Social Security and Other Legislation Amendment (Technical Changes No. 2) Bill 2025

Senator GALLAGHER (Australian Capital Territory—Minister for Finance, Minister for the Public Service, Minister for Women, Minister for Government Services and Manager of Government Business in the Senate) (12:31): I've already said it's not a power that is being put in place to target particular communities. That's not what this is about. It's about a very specific set of circumstances.

Yes, there would be advice from police, but there would also be advice from a number of other agencies, including advice from Services Australia about any impact the cancellation of a payment may have on others, including dependants. But, ultimately, it is a ministerial power, so it's the Minister for Home Affairs that has the power. Transparency and reporting, and engagement with all of the organisations you have outlined, are important, and the government remains absolutely committed to them.