Baptcare advocates on behalf of those who have limited power or voice in the political and economic dimensions of Australian society, recognising the inherent dignity and equality of all people regardless of their circumstances. We engage in research and advocacy on issues crucial to the needs of the people with whom we work. We draw on evidence from our own research and from external research, from the services we run and from the people for whom we provide services.
The purpose of Baptcare’s advocacy activity is to:
- Advocate for change through informing and mobilising key audiences.
- Ensure that the policy foundations of the organisation are evidence-based and support Baptcare’s programs and services.
- Work with policy makers and research staff in government and non-government organisations to inform their policy and decision-making.
- Implement and test policy initiatives in collaboration with other stakeholders and with particular communities.
- Collaborate strategically with other organisations within the community services, aged care and allied sectors and the broader human services sector, through advocacy and social policy papers and joint submissions, and through participation in relevant forums.
Baptcare’s strategic policy and advocacy platform
Baptcare’s strategic policy and advocacy platform for 2012 to 2016 is currently in development.
Policy and advocacy papers
Baptcare 2010, Social Inclusion; Social Exclusion; Disadvantage (PDF)
This position paper articulates why socially inclusive activities and services that directly respond and seek to alleviate disadvantage and social exclusion matter to Baptcare. This position paper also articulates what responding to social exclusion and disadvantage means for Baptcare in practice.
To discuss potential advocacy initiatives with Baptcare, please contact Dr Michael Fotheringham, Director of Research, mfotheringham@baptcare.org.au or (03) 9831 7324.