The Wire

Federal Family Services Minister Mal Brough announced dramatic changes to Australia’s welfare system today. Under the new plan, up to 40% of the money currently paid directly into the accounts of welfare recipients would be restricted for use on household expenses such as groceries and rent. Minister Brough claims the changes are necessary to protect the rights of children in homes where he believes money is being misspent on cigarettes, gambling or alcohol. Mark Leahy of Welfare Rights SA has condemned the proposed changes and says they are paternatlistic.