An equitable society will ensure that social security is more than just a safety net. It should be a springboard enabling people to achieve their full potential, accessing life's choices. Social security, and income support generally, exist to allow people to enhance their quality of life and living standards. Meanwhile we continue to pay single unemployed people and young people inadequate benefits, leaving many well below the poverty line. This is unacceptable.
Sole parents continue as another of our most disadvantaged groups.
We must also increase our responsibility for carers and support them, not only those who care for children but those assisting older people and people with disabilities. These issues are of critical concern, but none is more important than to recognise the unique position of Australia's indigenous peoples. We simply must reverse the injustices and wrongs that still afflict indigenous Australians, particularly in relation to economic and social opportunities. None of these goals can be achieved unless Australia examines the environment for productive investment. The nation needs to maintain a strong revenue base and to develop an equitable savings system, not just for retirement but for the whole life-cycle.