Catholic Social Services Australia National Conference 2008

Social Inlusion: An agenda for all Australians
Rydges South Bank Brisbane
13 - 15 October 2008 

The theme, Social inclusion: An agenda for all Australians, reflects Catholic Social Services Australia's interest in the Rudd Government's commitment to a social inclusion agenda through the establishment of a separate portfolio and also the establishment of the Social Inclusion Board and Social Inclusion Unit in the Commonwealth Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet.

The national conference has traditionally been attended by Directors and nominated staff from our agencies. This year, however, the conference was open to the broader church and charitable sector, the business and government sectors, and other interested members of the community.

Wednesday 15 October, was open to CSSA members only, allowing comment on strategic planning for the year ahead and input into the national policy agenda.

The Catholic Social Services Australia and Catholic Social Services Australia Ltd AGMs were held at the beginning of day three .

National Conference 2008 Program

McCosker Oration
The annual McCosker Oration was presented on Monday 13 October by Monsignor David Cappo AO, Deputy Chairman,Social Inclusion Board.  Full details of this enlightening and inspirational presentation are available here.

Annual Awards
The Catholic Social Services Australia's Annual Awards were also presented on Monday evening 13 October. The presentation was again a highlight of our national conference conference, showcasing the work not only of our agencies, but of the broader social services sector. Details of awards winners can be found here. 

Speaker Presentations

Anti-Poverty Week Lecture
Professor Peter Saunders
Social Policy Research Centre 
Towards a New Poverty Reduction Agenda: Principles and Actions.

Keynote Address
Patricia Faulkner AO
Australian Social Inclusion Board
Social Inclusion: An agenda for all Australians (powerpoint)

All other available speaker presentations are posted in the members section of our website.  Conference delegates, who are members of Catholic Social Services Australia and require login access to the site, please contact Maureen Ghirardello maureenghirardello@ctholicsocialservices.org.au
Non CSSA member conference delegates who would like a copy of any of the available presentations are asked to contact Judith Tokley judithtokley@catholicsocialservvices.org.au

Sponsorship
We would like to take the opportunity to thank the organisations who generously provided sponsorship for our 2008 national conference and awards. Their involvement and support is most appreciated.

For further information about the 2008 national conference please contact
Judith Tokley
Public Affairs Manager
P: 02 6285 1366
M: 0408 824 306
judith.tokley@catholicsocialservices.org.au