Social Responsibility and Justice

 

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 The National Social Responsibility and Justice (NSR&J) Reference Committee celebrates its role to guide and resource the Church to more fully live out its commitment to justice, peace and the integrity of creation, primarily within our UCA and Australian community. (Mission Statement within the NSR&J Mandate)

1.2 The 1997 Invitation to the Nation committed the Assembly to building a nation which responds to the disadvantaged and vulnerable; which acts with generosity; that struggles for equity and justice for all people; that stands in solidarity with Indigenous Australians; and that recognises the importance of all creation for future generations. National Social Respons-ibility and Justice is proud to affirm this statement as it continues to live its commitment to justice in many overt ways. Over the past three years this has been expressed through advocacy, solidarity with marginalised groups, support of the oppressed, advocating for changes in public policy, enabling public awareness and continued work with the National Council of Churches. A highlight of our work has been an archiving project relating to the history of resources and work completed by the Uniting Church and wider community relating to social justice, particularly focusing on documents and material since Union. (See Section 5.3)

1.3 Over the last three years we have also celebrated the contribution of Rev Robert Stringer as Secretary for Social Responsibility and Justice. Robert resigned from the position of Secretary affective from 31 December 1998 after six years in the position. Robert fulfilled this position with passion and commitment, and at a great cost to himself. His contribution to justice within the Church and community is invaluable – particularly his work on mining of Uranium, inclusion of all people regardless of their sexual orientation, and industrial relations. Robert is an activist who challenged both the church and community to act more justly, and his integrity in this fight is admirable.

1.4 We are very grateful that from the time of Robert’s resignation Debra Brown (Research Officer) acted as the National Director for a period of thirteen months. Debra was required to work under very difficult circumstances with a lot of changes and reduced staff, however she competently kept the agency operating effectively. Debra has agreed to continue in her role as Research Officer within NSR&J, to which she brings her experience and expertise.

1.5 In September 1999 we welcomed Christine Cargill as our new National Director. We are looking forward to the vision and skills that Christine will bring to this position.

1.6 Social Responsibility and Justice is about the fulfilment of the Gospel in Australia. "An Australian Society established on justice, equality and mutual respect among people" (1988 Statement to the Nation). The liberation which is central to the commitment of social justice, is central to the incarnation of God through Jesus Christ. "I have come to bring good news to the poor; to proclaim release of the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free."(Luke 4:18) Through our struggle for justice for all people the mission of Christ, and that of the Church is realised.

 

2. ADMINISTRATION

2.1 Struggle of the Journey

The past three years have been a difficult time for Social Responsibility and Justice as it has responded to increased demands, the Assembly Restructure, changes in staff, and changes in the role of the Reference Committee. Despite this struggle, NSR&J is able to live out the commitment of the Basis of Union to social justice. The ongoing changes in church and society confirm the vision of the authors of the Basis of Union in claiming the gospels focus on justice.

National Social Responsibility and Justice is proud of its journey over the past three years, its achievements and relationships with people in church and Australian Community.

2.2 The Reference Committee

The timing of the Assembly restructure saw the late appointment of a Reference Committee. The new Committee has only met twice since the last Assembly.

An Interim Reference Committee met in May 1998. The focus of this meeting was the Assembly Restructure; response to gay and lesbian people in the Church and the appoint-ment of a new National Director. This Committee also considered matters relating to industrial relations, mining, unemployment, ecumenical issues, taxation and inter-agency work.

A new Social Responsibility and Justice Reference Committee was appointed by the Assembly Standing Committee (Minute 98.85.04) in July 1998. This Committee met in March 1999 and February 2000. The shift in emphasis in the role of the Committee to a "reference committee" has seen changes in the way the Committee fulfils its role as an advisory and supportive body. In addition to learning and embracing its new role the Reference Committee has been able to resource and inform the work of the Agency particularly on the environment, Social Justice Sunday, Jubilee 2000, Fairwear and work on nuclear fuel cycle.

The Reference Committee has needed to spend some time considering the nature of its role within the new structure. As an advisory body, the Reference Committee also serves as a network and support of the national staff. The members of the Reference Committee also provide resources on issues of social justice in their own right within the church and wider community.

