2018-06-19
The Australian Greens have outlined in additional comments to the senate committee report into National Redress legislation that they will advocate for further reforms so the scheme can be the best possible scheme for survivors of child sexual abuse.
“The Greens want to see the Scheme operating from the nominated date of 1 July 2018. At the same time we are concerned that the Scheme will not be the best it can be given there are some issues that remain unresolved.
“I hold concerns about compensation being capped at $150,000 rather than the $200,000 recommended in the Royal Commission. There is also a need for a funder of last resort in all circumstances, which is not currently the case.
“There is uncertainty as to whether or not counselling and psychological services will be available to survivors for the whole of their life.
“I also have concerns around the scope for eligibility for the scheme, I don’t think certain groups should be excluded from the scheme, like those who have a criminal conviction, are in gaol or are not an Australian Citizen or permanent resident at the time they apply for redress.
“These are just some of the remaining concerns the Greens and others share. Following commencement, we will continue to advocate and work for subsequent reforms to make the Scheme the best it can be”.