Human Services Minister visits Bundaberg on listening tour

Thursday, 4 May 2017

Minister for Human Services Alan Tudge visited Bundaberg today at the invitation of Federal Member for Hinkler, Keith Pitt, on a listening tour to discuss unemployment and welfare.

Mr Pitt was keen for Minister Tudge to meet directly with local organisations, groups and residents to hear first-hand what some of the challenges are in the community.

“The number of people on unemployment benefits has been unacceptably high in Hinkler for many years and we need to look at different ways to address this and ensure people on welfare are being supported appropriately,” Mr Pitt said.

“The roundtable discussions will give Minister Tudge a better understanding of the issues locally and provide an opportunity to discuss ideas of how to address these.

“We know the effects of long-term unemployment on individuals, families and the wider community can be particularly damaging. We want to ensure that people who need help are getting the help they need.”

The Minister for Human Services said he was pleased to be in Hinkler to hear from community members and organisations about the issues on the ground.

“Long term welfare dependency is a poison on capable people and we will be discussing ways in which we can help move people into jobs,” he said.

“I’m also looking forward to feedback from the community about their experience in dealing with Centrelink to ensure we are doing our best to help people into work and support those who need a hand up.

“The Coalition Government is focused on creating the right economic environment to create jobs, and ensuring that unemployed people are actively seeking work and accepting jobs when they are offered.”

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