QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

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) (14:38): I think the issues around—I don't agree with the assertion in Senator Allman-Payne's question; that's the first point. The second point is that we have significantly increased pensions and payments in our time in government, but not only that; we have also focused on job creation to ensure that there is opportunity for people to move into work.

We are reforming the employment support program in recognition of some of the issues there. We have increased funding—directly intervened to increase funding—for workers on the lowest paid wages, whether it be the minimum wage or those in the care economy. We have had a range of other measures in place, like in the childcare system, to support those on low incomes to access child care.

We got rid of the activity test. We've done a range of things, Senator Allman-Payne. So I don't accept your question at all.