Overall, the 2019 Australian Infrastructure Audit found Australia has high-performing social infrastructure sectors by international standards.
However, access and quality vary for different infrastructure types, places and groups of Australians.3
The 2019 Audit cited research showing Australians rate their experience with social infrastructure differently across sectors. They believe that, while the quality of social services is high, the assets that deliver them are often old and unsuitable.
For instance, over a quarter of Australians think the quality and accessibility of social housing have declined over the past five years.4
The 2019 Audit also found Australians often access multiple and overlapping services and would benefit from better integration between social infrastructure providers.
Governments are recognising the need for greater collaboration, even if it makes planning and delivery of social services more complex.5 Some agencies are already collaborating with providers across social infrastructure sectors for planning, delivery and use, producing mutually beneficial outcomes for communities and government.
This collaboration should be promoted and supported.