One of the key changes in the membership of the Committee has been the inclusion within our membership of one person from the UnitingCare, currently Alison Whish. This is a reciprocal arrangement with Paul Henman then Ann Wansbrough representing NSR&J on the UnitingCare Reference Committee. Other members of the NSR&J Reference Committee are Jane Aagaard (Northern Synod), Geoff Collins (SA), Bev Fabb (Chairperson), Paul Henman (ACT), Jason John (Qld), Rosemary Miller (WA), Rohan Pryor (Victoria), Ann Wansbrough (NSW), Joanna Wierenga (Tasmania - 1999), Paul Chalson (Tasmania - 2000), and John Woodley (Qld). It is significant that so many members of the Committee are from rural and regional centres, with a diversity of people from many experiences of life in Australia. This has assisted in informing the Committee well.

2.3 Assembly Restructure and Review

A considerable amount of time in 1997-1998 was taken up addressing issues of, and res-ponding to, the Assembly Restructure. NSR&J recognised the clear need for change however expressed concerns about the nature of the process adopted in the restructure and the movement away from management functions of the Committee. (NSR&J minute 98.5.) The outcome of the Review affirmed that social justice is a core value and function of the UCA as expressed in the Basis of Union, and indeed the gospel. The Assembly restructure con-tinues to be implemented within the Assembly and we look forward to this being completed in the near future.

It is important to report the time and impact of the level of change that has occurred over the past three years.

 

3. SOLIDARITY AND ADVOCACY

3.1 Development of a Policy on Nuclear Fuel Cycle

Based on previous decisions of the Assembly in 1979, 1985 and 1988, NSR&J made a submission to the Federal Government’s Senate Inquiry into Uranium Mining and Milling, 1996. Following the challenge of that Inquiry NSR&J committed itself to a policy review involving visiting operating mines and dialoguing with companies, traditional owners, environmentalists, the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress, Frontier Services and other relevant Uniting Church staff.

With the invaluable assistance of the South Australian Synod Solidarity and Justice Committee, NSR&J has developed over the last three years a policy for the UCA responding to the Nuclear Fuel Cycle. This policy was presented to the Assembly Standing Committee in March 2000. It recognises the need for the world to move away from use and reliance of nuclear fuel and its environmental hazards however, acknowledges the dramatic cost to the environment of the primary alternative fossil fuels. The Nuclear Fuel Cycle policy seeks to be realistic of our current situation while promoting a gospel commitment to sustainable, benign renewable energy sources that respect and honour God’s creation.

A comprehensive educational resource has also been developed, which will be launched in association with this Assembly

3.2 Environment

Building on the 1991 Assembly statement on the Rights of Nature and Rights of Future Generation the environment has continued to be a key issue facing both Australia and the church as we enter the 21st Century. How do we live our covenant with God to care for creation? This has involved research and investigation into initiatives such as the International Earth Charter, Earth Bible and an assessment of the UCA enactment of its commitment to the environment over the past 23 years.

A major recommendation will be bought to this Assembly on our responsibility to creation, as well as a strategy for sharing further initiatives being undertaken by congregations, presby-teries and synods as we care for the environment.

3.3 Federal Elections 1998

In preparation for the 1998 Federal Election NSR&J coordinated the development of an issues paper entitled Looking at Election 1999. This practical tool assisted members of the Church to ask questions of candidates about contemporary social issues. The project in-volved a coordinated response from Assembly agencies, synods (including moderators and synod secretaires) and other key church leaders.

This was a model of working which allowed for collaboration between the Assembly and synods to provide a common and useful tool to members of the Uniting Church in preparation for this important election. NSR&J look forward to using the model again in the future.

3.4 Indigenous Issues

NSR&J have continued to support the work of covenanting, through collaboration with the National Director of Covenanting. This has included work on response to the Anti Genocide Act 1999, response to mandatory sentencing and research into mining. Advocating for reconciliation is still a priority within Australia. Our work has involved conversations with Frontier Services, and UAICC over the past three years, particularly in relation to uranium mining in South Australia and the Northern Territory, and support of the Mirrar people. As we work on different aspects of related issues it has been positive to work collaboratively for justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.

