We’ve been talking about the income management system, where some people in Aboriginal communities receive part of their welfare payments on cards to spend at only approved stores.

We’ve just heard from some Northern Territorians, who’ve seen first hand the struggles these communities are facing.  And both had different views about the system. Now I’d like to hear your thoughts.

• When women and children are suffering, is it right to quarantine a family’s welfare payments, so that less money is spent on destructive things like drugs and alcohol?

• The government’s review panel says it’s racist, because it’s only being applied to certain people groups. Do you agree? 

• I’d love to hear the views of our Aboriginal listeners…. Or if you’re listening in the Northern Territory, maybe you’d like to share your thoughts.

• There are reports that some women and children are safer and healthier as a result. But some people say it’s triggering other problems…

• Even if it is effective, how long should it last? What can be done in the LONG term, to encourage people on welfare towards healthier lifestyles?

• When John Howard first announced the income management last year, he suggested it might be applied to any Australians who’d been on welfare payments for a long period of time.  What do you think of that idea?