Social Security Legislation Amendment (Technical Changes) Bill 2025

Stage by Stage

Summaries in reported speech - not a transcript. In date order, both chambers.

1. Wednesday 5 February 2025 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   The Minister for Social Services introduced the bill to correct a drafting error in legislation from 2005 that inadvertently affected Disability Support Pension rates for recipients under 21. The amendments aim to restore the intended payment structure, ensuring higher rates for independent youth and preventing perverse incentives against full-time study. The Minister argued that without these changes, the legislation would contradict the goals of Australia's Disability Strategy. The debate was adjourned following the Minister's speech.

   Outcome: The debate was adjourned.

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2. Tuesday 11 February 2025 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   The debate concerned a bill to correct a drafting error in the Social Security Act 1991 regarding disability support pension rates for recipients under 21. The government and coalition supported the measure to maintain intended payment structures for independent youth, while the Greens opposed it, citing broader issues with social security adequacy and administration. The bill passed the House of Representatives with a vote of 81 to 5.

   Outcome: The bill passed the House of Representatives with a division result of 81 votes in favour and 5 against.

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3. Tuesday 11 February 2025 · House of Representatives

   Third Reading
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4. Wednesday 12 February 2025 · Senate

   First Reading
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5. Wednesday 12 February 2025 · Senate

   Second Reading

   The Senate debated the Social Security Legislation Amendment (Technical Changes) Bill 2025. Nick McKim moved an amendment to the second reading motion to highlight issues with the Disability Support Pension, specifically regarding the partner income test and payment rates. The amendment sought to call on the government to abolish the partner income test and raise income support payments. The amendment was defeated in a division, but the bill itself was subsequently passed.

   Outcome: The amendment was defeated in division 24, but the bill was passed in division 25.

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6. Wednesday 12 February 2025 · Senate

   Third Reading
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