A radical new approach to welfare is being trialed in the Cape York communities of Aurukun, Coen, Hope Vale, and Mossman Gorge and associated outstations.
Cape York Welfare Reform is a partnership between the four communities, the Australian Government, the Queensland Government, the Cape York Institute for Policy and Leadership, and Cape York Partnerships.
The reforms, which will run from 1 July 2008 to 31 December 2011, aim to create incentives for individuals to engage in the real economy, reduce passivity and re-establish positive social norms.
The idea behind the reforms is that passive welfare dependence is damaging to individuals and communities and erodes personal responsibility and motivation.
Cape York Welfare Reform aims to restore social norms and local authority and change behaviours in response to chronic levels of welfare dependency, social dysfunction and economic exclusion across the four Cape York communities.
Cape York welfare reform trial getting runs on the board, a joint media release by The Hon Jenny Macklin MP, Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs and The Hon Desley Boyle MP, Queensland Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships
Related information