Media Release by The Hon Jenny Macklin MP

BasicsCard roll out underway after successful launch: Alice Springs next

Joint Media Release with:

  • Senator the Hon. Joe Ludwig, Minister for Human Services
    The Hon. Warren Snowdon MP, Member for Lingiari

Details of the rollout have been released today by the Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs , Jenny Macklin, and the Minister for Human Services, Senator Joe Ludwig.

Centrelink began issuing the EFTPOS-based, pin-protected card to people on Income Management in Katherine on September 8, and the rollout will expand to Alice Springs tomorrow.

The Rudd Government is committed to a child-centred approach to family policy. “Income management is a crucial element in ensuring welfare payments are spent in the interests of children” Ms Macklin said.

“The BasicsCard will make it easier for people on income management to buy essential items.”

“The launch of the new BasicsCard in Katherine has been very successful, with the card winning strong support from customers and shop owners”Senator Ludwig said.

“It’s easy to use and a much more flexible way of shopping and doing business under Income Management.”

“About 650 customers have been issued cards so far and transactions have been running smoothly at local shops.”

Local Member for Lingiari, Warren Snowdon, has welcomed the arrival of the BasicsCard in Alice Springs.

“The reports from Katherine about the BasicsCard are very positive,” Mr Snowdon said.

“It?s the practical solution smaller retailers and their customers have been crying out for and now it’s here and working well.”

Throughout the Northern Territory, there are about 125 shops approved to accept the card. They include supermarkets, butchers, clothing retailers and major national retailers.