The Australian Greens say today’s Council of Australian Governments (COAG) Reform Council report demonstrates the need for a change in the way people with a disability are supported and the way in which services are delivered.

“The Greens want to see people living with a disability participate in society fully,” Senator Rachel Siewert, Greens spokesperson on disability services said today.

“It is clear from the lack of improvement around employment participation that the assistance mechanisms designed to help people into work aren’t effective.

“This shortfall is causing particular harm to those people affected by changes to disability support payment eligibility announced in the 2011/12 budget.

“As a result of these changes, people with partial disabilities have to spend 18 months looking for work on Newstart before they’re considered for DSP – a payment gap of more than $130 per week.

“This is a severe financial penalty that does not address the increased barriers to securing employment that they face.

“It is time for the Government to address the clear flaws in this system, increase the rate of Newstart by $50 a week and provide quality, connected services for people living with a disability and looking for work,” Senator Siewert concluded.