A “new course” for the Department of Financial Assistance will include a push to get able-bodied unemployed back to work and strengthening support for the disabled.

Jason Hayward, the labour minister, spoke in the House of Assembly today as he tabled the Financial Assistance Amendment Act 2021, adding that further amendments would go before MPs.

Disabled people applying for assistance will be required to include a medical opinion outlining the extent of their condition and, where possible, their likelihood of being able to eventually return to work.

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In cases where a disabled person’s condition changes after being granted assistance, the director of the programme will be able to request a further medical opinion.

Mr Hayward said the able-bodied would be asked to draw up personal employment plans within the first six months of seeking assistance.

The plans, in collaboration with the Department of Workforce Development and “industry partners”, would not entail deductions in assistance during a maximum of three years.

Mr Hayward added: “The new system will focus less on policing and administering rules and more on helping individuals access the services and support they need.”

⋅ To read the minister’s statement in full, click on the PDF under “Related Media”.