Welfare groups fear collapse after budget (15 June 2024)
Article summary: The failure of the May budget to deliver recommended funds has left community legal services in a dire situation. The independent review, sent to Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus two months prior, had proposed $215 million in urgent funding for 2024 and $459 million annually thereafter, a stark contrast to the mere $44 million allocated. The shortfall jeopardises essential social infrastructure, with centres like the Welfare Rights Centre in New South Wales facing staff reductions and service cuts.
The Western Australian independent member for Curtin, Kate Chaney, highlighted the pressing issue during a parliamentary session. She questioned Treasurer Jim Chalmers on why women fleeing domestic violence should endure service reductions due to insufficient funding. Chaney noted that women's legal services turn away over 50,000 women annually due to resource constraints, a figure set to rise as services are further curtailed. Chalmers responded by acknowledging the issue and expressing the government's commitment to a new agreement providing increased funding.
The review, conducted by Warren Mundy, underscored the critical need for more substantial investment, suggesting annual funding should double to at least $845 million. The review painted a grim picture of unmet needs, stressing the importance of legal aid in addressing issues such as housing, homelessness, financial stress, and family violence. Community Legal Centres Australia reported that 200,000 people are turned away each year due to resource limitations.
Kate Chaney's advocacy, alongside other MPs like Zoe Daniel, draws attention to the severe implications of underfunding. The article stresses the urgency for the government to act, as delays in funding could result in the collapse of vital legal services, leaving vulnerable populations without essential support.
Related article: Domestic violence services raise alarm after budget (17 May 2024)
