Through our policy and advocacy work ACTCOSS promotes equitable social policy and extends community recognition of the rights, entitlements and needs of people living with poverty and disadvantage in the ACT. In undertaking this work, we also advocate for of a well-resourced and sustainable community sector.

Members of the ACTCOSS policy team undertake various activities including:

• conducting research,
• convening working groups and networks,
• consulting with members and other interested parties,
• writing submissions, letters and papers,
• meeting public officials and appearing before Assembly committees,
• coordinating campaigns and raising social justice issues in the media.

ACTCOSS both engages with government policy processes and initiates policy work in areas of emerging and identified need. We contribute to policy development on issues such as housing, homelessness, mental health, disability services, health, employment and economic policy, corrections, gambling, community sector workforce issues, consumer rights and complaints bodies.

As a membership-based organisation, ACTCOSS’ policy work builds on the activities, priorities and needs of the membership. The objective of this work is to include in the public debate the lived experience of people living with poverty and disadvantage, and to facilitate the participation of communities and individuals in policy development and decision-making.