Mining magnate Andrew ‘Twiggy’ Forrest’s speech on welfare at the National Press Club cops backlash on social media, by Danielle Le Messurier.

In his speech, the billionaire chairman of Fortescue Metals took aim at cash splash welfare, saying it bred “complacency”, “laziness” and rewarded bad choices.

“I believe that we must have the courage of our convictions, and if that means campaigning for change when the status quo smacks of inadequacy and laziness, then we must be prepared to shake things up,” he said.

Mr Forrest, who led a review into indigenous jobs and training two years ago, said no amount of money would end “the indignity and despair of indigenous disparity in this country” …

Mr Forrest said he wanted to see welfare as a “guiding hand up” and not just a “mindless hand-out”. …

Last month Social Services Minister Christian Porter unveiled massive welfare reform, saying he would consider linking welfare payments to school attendance.

hat-tip Stephen Neil