Is social inclusion just a new buzzword? A half time report card on the social welfare policies of the Rudd Government

The ALP Government claims to be pursuing a social inclusion agenda aimed at promoting the participation of particularly disadvantaged groups. This holistic agenda recognizes that disadvantage is caused by a complex interaction of structural, local community and individual factors, and differs significantly from the former Coalition government's primary emphasis on individual responsibility. The government seems to have a genuine commitment to addressing social disadvantage and has significantly increased the level of social investment in a number of key areas. However, its application of social inclusion principles still appears to be inconsistent and unduly limited by political and budgetary considerations.