The Compact has been developed following extensive consultations between the Government and the sector. The consultations are outlined in the National Compact Consultation Report, released 17 February 2010.

The Parliamentary Secretary for Social Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector Senator Ursula Stephens said that the National Compact would be launched at an official signing ceremony at Parliament House on 17 March.

“The not-for-profit sector makes an extraordinary contribution every day to Australians across the country. The Compact gives us a great opportunity to build on already strong partnerships to tackle key social, environmental challenges,” Senator Stephens said.

“The Compact will become the foundation from which together we can better serve the Australian community – from providing homelessness services and helping new migrants to settle in Australia, to protecting our environment and enriching our cultural life.”

Senator Stephens also announced the appointment of the members of a National Compact Sector Advisory Group to be chaired by Dr Ron Edwards.

Dr Edwards is a member of the Rudd Government’s Social Inclusion Board and founding member of the Graham (Polly) Farmer Foundation supporting Indigenous youth.

The Government and the Sector Advisory Group will together develop concrete plans to implement the Compact’s shared principles and aspirations.