In 2014 the government denied a proposal to subject welfare recipients to drug testing. Proponents including Liberal-National Party MP George Christensen argued that anyone receiving taxpayer funded benefits should be able to demonstrate that they are drug-free. Opponents, including Greens MP Adam Bandt, argued that if welfare recipients were subject to testing MPs should be as well.
Response rates from 356k Australia voters.
68% Yes |
32% No |
59% Yes |
26% No |
7% Yes, but provide treatment for those testing positive |
5% No, only if they have a criminal history related to drug abuse |
2% Yes, test anyone receiving money from the government including employees and politicians |
2% No, this is a waste of time and money |
1% Yes, and immediately terminate benefits for anyone testing positive |
Trend of support over time for each answer from 356k Australia voters.
Loading data...
Loading chart...
Trend of how important this issue is for 356k Australia voters.
Loading data...
Loading chart...
Unique answers from Australia voters whose views went beyond the provided options.
@9JXWD397mos7MO
Yes, provide treatment for those who test positive, and test everyone earning money from the government, including employees and politicians.
@9JJBTWF8mos8MO
if they have a history of drugs, there should be a way to track spendings from the goverment point, so they can see if they are evn buying drugs
@9HKY3779mos9MO
Yes, but only if a trained employee sees the typical signs of addiction/substance abuse, and after they refer this recipient to an onsite specialist who comes to the same conclusion should they be tested (or voluntary)
@9HJY34R10mos10MO
Yes, if they have a history and are exhibiting the signs of drug abuse after an interview with a professional
@9S7L6LY1mo1MO
Only if there are effective and adequate alternative treatments for mental health conditions available to welfare recipients
@9LXD7C95mos5MO
Yes, but no punishment should be given. All government employees and politicians should be tested and the results given to the media.
@9KYHPTP6mos6MO
No, the lawmakers need to be tested for cocaine and heroin. They should also not be allowed to be drunk on the job.
@9KVL7Q66mos6MO
If they are homeless yes if they are just old and don't work anymore they can consent to test if they wish.
Join in on the most popular conversations.
