Chris Evans (WA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Government in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

I am informed that the 2010 evaluation report you refer to is the source of the amendments we are making in the bill, which, by picking up the evaluation report findings, therefore seeks to improve SEAM. Responding in this way will ensure a closer alignment with the Northern Territory's Every Child, Every Day strategy and reinforce the effort to get kids to school. We think these measures will support the broader objectives for the program.

I am also advised that the 2010 evaluation report shows for students involved in the measure a greater increase in school attendance than for their counterparts not involved in the measure and that student attendance improved by more than five per cent, from 74 per cent to 79.9 per cent, in the Northern Territory and by more than four per cent in Queensland following referral to the Department of Human Services under SEAM. As I understand it, that evidence was given to the Senate committee inquiry and is available. The key point to make is that the measures we are seeking to introduce through the bill arise out of that evaluation report. It is our response, together with the Northern Territory Department of Education and Training, to improve the measure and more closely align it with their programs. If you like, it is what you have been asking for—an evidence led legislation response.