor give them the opportunity and assistance to do so, instead regarding the government s provision of income and services to them as a burden on society. This has lead to inadequate levels of payment in many income support categories, a major cause of poverty and deprivation in our community. In this election year, we are witnessing the further stigmatisation and discrimination of people receiving income support, through the proposal to extend involuntary income management - where the Government manages half a person s payments and restricts what they can buy with this money. It is an inflexible blunt policy which will do nothing to assist income support recipients with financial decision-making. These changes have been proposed with little regard for consultation with the communities, families and individuals affected and the community service organisations who assist them on a daily basis. Seeking just policy We seek an income support system that demonstrates generosity and reciprocity in its response to people who are reliant on support payments. Income support payments provided to people in need should be at a level which allows them to access the all goods and services which are necessary for a decent life. Involuntary income management is not the answer to alleviating poverty and deprivation. A holistic approach is needed to overcome disadvantage, which works with people s strengths and invests in the necessary support, services, skills development and encouragement. Social welfare policies should move from a punitive approach that focuses on what people can t do to a strengths-based approach that begins with what people can and are able to do. Your Faith, Your Vote, Your Voice 15

16 8 sharing our wealth A Just and Progressive Taxation System Our vision Christians believe that the world is God s gracious gift to humankind and that God s offer of life is abundance for all. As recipients of this gift we have a responsibility to ensure that we can all share in what it provides. In a capitalist democracy like Australia, taxation is our primary tool for ensuring the equitable distribution of wealth and the raising of public money, our common wealth, so that we can meet the basic needs of all people in society. We imagine a society where taxation is not regarded as a burden, but as how people contribute, according to their means, to the well-being of the whole community. Taxation is an appropriate response to God s free gifts of life. It is a profoundly moral matter. Facing the issues The common understanding of tax in Australia, reflected in the language used in public debate and around dinner tables, is that tax is a burden on the individual; that it is something to be avoided and minimised. This view is encouraged by a very complex and unbalanced tax system and reflected in the extensive use of accountants in the preparation of tax returns to access loopholes and deduction opportunities. It is incompatible with the primary role of taxation to enable governments to fulfil their responsibility to provide public services such as healthcare, education and the development of infrastructure to support vibrant communities. Australia s overall level of tax revenue was 30.6 percent of Gross Domestic Product in The only countries in the OECD with much lower levels are Japan, Korea, Mexico, Turkey and the US. This relatively low level of taxation restricts the ability of governments in Australia to address the public policy problems facing our community, such as the health needs of an ageing population, investing adequately in public infrastructure such as roads, schools and hospitals, closing the gap in relation to Indigenous disadvantage and responding to climate change. The Australia s future tax system review, established by the Federal Government in 2008, is the most comprehensive review of the tax and transfer systems to be undertaken in recent decades Building an Economy for Life

17 Seeking just policy We seek public policy which understands taxation not as a burden, but as how people contribute, according to their means, to the well-being of the whole community through redistribution and the provision of goods and services. Income support would be regarded, not merely as a safety net for the deserving few who slip through the system, but as an expression of our responsibility to each other and the common good, and essential for equity and fairness in society. We seek a taxation system which generates a sufficient amount of revenue to meet the democratic demands on governments to provide the goods and services needed to grow a healthy, prosperous and inclusive community. We seek a taxation system that is equitable and treats all taxpayers according to their ability to pay. It is entirely reasonable to expect that all in our community, particularly those who are unable to support themselves financially, can access the assistance they need to participate in the community. Government policies should provide for income support that is understood not merely as a safety net for the deserving few who slip through the system, but as an expression of our responsibility to each other and the common good, and essential for equity and fairness in society. The tax and income support systems should work together, and not penalise individuals and households with reduced income when their circumstances change. Genuine material wealth is neither money, nor luxurious goods and services. Humankind will be genuinely materially wealthy when everyone has access to the following goods and services at the level required to satisfy basic human needs appropriate food, clothing and healthcare; safe and secure housing; meaningful work, education, rest and enjoyment; and the opportunity to participate in and contribute to communities. Economic Justice the Equitable Distribution of Wealth Assembly Social Responsibility and Justice Committee, Your Faith, Your Vote, Your Voice 17

