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Meanwhile, Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth has defended the federal government’s decision to scrap the cashless debit card – arguing recent changes were made as a result of evidence and facts.
Cashless debit cards look like regular bank cards. But there’s a key difference: the user is unable to buy alcohol or gambling products. The cards are controversial because First Nations and social service organisations have argued against their use. Others say they’re an important tool in breaking cycles of addiction.
Federal Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth.Credit:Alex Ellinghausen
While the government has passed legislation to wind back the cashless debit card, the BasicsCard – another income management scheme – remains.
Speaking on Sydney-based radio station 2GB earlier this morning, Rishworth said Labor’s changes were not made lightly.
“I recognise there’s a lot of emotion attached to this card,” she said. “But as minister I have to look at the facts. Is this card working? Is it delivering?
“I’ve got to make a decision. On the balance of evidence, the card hasn’t worked. And it has actually made many people’s lives harder.”
Rishworth said after speaking to many people who used the cards out in the community, she found a number of flaws with the system – such as the inability to transfer money to separate bank accounts. Users were also made to contact the private company that runs the card, and were unable to speak to any government agencies if an issue occurred.
“The cashless debit card program was not meeting its intended objectives,” Rishworth said.
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