3.5 Industrial Relations

NSR&J monitored the confrontation between Patrick’s and the Maritime Union of Australia, in 1998 and consequent situations in other states (involving BHP) relating to the extinguishing of the right to collective bargaining. NSR&J have continued to use the Assembly’s 1991 resolution "recognising the importance of trade unions, professional associations, and employ-er organisations in the overall democratic process in society" [Minute 91.14.18]

Submissions were also made on the proposed changes to the Workplace Relations Act, and concern over government initiatives to marginalise workers. Unfortunately these issues continue to be at the forefront of industrial relations in Australia and will continue to be key issues for NSR&J over the next three years.

3.5.1 Fair Wear

The campaign to end the exploitation of outworkers in the garment industry has been high on our agenda. As a member of the Fair Wear coalition we have lobbied government and industry to support the Homeworkers Code of Practice, and arranged donation of computer and other office equipment.

Working with other coalition members sub-missions have been made to the Australian Industrial Relations Commission (AIRC) concerning the retention of vital clauses in the Clothing Trades Award; and the proposed Federal Workplace Relations Amendment Bill, 1999. NSR&J have also participated in consultations with the NSW Government as they developed their own code for government contracts and in their current efforts to adopt a strategy for outwork in the garment industry.

The coalition have developed several resources, including a secondary school curriculum resource, Home Truths, a video, Twenty Pieces, and a Fair School Wear kit, encouraging schools to purchase uniform needs from manufacturers who have signed the Homeworkers Code of Practice.

3.6 Infant Formula

As a result of infant formula manufacturers (IFMs) accepting the importance of complying to the World Health Organization (WHO) Code on the marketing of infant formula, NSR&J lifted its call to boycott IFMs in 1998. We celebrate the achievement made in this long campaign, while recognising that some viola-tions still occur internationally. There is a need for continued monitoring. NSR&J have ended our intentional dialogue with companies in Australia, but are committed to approaching these companies with reports of violations as they may arise.

A broadsheet of information on the history of UCA involvement in the campaign, our ongoing commitment and suggested action is available from the Assembly office.

3.7 Jubilee 2000

NSR&J along with Unity & International Mission and some synod members have represented the Uniting Church on the national working group. We have continued to support and advocate for the debt of the worlds poorest to be forgiven in order that these countries can fund necessary programs of health, education, etc. Our participation has included distribution of information and worship resources, circulating and collecting petitions, liaising with other members of the working group to organise actions, government lobbying and media attention.

A proposal will be bought to this Assembly in relation to the Australian Government response to Jubilee 2000.

3.8 Mining

The ongoing dialogue and relationship with mining companies emerges from:

a) the need to review the UCA policy on uranium and its relationship to the nuclear fuel cycle;

b) common concerns raised by partner churches, NGOs and indigenous communities about human rights, environmental and safety issues.

3.8.1 Roxby Downs and Western Mining

NSR&J and Solidarity and Justice (Synod of South Australia) undertook a visit to Roxby Downs that resulted in an ongoing dialogue with Western Mining and local indigenous communities. The issues raised by the report have been followed up by the Synod and Frontier Services’ Patrol Ministers based in the area.

3.8.2 Beverley and Honeymoon Mines

The development of uranium mines at Beverley and Honeymoon has raised the issues of safety and the environmental impact of "in situ" acid leach mining. This has led to ongoing dis-cussions with the Arabana and other indigenous people in the area.

3.8.3 Ranger and Jabiluka Mines

NSR&J, in association with the Northern Synod, UAICC and Frontier Services, visited the Ranger uranium mine and Jabiluka in October 1997. This was another opportunity to review our uranium mining policy with a visit to a working mine. There are particularly sensitive issues associated with the Ranger mine because a World Heritage Area surrounds it. The visit gave the Uniting Church an opportu-nity to build a relationship with the Mirrar people (the traditional landowners) and listen to their opposition to the proposed new Jabiluka mine. A report arising from this visit is available from the SR&J office. The resulting environ-mental concerns and indigenous issues identified by the report were used in dialogue with the management of Energy Resources of Australia (ERA) in Sydney.

