Media Release


Jenny Macklin MP.

Shadow Minister for families
Minister for Disability Reform



Thursday, 10 April 2014


Social Services Minister Kevin Andrews’ secret review of cuts to social security payments has been roundly condemned for failing to consult with the community sector.

Anglicare Australia Executive Director Kasy Chambers, has said today:

“We would note that both ourselves and the sector, and particularly people on those benefits, have had difficulty providing input into this review."

Cassandra Goldie, Chief Executive of the Australian Council of Social Services (ACOSS), stated:

“We retain our concern that in a review that is as important as this one ... that we don't have an open and transparent process…”
-     
The Age, 10 April 2014

This secret review is designed with one aim: to cut support from vulnerable Australians.

Without widespread and transparent consultation with the community sector and the public, this review has no credibility.

The only thing Kevin Andrews has managed to do is create uncertainty in the community sector and fear among families and pensioners that they’ll face the Abbott Government’s savage Budget cuts.

Kevin Andrews has made it blatantly clear that he has people with disability, people with mental illness and young Australians in his sights.

Kevin Andrews needs to come clean on his sham review. What cuts is he hiding from Australians?

The upcoming Budget is about priorities. Cuts to vulnerable Australians so Tony Abbott can pay $75,000 to millionaires to have a baby will reveal just how twisted Tony Abbott’s priorities are.