DSS Impact Strategy 2025–2030

Our purpose is to improve the economic and social wellbeing of individuals, families and vulnerable members of Australian communities.

Outcome domains: What we are responsible for

Social security

Support the financial wellbeing and self-sufficiency of people when they cannot fully support themselves, by providing targeted payments and assistance through the social security system, and disability employment services.

Families and communities

Promote stronger and more resilient families, children, individuals and communities by providing targeted supports.

Outcomes: What we want to achieve for the Australian people

• Financial security for all
• Stronger communities
• Safer individuals and families
• Thriving children and young people

To achieve these outcomes, we will focus on six sub-outcomes:

• More people in work
• A fair social security system
• Break the cycle of entrenched disadvantage
• People are connected to their community
• End violence in families and relationships
• Parents and carers support their children to be safe and develop

This Impact Strategy aligns with the Department’s responsibility for Closing the Gap (CtG).

• CtG 12. Children are not overrepresented in the child protection system
• CtG 13. Families and households are safe

Our environment

What are our opportunities and challenges

• Widening inequality, across communities and generations
• Global disruption to culture, security and the economy
• Declining public trust in government and institutions
• Digital transformation, including use of AI and automation
• User expectations of supports tailored to need

Priority capabilities

What will we invest in to deliver our outcomes for all Australians

• Lead strategic social policy – to create beneficial change
• Drive delivery – to achieve real impact
• Embed supportive systems – to work smarter
• Collaborate meaningfully – to build shared purpose and influence

Our values

What guides us

• Curiosity
• Contestability
• Courage
• Collaboration