ParentsNext welfare scheme ‘does too much harm’ and should be replaced, inquiry finds

A federal parliamentary committee has found the ParentsNext scheme is ‘locked into a punitive frame’ and should be replaced with a new program with input from stakeholders. Photograph: John Birdsall/Rex/Shutterstock

The controversial ParentsNext welfare program would be abolished and replaced by a new service that dials down mutual obligations and offers cash incentives for parents, under the recommendations of a parliamentary committee.

A select committee inquiring into the billion-dollar employment services system has called for sweeping changes to the Coalition’s $484m ParentsNext scheme, which has faced criticism from welfare advocates and women’s groups over several years.