Crisis point for Canberra’s community services: Will the ACT Budget deliver crucial investment?

Canberra’s community sector is at breaking point and today ACT for Community supporters will gather at the ACT Legislative Assembly, where MLAs are expected to acknowledge the funding challenges that have long strained the sector. 

“It is heartening to see MLAs using their platform to shine a light on the funding challenges that have burdened the community sector and the people they help for far too long.  But awareness isn’t enough—now we need real funding commitments in the upcoming ACT Government budget to ensure critical services can continue supporting the Canberrans who rely on them,” said Dr Devin Bowles, CEO of the ACT Council of Social Services (ACTCOSS). 

“The Government has made it clear that this budget calls for tough decisions. Difficult decisions crystalise and reveal a Government’s core values. We hope that when the going gets tough, the ACT Government will prioritise Canberra’s people, especially those in the most disadvantaged circumstances. 

“This motion sends a clear message: the community sector is essential infrastructure and its sustainability must be a priority. Failure to invest now will be a decision the government regrets a decade from now.”  

“Investing in community services isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a smart economic decision. Preventative programs in housing, mental health, and crisis support reduce pressure on hospitals, emergency services, and the justice system, saving taxpayer dollars while strengthening Canberra’s community.” 

“For too long, the sector has been underfunded, forcing organisations to operate with insufficient staffing levels, inadequate facilities, and growing waitlists. ACT for Community is calling on the Government to prioritise funding in the upcoming ACT budget, recognising that investing in community services strengthens social connections, prevents crises, and ultimately reduces long-term government costs,” concluded Dr Bowles. 

The ACT for Community campaign is a coalition of more than 80 Canberra community organisations and peak bodies united in their push for increased government funding to strengthen and sustain the community sector. 

For more information go to https://actforcommunity.com.au/  

For more information or comment, please contact 
Dr Devin Bowles, CEO of ACTCOSS, on 0413 435 080 

Authorised by Dr Devin Bowles on behalf of the
ACT Council of Social Service Inc (ACTCOSS).