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

In remote Australia, where we have I think some of the biggest challenges, a community development program was developed by sitting down with communities and Indigenous leaders who told us principally that they were sick of people moving from the program to passive welfare and a lack of opportunities. Under the Remote Jobs and Communities Program 60 per cent of people left for passive welfare. We had to change that. We introduced CDP. We have had 12,400 people leave, but not to passive welfare—it has been to a real job. Between July and 31 September we placed 12,400 people into jobs, and 4,100 have now been in their job for over six months. It is not just a matter of placing them; it is making sure that they remain in those jobs. We are increasing engagement and building skills in community led activities by the community and for the community. We are working with these communities to ensure we get the very best employment outcomes. (Time expired)