The ACT Council of Social Service (ACTCOSS) today released its regular journal, Update, on the theme of wellbeing in the ACT.
Dr Emma Campbell, CEO of ACTCOSS, said: "ACTCOSS supported the ACT Wellbeing Framework released by the ACT Government in March. The concept of wellbeing is important because it recognises factors beyond the economy that impact the quality of life of people in Canberra.
"Measurement of wellbeing takes account of aspects of our lives that simple economic indicators cannot alone reveal, including identity and belonging, environment and climate, income inequality, living standards and social connection.
"Following the development of the Framework, ACTCOSS called on our stakeholders to share research, experience and best practice advice on the promotion of wellbeing in the Territory.
"This issue has excellent articles on how we can support the wellbeing of everyone in our diverse Canberra community.
"It also explores the concept of a 'wellbeing economy' that secures the economic wellbeing of people while protecting resources and the environment.
"In these articles - written before the current crisis - we are made aware of vulnerabilities of groups, including victims of crime, carers and new parents, and how we can support their wellbeing. These are some of the groups whose wellbeing is also challenged by the COVID-19 crisis.
Dr Campbell concluded: "This edition of Update reminds us that wellbeing must be central to the recovery from the COVID-19 crisis.
"As we look to recover from the health and economic challenges presented by COVID-19, we have a great opportunity to direct stimulus investment to initiatives that will improve the overall wellbeing of Canberrans, not just the economic bottom-line, and create a system that has the wellbeing of every individual at its heart."
Read the full journal: Update, Issue 91, Autumn 2020: Wellbeing in the ACT.
ACTCOSS advocates for social justice in the ACT and represents not-for-profit community organisations.
