Using data from the 2006 Census Community organisations can access data free online from the 2006 Census. We can use this data - in a postcode or in a Local Government Area - for planning and evaluating services. This Info kit has some examples of how to find useful data.
Working in the community sector demands a high level of skills in an industry characterised by short term or insecure funding. Employers – usually management committees – need to design the jobs to manage short term projects effectively. This info kit describes a range of flexible employment models suitable for community-based projects.
How to measure poverty. As community workers we need to describe the communities we work with. We need to identify exactly what makes these groups of people unique. We often talk about disadvantaged communities or social exclusion but what exactly do we mean?
To manage short term funding, we need to design an effective project – as well as to consider how short term funding affects the community sector generally.
Who do I talk to? A list of key contact people in NSW government departments, Members of Parliament & the media in the Illawarra. This information is current at May 2008. Some of this information will change frequently.
This is I.T. - a guide for community workers about information technology, computers, email, the internet, and the NSW Human Services Network. 2006. Hard copies are available from the Illawarra Forum Inc tel 02 4236 1333.
Policy Templates
The Policy Templates are a collection of policies, procedures and forms to use in community management. Financial templates are also included.
The Results & Performance Framework is a results based approach to planning. It is based on the social policy work Mark Friedman in the U.S. It has been adopted by some New South Wales government departments in planning, delivering and funding human services.
Some useful resources for working with people in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities
Respect, acknowledge, listen: practical protocols for working with the Indigenous community of Western Sydney. This publication (from Community Cultural Development NSW) includes useful and accessible information relevant for many different communities. It explains protocols for working with local communities; how to consult; copyright and indigenous cultural and intellectual property; welcome to country and acknowledging traditional owners. http://www.ccdnsw.org/ccdnsw/pdf/protocols.pdf
The Indigenous Employment Toolbox provides a general background to working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and some guidance in dealing with Indigenous clients. It includes information on demography and culture; case studies; and a resource list. It has a small section on how to arrange a ‘Welcome to Country’ ceremony. Produced by the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations the toolkit is designed to resource Job Network members and other employment service providers. http://portals.dewr.gov.au/toolboxes/indigenous.htm