Every Australian needs to be able to connect with family, friends and work, along with their own personal interests and local community in order to feel socially included, and an intrinsic part of the fabric of Australian society and culture.

There is no more important issue, and time for us all to start to care, connect and support each other through some of the hardest times our country has ever faced as we move into the 21st Century.

We must return to being a Nation that cares not only about our own personal wellbeing and security in all aspects, but also a community that can look after ourselves as well as looking after those who cannot, regardless of what external forces we may face.

It is my aim through the creation of SOCIAL INCLUSION WEEK TM that the focus of social inclusion is on the issues and core values at the heart of what it means to be Australian, and to remind us that we are a Nation that first and foremost cares about every human being we come into contact with, allowing them and us, to feel connected, supported and cared for.

Dr Jonathon Welch
Australian of the Year - Local Hero 2008
ANZAC of the Year 2008
RMIT Communicator of the Year 2008
Founding Music DirectorChoir of Hard Knocks
www.jonathonwelch.com