Search Results

This report is the fifth in a series spanning more than 20 years of research into locational disadvantage. The report examines communities in every Australian state and territory to identify pockets of entrenched location-based disadvantage and the unique web of challenges these communities face. It provides an unparalleled picture of where disadvantage is concentrated, how various forms of disadvantage overlap, and how disadvantage becomes entrenched and difficult to escape. Through the findings of this report, the aim is to: keep the reality of location-based disadvantage before the Australian community; identify any shifts in the relative fortunes of some localities; contribute to strategic thinking about effective remedial policies; and give community service partners and organisations up-to-date information to guide and assist their work. This information can help governments, decision-makers and communities to set priorities and target resources to effectively reduce the most severe disadvantage.

The 2021 report shows that disadvantage is concentrated in a small and disproportionate number of communities in each state and territory. When looking at where disadvantaged communities are located in each state or territory, it becomes evident that, in general, disadvantage is experienced in regional and remote areas. The research shows many of the most disadvantaged locations are severely disadvantaged on multiple indicators. This shows that disadvantage is often multilayered and deep. The 2021 report saw the introduction of two new domains of indicators: intergenerational and environmental data. The new indicators in these domains were teen pregnancy, children in households with no parent in paid work, particulate matter (poor air quality), green canopy coverage, declared nature reserves and heat vulnerability. While this current report shows that the pattern of entrenched disadvantage in each state and territory is persistent over time, change can be achieved when the inter-related factors causing disadvantage are understood and community-led solutions are properly resourced.

Edited excerpts from publication. Show less