Mike Steketee from the Australian highlights the contradictions built into the IR and Welfare Reform.
Moreover, the closer wage levels come to government benefits, the smaller will be the incentive to take jobs. Although this should not be a serious barrier for people to move into full-time work, because their incomes will rise substantially, it could be a real factor for the many who can only pick up casual or part-time jobs.
Even the welfare-to-work legislation has contradictory incentives. In future, people with disabilities assessed as being able to work as few as 15 hours a week will no longer qualify for disability support pensions. Instead they will go on to Newstart if they do not get a job, and face a cut in income of $46 a week or more, depending on their circumstances. Single parents whose youngest child turns eight will face a similar situation, with cuts in their income of at least $29 a week. These are the sticks designed to make people look seriously for jobs.
Of course, who are the people who will be seeking part time work because they are UNABLE to work full-time. Who is it who will be forced into low paid jobs? It is people with disabilities. Instead of workplace justice for people with disabilities, we will continue to face limited choices, ongoing abuse and discrimination, and now Howard's big stick.
Monday, December 05, 2005
Saturday, November 26, 2005
The Australian: Welfare changes 'won't save money' [November 24, 2005]
As one of those people the Government has done nothing to help, and is planning on doing nothing to help, I fully agree with the following quote.
"'Despite the Howard Government complaining for years about the 'problem' of having 700,000 people stuck on the disability support pension, it has admitted that its plans do nothing to help them into work,' said Labor family and community services spokesman Chris Evans. 'These 700,000 Australians have been abandoned by the Government, with officials today confirming that the Government's package provides no new assistance to help those who want to work.'"
What would really help is providing incentives (bribes) to employers to employ people like me, and providing structural incentives to promote part-time work, especially in Gobernment Positions. Hats off to DEWR who have done this in thier recent advertisements.
I hope when they actually make decisions that they WILL employ some disabled people who can only work part time.
"'Despite the Howard Government complaining for years about the 'problem' of having 700,000 people stuck on the disability support pension, it has admitted that its plans do nothing to help them into work,' said Labor family and community services spokesman Chris Evans. 'These 700,000 Australians have been abandoned by the Government, with officials today confirming that the Government's package provides no new assistance to help those who want to work.'"
What would really help is providing incentives (bribes) to employers to employ people like me, and providing structural incentives to promote part-time work, especially in Gobernment Positions. Hats off to DEWR who have done this in thier recent advertisements.
I hope when they actually make decisions that they WILL employ some disabled people who can only work part time.
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
Devil in detail deprives disabled of welfare - National - smh.com.au
lthough the Government has consistently said people would have to look for 15 hours of work a week, a parliamentary inquiry into the new system heard yesterday that people could be required to work up to 25 hours a week.
'There is no upper hours, part-time work limit in the legislation,' the executive director of the National Welfare Rights Network, Michael Raper, told the inquiry.
'If they refuse a suitable job offer of up to 25 hours a week when they are working at, say, 13 hours a week, they can be hit with an immediate eight-week no-payment penalty and will lose in excess of $2000 [in welfare payments].'"
'There is no upper hours, part-time work limit in the legislation,' the executive director of the National Welfare Rights Network, Michael Raper, told the inquiry.
'If they refuse a suitable job offer of up to 25 hours a week when they are working at, say, 13 hours a week, they can be hit with an immediate eight-week no-payment penalty and will lose in excess of $2000 [in welfare payments].'"
Wednesday, November 09, 2005
ACOSS and the New Regime
“ACOSS supports the Government’s goal of transitioning more people into work but urge all Members of Parliament to amend the welfare package to ensure rules are applied fairly and no one is left financially worse off.”
I fully support the following ACOSS statement.
“We know that one of the main pathways out of poverty is secure employment. However, areas that are job-rich are often the most expensive to live and many jobless people have a low level of experience and skills with which to find work.”
“These barriers to work that people with disabilities and single parents have are not those that can be solved by changes to payment rules. The payments system must be part of assistance to ensure that single parents and people with disabilities have access to appropriate education, training and support so they can get jobs in today’s economy.”
What is needed is real, positive, affirmative action to tear down the barriers and attitudes that block the disabled from getting a job. A DEWR employee told me that their own modelling shows 98% of a disabled person's chances of getting work are beyond their control once they are disabled.
If the Government wants to focus on ability, it must lead the way in providing positions suited for people with disabilities.
I fully support the following ACOSS statement.
“We know that one of the main pathways out of poverty is secure employment. However, areas that are job-rich are often the most expensive to live and many jobless people have a low level of experience and skills with which to find work.”
“These barriers to work that people with disabilities and single parents have are not those that can be solved by changes to payment rules. The payments system must be part of assistance to ensure that single parents and people with disabilities have access to appropriate education, training and support so they can get jobs in today’s economy.”
What is needed is real, positive, affirmative action to tear down the barriers and attitudes that block the disabled from getting a job. A DEWR employee told me that their own modelling shows 98% of a disabled person's chances of getting work are beyond their control once they are disabled.
If the Government wants to focus on ability, it must lead the way in providing positions suited for people with disabilities.
Thursday, October 27, 2005
The Advertiser: Rural areas 'lose out' on welfare [26oct05]
"'ACOSS figures are biased and can never be trusted, as has been seen time and again over the last 12 months. Unfortunately, this undermines the credibility of ACOSS's argument,' he said in a statement.
'I don't share ACOSS's view that people who have a capacity to work are better off on welfare rather than in a job.
'There are thousands of people who will be infinitely better off under the Government's $3.6 billion investment in employment services and support.'"
'I don't share ACOSS's view that people who have a capacity to work are better off on welfare rather than in a job.
'There are thousands of people who will be infinitely better off under the Government's $3.6 billion investment in employment services and support.'"
My Comment
OK folks, do the maths. As far as I can see, no-one will be infinitely better off. Some may be 5-10% better off. So is it ACOSS figures we can't trust, or the Government?Sunday, October 16, 2005
Disabled people stopped from working
Discrimination and inflexible workplaces are preventing disabled people from working, a new report shows.
The report, commissioned by the Department of Family and Community Services (FaCS), has found most disabled people would like to work part-time, but think it is unlikely employers will give them the flexibility they need.
They also say that Centrelink is largely unhelpful and that moving from the Newstart Allowance - when they are required to look for work - onto the Disability Support Pension (DSP) is a great relief.
'Most felt that they would be able to cope with formal part-time employment if employers were more flexible,' the report's authors said.
'This would involve employers taking account of their disability and allowing them to rest during the day when they needed to and to take whole days off when they could not contemplate going to work,' they said."
Its not rocket science is it? I hear this report from motivated people I interview every day I work. The problem is employer attitude.
The report, commissioned by the Department of Family and Community Services (FaCS), has found most disabled people would like to work part-time, but think it is unlikely employers will give them the flexibility they need.
They also say that Centrelink is largely unhelpful and that moving from the Newstart Allowance - when they are required to look for work - onto the Disability Support Pension (DSP) is a great relief.
'Most felt that they would be able to cope with formal part-time employment if employers were more flexible,' the report's authors said.
'This would involve employers taking account of their disability and allowing them to rest during the day when they needed to and to take whole days off when they could not contemplate going to work,' they said."
Comment
Its not rocket science is it? I hear this report from motivated people I interview every day I work. The problem is employer attitude.
Tuesday, October 04, 2005
The Australian: Retro sting in dole reforms [October 03, 2005]
The Australian: Retro sting in dole reforms [October 03, 2005]: "THE Howard Government will further toughen 'three strikes and you're out' dole rules by including in the tally mistakes by unemployed people made during the 12 months before the changes are brought in.
The decision means many people on the dole could face two months without money as soon as the Government's welfare reforms start next July."
Would that be fair?
The decision means many people on the dole could face two months without money as soon as the Government's welfare reforms start next July."
My Comment
Now what about if we apply the three strikes rule to Centrelink and pollies. Centrelink make three mistakes and all welfare recipients get a weeks extra payment. If pollies mislead parliament or fail to answer the actual question asked in question time and they forfeit their seat.Would that be fair?
Monday, September 26, 2005
Disabled to wait for benefits - National Breaking News - Breaking News 24/7 - NEWS.com.au
Disabled to wait for benefits - National Breaking News - Breaking News 24/7 - NEWS.com.au: "DISABLED and sole parent jobseekers with savings will have to wait an average of more than two months for their benefits from next July, welfare advocates say.
