Singapore Budget Reaction: AWARE welcomes 'redistributive policies'

For more stories, analysis and infographics on Singapore Budget 2015, head to btd.sg/budget_15

The Association of Women for Action and Research (AWARE) on Monday applauded the "redistributive policies" in the Singapore Budget 2015 speech delivered by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam.

AWARE noted that the statement included a commitment to the government's redistributive role with increased assistance for low income groups supported by taxation of the top five per cent earners.

"We are heartened by this recognition of the principles of collective responsibility, fairness and our duties to support one another as fellow citizens," said Vivienne Wee, AWARE's Research and Advocacy Director.

"The government has done well to increase social spending as a percentage of GDP, and to recognise the obligation of those who have benefited the most from the economy to give more back."

Dr Wee also lauded the social support schemes based on the individual needs of the recipient and not on employment.

"We also applaud the automatic implementation avoiding application procedures that can hinder individuals. This is a good first step toward a universal basic pension."

AWARE also welcomed the government's recognition that more support is needed for childcare and early childhood education, including reduction of the domestic worker levy.