Updates – Page 21

Budget cuts hit young people the hardest

May 14, 2014

No safety net for young people

The federal budget announced last night hits young people the hardest, with draconian changes to Centrelink support for under 30 year olds:

Newstart (an extra $45 per week) will only be available for those 25 years or older A 6 month waiting period for Youth Allowance and Newstart A 6 months on / 6 months off social security scheme that will leave young jobseekers without any form of income for 6 months every year Financial penalties for young people who do not accept a job offered Tightened eligibility for the Disability Support Pension that will effectively exclude young people experiencing mental health issues

These budget announcements will result in more young people living in poverty and homelessness.

United Nations committee challenge to Victorian police complaints system

May 6, 2014

A decision handed down this week by the United Nations Human Rights Committee has significant implications for how complaints against police are dealt with in Victoria. This decision comes at a time when both major political parties are signalling intention to review the powers and role of the Victorian Independent Broad-based Anti –Corruption Commission (IBAC ).

Youthlaw calls for protections from cyber-bullying

March 11, 2014

Youthlaw has advocated for the interests of young people in relation to proposed cyber-bullying laws and policies in the Department of Communications’ Discussion Paper “Enhancing Online Safety for Children”.

We support the establishment of a Children’s e-Safety Commissioner, development of an effective complaints system to remove harmful material from social media sites quickly and securing these protections with federal legislation.

Proposed laws to hurt the vulnerable and young

February 13, 2014

There has been public outcry in relation to the proposed laws removing rights to engage in public assembly and political demonstration. See concerns outlined in recent submissions to Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Committee.

Apart from those engaged in political demonstration, the proposed amendments will have a disproportionate impact on marginalised young people, people experiencing homelessness, poverty, and mental health issues who occupy public spaces.