In recent months, the Prime Minister and the Treasurer have been at pains to stress that their vision for Australia's future would be outlined in the Federal Budget. What was revealed on Budget night was that the vision they hold is all too narrow, and those most in need are hidden from view.
Vulnerable Australians have again been overlooked in this third Federal Budget from the Coalition Government.
With a focus on supporting business and those who already enjoy financial and social security, the Government has preferred to put money in the hands of businesses and the affluent rather than low income Australians.
The 2016-17 Budget provides tax cuts to the rich and service cuts to the rest.
This Budget has given tax relief to those earning over $80K. This measure will cost $4 billion, which could have been spent on investment in families and communities.
The Government still clings to the old rhetoric, evident in their Budget priorities, that the 'trickle down' approach of stimulating business and giving tax relief to those on higher incomes will generate more jobs and therefore greater resources for those whose means are modest. It's a noble theory, without any evidence whatsoever to suggest that it reflects reality.
Even the International Monetary Fund recognises that the best way to grow an economy is to reduce the divide between rich and poor, ensuring that all people have a chance to participate in the social and economic life of a country. The Coalition government remains resolutely opposed to this growing body of evidence, continuing to rely on economic structures that do nothing but entrench disadvantage and then blame the poor for their fate.
Social service agencies know what works to arrest disadvantage and overcome poverty. Those living on the fringes of our communities would welcome the opportunity to be a focus of investment.
"For the third year running, this government offers nothing to those who are homeless or experiencing significant housing and rental stress."
Government and business, working in partnership with social service providers in innovative relationships, could change the outcomes in life for the young people, families, people with disability and mental health challenges who are desperately looking for an opportunity to participate in the social and economic prosperity that all Australians desire.
For the third year running, this government offers nothing to those who are homeless or experiencing significant housing and rental stress.
Securing the basics in life — a house, an education, and health