13 August 2001

Centrelink Review Must be Broadened

 UnitingCare Wesley Adelaide supports the conducting of a review of Centrelink, the Federal Government’s income support department.

“Like other charities, UnitingCare Wesley Adelaide is deeply concerned by the number of people seeking urgent assistance because of the dire circumstances in which they find themselves; circumstances exacerbated by “breeching”.  There is no doubt that the Australian community expects all members of our society to participate, as they are able.  However, there is also the expectation of fairness with the expectation that disadvantaged people are given a “fair go”.  There is growing evidence that “breeching” is punitive, a “fair go” is not available to growing numbers of people” said Rev Geoff Scott, Minister of the Mission.

UnitingCare Wesley Adelaide believes that a two stage review of Centrelink is required:

1.   Stage 1 will deal with the urgent issues, particularly associated with breeching including:

• Who is being breeched and why?

• What are the consequences for individuals and their families of the current regime?

• What are fairer policies and practices that can be implemented to ensure that disadvantaged people are appropriately assisted.

2.   Stage 2 will need to take a longer term view and build on the “Welfare Reform” process that was focussed with the release of the McClure report a year ago.  In particular this second phase would consider:`

• What supports can be provided to ensure that all Australians have the opportunity to participate to the community?

• How effective have been responses to the McClure report?

• How is employment policy assisting the creation of employment opportunities for unemployed and underemployed people?

• How effective are Australia’s education and skills development sectors at preparing disadvantaged people for employment participation?

“We need a genuine assessment of policies and practices that will ensure that disadvantaged people are treated fairly and responsibly” Rev Scott concluded.

 

For Further Comment
Mark Henley Senior Policy Officer	8202 5135 (w) 0404 067 011 (mob)