The Second Examination of the Economic Contribution of the Not-for-profit Human Services Sector in the Northern Territory
The Not-for-profit Sector is more valuable to the Northern Territory than mining, and employs more than twice as many people, according to the ‘Value of the Not-for-profit Sector 2020’ report.
Launched today by the Northern Territory Council of Social Service, CEO Deborah Di Natale, said the Report is the second of its kind, providing data essential to evidence-based policy.
“Charitable and not-for-profit organisations make an incredible contribution to the Territory, and through this Report we can track and measure not only the economic benefits, but also the health of the sector.”
The Not-for-profit Sector 2020 Report reveals that $3.26 billion was contributed to the total State Domestic Product of $26.2 billion in 2018, compared to $3.166 billion from the mining sector.
“It also shows the charitable sector, our social and community services, is a jobs powerhouse, employing 10,389 people – and that’s before you add the 11,208 volunteers,” said Ms Di Natale.
“However behind those figures is a worrying trend of casualisation, up 36.4 percent, and a decrease by 5.1 percent of full-time and part-time employment, which raises questions about workforce training, and sustainability of the sector.
“Community service workers are often unseen, supporting society’s most vulnerable, but they are the first called on in times of crisis. This data offers the opportunity for policymakers to understand, and importantly help maintain, the sector’s capacity.
“The NT not-for-profit sector is irreplaceable in terms of its economic and community contribution and whoever is elected tomorrow, they need to read the numbers and work with the sector to ensure its growth.”
Background
The Northern Territory Council of Social Service (NTCOSS) is the peak body for the Social and Community Sector in the NT and an advocate for social justice on behalf of people and communities in the NT, who may be affected by poverty and disadvantage.
For more information on the Value of the Not-for-profit sector 2020 Report visit: https://ntcoss.org.au
Click this link to read the Value of the Not-for-profit Sector Report 2020
Click here to see the Value of the Not-for-profit sector report fact sheet
