WA social service providers say the government isn’t doing enough to help those struggling most ahead of the state election

ABC NEWS (Australia)

The WA government is offering free swimming lessons in its latest bid to win over voters, six months out from the state election. Social service providers say any household savings are welcome, but this will do little for those struggling most.

Transcript

00:00Today, it's a trip to the pool with cash to splash.

00:05Through our free summer VAC Swim program, families can save literally hundreds of dollars.

00:11Yesterday, the zoo.

00:12A Perth Zoo free pass to Western Australian families.

00:17Six months out, the pre-election sweeteners are starting to flow.

00:21The government says it's all about helping ease the pressure.

00:24We are the cost of living relief government.

00:27But social service providers say these measures do little for those doing it toughest.

00:32I've worked in this industry for over 25 years and I've never seen so many people seeking

00:37assistance.

00:39It's normally people who are just on income support who are doing it tough.

00:42It goes far beyond that today.

00:44We need to make sure that we provide relief and support right across the spectrum of government

00:49services.

00:50And so that's not just those people who are in crisis, it's also those people who are

00:55in the suburbs of Perth doing it tough.

00:58Covering the cost of summer holiday VAC Swim lessons will save a family with two children

01:02more than $200 for a 10-day program.

01:06But the opposition has been quick to point out that Labor hiked the cost of VAC Swim

01:10in 2017.

01:11Roger Cook was at the cabinet table when they agreed to hike VAC Swim fees up 122% when

01:21they first came into office.

01:25For more UN videos visit www.un.org

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