Ending Poverty in Australia (Antipoverty Commission) Bill 2023

High-Level Summary
The bill proposes to establish an independent Antipoverty Commission in Australia to provide evidence-based advice to Parliament on issues related to poverty, its causes, and the adequacy of social security payments.

Summary
The Ending Poverty in Australia (Antipoverty Commission) Bill 2023 aims to create an Antipoverty Commission tasked with conducting antipoverty reviews and social security payment reviews. These reviews will assess the current levels of poverty in Australia, identify the causes, and recommend strategies for poverty reduction. The Commission is empowered to determine the poverty line and evaluate social security payments to ensure they meet an adequate standard of living. The Commission will have a President and between four to twelve Commissioners, with appointments scrutinized by a Joint Parliamentary Committee. The government is required to respond publicly to the Commission's recommendations. The Commission will prepare reports on its findings and recommendations, which must be tabled in Parliament and released to the public. The bill stipulates that the Commission's activities must be open and transparent, allowing for public submissions and feedback.

Argument For
Normative Bases
  1. Egalitarianism
  2. Pro-Democracy
  3. Non-Discrimination

The bill should be supported because it establishes a framework for addressing systemic poverty in a structured and transparent manner. By creating an independent body that draws on the experiences of those living in poverty, it ensures that the most affected voices are part of the decision-making process. This aligns with egalitarian values by aiming to elevate the standard of living for all citizens and reduce inequalities.[1] The requirement for the government to respond publicly to the Commission’s recommendations promotes democratic accountability and transparency, reinforcing public trust in governance. Furthermore, considering the needs of marginalized groups aligns with principles of non-discrimination, ensuring policies do not disproportionately affect disadvantaged communities.

  1. ^

    See the explanatory memorandum for details on the Commission's structure and function.


Argument Against
Normative Bases
  1. Propertarianism
  2. Value-Neutral / Epistemic Objection

The bill should be opposed because it may lead to increased government interference in social welfare systems, potentially infringing on individual property rights and freedoms. By establishing a new bureaucratic body, the bill could result in increased government spending and taxation, which may burden taxpayers and limit economic growth [Judgment]. Additionally, the effectiveness of such a commission in reducing poverty is uncertain, as poverty is a complex issue that may not be fully addressed through government intervention alone. Furthermore, there is a risk that the recommendations of the Commission could lead to policies that prioritize certain groups over others, challenging the principle of equality before the law [Judgment].


Date:

2023-03-30

Status:

Before Senate

Sponsor:

RICE, Sen Janet

Portfolio:

Unspecified

Categories:

Social Support / Welfare, Poverty, Democratic Institutions

Timeline:
30/03/2023
07/09/2023

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