General Synod motion on Sustainable Development Goals

SEPTEMBER 2017

Earlier this month, the General Synod of the Anglican Church of Australia met in Maroochydore, Queensland. Amongst other things, General Synod passed motions relating to Climate Change, Refugees, Domestic Violence and Reconciliation.

In two particular areas, the General Synod congratulated ABM and affirmed the work we are doing to reduce poverty and protect the environment. These areas relate ABM’s involvement in the Church Agencies Network Disaster Organisation, which coordinates ecumenical disaster preparedness and response, and to our contribution to the attainment of the Global Goals for Sustainable Development. 

Here is the motion endorsing the Sustainable Development Goals;

R55/17  16.10 The Global Goals for Sustainable Development 

Bishop Sarah Macneil moving, Bishop Chris Jones seconding

That, celebrating the success of the Millennium Development Goals and noting that the number of people living in extreme poverty has more than halved since 1990, the General Synod:

a) welcomes the new Global Goals for Sustainable Development which aim to end poverty, protect the planet, and pursue the common good;

b) encourages theological engagement with the goals, and missional commitment to their achievement;

c) commends the work of Anglicare Australia, the Anglican Board of Mission, Anglican Overseas Aid, Anglican Aid and other Anglican organisations in striving to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals;  

d) renews our call for a fair share of Australia’s national budget (0.7% of Gross National Income) to be dedicated to Overseas Development Assistance that aims to reduce poverty; and

e) encourages each diocese, through its synod, to consider 0.7% of gross diocesan income, or some other meaningful proportion, to projects supporting the Sustainable Development Goals.

 

We encourage all ABM supporters to prayerfully consider ways in which you, your parish, and your Diocese can support the attainment of the Global Goals for Sustainable Development, as we work together to make a fair and just world for all.

For more information on the Sustainable Development Goals visit www.globalgoals.org

 

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