Richard Colbeck (Tasmania, Liberal Party, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Finance and Administration) Share this | Hansard source

The purpose of the Social Security Legislation Amendment (2007 Budget Measures for Students) Bill 2007 is to amend three acts: the Student Assistance Act 1973, the Social Security Act 1991 and the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997. The measures contained in the bill enhance the delivery of income support for students and provide a significant benefit to students and their families at a cost to the budget of $135 million over four years. These measures demonstrate the importance that the Australian government places on ensuring that all Australians, regardless of age, location or background, have the opportunity to participate in education and training and contribute to the nation’s continued prosperity. The Australian economy depends on its most precious and important resource: its people. A well-educated and skilled population increases workforce participation and allows every Australian to make a contribution to the broader Australian community. In closing, I would like to thank my colleagues on the Senate Standing Committee on Employment, Workplace Relations and Education for their inquiry into this bill. I note that all parties represented on the committee supported the passage of the bill. I commend the bill to the Senate.