Nigel Scullion (NT, Country Liberal Party, Minister for Indigenous Affairs) Share this | Hansard source

I again thank Senator Day for his question. Any ideas, including yours, Senator Day, deserve consideration on the basis that they get support from the community. This government have made it clear that getting Indigenous adults into work is one of our highest priorities in improving the lives of our first Australians. That is why we have reformed remote employment services. From 1 July this year, job seekers in remote communities will be able to participate in continuous work-like activities and meaningful work experience. Senator, I assure you that it will not be people standing around with shovels or painting rocks. It will be genuine activities that equip people either to take on real jobs that, as Marcia Langton said in the Australian, do exist in remote communities or, where they choose, to move to take up employment opportunities. These reforms will include $25 million invested each year to build local businesses which will underpin the local economy, create jobs and offer opportunities for job seekers to get practical work experience. (Time expired)