In a new twist in the debate surrounding the Government's controversial welfare-to-work package, the National Welfare Rights Network (NWRN) has discovered people will lose a week's worth of benefits for every $1000 over $2500 they have in savings."
In a new twist in the debate surrounding the Government's controversial welfare-to-work package, the National Welfare Rights Network (NWRN) has discovered people will lose a week's worth of benefits for every $1000 over $2500 they have in savings."
Comment
Isn't it good to know that the Governments reward for those who heeded it's advice to save for the future is to take it back.Tuesday, September 13, 2005
Publications - NATSEM
Here is the truth about the Howard Government's proposed "Welfare to Work" initiatives, aimed at increasing the opportunities and incentives for people with a disability:
The Government’s proposed welfare to work reforms will not directly affect the disposable income or effective marginal tax rates (EMTRs) of those Australians who are already in receipt of Disability Support Pension (DSP) on 1 July 2006 and who remain on that payment.
However, those persons with disabilities who begin receiving income support after 1 July 2006 will be placed on Newstart Allowance if they are assessed as being able to work 15 to 29 hours a week at award wages. The Newstart Allowance maximum payment rate for single adults in 2006-07 is $46 a week lower than that of DSP, resulting in an immediate loss of this amount of income for those placed on Newstart Allowance rather than DSP. The gap between DSP and Newstart Allowance will increase further in future years, as DSP is indexed to movements in average weekly earnings, while Newstart Allowance is indexed to the (generally lower) Consumer Price Index. As a result, by 2009-10, for example, the maximum payment rate for Newstart Allowance for single adults will be about $224, some $68 lower than the $292 payable for DSP (rather than the $46 a week gap apparent for 2006-07.)
The Newstart Allowance income test is also much less generous than the DSP income test, and its payment is also less than that of the DSP. Taken together, these mean that the losses in take-home income can be as high as $122 a week for single people with disabilities and around $390 per week of private earnings who are placed on Newstart Allowance rather than DSP. People with disabilities placed on Newstart Allowance are more than $100 a week worse off when their private incomes range between $196 and $448, relative to the payments they receive under the current system. These reductions in income amount to a 25 to 27 per cent cut in income when private incomes range from $196 to $400 a week.
The Government’s proposed welfare to work reforms will not directly affect the disposable income or effective marginal tax rates (EMTRs) of those Australians who are already in receipt of Disability Support Pension (DSP) on 1 July 2006 and who remain on that payment.
However, those persons with disabilities who begin receiving income support after 1 July 2006 will be placed on Newstart Allowance if they are assessed as being able to work 15 to 29 hours a week at award wages. The Newstart Allowance maximum payment rate for single adults in 2006-07 is $46 a week lower than that of DSP, resulting in an immediate loss of this amount of income for those placed on Newstart Allowance rather than DSP. The gap between DSP and Newstart Allowance will increase further in future years, as DSP is indexed to movements in average weekly earnings, while Newstart Allowance is indexed to the (generally lower) Consumer Price Index. As a result, by 2009-10, for example, the maximum payment rate for Newstart Allowance for single adults will be about $224, some $68 lower than the $292 payable for DSP (rather than the $46 a week gap apparent for 2006-07.)
The Newstart Allowance income test is also much less generous than the DSP income test, and its payment is also less than that of the DSP. Taken together, these mean that the losses in take-home income can be as high as $122 a week for single people with disabilities and around $390 per week of private earnings who are placed on Newstart Allowance rather than DSP. People with disabilities placed on Newstart Allowance are more than $100 a week worse off when their private incomes range between $196 and $448, relative to the payments they receive under the current system. These reductions in income amount to a 25 to 27 per cent cut in income when private incomes range from $196 to $400 a week.
Friday, August 26, 2005
The Facts - How many will be robbed
Question:Senator Wong asked at Hansard page 49:
How many people who would previously have been on the DSP will be on enhanced Newstart under the Welfare Reform package?
Answer:
The estimated costs of the Welfare to Work package included, amongst other things, the impact of the following number of people who would have been on DSP, but will instead be on Newstart Allowance, as a result of the Welfare to Work package:
• 34,400 in 2006-07;
• 57,900 in 2007-08; and
• 75,700 in 2008-09.
These costing estimates include people who will be granted DSP between 11 May 2005 and 30 June 2006 and will be reviewed with some (those with 15-29 hours per week capacity) transferring to Newstart Allowance as a result of the review process.
These estimates represent annual average impacts for the relevant year, and have been rounded to the nearest 100.
How many people who would previously have been on the DSP will be on enhanced Newstart under the Welfare Reform package?
Answer:
The estimated costs of the Welfare to Work package included, amongst other things, the impact of the following number of people who would have been on DSP, but will instead be on Newstart Allowance, as a result of the Welfare to Work package:
• 34,400 in 2006-07;
• 57,900 in 2007-08; and
• 75,700 in 2008-09.
These costing estimates include people who will be granted DSP between 11 May 2005 and 30 June 2006 and will be reviewed with some (those with 15-29 hours per week capacity) transferring to Newstart Allowance as a result of the review process.
These estimates represent annual average impacts for the relevant year, and have been rounded to the nearest 100.
workplace.gov.au - Survey of New Disability Support Pension Customers - Executive Summary
workplace.gov.au - Survey of New Disability Support Pension Customers - Executive Summary: "Participants who were not currently working but with future work intentions or the potential to work in the future were asked a question regarding factors that they would consider before accepting an appropriate position. The three most common factors identified by the 418 respondents were:
* location or distance from home
* pay or salary
* employer flexibility (includes flexibility in relation to hours and days worked as well as work-from-home options).
Participants were also asked about the advantages and disadvantages of working. The most common advantages identified were:
* more money/income
* improve self confidence/self esteem/state of mind
* social contact.
The most common disadvantage of working identified by both groups was that of potential problems with physical and/or mental health."
* location or distance from home
* pay or salary
* employer flexibility (includes flexibility in relation to hours and days worked as well as work-from-home options).
Participants were also asked about the advantages and disadvantages of working. The most common advantages identified were:
* more money/income
* improve self confidence/self esteem/state of mind
* social contact.
The most common disadvantage of working identified by both groups was that of potential problems with physical and/or mental health."
Comment
This report confirms the truth behind what people with disabilities have been saying for years. We want to work, but we don't want to be forced to do it in a way that jeopardises our health, our psyche and our families. Does that make us bludgers?Monday, August 15, 2005
Easy way to send letters to your Local Member
A C O S S Website by Webit: "Tell your local MP that you care in 3 quick steps
This year Parliament will consider legislation on payments for the poorest Australians. This includes rules that mean after July 2006 up to 300,000 people could have less money to live on. Take action online now in three quick steps and tell your Member of Parliament that you care about jobless people."
Just click on the heading above to go to the ACOSS Action page.
This year Parliament will consider legislation on payments for the poorest Australians. This includes rules that mean after July 2006 up to 300,000 people could have less money to live on. Take action online now in three quick steps and tell your Member of Parliament that you care about jobless people."
Just click on the heading above to go to the ACOSS Action page.
Sunday, July 31, 2005
The Epoch Times | Welfare Groups Question Federal Government’s Reforms
“We have said all along, and will continue to say, that if the nature of your disability is such that you cannot support yourself through work, then the Disability Support Pension will be there for you...[But] the community, including those with disabilities themselves, has a low level of tolerance for people who exaggerate the impact of their injury or illness and try and get onto the pension as the easy option.”
More Lies
Dutton says that 15 hours per week of work is sufficient to support yourself. I'd like to see him try. If you can work 15 hours per week, but can't compete in the job market, then you will be plunged onto Newstart, not DSP. The DSP is NOT available to those unable to support themselves.Thursday, July 21, 2005
Welfare to Work Forum
A Disability & Participation Alliance Forum
“Welfare to Work” & Disability
An opportunity to consult with
Senator Penny Wong
Shadow Minister for Employment
and Workplace Participation
When: 4-6pm
23 August 2005
Where: Uniting Church Meeting Room
Ground Floor
130 Little Collins St
Melbourne
RSVP by Wednesday 17 August 2005
Telephone: 03 9662 3324
TTY: 03 9662 3325
Email: collette.oneill@afdo.org.au
Please indicate any disability related needs, eg, need for a sign interpreter. The venue is wheelchair accessible.
