2017-07-13
Rachel Siewert
For my last article in Green Issue I wrote that I was excited about our upcoming workshop on the Future of Australias Social Safety Net, and let me tell you it was a great afternoon. The workshop was a forum of productive ideas that touched on everything from the systemic issues in our tax system to the nature of poverty and the future of work, to the role of the Greens and the exciting possibilities and challenges of a Universal Basic Income (UBI) and Guaranteed Adequate Income (GAI).
The workshop began with myself, Scott Ludlam and Chris Twomey, Leader of Research and Policy Development at WACOSS setting the scene. We outlined the history of social security in Australia, the key challenges that the changing nature of work present, the inadequacies of the current system and the potential impact of an increasingly automated workforce.
Over sixty enthusiastic and engaged Greens members and supporters participated in small group discussions on a number of important aspects of the future of the social safety net. We talked about UBI, GAI, tax reform, the power of capital, automation, the future of work, Georgism (an economic philosophy that believes that while people should own the value they produce themselves, economic value derived from land should belong equally to all members of society). Not only was I thrilled to see so many people engaging with the future of Australias social safety net, these discussions left me excited and hopeful.
The Q&A sessions raised a number of interesting issues including the importance of revenue raising in putting forward an economically responsible proposal in increasing payments, the need to tackle structural economic unfairness and how we should be mitigating or regulating automation. Some of the big questions were on the role of Government in our social security system and much of the discussion was centred on the Universal Basic Income, Guaranteed Adequate Income and the future of work.
A number of key themes emerged from the small group discussions. Many participants commented on the need for wealth in our society to be redistributed in way that ensures everyone not only has just enough to survive, but also enough money to enjoy life. Participants thought that we needed to tax corporations and people who can afford it more so that we can fund a strong social security system that will mean everyone can enjoy the success of our economy and live with dignity. A UBI was also discussed in this context, but concerns were raised over whether it could be a holistic solution to inequality or of the possibility of it being a neo-liberal Trojan horse. We also deliberated on our current policy of a GAI and what we mean by adequate and guaranteed.
In terms of a UBI or GAI, there were many issues that were raised, particularly if it would be means tested and at what rate it would be paid. Most participants thought it should be tied to cost of living and would need to include housing costs. Issues around the feasibility of an UBI or GAI were also raised, along with concerns that no-one could be left worse off than they are under the current system.
There was robust discussion around the role of work, and the future of work. The under supply of full time work was raised a number of times. There were a variety of solutions offered by the group including a reduction in people working overtime, a greater flexibility so people could cycle in and out of work as other factors in their lives took precedence and the need for caring responsibilities to be properly credited and considered work. A repeated theme was the value of meaningful work in our lives and the need to protect the role of work and encourage avenues for more meaningful work.
Another theme which ran through our discussion on the role of work was how people might be happier in their work in the future, particularly with increasing automation replacing jobs. Attendees posited that an equal society is one where everyones work is valued and that a meaningful job is the right of all, not just some. People had a vision for a future where work did not dominate lives, but leisure time for hobbies and family was adequately valued as well.
I found the conversations incredibly valuable and would like to thank all those that participated.
These issues were also discussed at the Australian Greens National Conference in Alice Springs in May and it is fantastic to see the passion and engagement on this topic. I strongly believe this is important work and we will be continuing these conversations around the country.
It is clear that income inequality is a huge challenge for the 21st century and The Greens are the only party with the courage and vision to start addressing it.
Photo: Sleeping rough in Hobart. Credit: Piotr Ciuchta, file photo: www.sxc.hu