Senate

Second Reading Speech

Senator Heffernan (New South Wales - Parliamentary Secretary to Cabinet)

I move:

That this bill be now read a second time.

I seek leave to have the second reading speeches incorporated in Hansard.

Leave granted.

The speeches read as follows-

FAMILY AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LEGISLATION AMENDMENT (ONE-OFF PAYMENT TO THE AGED) BILL 2001

This Bill forms part of a package of measures that further demonstrates the appreciation and acknowledgment of the Government and the community for the contribution older Australians have made and continue to make to society.

This Bill provides for a one-off payment to the aged to be paid to those people who, on 22 May 2001, have reached age pension age and are receiving a social security pension or benefit.

The one-off payment of $300 will be paid to social security pensioners and beneficiaries by 30 June 2001.

This special one-off payment will also be available, otherwise than by this Bill, to people of age pension age receiving certain veterans' payments and payments under the ABSTUDY Scheme. It will also be made available to people of age pension age who are outside the personal income taxation and social security systems.

Debate (on motion by Senator O'Brien) adjourned.

Ordered that the resumption of the debate be made an order of the day for a later hour.