Socio-economic

Rising unemployment is one of key socio-economic problems facing South Africa. This is despite government interventions including the Growth Employment and Redistribution program, of which the aim was to stimulate economic growth creating half a million jobs. Corruption and poor service delivery, especially in rural areas, are major cause of concerns. 

Education

The South African government emphasises on education of its citizens. One of key challenges impacting growth in the education sector is the inequitable distribution of wealth and resources among rural and urban communities.

Health

South Africa possesses the best medical facilities on the continent. However, the majority of South Africans depend on a public healthcare system which is overwhelmed by a severe shortage of qualified personnel and limited resources. South Africa has the highest HIV prevalence in the world. 

Environment

South Africa has lost a large area of natural habitat in the last four decades, primarily due to overpopulation, sprawling development patterns and deforestation. This situation is further complicated by effects of climate change expected to bring much heat and drying to the already semi-arid region.

Statistics sourced from the United Nations Develop Programme (UNDP) Human Development Reports.

Since the 1990s, Australian volunteers have worked in health, education, and rural and community development. They have increasingly responded to the need for technical assistance in the non-government organisations (NGO) sector, and worked to strengthen civil society. 

Improving governance

Volunteer assignments support non-government organisations to strengthen their mechanisms, processes, and practices through staff training and mentoring and building fundraising capacity.

Increasing participation and social inclusion

Volunteer assignments work with local organisations to strengthen their capacity to advocate for gender equality, disability inclusion and increasing participation of LGBT community.

Increasing participation and social inclusions

Through assignments that will address social fragmentation or conflict and increasing access to basic services particularly in rural and remote communities. Focus will be given to addressing the erosion of traditional governance structures and social or economic exploitation or exclusion.