David Johnston (WA, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

If the Senator understood exactly what the food or larder allowance was, he would understand that the changes we have made—in fact, that the CDF has made—are very reasonable changes. It is recognised that living away from families incurs living expenses that members would not normally be required to meet. Food allowance was paid fortnightly to members categorised as those who live off-base to assist with food expenses and setting up a new pantry. However, the normal need for an ADF member to provide for their own meals is not considered to be one of those living expenses, and the member would be required to fund their own meals if they were living with their dependents. In addition, single members who live out are required to provide their own meals. On this basis, food allowance has been ceased and replaced with a one-off larder payment. This payment recognises the expense a member faces setting up a second pantry away from their primary residence. A range of other benefits remain—