Building Social Cohesion in our Communities: An online resource for local government

This new online resource from the Australian Centre of Excellence for Local Government (ACELG) at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) provides local government with a practical approach to develop strong, socially cohesive communities.

Developed for the Australian Human Rights Commission under the National Anti-Racism Strategy, Building Social Cohesion in our Communities will help local governments to build social cohesion by taking effective local level actions aligned with long-term strategic directions, to prevent and respond to conflict which may arise between communities.

The online resource is highly interactive and is structured around five elements of building social cohesion, based on international and Australian best practice.  It features case studies from local government, tips and templates for implementing good practice at the local level and links to further resources.

"This is the first sector-specific resource to focus on social cohesion, supported by a strong evidence-base of current, validated research and local government case studies.  The Centre has greatly valued the opportunity to contribute to the social cohesion of local communities and the aims of the Australian Human Rights Commission,” said Centre Director, Associate Professor Roberta Ryan.  

“The resource is easy to navigate, with good case studies and the jigsaw pieces as a tool kit are easy to use and make common sense.  I think it brings a clearer message and understanding about what is social cohesion and how to bring about change and lead your community,” said Steve Crawcour, Chief Executive Officer, Strathbogie Shire Council, Victoria.