The Guides to Social Policy Law is a collection of publications designed to assist decision makers administering social policy law. The information contained in this publication is intended only as a guide to relevant legislation/policy. The information is accurate as at the date listed at the bottom of the page, but may be subject to change. To discuss individual circumstances please contact Services Australia.

11.1.1.30 Objectives of income management

Objectives

Income management is a key tool in supporting disengaged youth, long-term welfare payment recipients and people assessed as vulnerable, and is aimed at encouraging engagement, participation and responsibility. The key objectives are to:

reduce immediate hardship and deprivation by directing welfare payments to the priority needs of recipients, their partner, children and any other dependents
help affected welfare payment recipients to budget so that they can meet their priority needs
reduce the amount of discretionary income available for alcohol, gambling, tobacco and pornography
reduce the likelihood that welfare payment recipients will be subject to harassment and abuse in relation to their welfare payments, and
encourage socially responsible behaviour, particularly in the care and education of children.

Last reviewed: 11 November 2019

The Australian Government acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, water, culture and community. We pay our respects to the Elders both past and present.