The Power of Compassion
Northern Territory Council of Social Service
Media Release – 30 April 2009
On Tuesday, NT Treasurer Delia Lawrie will deliver her second budget. This document will shape the future for thousands of vulnerable Territorians and NTCOSS Executive Director Wendy Morton has again called on the Henderson Government to remember these battlers.
“The global economic crisis means that things are going to be tougher for everybody, but people on low incomes already have their backs to the wall” said Ms Morton today.
NTCOSS is particularly concerned at indications that power bills will increase by 23% in the next two years. “The Treasurer has made a compelling case to demonstrate that electricity prices must increase, but we appeal to the Henderson Government to cushion the blow for those at the bottom of the barrel.”
Ms Morton commended the Government for its decision not to pass on the price increases to pensioners and carers, and suggested that this logic should be extended to exempt others who are struggling. “We call on the government to extend concessions to all of those doing it tough, such as people on Newstart Allowance and Youth Allowance, and other holders of Health Care Cards.”
NTCOSS also underscored the importance of ensuring that community service organisations were adequately funded to cope with the increased demand for emergency relief, crisis accommodation and counseling, which the economic downturn would generate.
“These people are going to turn to organisations like St Vincent De Paul, and Amity in their hour of need” said Ms Morton. “It is critical that Government provides them with sufficient funding to ensure that our community is not fractured during the tough times ahead.”
For comment: Wendy Morton, Executive Director, NTCOSS - 0418 482 660
Media inquiries: Graham Ring - 0404 362 290