NSR&J, with the support of ASC, agreed to stand with the Mirrar people in their opposition to the development of the Jabiluka mine. Other assistance by the Uniting Church was given to those present at the ‘blockade’ opposing the development of the Jabiluka mine. Steps were also taken to ensure practical ongoing monitoring on the matter of the Jabiluka mine. [ASC minute 98.89.02]

3.8.4 Environmental Impact of Mining at Ok Tedi Mine, PNG

Our concerns for the practices of BHP at the Ok Tedi Mine, PNG, have proven to be well founded. BHP has not been able to modify its tailings operations in a way that protects the people and environment reliant on the Fly and Ok Tedi River system. The company is at present reassessing its future involvement in the Ok Tedi mine and all indications are that it is trying to extract itself from continuing to be the operator of the mine.

3.8.5 Codes of Conduct

Arising from our commitment to the environ-ment and human rights we continued to raise with mining companies ethical issues in rela-tionship to the human rights and environmental impact of their mining opera-tions. NSR&J has been part of a NGO working group consisting of the Mineral Policy Institute (MPI), Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF), Australian Council for Overseas Aid (ACFOA), Australian Red Cross, Amnesty International, Community Aid Abroad (CAA), and the World Wild Fund for Nature (WWFFN), developing Principles for the Conduct of Company Operations within the Minerals Industry. Following publication of the Principles we were approached by Bread for the World, Germany, to be involved in a "pad-are" panel at the WCC Assembly in Harare highlighting concern for the environment through the use of codes of conduct. Ongoing work in this area continues.

As an outcome of this work the Minerals Council of Australia has approached NSR&J as part of their process of revision of the Australian Minerals Industry Code for Environ-mental Management.

3.8.6 Ethical Investment

From our involvement in the issues of mining and codes of conduct we have continued to raise ethical issues with respect to Uniting Church investments. NSR&J wrote to the Assembly Finance Committee and UC Invest-ment Agencies indicating the work we have been doing with mining companies and stating concerns regarding the limitations of the materiality clause in our Uniting Church’s investment guidelines.

 

4. DIALOGUE WITH GOVERNMENT

4.1 Welfare Reform

UnitingCare Australia and NSR&J prepared a joint submission to the Federal Government’s consultation The Challenge of Welfare Dependency in the 21st Century in December 1999. The current climate and emphasis on mutual obligation is a critical justice issue facing many disadvantaged members of our Australian community. We will continue to work together to respond to the green paper released in early 2000 by the Government in response to this consultation. There are grave concerns for current policies that move away from our commitment as a nation to providing social welfare services for those who are disadvantaged by and within our society.

It is clear that the implications of welfare reform must be considered holistically, and that issues of disadvantage do not occur in isolation, rather our concerns reflect a range of interconnected issues within the Australian Society – issues of the nature of work, other worthwhile contribu-tions to society, poverty, social demographics, rural and isolated issues, community values, changes in work expecta-tions, economic structure, globalisation and local agendas, housing, childcare, health care and education. The UCA has a key role to play in ensuring that governments take an holistic approach to these issues.

4.2 Taxation Reform

In June 1998, Uniting Community Services Australia in consultation with NSR&J prepared a joint response to Taxation Reform For a Fair and Equitable Society. This document assisted in identifying the justice issues and contributed to the public debate and submission relating to the introduction of the GST. One of the critical points of the submission focused on the affirmation of tax as an important mechanism for responsible community. "Taxation should provide the means through which an equitable society marked by justice and peace is created. It should be broadly based across all forms of income and wealth" (p3).

4.3 Anti-Genocide Bill 1999

In February 2000 Covenanting and NSR&J in consultation with UAICC submitted a response to the Senate Inquiry into the establishment of the Anti-Genocide Bill 1999.

This submission focused on the importance of the establishment of this Bill as a symbol of our commitment to reconciliation and to ensuring that such acts as the separation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families can never again occur.

4.4 Relationships to Government Policy Devel-opment

NSR&J continues the day to day monitoring and responding to government statements and reports relating to issues of justice in Australian society. Letters of support or encouragement have also been sent to governments on issues such as mandatory sentencing, taxation, welfare reform, international conventions eg. Copenhagen Declaration, workplace relations, immigration, employment and housing

 

 

5. ECUMENICAL COOPERATION

5.1 NCCA Social Justice Network

NSR&J continue to be an active participant in the NCCA Social Justice Network. This Net-work continues to be primarily resourced by the Catholic, Anglican and Uniting Churches’, with growing involvement from the Society of Friends and the Orthodox Churches.

