Human rights concerns about a proposed debit card restricting cash from vulnerable welfare recipients have been raised by a parliamentary committee headed by a government MP.
The government wants to trial the card, which makes 80 per cent of a person's payments cashless, in select communities where alcohol and gambling abuse is rife.
The committee, chaired by veteran Liberal Philip Ruddock, says those restrictions could limit the rights to a private life, equality and non-discrimination.
In a report on Tuesday, it said the measures would leave those on unemployment benefits with about $50 in cash to use at the markets, on public transport or family matters.
"This restriction undoubtedly impacts on how a person is able to conduct their private life and represents the extension of government regulation into the private and family lives of the persons affected by these trials," the committee said.
More information is being sought from Social Services Minister Scott Morrison to determine if the measures are justified.
Share
