Class action launched over controversial work scheme

By KEIRA JENKINS

A controversial work for the dole scheme will be scrutinised in a class action that claims the government program targeted Indigenous people in remote areas.

The class action, launched by Maurice Blackburn lawyers on Monday, is seeking compensation for Indigenous people who undertook work activities under the Community Development Program between 2015 and 2021.

The class action claims the program meant participants, who were disproportionately Indigenous people living in remote communities, had to work more hours to receive their income support, and under more onerous conditions than their urban counterparts undertaking work for the dole activities.

The work for the dole participants were disproportionately Indigenous and living in remote areas. (Neve Brissenden/AAP PHOTOS)

Yolngu Elder Baru Pascoe, from Maningrida in the Northern Territory, said the program caused confusion and stress in his community, with some people left traumatised by their experiences.

“A lot of people had nightmares, even getting sick,” he said.

“We saw it like Cyclone Tracey, causing a big storm. The government were creating a mess in the community, and the blackfellas were cleaning up the government’s mess.

“There was shame in doing this to our own people.”

Deeply flawed

Maurice Blackburn principal lawyer Miranda Nagy said the program was deeply flawed, and unfairly targeted Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“This case is about justice and accountability,” she said.

“The government applied rules that demanded more of First Nations people than those in the cities and punished them more harshly when they did not or could not comply.

“We are seeking compensation for the harm caused and recognition of the dignity and equal rights of those affected.”

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