Over the past three years this Network has responded to two main issues Unemployment and Housing, while beginning conversations on other possible areas of work.

5.1.1 Joint Statement on Employment

In September 1999, the NCCA released a position paper A Covenant for Employment. The Social Justice Network undertook the work for this statement, which was then endorsed by the NCCA Executive. The Uniting Church had a significant role in the development, research and publication of this statement

The position paper summarises the key points from a number of recent Church documents on unemployment. From this agreement of common ground, the Churches called for a new, more comprehensive approach to unemployment. "What is needed is a national strategy which is also a national covenant for the common good. We envisage a strategy that enables all levels of government , and also business, unions, workers, Churches and community groups to work cooperatively to reduce unemployment in an ethical and just way" (p2)

Copies of the Statement are available from NSR&J.

5.1.2 Statement on Housing

In 1996, the Victorian Ecumenical Housing Unit undertook a research project on housing policy, which led to the report National Housing Policy: reform and social justice. Following on from this research, in November 1996, the Churches’ Agenda for Housing Reform was forwarded to the Prime Minister under the signature of 14 Church leaders. The Report and Agenda formed the basis for a seminar hosted by the NCCA Social Justice Network in November 1997. The Victorian Ecumenical Housing Unit provided a draft statement for this consultation which was later adopted by the NCCA Executive as position on housing. (Copies of the Statement are available from NSR&J, a history of the process is available in Wansbrough, Ann 2000 Speaking Together – A Methodology for the National Council of Churches’ contribution to public policy debate in Australia, Sydney University).

5.2 Refugees and Displaced Persons

In 1998, the NCCA formed the National Program on Refugees and Displaced Persons (NPRDP) committee. As part of the work of representing the Uniting Church on this committee NSR&J have been consulting with Multicultural Ministry, UIM, synods and other members of the Church seeking to better network our involvements with refugee issues.

Last year, we were very concerned by new regulations regarding migration introduced by the Government. As a consequence we have become more involved in advocacy work and support of statements to Government and the community made by the NCCA NPRDP. Early this year we contributed to the NCCA sub-mission to the Government Consultation on Migration and Humanitarian Programs, 2000-2001.

 

6. RESOURCING THE CHURCH

6.1 Social Justice Sunday

Each year we provide creative and user friendly resources for use by congregation on Social Justice Sunday, held on the last Sunday in September. In 1998 materials were prepared focusing on the International Year of the Ocean prepared with assistance of a task group in Western Australia. The 1999, a task group from NSW assisted in the preparation of a resource for the International Year of Older Persons.

Copies of previous Social Justice Sunday Liturgies are available from the NSR&J office, and are a good resource.

In 2000, Social Justice Sunday will focus on rural and remote issues and has been prepared with the assistance of Frontier Services and the Rural Ministry Network. To support this years Social Justice Sunday theme, proposals have been bought to this Assembly for its consideration to address some of the devast-ating situations being faced by those in rural and remote areas and affirming the important place of this sector of our community in Australian society.

6.2 Networking

Networking by NSR&J takes place in many ways. It reflects much of the work in maintaining relationships with non-government organisations (NGO’s) and community groups, as well as our relationship with the Church community.

NSR&J printed its last Newsletter in 1997, and recommencing its publication in 2000. We are investigating ways of this occurring electronically and reaching more members of the UCA.

Networking is a key feature of the work of NSR&J. The staff and members of the Committee have continued to enjoy opportu-nities to visit congregations, presbyteries and synods to support local social justice initiatives, and share stories of work being undertaken in other places. NSR&J can provide a number of resources, and are always happy to visit. If you would like someone to visit you, please feel free to contact us.

Over the past three years, the National Directors have visited each Synod, as well as a number of presbyteries and congregations.

6.3 Archiving and Communication

Over the past three years NSR&J has undertaken a major project to ensure the accessibility of information about social justice within the Uniting Church and the wider community. This major project aimed to provide accessible research material and history of social justice in the UCA and Australian Community. To this end we pioneered the development of an Assembly Website with the inclusion of key documents, policies and resolutions.

