Our Inspiration
We are inspired by the Gospel which finds its expression in Catholic Social Traditions.
Jesus returned as a young adult to his home town of Nazareth (Luke 4: 16-30). He had just returned from forty days in the desert, a time of encounter with both darkness and light. He chose light. Coming home, he knew this meant a fresh way of understanding himself and the world. He was to be an agent for change, for loving relationships. He had a vision of freedom. It is a vision we share, one of justice, dignity and hope, and is deeply rooted in everything we do, including the Caritas Australia mission.
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour.”
Our Vision
Justice, dignity and hope for humanity and all of God’s creation.
Our Mission
The Caritas Australia mission is to work in partnership with communities in Australia and overseas to achieve their development goals and thrive, keeping in the spirit of the Gospel.
Our Values
Our Values are at the heart of everything we do. They're what keep us accountable and on the right track to a better world where all people can live out their full potential.
Courage
Compassion
Stewardship
Partnership
Catholic Social Teaching
Our work is shaped by the principles of Catholic Social Teaching.
The Dignity of the Human Person
Every human being is created in the image and likeness of God and therefore has inherent dignity. No human being should have their dignity or freedom compromised.
The Common Good
Every person should have access to the goods and resources of society so that they can have fulfilling lives. The common good is reached when we work together to improve the wellbeing of people in our society and the wider world.
Subsidiarity and Participation
All people have the right to participate in decisions that affect their lives.
Solidarity
Everyone belongs to one human family, regardless of their national, religious, political and ideological differences. We are called by the principle of solidarity to take the parable of the Good Samaritan to heart (Luke 10:29-37), and to express this in how we interact with others.
Preferential Option for the Poor
Preferential care should be shown to poor and vulnerable people. Jesus taught that God asks each of us what we are doing to help the poor and needy: “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” (Matthew 25:40).
Economic Justice
Everyone capable should be involved in economic activity and should be able to provide for themselves and their family.
Care for our Common Home
We must all respect, care for and share the resources of the earth, which are vital for the common good of all living beings.
Promotion of Peace
Peace is more than just the absence of war. It is a positive movement towards equality and justice between all people, regardless of differences.
Our vision for Reconciliation
Reconciliation is not a quick fix or an easy solution. We will be learning from each other and stumbling along together, with the intention of continually growing. Reconciliation involves change. Change within each of us, and change in the wider world. It may not always be comfortable but it’s important work to do. We will hold ourselves accountable by seeking feedback from First Australian partners. Caritas Australia believes that a Reconciliation Action Plan provides an opportunity for all members of our community to consider ways in which we, together, can heal the wounds of the past and foster a shared future filled with hope.
“It is important to be accountable, and by developing this RAP Caritas is committing to a brighter future. We are really pleased to be walking alongside Caritas on this shared journey of reconciliation.”