I understand why people get angry about long-term benefit dependency. Those who treat the benefit as a permanent lifestyle deserve scrutiny. But not everyone on Jobseeker. Most people receiving it are there because life has thrown them a curveball. A blanket spending card strikes me as using a sledgehammer to crack a nut.
Living on a government-controlled spending card has been trialled overseas, particularly in Australia and parts of the United States. The evidence has been controversial. Supporters say it ensures taxpayer money is spent on essentials, but many independent reviews have found little evidence it increases employment and have highlighted problems including stigma, reduced personal choice and high administrative costs.
ACT and their Dole Smart Card
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