25 June, 2026
The Hon. R.A. SIMMS (14:51): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before addressing a question without notice to the minister representing the Minister for Human Services on the topic of the Social Workers Registration Scheme.
Leave granted.
The Hon. R.A. SIMMS: The Malinauskas government committed $4.7 million to establish the Social Workers Registration Scheme to be administered by the Social Workers Registration Board. I understand the scheme was due to commence in July 2025, but late last week, without notice to the sector, it was abandoned by the government citing cost-of-living challenges. My question to the minister representing the Minister for Human Services is:
1. How much of the $4.7 million budget allocation has already been spent on the failed scheme?
2. Will the remaining money be diverted to cost-of-living relief?
3. Will the government abandon the registration of other professionals due to cost-of-living pressures, or is this something being reserved for social workers?
The Hon. E.S. BOURKE (Minister for Climate, Environment and Water, Minister for Tourism) (14:52): I thank the honourable member for his question. I am happy to seek further response from the minister in the other house.