Policy Area: Social Welfare

Statement of General Direction:

Based on principles of compassion and responsibility to restore integrity to the welfare system by responsible spending. A close focus to be given to targeting resources towards families facing difficulties.

Key Initiatives of Policy:

To institute a family service in the Department of Social Welfare with the intention of focusing on children 0 to 8 years and coordinate health, education, welfare, police, justice etc under this heading. Flagged to spend $70 million in the first year.

Make changes to the Special Benefit to

(a) remove $10 per week shortfall

(b) review formula for living costs.

Raise the Accommodation Supplement by 10% to meet 75% of housing costs above 25% of income.

Fiscal Implications of this Policy Agreement:

(All funding proposals subject to being considered within the agreed spending policy parameters.)

Legislative Implications of this Policy Agreement:

In terms of the policies being considered under Social Welfare, the proposed changes to the Accommodation Supplement would require amendments to the Social Security Act 1964. The other proposals under this heading, including instituting a Family Service within the Department of Social Welfare, could be implemented without legislative change. However, specific proposals involving the additional expenditure of $70 million in the first year on family related initiatives, could require a legislative amendment.