Future Sustainability Issues for Small Stand-alone Non-Government Organisations

In Australia services for vulnerable people are often provided by small community based organisations. Many have been created as a direct response to an unmet need in a particular community. In the last 20 years these services have become more specialised as they respond to increased demands from a diverse population that is living longer and wishes to remain independent. The sustainability of small, stand‑alone community organisations will be vital for vulnerable people as they provide a range of opportunities for engagement and support.1 While government departments promote the need for greater accountability and transparency, the relationship between government and smaller community organisations that provide services to vulnerable people appears tenuous.