Albanese on Friday confirmed he had sought advice from IPEA on possible changes to the entitlements’ system. Federal cabinet meets on Monday, ahead of this week’s mid-year budget update, with the issue expected to be discussed.
On Sunday, Treasurer Jim Chalmers conceded there was community concern about the entire entitlements debate.
“I understand that there’s a lot of community concern about this, I think we all understand that, we all get that,” he told Sky News.
“These rules are all about trying to ensure that as we go about being the best ministers that we can, that we can also be, good parents where we can.
“I understand that where the rules reflect that, there’s not a lot of support for that, out in the community, but that’s what the rules are about, and we do our best to comply with those rules.”
Chalmers said he understood the IPEA advice sought by the prime minister would be received shortly.
He rejected suggestions that Rowland should resign.
“No, I don’t believe so. I think Michelle’s done the right thing in asking the IPEA to take another look.”
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