Advocacy Publications

ACTCOSS made a submission to the Inquiry into Cashless Gaming. We aim to provide insights and recommendations regarding the integration of cashless gaming systems within the ACT, with a strong emphasis on the crucial aspect of mitigating gambling harm. As an active participant in discussions surrounding responsible gambling reform, ACTCOSS seek to contribute constructively to […]

ACTCOSS made a submission to the Federal inquiry into the worsening rental crisis in Australia. At present, the Australian housing context is riddled with instability and unaffordability that disproportionately effects the most vulnerable and disadvantaged households. The consequences of this housing crisis are clearly evident in the ACT region. As our 2023 ACT Cost of […]

ACTCOSS made a submission to the Independent Competition and Regulatory Commission (ICRC) Retail Electricity Prices Investigation 2024-27 Issues Paper. Our submission provides some background on the experiences of vulnerable consumers, including First Nations people’s experiences in the energy market. Our submission highlights how decreases in the spending power of low-income households due to the current cost […]

Commissioning is a paramount priority for ACTCOSS. ACTCOSS occupies an influential position in the commissioning process and is uniquely equipped to help distil and communicate lessons that will improve commissioning. ACTCOSS has clearly stated public positions on Commissioning that were developed in consultation with members. ACTCOSS’ role in commissioning is to: ensure, to the extent […]

The ACT Government has committed to reaching net-zero emissions, transitioning away from gas, and electrifying the territory by 2045. ACTCOSS believes this is the right pathway forward to reduce emissions, reduce energy costs, and to improve living standards in the ACT. This report builds on the previous ACTCOSS report: A Just and Inclusive Gas Transition […]

ACTCOSS made a submission to the draft ACT Preventative Health Action Plan 2023-25. This submission to the consultation highlights ACTCOSS’ key concerns regarding the necessary inclusion of the social and environmental determinants of health in the Preventative Health Action Plan 2023-25. Our feedback highlights the importance of addressing the underlying causes as well as negative […]

ACTCOSS made a submission to the draft ACT Disability Health Strategy 2023-2033. This is an important milestone as an inclusive initiative that demonstrates the ACT’s commitment to enhancing healthcare outcomes for people with disability. ACTCOSS, as a community sector peak body, wholeheartedly supports the Strategy’s ambitious goals and guiding principles. To further enhance the impact […]

The 2023 ACT Cost of Living Report highlights the dual impact of the highest increase in living costs in over 20 years and the impact of these costs on women. Over the past 12 months the ACT community sector has seen an increase in demand for social services alongside an increase in poverty, disadvantage and […]

ACTCOSS welcomed the opportunity to provide feedback to the public consultation on the Justice (Age of Criminal Responsibility) Legislation Amendment Bill 2023. This Bill raises the minimum age of criminal responsibility in a staged manner from 10 years of age to 14 years. Over the next two years, the government intends to design and deliver […]

ACTCOSS made a submission to the ACT Government’s draft Design Guide for the draft ACT Active Travel Plan. ACTCOSS supports the implementation of the Active Travel Plan and Design Guide. Full and proper implementation of active travel infrastructure could be a key mechanism for reducing the cost of living in Canberra and improving transport equity. […]