BasicsCard holders will be able to use their card to purchase toys for children, including approved lay-buy purchases by the end of April 2010.
Date: 09 March 2010
Senator Trish Crossin has confirmed that by the end of April 2010, BasicsCard holders will be able to use their card to purchase toys for children, including approved lay-buy purchases.
Following intense lobbying by Senator Crossin and Lindsay Heaver, owner of Alice Springs Toyworld, a decision has been made to broaden the eligibility of BasicsCard merchants to include toy stores that trade primarily in "education toys" such as bicycles, board games, dolls and building toys.
"Mums and Dads who are using a BasicsCard will be able to buy toys for their kids, and Territory toy store owners will no longer miss out on their loyal customers."
Senator Crossin said, "This decision is significant for both business and families with young kids."
"This decision shows that when Territory businesses raise a concern, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and his Ministers are listening. This is a Government that is active in working with Territory business to deliver real outcomes for Territorians."
A recent survey of the BasicsCard shows that the scheme is delivering better results for kids. In an evaluation of the current NT scheme, more than half of the parents interviewed reported their children were eating more, weighted more and were healthier.
Senator Crossin said, "This is an important decision for families, as parents know just how important toys are in a child's early learning and development."