“Welfare to Work” & Disability
An opportunity to consult with
Senator Penny Wong
Shadow Minister for Employment
and Workplace Participation
When: 4-6pm
23 August 2005
Where: Uniting Church Meeting Room
Ground Floor
130 Little Collins St
Melbourne
RSVP by Wednesday 17 August 2005
Telephone: 03 9662 3324
TTY: 03 9662 3325
Email: collette.oneill@afdo.org.au
Please indicate any disability related needs, eg, need for a sign interpreter. The venue is wheelchair accessible.
The Australian: Decline in men on disability pension [July 19, 2005]
Howard tells more porkies
David Uren, Economics correspondent
July 19, 2005
THE number of men claiming disability pensions has stopped growing for the first time in 20 years, but this has been offset by a surge in the number of claims from older women.
Research by the federal parliamentary library disproves a widely held belief that the meteoric growth in disability pensions has been driven by older men dropping out of the workforce before they were eligible for the old age pension.
The portion of men aged 60 to 64 on the disability pension has dropped from 25.3 to 21.5 per cent over the past seven years, while the number of men aged 50 to 59 on the disability pension has fallen from 11.5 to 10.2 per cent."
Comment
Just goes to show that the government's comments about DSP are fiction. And why are there more women? Probably because as women have entered the work force, they experience the poor conditions, and unhealthy demands pushed by a "productivity culture".Tuesday, June 21, 2005
Australians too retiring: OECD - National - theage.com.au
"The study also finds Australian men of prime working age have the second highest jobless rate of all 30 member nations in the OECD.
Perhaps because Australian employers are bastards?
In a wide-ranging reform blueprint, the organisation urges the Federal Government to let people earn more part-time income while still claiming the aged pension.
This is a no-brainer.
It also advocates even tougher rules for older people on welfare benefits - including more work requirements for unemployed people over 55.
I support this, but you have to start with employers. They're the mongrels who block older, disabled people from getting jobs. They use any excuse to sack older workers so they can employ someone younger and cheaper. Most people I assess for DSP want to work. Over half have a horror story about how they were forced into early "retirement" by bastard bosses.
And, in a bid to stop the disability support pension being used as an early retirement scheme, it wants older applicants to face the same tough medical eligibility tests as everyone else.
Despite the Government's pre-budget decision to exempt the existing 700,000 disability pensioners from harsher work tests, the OECD says all recipients should be forced to look for a job if they can work for 15 hours or more a week."
Agreed - but you have to make the definition of 15 hours per week reasonable. How about forcing employers to provide part-time work. Have you looked in the paper to see how many part-time jobs are advertised? Pompous ivory tower academics make these ridiculous pronouncements with no concept of what it's actually like in the real world.
Yesterday I assessed a 57 year old man with multiple injuries who wanted to work, who had actually been an employment consultant in Job Network. He trained people for the Mature Workers Program. He cannot get a job. His Job Network provider has decided not to fund the final semester of his TAFE course.
Here is a man doing all the right things - being screwed by a pathetic system. Shame Johnny.
Perhaps because Australian employers are bastards?
In a wide-ranging reform blueprint, the organisation urges the Federal Government to let people earn more part-time income while still claiming the aged pension.
This is a no-brainer.
It also advocates even tougher rules for older people on welfare benefits - including more work requirements for unemployed people over 55.
I support this, but you have to start with employers. They're the mongrels who block older, disabled people from getting jobs. They use any excuse to sack older workers so they can employ someone younger and cheaper. Most people I assess for DSP want to work. Over half have a horror story about how they were forced into early "retirement" by bastard bosses.
And, in a bid to stop the disability support pension being used as an early retirement scheme, it wants older applicants to face the same tough medical eligibility tests as everyone else.
Despite the Government's pre-budget decision to exempt the existing 700,000 disability pensioners from harsher work tests, the OECD says all recipients should be forced to look for a job if they can work for 15 hours or more a week."
Agreed - but you have to make the definition of 15 hours per week reasonable. How about forcing employers to provide part-time work. Have you looked in the paper to see how many part-time jobs are advertised? Pompous ivory tower academics make these ridiculous pronouncements with no concept of what it's actually like in the real world.
Yesterday I assessed a 57 year old man with multiple injuries who wanted to work, who had actually been an employment consultant in Job Network. He trained people for the Mature Workers Program. He cannot get a job. His Job Network provider has decided not to fund the final semester of his TAFE course.
Here is a man doing all the right things - being screwed by a pathetic system. Shame Johnny.
Monday, June 20, 2005
'Welfare to work' melting under spotlight
Penny Wong
Labor Senator for South Australia
Shadow Minister for Employment and Workforce Participation,
Corporate Governance and Responsibility
Sunday 19 June, 2005
In the last week of parliamentary sittings, Labor will highlight that
the Howard Government's so-called welfare to work package is a shambles that won't improve workforce participation.
"Since the Budget, Labor and independent experts have shone a spotlight on the Howard Government's incompetent scheme and found that it fails its own basic test of moving people from welfare to work," Shadow Employment Minister Senator Wong said today.
"Under the Howard Government's confused scheme, there will be less incentive to move into work because workers will lose more of what they earn."
Treasury confirmed this fact at Senate Estimates hearings, and last week the respected Melbourne Institute agreed:
The effect of on labour supply of these measures is ambiguous... Relatively less can be gained from employment due to the higher benefit withdrawal rates when earning additional income.
In addition, the Treasurer's claim that 190,000 people will move from welfare to work has been completely discredited.
"At estimates, Treasury revealed that it expected that no current
Disability Support Pension recipients would move into work at all. And now the Melbourne Institute is projecting that only 45,000 people will move from welfare to work.
"Add these revelations to the chorus of concern raised by church groups and the news that Job Network agencies are threatening to walk from the system, and it is clear that the 'welfare to work' scheme is decomposing before our eyes.
"Welfare reform was the opportunity for Australia to ask welfare
recipients to help address the chronic skills shortage - but that
opportunity has been wasted with no major investment in the skills of welfare recipients.
"The Howard Government's process for developing this scheme was chaotic, the results have been disastrous - and vulnerable families and disabled Australians will pay the price.
"After nine long years of talk on welfare reform, the Howard Government is just moving vulnerable Australians from one welfare payment to a lower welfare payment. Labor will be calling the Government to account for this cruel scam when the last parliamentary sitting week for the session begins tomorrow."
For further information - John Olenich 0408 841 850
Labor Senator for South Australia
Shadow Minister for Employment and Workforce Participation,
Corporate Governance and Responsibility
Sunday 19 June, 2005
In the last week of parliamentary sittings, Labor will highlight that
the Howard Government's so-called welfare to work package is a shambles that won't improve workforce participation.
"Since the Budget, Labor and independent experts have shone a spotlight on the Howard Government's incompetent scheme and found that it fails its own basic test of moving people from welfare to work," Shadow Employment Minister Senator Wong said today.
"Under the Howard Government's confused scheme, there will be less incentive to move into work because workers will lose more of what they earn."
Treasury confirmed this fact at Senate Estimates hearings, and last week the respected Melbourne Institute agreed:
The effect of on labour supply of these measures is ambiguous... Relatively less can be gained from employment due to the higher benefit withdrawal rates when earning additional income.
In addition, the Treasurer's claim that 190,000 people will move from welfare to work has been completely discredited.
"At estimates, Treasury revealed that it expected that no current
Disability Support Pension recipients would move into work at all. And now the Melbourne Institute is projecting that only 45,000 people will move from welfare to work.
"Add these revelations to the chorus of concern raised by church groups and the news that Job Network agencies are threatening to walk from the system, and it is clear that the 'welfare to work' scheme is decomposing before our eyes.
"Welfare reform was the opportunity for Australia to ask welfare
recipients to help address the chronic skills shortage - but that
opportunity has been wasted with no major investment in the skills of welfare recipients.
"The Howard Government's process for developing this scheme was chaotic, the results have been disastrous - and vulnerable families and disabled Australians will pay the price.
"After nine long years of talk on welfare reform, the Howard Government is just moving vulnerable Australians from one welfare payment to a lower welfare payment. Labor will be calling the Government to account for this cruel scam when the last parliamentary sitting week for the session begins tomorrow."
For further information - John Olenich 0408 841 850
Sunday, June 19, 2005
Call to rethink disability reform
By GABRIELLE DUNLEVY - Illawarra Mercury June 11, 2005.
