Dropping Off the Edge 2021: persistent and multilayered disadvantage in Australia

This report is the fifth in a series spanning more than 20 years of research into locational disadvantage. The report examines communities in every Australian state and territory to identify pockets of entrenched location-based disadvantage and the unique web of challenges these communities face. It provides an unparalleled picture of where disadvantage is concentrated, how various forms of disadvantage overlap, and how disadvantage becomes entrenched and difficult to escape. Through the findings of this report, the aim is to: keep the reality of location-based disadvantage before the Australian community; identify any shifts in the relative fortunes of some localities; contribute to strategic thinking about effective remedial policies; and give community service partners and organisations up-to-date information to guide and assist their work. This information can help governments, decision-makers and communities to set priorities and target resources to effectively reduce the most severe disadvantage.