1.1
The Select Committee on Intergenerational Welfare Dependence was appointed on 24 May 2018 to inquire and report on matters relating to welfare dependence of families and outcomes for children.
1.2
The full terms of reference for this inquiry are at the front of this discussion paper on page iii.
1.3
The Committee’s Resolution of Appointment required it to make an interim report by 20 September 2018. Rather than attempt to produce a substantive report in such a short time frame, the Committee decided to use the interim report as a discussion paper to guide witnesses and submitters.
1.4
This inquiry involves broad issues of welfare assistance, disadvantage, and social mobility. This discussion paper sets out those areas of particular interest to the Committee. The Committee acknowledges that it is not a comprehensive overview of this far-reaching topic. A full report is due to be tabled on or before 12 April 2019.
1.5
The Committee welcomes and encourages submissions from interested people and organisations. The Committee is only focussing on the intergenerational aspects of welfare, and notes that this inquiry is not a review of the entire welfare system. This discussion paper, and the terms of reference, should provide guidance on the scope and focus of the Committee’s inquiry.