A KOONAWARRA man has started, a petition against changes to the Disability Support Pension which he claims will disadvantage and discriminate against people with a disability, rather than encourage them into work.
Ken Davis, both a recipient of the pension and an occupational therapist who assesses people for the pension, believes the changes come out of ignorance.
Under the Federal Government's "welfare to work" reforms, from July 1 next year people able to do 15 hours of part time work would no longer he entitled to the pension and would be moved Newstart allowance.
They would have to meet job search requirements and would be $44 per week worse off, Mr Davis said.
As most people with disabilities wanted to work, he believed the Government should give employers an incentive to hire them.
“Because of the job I do part-time is to assess people with a disability, I can see first hand that the Government’s claims about these people are not true...the characterisation of people on the disability support pension as malingerers”, he said. “The most serious misconception is what it takes for a disabled person to find real employment that does not aggravate their condition.”
Mr Davis said the idea that people with back injuries could easily find part-time office work was an example of this – often office work could make their condition worse.
“They (the Government) really have a poor understanding of people with disabilities. What I am hoping is there will be enough signatures to get some attention and that it might motivate both people with a disability and people around them to get on board with the political process and try and make a difference.”
Mr Davis said his was not the only campaign against the pension reforms. The Australian Federation of Disability Organisations has launched Campaign Enable to coerce the Government to replace its “unfair” policies with a practical national employment strategy for those with a disability.
Mr Davis’ petition is at www.life-directions.net/dsp.php
A KOONAWARRA man has started, a petition against changes to the Disability Support Pension which he claims will disadvantage and discriminate against people with a disability, rather than encourage them into work.
Ken Davis, both a recipient of the pension and an occupational therapist who assesses people for the pension, believes the changes come out of ignorance.
Under the Federal Government's "welfare to work" reforms, from July 1 next year people able to do 15 hours of part time work would no longer he entitled to the pension and would be moved Newstart allowance.
They would have to meet job search requirements and would be $44 per week worse off, Mr Davis said.
As most people with disabilities wanted to work, he believed the Government should give employers an incentive to hire them.
“Because of the job I do part-time is to assess people with a disability, I can see first hand that the Government’s claims about these people are not true...the characterisation of people on the disability support pension as malingerers”, he said. “The most serious misconception is what it takes for a disabled person to find real employment that does not aggravate their condition.”
Mr Davis said the idea that people with back injuries could easily find part-time office work was an example of this – often office work could make their condition worse.
“They (the Government) really have a poor understanding of people with disabilities. What I am hoping is there will be enough signatures to get some attention and that it might motivate both people with a disability and people around them to get on board with the political process and try and make a difference.”
Mr Davis said his was not the only campaign against the pension reforms. The Australian Federation of Disability Organisations has launched Campaign Enable to coerce the Government to replace its “unfair” policies with a practical national employment strategy for those with a disability.
Mr Davis’ petition is at www.life-directions.net/dsp.php
Friday, June 10, 2005
PM - Jobless rate steady at 5.1 per cent
Not much cheer for Disabled
PM - Thursday, 9 June , 2005 18:55:55
Reporter: Neal Woolrich
MARK COLVIN: Most indicators show that the Australian economy is slowing, but the job market continues to defy the trend.
Australia's unemployment rate remained steady in May at a 28-year low of 5.1 per cent.
But the strength of the job market is causing its own problems, with employers increasingly looking overseas to find qualified workers.
Funny aint it. Government says it's reforms will improve the lot of disabled people and single mums. But where do the bosses go looking for workers: Overseas! This shows the poverty of imagination in our Government and business leaders.
DSP recipients are the ones who need a carrot - its the bosses who need a bloody big stick!
PM - Thursday, 9 June , 2005 18:55:55
Reporter: Neal Woolrich
MARK COLVIN: Most indicators show that the Australian economy is slowing, but the job market continues to defy the trend.
Australia's unemployment rate remained steady in May at a 28-year low of 5.1 per cent.
But the strength of the job market is causing its own problems, with employers increasingly looking overseas to find qualified workers.
Comment
Funny aint it. Government says it's reforms will improve the lot of disabled people and single mums. But where do the bosses go looking for workers: Overseas! This shows the poverty of imagination in our Government and business leaders.
DSP recipients are the ones who need a carrot - its the bosses who need a bloody big stick!
Wednesday, June 08, 2005
Jennie George demands a fair go for Disability Support Pensioners
My local member, Jennie George is fighting the Howard Government's proposed DSP changes. This is her conclusion. I urge you to read the whole speech.
2005 Budget reply: "If we genuinely want to help people with disabilities who have a capacity to work-and I think most people of goodwill really want to see that outcome-we need to understand that this will require a big investment in rehabilitation and employment assistance and major changes in the nature of our workplaces. There are no cheap or easy options. In the meantime, I firmly believe that people with disabilities deserve adequate and secure income support through the social security system, not cuts to their entitlements. It is in this context that I believe the government's proposals in the budget for DSP recipients fail the test of adequate support and assistance in their move from welfare to work."
2005 Budget reply: "If we genuinely want to help people with disabilities who have a capacity to work-and I think most people of goodwill really want to see that outcome-we need to understand that this will require a big investment in rehabilitation and employment assistance and major changes in the nature of our workplaces. There are no cheap or easy options. In the meantime, I firmly believe that people with disabilities deserve adequate and secure income support through the social security system, not cuts to their entitlements. It is in this context that I believe the government's proposals in the budget for DSP recipients fail the test of adequate support and assistance in their move from welfare to work."
Friday, June 03, 2005
Canada vs Australia
Check out how Canada is treating disabled workers, then compare it with Australia's approach.
"Injured workers applaud government action
Changes to Ontario WSIB fairer and in the right direction
Toronto, Ontario, June 1 /PR Direct/ - Injured worker groups today applauded the Ontario Government's action to change the way in which the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board treats Canada Pension Plan Disability Benefits.
'The announcement today is a step in the right direction to treat injured workers more fairly,' said Jessica Schmidt, spokesperson for the Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge Injured Workers' Group Inc. It is encouraging to see that injured workers are now one step closer to receiving benefits that correspond to their true wage loss.
Successive governments have enacted legislation that resulted in a significant loss of income for injured workers. De-indexing of WSIB pensions occurred in the early 1990's and Bill 99 during the Conservative regime resulted in a 5 % loss of income for injured workers. This is the first time since January 1, 1998 that injured workers have received an increase in their benefits."
"Injured workers applaud government action
Changes to Ontario WSIB fairer and in the right direction
Toronto, Ontario, June 1 /PR Direct/ - Injured worker groups today applauded the Ontario Government's action to change the way in which the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board treats Canada Pension Plan Disability Benefits.
'The announcement today is a step in the right direction to treat injured workers more fairly,' said Jessica Schmidt, spokesperson for the Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge Injured Workers' Group Inc. It is encouraging to see that injured workers are now one step closer to receiving benefits that correspond to their true wage loss.
Successive governments have enacted legislation that resulted in a significant loss of income for injured workers. De-indexing of WSIB pensions occurred in the early 1990's and Bill 99 during the Conservative regime resulted in a 5 % loss of income for injured workers. This is the first time since January 1, 1998 that injured workers have received an increase in their benefits."
Wednesday, June 01, 2005
Empowering Conference 2005
"Empowering Individuals and Families in the Human Services
Sydney, 17 June 2005
Y on the Park Conference Centre
This one day conference will explore an agenda of empowerment for individuals and families in the fields of disability, mental health, aged care, youth, schools, health care and family support.
By ‘empowerment’ we mean person-centred arrangements in social policy and service provision, as distinct from institution or agency-centred systems.
Our purpose is to explore what must be done – in communities, services, government departments, social institutions, and philanthropic foundations – to further an empowerment agenda. "
Sydney, 17 June 2005
Y on the Park Conference Centre
This one day conference will explore an agenda of empowerment for individuals and families in the fields of disability, mental health, aged care, youth, schools, health care and family support.
By ‘empowerment’ we mean person-centred arrangements in social policy and service provision, as distinct from institution or agency-centred systems.
Our purpose is to explore what must be done – in communities, services, government departments, social institutions, and philanthropic foundations – to further an empowerment agenda. "
Disability Paricipation Alliance
"People with Disability: Participation and Payments Forum
More than 30 disability, welfare and employment services agencies attended the People with Disability: Participation and Payments Forum held in Melbourne on Thursday 3 February 2005 to consider options for the reform of income support and employment policies for people with disability and ways that the community sector can contribute to it.
