Support for income management in Ceduna

Minister for Social Services Kevin Andrews and Minister for Indigenous Affairs, Nigel Scullion, have welcomed the results of a survey which shows community support for income management in the Ceduna area of South Australia.

Mr Andrews said those surveyed believed income management would bring many benefits to the region.

“The majority of participants said income management would help improve diet and health, ensure children are better looked after, increase family stability, and improve people’s ability to work and get an education or training,” Mr Andrews said.

“This was coupled with a high level of concern about social problems such as the neglect of children, family instability and the perceived waste of money on alcohol consumption, drug use and gambling.

“In addition, people in this area have repeatedly called for income management to be introduced to help combat alcohol misuse, gambling, child safety issues, and financial exploitation.

“This is a good starting point, and the further consultation the Government is doing will help us to determine whether income management is appropriate for the Ceduna area, and if so, which model would be best,” Mr Andrews said.

The study, conducted by Ninti One in August 2013, involved Aboriginal Community Researchers who spoke to 204 residents of the Ceduna, Koonibba, Scotdesco, Yalata and Oak Valley communities.

Senator Scullion said he visited the area late last year with local federal MP Rowan Ramsey and community leaders sent the strong message that they believe income management can help direct spending away from alcohol, gambling and tobacco to essentials such as food, clothing, rent and utilities.

“It’s important that the community is behind income management to ensure it succeeds in improving living standards,” Senator Scullion said.

“Income management is making a positive difference to the lives of people in the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Lands, Laverton and the Ngaanyatjarra Lands, where the majority of participants have volunteered for income management.”

Further consultations will be held in Ceduna, Scotdesco, Yalata and Oak Valley, to allow residents to have their say on income management for their communities.