6.3.1 Website

The NSR&J Website can be found at: http://nat.uca.org.au/NSRJWeb.html

Needless to say, we are very proud the Website and its links. It provides a key entry point for issues of Social Responsibility and Justice in the life of the Church. While outlining the work of NSR&J it also provides links to Resources such as; NSR&J Newsletter; Resources for worship, including Social Justice Sunday resources for 1998, 1999 and 2000; Update on Infant Formula Manufacturers; Rights of Nature and Rights of Future Generations; A Call for Justice Concerning Employment; Industrial Relations, Work and the Work Place; Social Justice Resolutions of the UCA; Key Social Justice Documents of the UCA; Uniting Faith & Justice - A Bibliographic Essay; Bibliography of UCA Social Justice publications; NSR&J Library; UCA Statement to the Nation 1977, 1988 and 1997; and links to other social justice sites.

In 1998, as a response to the 21st Birthday of the Uniting Church, NSR&J decided to prepared a reflection on Social Justice in the first 21 years of the UCA. This publication locates the history and experience of the UCA in Social Justice primarily since Union. This bibliographic essay and historical survey is available on the NSR&J Website.

6.3.2 Guidelines for the World Wide Web

In 1997-1998 NSR&J in association with the Assembly Information Technology Committee developed a set of guidelines, for use by the Church in the creation of web sites. The purpose of the document is to assist web designers to make clear the ownership, status, date, etc of Church documents made available on the Web. In July 1998 the Guidelines were accepted by the Assembly and Synod General Secretaries, and have been made publicly available.

6.3.3 NSR&J Library

An integral part of the Archiving Project, the NSR&J Library provides access to a number of books, magazines, videos and other resources. The NSR&J library is extensive and available to all members of the Church to access either in person or by post. It is accessed by many young people undertaking research projects for school and university, and is a key area of work for NSR&J.

 

7. COOPERATION WITH OTHER AGENCIES

7.1 NSR&J in its modelling of justice and peace commits itself to co-operate, collaborate and work with Agencies of the Assembly, the wider church and the community. We are proud of the outcomes which have been produced as a result of these cooperative relationships.

In the past three years this has seen key relationships continue with:

7.1.1 Refugee joint committee

In response to an ASC recommendation, and in conjunction with our involvement in the NCCA NPRDP, NSR&J plays a lead role in an Assembly networking on refugee issues. Representatives from NSR&J, Multi-Cultural Ministry and Unity and International Mission have met three times since its establishment in 1999; and have been able to provide some input to the NCCA committee

7.1.2 Relations with Other Faiths

The involvement of NSR&J in this Reference Committee has been formalised in the new Other Faiths’ mandate. A membership position for a representative of NSR&J is specifically stated. As part of this work we have taken an active role in the associated Muslim Dialogue. This continues to be a fruitful and growing relationship as we focus on issues of justice for the Australian community through interfaith dialogue.

 

8. SOCIAL JUSTICE IN THE CHURCH

8.1 Uniting Network and Solidarity with Gay and Lesbian Members of the UCA

NSR&J continue to maintain an active relation-ship with Uniting Network, as an act of solidarity and support. (NSR&J Minute 97.6.1) Emerging from the ongoing dialogue with gay and lesbian people and their friends, National Social Responsibility and Justice continues to act as an advocate for the full inclusion of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people in the life of the Uniting Church; and for their concerns to be heard. We have spent considerable time advocating for a safe Uniting Church, which does not exclude, abuse or discriminate against anyone.

1n 1998, NSR&J alerted the Assembly Standing Committee to the level of discrimination and harassment towards gay and lesbian people and their supporters within the Uniting Church. This was in direct conflict with the 1997 affirmation that all people are created in God’s image and commitment for the UCA to be a safe community, free from abuse. This, along with our existing relationship, led NSR&J to formalise its support of Uniting Network.

Concern was also expressed about safety for those involved in the National Retreat process. We appreciated however, the opportunity to participate in this process.

We endeavour to continue to resource this conversation and encourage safe and open dialogue within the Church towards an inclusive community for all believers. As part of our commitment to end discrimination and abuse we approached Theology and Discipleship (T&D) with regard to the development of appropriate reflection and resources in this area.

