Election likely cause of delay to Access Card legislation
The Federal Government has delayed the introduction of the controversial $1.1 billion Access Card, due to political, administrative and electoral concerns about its start up.
The card is designed to replace a host of government social security
benefits and health entitlements and although it is not an
‘identification’ card, it is widely seen as being used and viewed as
one.
Assuming the legislation went through, the card was due to take
registrations from May 2008 but it will now be at least eight months
later. The Government has already spent $3 million on advertising the
card.
The legislation to authorise the Access Card has already been delayed
following concerns raised by a Government dominated Senate Committee enquiry into the legislative proposals.
The card could now be delayed even further if crucial procurement
contracts are not awarded before the election is called.
