Social Security Legislation Amendment (Technical Changes) Bill 2025; Second Reading

Continued the debate

Sukkar stated that the coalition supported the bill to correct a long-standing drafting error affecting disability support pension rates for young people. Sukkar argued that the amendment ensures recipients under 21 receive appropriate payments based on their family circumstances, particularly maintaining higher rates for those living independently. Sukkar noted that without this correction, some students or apprentices might face reduced payments, which would discourage education and contradict national disability strategies. Sukkar emphasised that the bill validates past decisions and preserves the intended payment structure.

Government response

Rishworth explained that the bill addresses an unintended consequence of the 2005 Employment and Workplace Relations Legislation Amendment Act. Rishworth stated that a drafting error had incorrectly applied partial-capacity-to-work rules to disability support pension recipients under 21, rather than just youth allowance recipients. Rishworth argued that the amendment maintains current arrangements, ensuring higher rates for those with greater need, such as independent youth. Rishworth warned that failing to pass the bill would create perverse incentives for young people to leave study or apprenticeships.