Social Equity in Australia

Introduction

In every nation, some communities face obstacles that obstruct their ability to fully participate in the nation’s political, social and economic life. In addition to discriminatory attitudes, beliefs, or perceptions, these groups may be excluded not just via legal systems, property, and labour markets but also through other social institutions. A person may be disadvantaged due to various circumstances, including but not limited to their gender, age, location, profession, race, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Other factors may also play a role. In this way, people who are excluded from society are robbed of their dignity, their chance for security, and the possibility of leading a more fulfilling life. Making efforts to guarantee that everyone has equal access to opportunities is social inclusion (Filia et al., 2018). The multifaceted process aims to create circumstances that permit full and active involvement of every member of society in all parts of life, such as civic, economic, social, and political activities, and also participation in decision-making processes. Inclusion in society may also be seen as how societies work to reduce the effects of social exclusion and poverty (Kwilinski et al., 2020). The goal of social inclusion is to provide those who are economically disadvantaged and socially marginalized the tools they need to participate in the expanding possibilities available on a global scale. It guarantees that individuals have a voice in choices that impact their lives and equal access to markets, services, and social, political, and physical places. Additionally, it guarantees that individuals have a voice in decisions that affect their communities.

Australia as an Egalitarian

Australia’s civilization is intricate and diversified. Nevertheless, several characteristics of Australian society indicate that it is more equitable than other nations. In Australia, for instance, social mobility is relatively high, which indicates that individuals may move up or down the socioeconomic ladder more readily than in other nations. Moreover, Australia has a culture of mateship that emphasizes equality and fairness. Nonetheless, it is essential to acknowledge that Australia is not a fully egalitarian society. There are still substantial socioeconomic gaps between groups of individuals, with some groups being more impoverished than others. Furthermore, Australia’s history of prejudice against particular groups, like Indigenous Australians, reveals that its society has not always been equitable. Australia is a highly equal nation, yet there is a need for improvement in some areas.

Concept of Social Inclusion

There are numerous advantages to social inclusion (Lambert, 2020). A community may become more cohesive and supportive if everyone is given the same opportunities to engage in society. Inclusion in society may also assist in lessening the incidence of crime and other social issues, enhancing economic results for everyone. However, participating in social life does not come without its challenges. People who profit from the present system of social exclusion, which makes accomplishment more complex, have a potential incentive to oppose change. Despite this, social inclusion should be a primary focus for those working toward creating a more fair and equal society. In an attempt to create social equity, Australia has introduced a variety of initiatives. Among them include the implementation of anti-discrimination legislation, the expansion of access to training and education and the provision of targeted support to underprivileged communities. In addition, several government programs that boost social inclusion have been established recently, including the Closing the Gap strategy and the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

Measure Adopted by Australia to Achieve Social Equity

By preventing individuals from being treated unjustly based on their traits, anti-discrimination laws serve a crucial role in attaining social equity (Blackham & Allen, 2019). These rules prohibit discrimination based on other characteristics, ethnicity, race, age, religion, gender, and disability. This implies that everyone is subject to similar rights and opportunities regardless of background. The rules create a fair playing ground in society, which may improve economic development and social cohesion. Furthermore, these laws convey that prejudice is not tolerated in Australian culture. This may assist in altering discriminatory attitudes and actions that perpetuate social exclusion.

Increasing education and training access is one of the most fundamental ways Australia has moved towards social equity (Anderson & Boyle, 2019). This involves offering free or low-cost education, expanding student financial aid, and enhancing rural and distant access to education. Making education accessible allows the playing field to be levelled, and everyone is given an equal chance to achieve. Additionally, accessibility to education and training may help break the cycle of poverty since those who have it are more likely to get excellent employment and earn a living wage. Providing targeted aid to underprivileged people is one of Australia’s primary strategies for achieving social equity. Ensuring that the most underprivileged have access to opportunities and the resources necessary for success helps to level the playing field and gives everyone an equal opportunity to participate in society. In addition, this kind of aid may help to end the cycle of inequality, making it much simpler for subsequent generations to attain social equality.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme, often known as the NDIS, is a program started by the Australian government that offers support and assistance to people who live in Australia and have a disability (Olney & Dickinson, 2019). As a direct result of the outcomes of the Productivity Commission’s research into disability care and support, the National Disability Insurance Scheme was established in 2013. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a government program that strives to increase social inclusion by guaranteeing that persons with disabilities have equal access to opportunities and services. Funding is made available via the program for items like personal care, therapy, and medical equipment. In addition to this, it assists those who are disabled so that they may live freely and take part in their communities.

The Closing, the Gap approach, is yet another government program to enhance social inclusion (Altman, 2018). It was started in 2008, after the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission’s 2007 Social Justice Report release. The approach focuses on reducing the inequality between Non-Indigenous and Indigenous Australians regarding health and life outcomes. It involves boosting access to training and education, enhancing career possibilities, and offering targeted health services.

Conclusion

Although there is still a long way to go, implementing these policies has contributed to improving social equality in Australia. However, it is essential to remember that social equality is not something that can be accomplished immediately. Continued work and dedication are required from all members of society to develop a society that is more accepting of many perspectives and more just for all people.

References

Altman, J. (2018). Beyond closing the gap: Valuing diversity in Indigenous Australia. Canberra, ACT: Centre for Aboriginal Economic Policy Research (CAEPR), The Australian National University.

Anderson, J., & Boyle, C. (2019). Looking in the mirror: Reflecting on 25 years of inclusive education in Australia. International Journal of Inclusive Education, 23(7-8), 796-810.

Blackham, A., & Allen, D. (2019). Resolving discrimination claims outside the courts: alternative dispute resolution in Australia and the United Kingdom.

Filia, K. M., Jackson, H. J., Cotton, S. M., Gardner, A., & Killackey, E. J. (2018). What is social inclusion? A thematic analysis of professional opinion. Psychiatric rehabilitation journal, 41(3), 183.

Kwilinski, A., Vyshnevskyi, O., & Dzwigol, H. (2020). Digitalization of the EU economies and people at risk of poverty or social exclusion. Journal of Risk and Financial Management, 13(7), 142.

Lambert, S. R. (2020). Do MOOCs contribute to student equity and social inclusion? A systematic review 2014–18. Computers & Education, 145, 103693.

Olney, S., & Dickinson, H. (2019). Australia’s new National Disability Insurance Scheme: Implications for policy and practice. Policy Design and Practice, 2(3), 275-290.