Cape York Welfare Reform Trial

The Queensland Government has finally welcomed the Cape York Welfare Reform Trial (CYWRT) evaluation report but says the trial in its current form cannot continue.

Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Multicultural Affairs, Glen Elmes said in its present state the CYWRT will end on the 31^st December, 2013.

“This report is more than a year overdue and while it indicated there were positives to take away from the trial it makes no sense to restrict those positive outcomes to just the four trial communities of Aurukun, Coen, Hope Vale and Mossman Gorge,” Mr Elmes said.

“The trial achieved some great results in areas of school attendance, the care and protection of children and community safety, but why shouldn’t these outcomes be encouraged in all Indigenous communities.

“Yesterday I visited Cherbourg and Murgon where there is no welfare reform trial, but these communities need similar assistance.

“Another positive outcome of the trial was the work of the Newman Government’s Family Responsibility Commission (FRC).

“With the support of the local communities, it helped create sustainable employment opportunities, increased parental responsibility and restored social norms.

“The Newman Government is looking at finding practical support mechanisms for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to improve the lives of individuals and families and the FRC is one area that we could look at modifying and adopting throughout Queensland.

“We know there are no quick solutions to rectifying the challenges of past decades, and there are still many challenges ahead, but this trial shows what is possible when people take responsibility for their own actions.

“The Newman Government is determined to ensure all Indigenous children have access to a good education, training and employment so they can participate in the wider economy.

“Increasing employment and business opportunities, including home ownership across the entire State are key priorities for us.”

The Cape York Welfare Reform trial is a partnership between the Australian and Queensland Governments, the Cape York Institute, regional organisations and the four communities of Aurukun, Coen, Hope Vale and Mossman Gorge.

[ENDS] 27 March 2013                    Media Contact:        Lynette Keep 0419 620 299