Catholic Social Services Victoria's latest book, Serving Communities with Courage and Compassion was launched virtually on November 11 by Archbishop Peter Comensoli. Published by Connor Court, the book draws together an edited collection of keynotes, workshops and panel discussions that were presented at the national Catholic social services conference held earlier this year in Melbourne, which saw more than 280 participants attend from across Australia and New Zealand. Purchase the book here. 

Catholic Social Services Australia has told a Senate Committee that plans to continue and extend the cashless debit card system are “stigmatising” and would disproportionately affect Indigenous Australians. The national peak body for dozens of Catholic social service agencies recently made a submission to the Senate Standing Committee on Community Affairs on the Social Security (Administration) Amendment (Continuation of Cashless Welfare) Bill 2020.

"We need to dream of an engaged, vibrant and relevant church that is reflected not just in its outreach, but more importantly, in its manner, disposition and basic humanity. ... Only a heart-driven church will have any chance of relating beyond its increasingly narrowing base. Only a church that walks along with victims, and risks becoming a victim, with them, can resonate the spirit of Jesus and the dream of the Gospel.” Francis Sullivan, Chair of Catholic Social Services Australia features in our new book, Serving Communities with Courage and Compassion, being launched on 11th November at 2pm.

"If you were experiencing family violence, if you were living in fear for your life, if your actions were being controlled, would you also be out looking for a job? If you didn't get fully paid for the work that you were doing, would you still do it?" Jocelyn Bignold, CEO of McAuley Community Services for Women, presents at the national Catholic social services conference in February this year. An edited version of this presentation is included in our newly published book being launched online on 11th November, from 2pm-3pm (AEDT).