True stats about ABS funding

SHAUN Newman is once again using his pathetic “blame the Coalition” tactic with reference to ABS funding.

Of course this tactic will have some traction because it is widely believed the Abbott government slashed spending in its first budget.

Now it’s true Joe Hockey cut funding to the ABS by some $ 7 million in his first budget. However, Wayne Swan cut $ 19 million in his first budget for Labor.

However it is untrue to suggest the ABS has had its budget cut.

There is a clear pattern in the data available in budget papers – ABS funding ramps up dramatically in the year before and the year of a census and then falls back again.

The Federal Government ( of either persuasion) is funding the ABS to undertake the census. Also in 2015 the Federal Government invested $ 250 million to upgrade ABS infrastructure, systems and processes.

The Government’s $ 250 million investment was to transform the ABS’ infrastructure, systems and processes to ensure the ABS continues to provide statistics and data in which the community can have confidence.

When reading any fake news that Mr Newman submits you should ask the following question: Is that a fact or did he just hear it on the ABC? PETER ANGUS,

Douglas.