18 9 a decent life for older people Our vision The Christian story calls us to work toward communities in which everyone belongs, can contribute, and is valued. Older people may require assistance and care and may themselves be caring for family, friends and others in the community. Older Australians must be given the right to fully participate in the community as they wish to and are able and the right to opportunities to enhance their life chances and quality of life. Whether people are cared for, or are carers, our vision is that older people should have the chance to share justly in the abundant resources of our nation. Facing the issues Ageing is still stigmatised in our culture. Older people are often not fully valued and included in community life: enabled to maintain health and independence; able to contribute their talents and wisdom; pursue their interests; nurture relationships; maintain their culture and spirituality; or be in control of their future. Our aged care system was not designed for and is not ready for the increasing numbers of older Australians requiring care and support. The current system is often overly complex and confusing and does not enable people who are financially able to contribute in a flexible way to the cost of the services provided to them. Financial, human and service resources are often not deployed where and when people need them, and funding has not kept up with the real cost of quality care and support. Seeking just policy We seek a new approach to ageing which values and celebrates the contributions made by older Australians to our community and ensures every older Australian is able to live with dignity and comfort, with the opportunity to choose where they live and with a choice of appropriate and affordable support and care services as and when they need them. Services and support for older people, their carers and communities should be provided as an entitlement based on assessed needs and levels of demand, rather than an allocated number of places for communities. Older people and their families should be provided with choice and flexibility in services, housing and care and in price and payment methods for those who have an ability to contribute to the cost of services. In light of Australia s ageing population, governments need to ensure the sustainability of services and support growth and improvements in the sector. 18 Building an Economy for Life

19 10 embracing our diversity A Multicultural, Multi-faith Society Our vision We follow Jesus Christ who showed us that we have a responsibility to recognise and embrace the differences among human beings. The early church in response to Christ s call in action broke through the barriers of race, culture, class, gender and even faith. We are called to live out God s will for reconciliation in the world. Social cohesion is dependent on our understanding and acceptance of our country as a multi-faith and multicultural society. This requires that we work together as a nation for an end to the violence of racism and xenophobia while maintaining respect for each other and for our differences in our common identity as Australians. Central to our Christian faith is a vision of life calling us to a way of being and living in the world that respects every person as made in the image of God. Facing the issues Australia is a society of many faiths and cultures: 43% of us were born overseas or had at least one parent born overseas, and although Christianity remains the dominant religion in our community, other religions are now growing at proportionately faster rates. These demographic changes are happening against a backdrop of complaints of abuse, scapegoating and discrimination from Australia s cultural and ethnic minority groups. In a time when expressions of a person s religious faith can mark them as very different from the mainstream of Australian society, and when religious and racial intolerance are inextricably intertwined, it is very important that we continue to promote awareness and respect both for each other and for the very fabric of our multicultural, multi-faith nation. Seeking just policy We seek effective, creative policy to encourage an open, inclusive Australia, where each person is able to feel welcome and safe. The vision of a nation enriched through cultural and religious diversity needs to be continually reaffirmed and supported by Government and community leaders. The related issues of racial and faith-based discrimination must be brought out into the public domain and discussed and addressed respectfully and thoughtfully. Divisive, stereotyping language and depictions of particular cultural and faith communities should not be tolerated. We seek a deeper commitment to providing and funding services that are responsive to the specific needs of members of our diverse Australian community, and to educating for an inclusive Australia where the rights and beliefs of everyone are valued and respected. Your Faith, Your Vote, Your Voice 19

20 1 1 justice in international development Our vision The Christian faith is concerned integrally with serving people who are poor, removing the barriers that create a cycle of poverty and supporting them in building sustainable and meaningful communities. We believe the way Jesus shared meals portrays God s economic vision. The taking, blessing, breaking and sharing of bread and wine is a spiritual, political and economic act; it is a sign of our understanding that each person should be able to partake of God s bounty, and that God invites us to act out this belief in the life of our community. We hope for a world where wealthy nations engage joyfully and generously in the equitable redistribution of the gifts of God, so everyone is able to access all that is necessary to live a life of dignity: clean water, enough food, education, good health and resilient, harmonious communities. Facing the issues Two of the great crises facing humanity at present are impacting those least responsible - the people of developing countries who mostly have not contributed to climate change, nor are responsible for the reckless financial decisions which have led to the Global Financial Crisis. These communities are least equipped to cope and rebuild. It is in this context that we are also failing to meet the For more information about the MDGs, visit Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). There has been some progress in some areas. Those living in extreme poverty in developing regions accounted for just over one quarter of the developing world s population in 2005, compared to almost half in Enrolment in primary education reached 88 percent in 2007, and the deaths of children under five declined worldwide by 3.6 million per year between 1990 and But in 2010, well past the halfway mark, it is looking unlikely that the MDGs will be achieved by the 2015 deadline. The statistics on poverty, education and health remain alarming. In 2008, 8.8 million children across the world died before their fifth birthday (with under-nutrition contributing to over a third of these deaths) 2. In 2009, an estimated 55 million to 90 million more people will be living in extreme poverty than anticipated before the Global Financial Crisis 3. In sub-saharan Africa, a woman s risk of dying from treatable or preventable complications of pregnancy and childbirth over the course of her lifetime is 1 in 22, compared to 1 in 7,300 in the developed regions. 4 1 UN, The Millennium Development Goals Report 2009, available: %20ENG.pdf 2 UNICEF, Statistics by Area: Child Mortality, 3 UNDP, Human Development Report 2009, available: 4 UNDP, Tracking Global Progress, 20 Building an Economy for Life