The forum was organised by:
* The Australian Federaton of Disability Organisations
* The Australian Council of Social Service
* People with Disability Australia
* ACROD
* ACE National Network
* The National Welfare Rights Network.
The Disability Advisory Council, Victoria, supported the forum."
More than 30 disability, welfare and employment services agencies attended the People with Disability: Participation and Payments Forum held in Melbourne on Thursday 3 February 2005 to consider options for the reform of income support and employment policies for people with disability and ways that the community sector can contribute to it.
The forum was organised by:
* The Australian Federaton of Disability Organisations
* The Australian Council of Social Service
* People with Disability Australia
* ACROD
* ACE National Network
* The National Welfare Rights Network.
The Disability Advisory Council, Victoria, supported the forum."
Tuesday, May 31, 2005
Government won't reveal 'misleading' welfare to work figures
Link
Penny Wong - Shadow Minister for Employment and Workplace Participation, Shadow Minister for Corporate Governance and Responsibility
Media Statement - 25th May 2005
The Howard Government and the Finance Department today refused to reveal basic costings information for the 'Welfare to Work' scheme, Shadow Employment Minister Penny Wong said.
In Senate Estimates, they specifically refused to reveal how much money was being saved by moving people on to the new dole payments that are central to the scheme.
Senator Wong asked Mr Phil Bowen, Budget General Manager at the Finance Department:
Perhaps you can give me this? What are the savings resulting from the reduction in the Parenting Payment and the DSP payment to the Newstart Allowance over the forward estimates? It is a very simple question.
Mr Bowen replied:
Senator, I cannot give you that, but can I say that if that figure were produced it would be a very misleading figure."
Penny Wong - Shadow Minister for Employment and Workplace Participation, Shadow Minister for Corporate Governance and Responsibility
Media Statement - 25th May 2005
The Howard Government and the Finance Department today refused to reveal basic costings information for the 'Welfare to Work' scheme, Shadow Employment Minister Penny Wong said.
In Senate Estimates, they specifically refused to reveal how much money was being saved by moving people on to the new dole payments that are central to the scheme.
Senator Wong asked Mr Phil Bowen, Budget General Manager at the Finance Department:
Perhaps you can give me this? What are the savings resulting from the reduction in the Parenting Payment and the DSP payment to the Newstart Allowance over the forward estimates? It is a very simple question.
Mr Bowen replied:
Senator, I cannot give you that, but can I say that if that figure were produced it would be a very misleading figure."
Power to the People
People Power Home Page
"People Power was launched in Sydney on Saturday 5 March 2005"
Australians have disengaged from politics on a massive scale. The proportion of our citizens who are members of political parties is amongst the lowest in the western world. All our political parties (with the exception of the Greens) are in major decline - not surprising when they have lost touch with the little people and become part of the Two Establishments.
We want to empower ordinary Australians in their roles as citizens, consumers, carers, community members, shareholders, owners of assets and members of families.
Our core values are:
We invite Australians from all walks of life to exercise People Power to renew our democracy, to change our politics, and to re-invigorate the best of our social traditions of a fair go, egalitarianism, a hand up not a hand out, unpretentiousness, and inclusive, convivial community.
"People Power was launched in Sydney on Saturday 5 March 2005"
Read all about them
We are a new political movement aiming to empower people who have become invisible in our political system:Australians have disengaged from politics on a massive scale. The proportion of our citizens who are members of political parties is amongst the lowest in the western world. All our political parties (with the exception of the Greens) are in major decline - not surprising when they have lost touch with the little people and become part of the Two Establishments.
We want to empower ordinary Australians in their roles as citizens, consumers, carers, community members, shareholders, owners of assets and members of families.
Our core values are:
- self-help
- empowerment
- community
- smaller government
- inclusion
- relationships and social capital
- ethical conduct
We invite Australians from all walks of life to exercise People Power to renew our democracy, to change our politics, and to re-invigorate the best of our social traditions of a fair go, egalitarianism, a hand up not a hand out, unpretentiousness, and inclusive, convivial community.
Comment
Ken Davis is a pending member of People Power.ENABLE Campaign targets marginals
The Daily Telegraph | Disability sector to target marginals
By Danny Rose
May 30, 2005
THE peak body for Australians with disabilities has outlined a plan to pressure the Federal Government where it hurts – in marginal seats – over its attempt to slash its $30 billion welfare bill.
Australian Federation for Disability Organisations (AFDO) today highlighted 14 seats where it said the number of people on the Disability Support Pension (DSP) exceeded the number of votes needed for the seat to change hands.
The organisation opposes the Government's DSP reforms outlined in the federal Budget, which include redirecting many new applicants into a different pension system based on job-search.
The AFDO says people on the new scheme will be on average $44 a week worse off, while those on the existing scheme will receive less help to obtain work."
By Danny Rose
May 30, 2005
THE peak body for Australians with disabilities has outlined a plan to pressure the Federal Government where it hurts – in marginal seats – over its attempt to slash its $30 billion welfare bill.
Australian Federation for Disability Organisations (AFDO) today highlighted 14 seats where it said the number of people on the Disability Support Pension (DSP) exceeded the number of votes needed for the seat to change hands.
The organisation opposes the Government's DSP reforms outlined in the federal Budget, which include redirecting many new applicants into a different pension system based on job-search.
The AFDO says people on the new scheme will be on average $44 a week worse off, while those on the existing scheme will receive less help to obtain work."
Comment
We urge you to support the AFDO Campaign. You can download an information kit here.Monday, May 30, 2005
Disabled workers paying the price
Matthew Davis from Perth, who is also on DSP has written an excellent article.
Disabled workers paying the price: "What PM John Howard’s government should be doing is increasing the DSP to a rate that reflects the needs and aspirations of some of Australia’s most vulnerable people. The maximum rate for the DSP is variable from a base of about $180 per week, which many understand as below the poverty line, even before the cut-backs."
Disabled workers paying the price: "What PM John Howard’s government should be doing is increasing the DSP to a rate that reflects the needs and aspirations of some of Australia’s most vulnerable people. The maximum rate for the DSP is variable from a base of about $180 per week, which many understand as below the poverty line, even before the cut-backs."
Income Inequality - Who do you believe?
St Vincent de Paul Society [Australia] spokesman John Wicks states
From 1994 to 2003, real mean incomes for the poorest Australians grew at a slower rate than those on higher incomes.
For example, someone earning $269 received only a 12 per cent rise - or $32.28. Medium earners on $449 a week enjoyed a 14 per cent, or $62.86. And high income earners, on a real mean weekly income of $975, received a 16 per cent or $156 boost.
Mr Wicks said the federal budget tax cuts were likely to increase the gap.
Dr John Falzon also comments on the "Welfare to work" plan saying it is very short sighted in respect of Australia’s future economic growth and outlook. “If we do not invest in health, housing, education and skills training for all Australians we will reduce our chances of developing a highly skilled productive workforce. If we choose to go down the US path of pushing people off welfare so as to reduce social expenditure we will lose our chance of creating a fair and compassionate Australia.” he said.
From 1994 to 2003, real mean incomes for the poorest Australians grew at a slower rate than those on higher incomes.
For example, someone earning $269 received only a 12 per cent rise - or $32.28. Medium earners on $449 a week enjoyed a 14 per cent, or $62.86. And high income earners, on a real mean weekly income of $975, received a 16 per cent or $156 boost.
Mr Wicks said the federal budget tax cuts were likely to increase the gap.
Dr John Falzon also comments on the "Welfare to work" plan saying it is very short sighted in respect of Australia’s future economic growth and outlook. “If we do not invest in health, housing, education and skills training for all Australians we will reduce our chances of developing a highly skilled productive workforce. If we choose to go down the US path of pushing people off welfare so as to reduce social expenditure we will lose our chance of creating a fair and compassionate Australia.” he said.
Friday, May 27, 2005
Two-class welfare disaster - Tim Colebatch - Opinion - theage.com.au
"The key fact behind welfare change is that our system splits beneficiaries into two groups. One is those deemed deserving poor, such as those on the aged pension, disability support, and sole parents. The other is the undeserving poor: the unemployed on the Newstart allowance."
