A social issue: Poverty in Australia
A social issue is defined as a problem which influences a considerable number of people within the society. It is mostly the consequences of various factors that are beyond individual control. Poverty is an example of a social issue that has human rights effect and relevant to Australia. Despite 25 years of continuous economic growth, there is still increased level of poverty among Australia. The number of people living in poverty has increased from 12 per cent in the year 2015 to 13 per cent in 2016. Most of the children are affected by the poverty. The high level of poverty is caused by various factors such as unequal distribution of resources and high population in the country (Frank et al., 2017).
International human rights mechanisms and poverty in Australia
There is a various relevant international human rights mechanism that impacts poverty in Australia, for example, the idea of respecting dignity and autonomy of individuals living under poverty. It has empowered people living under poverty, and they have been able to participate in public affairs concerning poverty and its related issues, such as assisting in formulating various public policies and ensuring government officials are held accountable in helping to minimize poverty in the country (Frank et al., 2017). The laws that have been established in the human rights rules and regulations require the state to take obligation concerning poverty and formulate policies that help in improving the lives of people living in poverty. Another mechanism is that positive measures should be taken to overcome poverty among people. The measures to be put in place include executing various legislative, particular policies as well as various affirmative actions in areas like employment, food, water and sanitation (Frank et al., 2017).
Australia's policies and practices to address poverty
According to Australia policies and practices, it is a requirement for everyone to promote an egalitarian society in which an individual should help those in need. It is one way of minimizing the high level of poverty in the country (Davidson, 2012). This is reflected in the human rights act that requires the government to ensure the protection of the marginalized people and directly address issues of poverty among people. Furthermore, the human rights require the government to take into consideration the issue of equality in allocating resources among people (Davidson, 2012).
Australia government's response to poverty
Australia government has responded to the issue of high poverty by initiating different programs. The government has created more opportunities for the young people to be employed in various sectors in the country. In addition, an emphasis or concentrations in ensuring resources are equally distributed within the state to minimize inequality among the people (Davidson, 2012). However, there still a gap as a result of discrimination. Most of the issues of poverty are regarded to originate from the discriminatory practices. Discrimination is being exercised at the individual level making it difficult for the government to handle or deal with some issues related to poverty.
Conclusion
As a conclusion, poverty is one of the social issues that have raised more concern in the country. As a result, the government has taken few initiatives towards making sure it is reduced in the country. However, issues such as discrimination are regarded to be challenging especially about handling problems interlinked to resources allocation among people. International human rights mechanism such as respecting the autonomy of individuals living under poverty has played a crucial role in motivating people to engage in various public forums with the fundamental aim of discussing different initiatives to minimize poverty among people living in Australia.
References
Davidson, P. (2012). Poverty in Australia Report. Strawberry Hills, NSW: Australian Council
of Social Service
Frank J. B. Stilwell & Kirrily J.(2007). Who Gets What?: Analysing Economic Inequality
in Australia. Cambridge University Press
