Ian Campbell (WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Human Services) Share this | Hansard source

I do it quite often, actually—looking at the implications for people who are seriously challenged. I addressed issues of what is occurring with Indigenous job seekers and breaching. The government will ensure that the policy is applied to people who breach those mutual obligation principles. We are very serious about ensuring that, where the rules apply, people know that the government is serious about it—and we do not make exceptions. We do ensure, however, that there are reviews of cases. We do know that, in the case of Indigenous job seekers, the application of it is very important.

Mr President, please be under no illusion: we will apply the Welfare to Work principles diligently. We will do so right across the Australian community. We will ensure, however, that mitigating factors are taken into account, not only for Indigenous Australians but for other Australians who are faced with special circumstances and circumstances beyond their control.