That's why I believe that all benefits should be equal and income tested, with a slow, smooth dropoff in benefits as earnings increase.
Comment
This is the opposite effect to what the Government says will happen. My opinion is that the 15 hour threshold acts as a distinct disincentive for people as they attempt to recover or improve their functional capacity. As you approach the threshold, instead of simply "pressing on" a huge issue becomes - "Is it worth me trying any harder. If I work one more hour per week, I will be a lot worse off."That's why I believe that all benefits should be equal and income tested, with a slow, smooth dropoff in benefits as earnings increase.
Cheap internet access for disabled - Breaking - Technology - smh.com.au
By Sam Varghese
May 23, 2005
A quarter of a million people - the aged, disabled and veterans - will soon be able to get low-cost internet access.
They will be eligible for dial-up connections at $5.50 a month, under a deal negotiated by Technical Aid to the Disabled Australia and the internet service provider ISPOne."
May 23, 2005
A quarter of a million people - the aged, disabled and veterans - will soon be able to get low-cost internet access.
They will be eligible for dial-up connections at $5.50 a month, under a deal negotiated by Technical Aid to the Disabled Australia and the internet service provider ISPOne."
Comment
This is an excellent deal. The only question is the quality of the service. I'd be loathe to drop my current ISP if I was going to have any connection or access problems. Any feedback about the quality aspects of this service would be welcome.John Tomlinson argues there should be equality for all, not just the rich. - On Line Opinion - 26/5/2005
Here is an extract from an excellent article.
John Tomlinson argues there should be equality for all, not just the rich. - On Line Opinion - 26/5/2005
If such a GMI were installed, there would be no financial advantage accruing to people wishing to “benefit shop”. Presently, for those on Newstart, the combined income tax and social security withdrawal rates applying to income from work are at least 62.5 per cent and can be up to 200 per cent of additional income. This causes poverty traps and perverse financial disincentives to earning extra income. The Government has announced it will slightly decrease the withdrawal rates in July 2006 - but it will by no means eliminate them.
A far smarter idea would be to introduce a basic income paid to all permanent residents at slightly above the single age pension rate. This would abolish poverty traps, income insecurity and perverse financial disincentives simultaneously."
John Tomlinson argues there should be equality for all, not just the rich. - On Line Opinion - 26/5/2005
The foresight of a blind worm and the hindsight of Mr McGoo
If the Government wants to increase the number of people in the workforce and believes that the differentials in payments between Newstart and disability support pension and parenting payments are causing people to opt for the latter, then there are options more viable than these draconian policies it is implementing. Rather than lowering the rate of payment for disability support pensions and parenting payments, it could raise the level of Newstart to make it commensurate with disability payments. This would combine these payments into a 'guaranteed minimum income' (GMI) as Professor Ronald Henderson, head of the Poverty Commission, suggested in 1975.If such a GMI were installed, there would be no financial advantage accruing to people wishing to “benefit shop”. Presently, for those on Newstart, the combined income tax and social security withdrawal rates applying to income from work are at least 62.5 per cent and can be up to 200 per cent of additional income. This causes poverty traps and perverse financial disincentives to earning extra income. The Government has announced it will slightly decrease the withdrawal rates in July 2006 - but it will by no means eliminate them.
A far smarter idea would be to introduce a basic income paid to all permanent residents at slightly above the single age pension rate. This would abolish poverty traps, income insecurity and perverse financial disincentives simultaneously."
Tuesday, May 24, 2005
Apply to Canberra
"PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES URGED TO APPLY
FOR ACT PUBLIC SERVICE JOBS:
Half of next year's ACT Public Service graduate intake could be people with disabilities under a groundbreaking ACT Government scheme, Chief Minister Jon Stanhope said.
'People with disabilities are valuable community members whose worth too often goes unrecognised,' Mr Stanhope said. 'Canberrans with disabilities make up a potential labour pool of more than 53,000 people - that's almost one in five members of the city's potential workforce. Getting more of these people in to work will be good news for everyone - the community, public service and people with disabilities.'"
Half of next years intake could be. Why don't we check up on this next year and see what the real percentage is.
My advice - all you disabled people out there - apply for jobs in cold old Canberra, and see how you do. Let's hold the Government accountable for this.
I've written to Mr Stanhope:
Dear Mr Stanhope,
Thank you for your encouraging Press Release. You're right, half the intake COULD be people with disabilities. The question is, what WILL it be? Would you please keep me informed regarding the actual outcome of this. As you would be aware, the Government's rate of employment of People with a Disability had declined 30% in the last 10 years.
Were you aware that last year I approached the Office of Disability to discuss possible positions I could apply for? Being disabled, I believe that being proactive is vital to gaining employment. After being given the "royal runaround" I was told, "I'm sorry, we can't discuss that with you. You'll just have to look in the papers." This was useless. I wanted to know what sort of people they employed, so I could train and prepare myself to be an excellent candidate.
I was very discouraged. If the Government's peak body on disability is not interested in talking to a highly skilled person with a disability about work options, then I don't see a lot of reason for optimism.
Sincerely
Ken Davis
FOR ACT PUBLIC SERVICE JOBS:
Half of next year's ACT Public Service graduate intake could be people with disabilities under a groundbreaking ACT Government scheme, Chief Minister Jon Stanhope said.
'People with disabilities are valuable community members whose worth too often goes unrecognised,' Mr Stanhope said. 'Canberrans with disabilities make up a potential labour pool of more than 53,000 people - that's almost one in five members of the city's potential workforce. Getting more of these people in to work will be good news for everyone - the community, public service and people with disabilities.'"
Comment
Half of next years intake could be. Why don't we check up on this next year and see what the real percentage is.
My advice - all you disabled people out there - apply for jobs in cold old Canberra, and see how you do. Let's hold the Government accountable for this.
I've written to Mr Stanhope:
Dear Mr Stanhope,
Thank you for your encouraging Press Release. You're right, half the intake COULD be people with disabilities. The question is, what WILL it be? Would you please keep me informed regarding the actual outcome of this. As you would be aware, the Government's rate of employment of People with a Disability had declined 30% in the last 10 years.
Were you aware that last year I approached the Office of Disability to discuss possible positions I could apply for? Being disabled, I believe that being proactive is vital to gaining employment. After being given the "royal runaround" I was told, "I'm sorry, we can't discuss that with you. You'll just have to look in the papers." This was useless. I wanted to know what sort of people they employed, so I could train and prepare myself to be an excellent candidate.
I was very discouraged. If the Government's peak body on disability is not interested in talking to a highly skilled person with a disability about work options, then I don't see a lot of reason for optimism.
Sincerely
Ken Davis
Sunday, May 22, 2005
Shame on Peter Dutton
Insiders - 15/05/2005: Welfare-to-work: carrot or stick?
Look very carefully at this quote from Peter Dutton. Notice how he completely avoids the question about how new applicants WILL be worse off than those currently on DSP. This is an open admission that the Government's policy will harm the most disadvantaged.
"BARRY CASSIDY: But new entrants though, will new entrants end up worse off than those currently on these benefits?
PETER DUTTON: Well, it's important to make the point, Barry, that those people who are on a DSP at the moment stay there. These are, in the large, vulnerable people. And you've got the Labor Party running around trying to scare people who are disabled and it's a shocking campaign. So the point that I make is that those people who are on a DSP stay there. New entrants from the 1 July 2006 who are assessed as having a work capacity of 15 hours or more per week will be helped through an enhanced New Start allowance."
Peter Dutton says on his website:
"I want to hear what their problems or concerns are, and help in finding solutions. I hope I can use my real-life experiences to find solutions to some of these problems."
I urge you to tell him your problem and insist he find a solution.
Look very carefully at this quote from Peter Dutton. Notice how he completely avoids the question about how new applicants WILL be worse off than those currently on DSP. This is an open admission that the Government's policy will harm the most disadvantaged.
"BARRY CASSIDY: But new entrants though, will new entrants end up worse off than those currently on these benefits?
PETER DUTTON: Well, it's important to make the point, Barry, that those people who are on a DSP at the moment stay there. These are, in the large, vulnerable people. And you've got the Labor Party running around trying to scare people who are disabled and it's a shocking campaign. So the point that I make is that those people who are on a DSP stay there. New entrants from the 1 July 2006 who are assessed as having a work capacity of 15 hours or more per week will be helped through an enhanced New Start allowance."