21 Seeking just policy It is clear that our current economic system favours the already powerful and prosperous. While the rich in our world are increasing their wealth, those who are poor and powerless remain staggering in number. A minority of the world s people continue to consume the majority of the earth s resources and hold the majority of wealth, with food crises leading to violence and destruction driving people further into hunger and poverty. This is a system which perpetrates exploitation, instability, injustice and violence and prioritises profit over human wellbeing. People living in developing countries suffered significantly more during the Global Financial Crisis. While Australia has emerged relatively unscathed, countries in the developing world are still feeling the effects. Additionally, many remain under-resourced to meet the costs of adapting to climate change. This leaves Australia in a prime position to address the needs of people in developing countries. We seek policies that ensure Australia does all it can to bring about a world in which extreme poverty is eradicated, people s basic needs are met and their human rights are realised. Development requires sustainable economic growth and security, effective and stable good governance and communities committed to peace. Australia must make good its commitment to the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), including lifting our foreign aid to 0.7% of our Gross National Income by Australia s aid and development plan should work in partnership with communities, enhancing local resources to solve problems and build better infrastructure. Our aid program should not be determined solely by our strategic and economic interests. Australia can support developing nations, especially those in our region, by supporting the World Bank and the IMF to provide deeper debt relief so that they can redirect their spending towards the provision of vital services to their people. Our approach to economic and trade relations should help the global economy work for the poor, rather than undermine development objectives. A just policy response includes commitments to overcome barriers to development and redress past injustices, global inequalities and structural disadvantage. A national commitment to progress and genuine security for the human community as a whole and to environmental sustainability, will benefit everyone. Your Faith, Your Vote, Your Voice 21

22 12 an election toolkit Ideas and Resources for Active Citizenship Identifying local issues of concern This booklet identifies a range of national issues which can be raised with Federal candidates. There are also important local issues that will be known to you and your local community. We hope that the focus on values throughout this document can be applied to other national issues and in thinking about more specific local issues. Synods and Uniting Church agencies in your area might be able to provide further information and resources upon request. Participating in pre-election activities talk As a congregation, organise a local forum for candidates in your area to talk about issues concerning your community. It is wise to provide clear parameters for such a meeting. This could be a meeting for members of the Church, or wider community. A guide to running such a forum is available on the Uniting Church election website at As an individual or in a group, arrange a meeting with your current local member and other candidates standing in your electorate. Helpful information on how to go about organising a meeting is available on the JustAct website at write Write to local candidates in your area indicating both local and national issues you would like to see addressed by the Government and community. Write to the leaders of all major parties expressing your desire and values for the future of Australia. Write an article for your local paper about the things you are looking for in political leadership and the issues you think need to be addressed. Write letters to the editors of local, regional and national papers. pray Pray for the leadership of Australia, for those who make decisions, for those who are affected by those decisions and for our nation. You might like to use the prayers from the Uniting in Worship People s Book pages 168, 172 and 182. In Sunday worship, choose a focus issue each week for information and/or prayer. Worship resources to start you off on the themes in this booklet are available on the UnitingJustice Australia website 22 Building an Economy for Life

23 People, parties and policies The easiest way to find out more information about political parties, their origins, agendas and policies, is to visit their websites. What follows here is a list of websites of political parties which currently hold seats in the Federal Parliament: The Liberal Party of Australia - The Australian Labor Party - The Nationals - The Australian Greens - The Country Liberal Party - Family First - There are also several current independent members of the Parliament. Profiles of these members can be found at the Parliament of Australia website at (for current members of the House of Representatives) or (for current members of the Senate). Please note that this list is not an exhaustive list of parties and candidates standing for the election, and it does not constitute an endorsement of any political party. For more information about other political parties and candidates as it becomes available, visit the Australian Electoral Commission s (AEC) website at The AEC can also help you find out which Federal Electorate you are in and who is your local Member of Parliament, by visiting The Australian Broadcasting Corporation also provides online coverage of elections at its dedicated website Enrolling to Vote If you or a member of family is enrolling to vote for the first time, or if you need to change your enrolment details prior to the election, it s important to know that once the government announces the election you won t have much time so get in early! Visit the Australian Electoral Commission website for info on how it s done Your Faith, Your Vote, Your Voice 23