Snakes and ladders: Tackling precarity in social security and employment support

Across the country, people are trying to make ends meet, build financial security and pursue their aspirations. But, in a vicious cycle of snakes and ladders, many are being pulled down into poverty.

This paper advocates for two core, short-term goals:

1. Protecting people from poverty
2. Opening up opportunities for sustainable, good quality work

The extent and depth of poverty reflects political choices. Divesting from social security is both a failure to deliver on an established social contract and a false economy, adding pressure to other public services and the labour market.

By working toward these goals, the next government can lay the groundwork for a social security system that fosters and protects financial security and breaks down barriers to opportunity.