Explore our plan
- Poverty and Inequality Commission
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Millions of Australians are living below the poverty line, relying on inadequate income support or payments that fail to meet basic needs.
A dedicated Poverty and Inequality Commission will ensure the government takes informed, evidence-based action to tackle poverty.
This Commission will investigate the causes of poverty, set benchmarks, and advise on solutions to eradicate poverty in Australia.
The Greens' plan:
- Establish a Poverty and Inequality Commission to eradicate poverty by creating a legislated body with paid Commissioners and a President, modelled on the Productivity Commission.
- Ensure a clear understanding of poverty by conducting regular Antipoverty Reviews and creating a national poverty line to measure and track progress.
- Guarantee fair and adequate social security payments by reviewing payment rates and recommending minimum levels of support.
- Require the government to act on recommendations by mandating public responses to advice from the Poverty and Inequality Commission.
- Ensure accountability and independence by having the President and Commissioners approved by a Joint Parliamentary Committee.
- Fund Essential Social Services
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The social services sector is a lifeline for millions of people, providing critical support for those facing poverty, homelessness, domestic violence, and other challenges.
Yet, successive governments have failed to give the sector the funding and stability it needs.
The Greens are ensuring the sector has the sustainable funding and workforce investment necessary to meet these rising needs.
The Greens' plan:
- Address service gaps by providing $40 million annually to strengthen community services, ensuring essential care and support reach those in need.
- Build long-term stability by investing $10 million over two years to establish a Commonwealth taskforce, developing comprehensive community service guarantees for sustainable funding and delivery.
More information on this policy initiative will be released soon.