Introduction of the Old Age Pension in New South Wales: Deserving or Undeserving?

Abstract

This article examines the issues relating to the introduction of the old age pension in New South Wales in 1900. Poor relief measures provided for the destitute aged prior to the introduction of the pension are examined. Particular consideration is given to the indoor and outdoor relief provided by the Government asylums and the Benevolent Society of New South Wales. The arguments concerning the type of pension scheme to be introduced are outlined. These include whether the pension should be contributory or non-contributory and whether it should be a selective or universal provision. The distinction drawn between the ‘deserving’ and the ‘undeserving’ poor is also discussed.