A number of social factors have shaped the growth of the social service sector and within that the growth of church agencies since the Whitlam government. What are the key factors which now shape the social service agencies?

What is the state of the relationship between agencies, the synod and our congregations?

Where once Synod had an active advocacy unit, this function is now found in our agencies. Is this good public policy or just industry lobbying?

And are they able to grapple with the rise of artificial intelligence as it begins to trap people in poverty?

Rev Peter McDonald has worked for one of these agencies for nearly 20 years, and will welcome lively discussion on the questions posed in his presentation. He is currently seconded to Flinders University three days a week where he is investigating the impact of artificial intelligence and data on disadvantaged people.

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