South Australia performing in providing shelter and inclusive society, but vulnerable in basic medical care, water and sanitation - new research

South Australia is performing better than its peers on social housing overcrowding, young people classified as NEET, and underutilisation of women in the workforce, according to the Centre for Social Impact’s (CSI) Australian Social Progress Index (ASPI), as discussed in a webinar today.

The webinar also discussed how South Australia is faring in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), using the ASPI tool as a proxy measure.

Key findings:

• Compared to its economic peers (based on GSP per Capita - TAS, VIC, QLD, NSW), SA is performing within expected ranges for overall social progress. It is performing better than expected on the proportion of young people classified as NEET, rate of social housing overcrowding, and cardiovascular mortality. However, it is underperforming on Indigenous NAPLAN reading scores and community mental health
• Based on ASPI scores, SA is making good progress towards achieving SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and is implementing social policies on a number of SDGs. The state should focus on implementing policies that support SDGs relating to access to information and communication, access to advanced education, and environmental quality

ASPI researchers and webinar presenters:

• Dr Megan Weier: Research Fellow & ASPI Lead Researcher, Centre for Social Impact UNSW
• Isabella Saunders: Research Assistant, Centre for Social Impact UNSW