Local governments play a critical role in addressing community health, wellbeing and climate challenges. Local government funding and more effective partnership between levels of government – through formalised agreements, capability-building and local knowledge integration – can create sustainable and effective programs for Australian communities.

The government’s employment services reforms are a welcome step towards a more tailored and supportive system. The next challenge is redesigning the structures and incentives of the system so it empowers people to overcome barriers and find secure, meaningful work.

As governments look to reform our social services systems, they must tap into the transformative power of relationships.