Northern Rivers Election Forum

What to expect?

Join NCOSS for the launch of our next Voices of Poverty snapshot, which highlights the reality of living in poverty in NSW.

Hear from people in the community about their experiences of poverty, followed by a panel with local members and a live Q&A where you can put your questions directly to them. Stay afterwards for a chance to connect with others.

Speakers include Cara Varian, CEO of NCOSS. Jenni Beetson-Mortimer, CEO of Northern Rivers Community Gateway

Why?

Strong communities depend on the services that keep people housed, safe, healthy, connected and supported.

This year has been tough for a lot of people. New research from NCOSS, Voices of Poverty, shows the rising cost of living is reshaping who experiences poverty. Close to a third of people living below the poverty line in NSW say their financial stress has only emerged in the past few years.

Households on the lowest incomes are finding it harder to afford food, health care and a home, and to stay connected with family, friends and community. When things are tough, people in regional, rural and remote communities are often hit hardest.

Social and community services improve lives and cost less than responding to crises. But too often, people outside the major centres can't get the services they need close to home.

That's why NCOSS, the peak body for the social and community services sector in NSW, is coming to Casino ahead of the March 2027 State election.

We're asking local candidates to sign our pledge to invest in people with stronger community services in regional NSW as part of our election platform.

If you live in Casino or the surrounding communities, come along to hear from local organisations, share your story and tell the people who want to represent you what needs to change.

Register to join us on Wednesday 4 November. Morning tea will be provided.