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Advocacy groups are raising alarms over new measures they believe undermine the presumption of innocence, potentially impacting vulnerable families. These families could see their paid parental leave and family tax benefits swept up alongside Centrelink payments under the proposed changes.
The implications of these powers are significant. Critics argue that they impose harsher penalties than those faced by individuals in remand, where payments are typically suspended rather than outright cancelled. This has sparked concern among various social groups.
Penny Allman-Payne, the social services spokesperson for the Greens, has been vocal in her opposition, describing the government’s move as an “unacceptable power grab.” Her comments reflect a broader unease about the balance of power and its impact on fundamental rights.
At the heart of the controversy is Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke, who would be endowed with the authority to decide on the cancellation of payments. Such a concentration of power has prompted considerable debate about fairness and accountability.
‘Last minute’ amendment secrecy questioned
It had been scrutinised by both the parliamentary joint committee of human rights and a Senate committee, with both committees handing down reports last week.
