EXPLANATORY STATEMENT
Social Security (Administration) (Declared relevant Northern Territory areas –Beswick)) Determination 2007
The Social Security (Administration) (Declared relevant Northern Territory areas – Beswick) Determination 2007 (the Determination) is made under subsection 123TE(1) of the Social Security (Administration) Act 1999 (the Act). The Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, as well as making this instrument in her own capacity, is also making this instrument on behalf of the Minister for Education and the Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations.
Background
On 21 June 2007, the Australian Government announced a number of measures in response to the national emergency confronting the welfare of Aboriginal children in the Northern Territory.
This measure has two primary aims:
a) to stem the flow of cash that is expended on substance abuse and gambling; and
b) to ensure funds that are provided for the welfare of children are actually expended in this way.
Purpose
The purpose of the Instrument is to specify that each place listed in the Schedule to the Instrument is a “declared relevant Northern Territory area” for the purposes of Part 3B of the Act.
The effect of this Determination is that once an area is determined to be a “declared relevant Northern Territory area” for the purposes of the Act, the income management regime (as set out in Part 3B of the Act) will apply in regard to certain individuals within that area. The instrument still has operative effect on the day on which it is stated to expire (i.e. 19 December 2008).
Consultation
Consultation regarding this Determination was undertaken with the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations to ensure a co-ordinated approach in respect of welfare payments, for which they have responsibility, which may become subject to the income management regime.
Regulatory Impact Analysis
This determination does not require a Regulatory Impact Statement (RIS) and/or a Business Cost Calculator Figure. This determination is not regulatory in nature, will not impact on business activity and will have no, or minimal, compliance costs or competition impact. It is not expected that any compliance costs will be incurred by business against the nine categories listed as a result of this determination.