My Comment
Dutton appears to believe that new DSP applicants are not vulnerable.Peter Dutton says on his website:
"I want to hear what their problems or concerns are, and help in finding solutions. I hope I can use my real-life experiences to find solutions to some of these problems."
I urge you to tell him your problem and insist he find a solution.
Mental Health Workers?
This article raises the plight of the Mentally Ill. Many people perceive the DSP changes as targeted at people with physical disabilities. Frankly, these changes are likely to have more effect on DSP applicants with a mental illness. A friend of mine with Schizophrenia approached me this morning terrified she would be forced back into the workforce. She is far more heroic than Kylie, caring for an elderly mother, and struggling with a 30 year old son who is dependent on her mother! People with mental illness face even bigger barriers in the workplace. How does someone with schizophrenia or severe depression explain the gaps in their employment history? Employers are disabled by prejudice and ill-founded fear.
This article from Mental Health Workers? says: "One in five Australians will experience or be affected by some form of mental illness in their lifetime…for more than one million Australians that illness will be schizophrenia…
But despite a severe labour shortage…which will only get worse with an aging population…out of the 700-thousand people on a disability pension, 90% of them are not in any form of full-time work…
This figure compares miserably with other developed countries…where an average of 70% of people on disability pensions are in the workforce…
So why has Australia failed to capitalise on this untapped workforce?
Rob Ramjan is the Executive Officer of the Schizophrenia Fellowship of NSW. He says despite a widespread negative stigma against people with a mental illness, the government themselves isn't providing adequate avenues for these people to find work.
'New programs need to be developed that are sensitive to the needs of people with mental illness. There are only two specialist job providers in Australia. Clubhouse is a special job service for people with mental illnesses and there are 10 of those in Australia, compared with 200 in the United States.'"
This article from Mental Health Workers? says: "One in five Australians will experience or be affected by some form of mental illness in their lifetime…for more than one million Australians that illness will be schizophrenia…
But despite a severe labour shortage…which will only get worse with an aging population…out of the 700-thousand people on a disability pension, 90% of them are not in any form of full-time work…
My comment
If a person is "disabled" then they are likely to be incapable of full-time work.This figure compares miserably with other developed countries…where an average of 70% of people on disability pensions are in the workforce…
So why has Australia failed to capitalise on this untapped workforce?
Rob Ramjan is the Executive Officer of the Schizophrenia Fellowship of NSW. He says despite a widespread negative stigma against people with a mental illness, the government themselves isn't providing adequate avenues for these people to find work.
'New programs need to be developed that are sensitive to the needs of people with mental illness. There are only two specialist job providers in Australia. Clubhouse is a special job service for people with mental illnesses and there are 10 of those in Australia, compared with 200 in the United States.'"
My comment
This is exactly the problem, and I see little in the Howard Government's policy to significantly improve this. The funding allocations foreshadowed are a drop in the ocean.Saturday, May 21, 2005
Gary Nairn - The Village Idiot
Listen to what Gary Nairn (Member for Eden Monaro) has to say. This is a marginal seat, so I urge you to send him a message.
merimbula.yourguide: "if they are capable of work they go on Unemployment Benefit; they do not go on Disability Support Pension,' Mr Nairn said."
Really Mr Nairn. That's actually not what the legislation either now or proposed says. Being able to work for ANY period of time, be it one hour, 10 hours or 20 hours doesn't make the disability go away. Remember, an able bodied person can work 50-80 hours per week with few ill effects. DSP is there to support people who cannot increase their work capacity to a normal level by job seeking efforts. It is higher than Newstart to compensate for the extra cost of living with a disability, not to mention the pain and suffering that you seem incapable of understanding.
merimbula.yourguide: "if they are capable of work they go on Unemployment Benefit; they do not go on Disability Support Pension,' Mr Nairn said."
Really Mr Nairn. That's actually not what the legislation either now or proposed says. Being able to work for ANY period of time, be it one hour, 10 hours or 20 hours doesn't make the disability go away. Remember, an able bodied person can work 50-80 hours per week with few ill effects. DSP is there to support people who cannot increase their work capacity to a normal level by job seeking efforts. It is higher than Newstart to compensate for the extra cost of living with a disability, not to mention the pain and suffering that you seem incapable of understanding.
Friday, May 20, 2005
Short-changing the poor - Ross Gittins - Opinion - theage.com.au
Listen to what one of Australia's top economists (and the only comprehensible one) says about the generosity of the Howard Government.
Short-changing the poor - Ross Gittins - Opinion - theage.com.au: "But the thing I find most distasteful about this budget is that, while giving such juicy carrots to the well-off, it also takes the stick to the poorest and most disadvantaged in our community: sole parents and the disabled.
The problem is not that they're being helped to find jobs or even that an element of compulsion is being used to rouse some from the slough of despond. No, it's that the already meagre benefits of about $240 a week are to be cut. This is because new applicants for the disability pension judged capable of working part-time and sole parents with only school-age children will be put on the dole rather than the pension. As a result, those with disabilities will get $40 a week less and sole parents $22 a week less.
And get this: whereas the rate at which pensions are withdrawn when people earn extra income is 40 cents in the dollar, the rate at which the dole is withdrawn is now 60 cents in the dollar.
So in the same budget that did so much to cut marginal tax rates for the better-off, the effective marginal tax rate faced by the affected sole parents and disabled has been increased by 20 cents in the dollar.
See? To get the rich to work harder you have to give them more money; to get the poor to work you have to give them less."
Short-changing the poor - Ross Gittins - Opinion - theage.com.au: "But the thing I find most distasteful about this budget is that, while giving such juicy carrots to the well-off, it also takes the stick to the poorest and most disadvantaged in our community: sole parents and the disabled.
The problem is not that they're being helped to find jobs or even that an element of compulsion is being used to rouse some from the slough of despond. No, it's that the already meagre benefits of about $240 a week are to be cut. This is because new applicants for the disability pension judged capable of working part-time and sole parents with only school-age children will be put on the dole rather than the pension. As a result, those with disabilities will get $40 a week less and sole parents $22 a week less.
And get this: whereas the rate at which pensions are withdrawn when people earn extra income is 40 cents in the dollar, the rate at which the dole is withdrawn is now 60 cents in the dollar.
So in the same budget that did so much to cut marginal tax rates for the better-off, the effective marginal tax rate faced by the affected sole parents and disabled has been increased by 20 cents in the dollar.
See? To get the rich to work harder you have to give them more money; to get the poor to work you have to give them less."
Disability Statistics Flawed to the Max
Do not trust any "FACTS" the Government quotes.
The Government quotes wonderful statistics regarding DSP. Have you ever wondered how accurate they are? For instance, figures released by the ABS, provided by Centrelink show that only 6 people with CFS were granted DSP in the last year. Thus with one small coding error, a severe chronic disease affecting around 1% of the population has magically disappeared. I asked two fellow assessors, and each one of us has approved DSP for over 6 CFS sufferers in this time period.
A friend of mine from the OzME mailing list approached her local member Anna Burke with concerns about these figures.
While I cant post the letter here, I can assure you that Ms Burke seems to share my opinion that something is dreadfully wrong with the statistics provided by Centrelink.
So whenever the Government quotes figures related to disability, you'd better go to the source and check them. As Peter Costello said on Budget night "I can't believe 6.5% of the workforce have a disability". If he can't believe his own figures, how can we?
Thursday, May 19, 2005
"Disability Outsourcing Will Stress the System" - NOT
Australian Democrats : Australian Democrats Press Releases: "Disability Outsourcing Will Stress the System"
The Democrats are opposing the changes, but I believe they are going the wrong way. Here's my e-mail to their Disability Spokesman
Dear Senator Greig,
First let me congratulate the Australian Democrats for their support for disabled people in Australia. I invite you to support my campaign and petition, as well as reading my open letter to John Howard.
I have attached a press release which may be of interest.
But first, I refer to your article at http://www.democrats.org.au/news/index.htm?press_id=4588&display=1
I believe you are misinformed about this outsourcing. It is already happening and I work for one of the successful tenderers. Our customer satisfaction ratings are excellent. It is definitely an improvement on the "old days" of "the Government Doctor". I believe the Democrats are making a serious error in judgement in attacking this part of the proposed reforms, which if the proposed "case management" aspects are implemented, will radically improve the support and services for people with disabilities. I would be happy to meet with you to discuss this further. There is so much we need to work on together to oppose these horrific changes.
