Childcare changes: Nick Xenophon Team blocks Federal Government’s omnibus bill
The Nick Xenophon Team has announced it will not support the Federal Government’s package of changes to child care and welfare benefits.
Last week the Coalition introduced a so-called omnibus bill to try to force nearly $4 billion in savings through the Parliament.
The bill included increases to childcare subsidies, and cuts to family tax benefits and paid parental leave.
Yesterday, Treasurer Scott Morrison put pressure on the crossbench to support the bill, announcing the Government would redirect $3 billion to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) if the legislation passed.
“As a negotiating tactic, this is as subtle as a sledgehammer,” Senator Xenophon said.
“Pitting battling Australians against Australians needing disability support services is dumb policy and even dumber politics.”
Source: ABC News