Media Release - Budget Strengthens Social Safety Net

Catholic Social Services Australia’s Executive Director, Frank Quinlan, said at first glance the Federal Budget has delivered a brighter outlook for most Australians.

Mr Quinlan welcomes the renewed focus on a fair go for those who haven’t enjoyed the benefits of the economic boom of the past decade.

“Tax cuts look set to deliver the greatest benefits to people on the lowest incomes. This is an important first step in sharing Australia’s wealth more equitably,” Mr Quinlan said.

“While tax cuts will do little for over 400,000 unemployed Australians, the restructure of the Job Network promises better access to services for people with complex barriers to employment.

“We have long advocated that resources should go to the people who need them most.

“Means testing benefits is a sensible approach to ensuring limited resources are spent more wisely, where savings deliver benefits to people who are struggling.

“We need means testing, to ensure we are not spending resources where they are not needed.

“But during such buoyant times, we must also do more needs testing – ensuring those on low income and benefits have the resources they need to provide food, shelter and dignity to themselves and their families.

“Better education and training opportunities will help many Australians to escape poverty traps. Time will tell whether these opportunities can be taken up by those with the greatest need.

“Now is the time to weave a stronger, better targeted safety net. Tonight’s budget is a welcome start to the process,” Mr Quinlan said.

Catholic Social Services Australia provides services to over a million Australians each year through its 64 member agencies in remote, regional and metropolitan Australia.

13 May 2008

CONTACT Judith Tokley 02 6285 1366 / 0408 824 306