I invite you to join me in positive action
Ken Davis
Occupational Therapist
Person with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Work Capacity Assessor
-------------------------
The Democrats are opposing the changes, but I believe they are going the wrong way. Here's my e-mail to their Disability Spokesman
Dear Senator Greig,
First let me congratulate the Australian Democrats for their support for disabled people in Australia. I invite you to support my campaign and petition, as well as reading my open letter to John Howard.
I have attached a press release which may be of interest.
But first, I refer to your article at http://www.democrats.org.au/news/index.htm?press_id=4588&display=1
I believe you are misinformed about this outsourcing. It is already happening and I work for one of the successful tenderers. Our customer satisfaction ratings are excellent. It is definitely an improvement on the "old days" of "the Government Doctor". I believe the Democrats are making a serious error in judgement in attacking this part of the proposed reforms, which if the proposed "case management" aspects are implemented, will radically improve the support and services for people with disabilities. I would be happy to meet with you to discuss this further. There is so much we need to work on together to oppose these horrific changes.
I invite you to join me in positive action
Ken Davis
Occupational Therapist
Person with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Work Capacity Assessor
-------------------------
Wednesday, May 18, 2005
Jennie George - Member for Throsby - On our side.
Jennie George's Web Site
I met today with Jennie George, initially to discuss CFS Awareness Week, and the appalling lack of funding for this serious disease. Talk quickly turned to the DSP changes.
Jennie will be speaking on behalf of all Disabled People in Parliament next week when she addresses the House on DSP changes in the Budget. As part of this campaign, she will be issuing a Press Release, which may create Media opportunities to promote our cause, and maintain the rage.
Inside Out issues a big thank you to Jennie, who is a polly who has "been there" and not forgotten.
I met today with Jennie George, initially to discuss CFS Awareness Week, and the appalling lack of funding for this serious disease. Talk quickly turned to the DSP changes.
Jennie will be speaking on behalf of all Disabled People in Parliament next week when she addresses the House on DSP changes in the Budget. As part of this campaign, she will be issuing a Press Release, which may create Media opportunities to promote our cause, and maintain the rage.
Inside Out issues a big thank you to Jennie, who is a polly who has "been there" and not forgotten.
Friday, May 13, 2005
The bad back myth
Peter Costello voices his concern about “bad backs” and DSP, but what’s the truth? His careless remark gives us a wonderful insight into the depth of knowledge that underlies the Coalition Government’s plans for the disabled.
While 33% of DSP recipients have a “musculoskeletal or soft tissue injury”, this includes far more than just backs. It includes all the “arthritis” conditions, tendonitis, repetitive strain injuries and the like. The graph below tells the story.
See the ABS Statistics
As an assessor, my impression is that the major sources of back injuries are men who have long work histories in heavy industry (before OH&S was taken seriously) and women involved in nursing, aged care and cleaning. Trauma from Motor Vehicle Accidents is also significant.
To qualify for DSP, one’s back pain must be almost constant and severe. The person needs to have had every reasonable treatment such as Physiotherapy, rehabilitation, Pain Management and medication. They need to have been properly assessed by their own Doctor, a Medical specialist and a skilled Work Capacity Assessor. They need to be determined as incapable of working 30 (soon to be 15) hours per week in a job available anywhere in Australia at award wages.
Read the The Government's own criteria
The ignorant Mr Costello promotes a simple solution -moving people with back injuries into “non-manual” positions. Obviously he has no understanding of back injuries. People with back injuries need work where they can alternate between sitting and standing, as well as move around regularly. They need to take rest breaks as required. The position that is most comfortable for rest varies with the individual condition and the nature of the injury. For some, lying down is necessary. Many report that no position is comfortable. Constant pain and the side effects of medication impair performance, judgement and concentration. Non-manual work can be just as problematic as manual work. Sedentary work is worse.
Access to treatment is another barrier. Waiting time for treatment in public facilities is typically 12-24 months. So unless you are “fortunate” enough to be injured in a work accident, if you can’t pay for private rehabilitation, good luck.
Of course this doesn’t mean that people with back injuries can’t live worthwhile, productive lives. It’s just that the majority are not the bludgers Peter Costello is whinging about, and his proposed measures will do little to encourage or help people with moderate to serious back disability.
While 33% of DSP recipients have a “musculoskeletal or soft tissue injury”, this includes far more than just backs. It includes all the “arthritis” conditions, tendonitis, repetitive strain injuries and the like. The graph below tells the story.
See the ABS Statistics
As an assessor, my impression is that the major sources of back injuries are men who have long work histories in heavy industry (before OH&S was taken seriously) and women involved in nursing, aged care and cleaning. Trauma from Motor Vehicle Accidents is also significant.
To qualify for DSP, one’s back pain must be almost constant and severe. The person needs to have had every reasonable treatment such as Physiotherapy, rehabilitation, Pain Management and medication. They need to have been properly assessed by their own Doctor, a Medical specialist and a skilled Work Capacity Assessor. They need to be determined as incapable of working 30 (soon to be 15) hours per week in a job available anywhere in Australia at award wages.
Read the The Government's own criteria
The ignorant Mr Costello promotes a simple solution -moving people with back injuries into “non-manual” positions. Obviously he has no understanding of back injuries. People with back injuries need work where they can alternate between sitting and standing, as well as move around regularly. They need to take rest breaks as required. The position that is most comfortable for rest varies with the individual condition and the nature of the injury. For some, lying down is necessary. Many report that no position is comfortable. Constant pain and the side effects of medication impair performance, judgement and concentration. Non-manual work can be just as problematic as manual work. Sedentary work is worse.
Access to treatment is another barrier. Waiting time for treatment in public facilities is typically 12-24 months. So unless you are “fortunate” enough to be injured in a work accident, if you can’t pay for private rehabilitation, good luck.
Of course this doesn’t mean that people with back injuries can’t live worthwhile, productive lives. It’s just that the majority are not the bludgers Peter Costello is whinging about, and his proposed measures will do little to encourage or help people with moderate to serious back disability.
Wednesday, May 11, 2005
Australians Unite against DSP changes
Changes to Disability Support Pension conditions announced in the May 2005 Australian Federal Budget are a travesty of social justice. Disability Activist Ken Davis calls on all Australians who oppose these changes to unite with one voice to send a message to Canberra.
Ken has suffered from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, a disabling neurological disease for 12 years. Trained as an Occupational Therapist he has a unique perspective on disability, having worked in rehabilitation, having a chronic disability, and now assessing the work capacity of disabled people. “My experience from three different sides of the disability system shows me the Government’s policies while having some positives, are deeply flawed”, says Mr Davis.
He calls for united action, through media campaigns, personal letter writing, public education, street rallies and a blockade on Parliament House. Concerted action is needed to send a message to the Coalition that this action is the death knell for the Government. It’s not too late to force a change of mind.
Determined environmental campaigns like the Franklin River and the Daintree have successfully forced the Government to back down in the past. While the Environment is important, nothing is more important than how a civilised society cares for the poor and disadvantaged.
Tuesday May 10 is the day the Government finally lost the plot, but individual citizens and disability organisations CAN force the government to reconsider. Act now by signing the petition at http://www.life-directions.net/dsp.php and signing up to join the campaign at http://www.life-directions.net/dsp/oppose-DSP-changes.php .
Ken has suffered from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, a disabling neurological disease for 12 years. Trained as an Occupational Therapist he has a unique perspective on disability, having worked in rehabilitation, having a chronic disability, and now assessing the work capacity of disabled people. “My experience from three different sides of the disability system shows me the Government’s policies while having some positives, are deeply flawed”, says Mr Davis.
He calls for united action, through media campaigns, personal letter writing, public education, street rallies and a blockade on Parliament House. Concerted action is needed to send a message to the Coalition that this action is the death knell for the Government. It’s not too late to force a change of mind.
Determined environmental campaigns like the Franklin River and the Daintree have successfully forced the Government to back down in the past. While the Environment is important, nothing is more important than how a civilised society cares for the poor and disadvantaged.
Tuesday May 10 is the day the Government finally lost the plot, but individual citizens and disability organisations CAN force the government to reconsider. Act now by signing the petition at http://www.life-directions.net/dsp.php and signing up to join the campaign at http://www.life-directions.net/dsp/oppose-DSP-changes.php .
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