8.2 Rural and Urban Split

The growing split between urban and rural Australians, both within and outside the Church is of increasing concern. It is clear that as a Church we need to respond to division and act to counter this in our own life. There are justice issues relating to the access of services, increased rural suicide, viability of family farms, isolation of communities, the move to central-isation and decreased economic resources, which need to be addressed by both the Church and the Australian community. Direct action will be required by the governments to bring about just outcomes for those in rural and remote communities. This will be a key focus for NSR&J in the next three years.

8.3 Relationships with Synod Officers

The work of NSR&J is greatly enhanced by the relationship it has with synods and particularly with synod social justice officers and commit-tees. This has been a good network over the past three years. We look forward to these continued relationships.

 

9. AREA OF FUTURE WORK

9.1 At its meeting in February 2000, NSR&J spent significant time considering the focus of social justice for the next three years. While being realistic about the reactionary nature of many of the issues to which NSR&J are required to respond, NSR&J has endeavoured to set some long term goals for the work of the agency.

9.1.1 What kind of nation do we want to be?

The primary focus for the next three years will be developing a policy and resources around our vision for Australia as a Nation. This will include theological and sociological reflection on the sort of society we would like to be, and how it might reflect the values that we as the Church have to offer. The aim of this is to provide a framework to allow us to more effectively respond to governments and the community on issues that reflect social values. We hope that this work will also allow conversation on the environment, law and order, refugee’s and immigration, poverty – gap rich and poor, tax reform, indigenous issues, industrial relations and globalisation. This project will also require significant collaboration with other Assembly agencies, synods and congregations.

This theme will also be picked up at Social Justice Sunday 2001, which will focus on the centenary of federation, its impact on Australian Society and our role as citizens of a just nation.

9.1.2 Other Priorities

In addition to this, the other two priorities will be;

This will include the collecting of stories from congregations, presbyteries and synods on initiatives, which they are undertaking to care for their local environment and the impact, which that has made. Eg. Northern Synod commit-ment to solar hot water.

It will also see the development of other resources, conversations and critique of the UCA ability to fulfil current commitments made through resolutions on the environment.

 

In following up the current concerns on mandatory sentencing further work will be done on injustices relating to the Australian Criminal Justice System and its impact on the community.

 

 

10. PROPOSED RESOLUTIONS

10.1 Proposals for discussion at the Ninth Assembly have not been finalised yet, but are expected to be in these areas:

 

 

 

 

 

11. CONCLUDING COMMENT

11.1 As a Church, we have a responsibility to assist in fulfilling the proclamation of the Gospel (Basis of Union, Paragraph 3). Now, more than ever, as we face the consequences of two decades of Western economic rationalism, we must focus on the call of God to bring justice to the oppressed, liberation to the captives, and freedom to the poor. As Christians, we are liberators, and have an active role to play in the transformation of society – a society that embraces the peace, justice and integrity of all creation.

 

 

Bev Fabb

Chairperson

 

Christine Cargill

National Director

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Appendix A: Record of appreciation for Rev Robert Stringer

Rev Robert Stringer came to the position of Assembly Secretary for Social Justice in 1992 after a long ministry in which has strong commitment to justice was formed through experiences of solidarity, especially with Aboriginal people. His new position presented him with many new challenges, and he set about it with a passion for justice that is expressed by his whole being and through every part of his life. He has blessed the Assembly with a special gift of being with and listening to marginalised people. He has brought a deep humanity to justice work, reflecting with people in their pain, holding it up to the church and struggling with the Church to find in the situation a way of responding to the Gospel. In particular, his costly identification with the pain and anguish of gay and lesbian people marginalised with the Church will long be remembered.

We record the appreciation of Social Responsibility and Justice Committee for this and other aspects of Robert’s work. For his initiation and pursuit of negotiations with companies about their business; for probing visits to mining operations around Australia and in New Guinea; for being widely available to the Church around the nation, for innumerable papers, reports, agenda’s and minutes; and for representing us in interminable meetings. For his gifts, tireless commitment and courage we give thanks. We wish him well in his Doctor of Ministry work and every blessing for the future. (NSR&J Minute 98.34.5)