Senator JOHNSTON (Western Australia—Minister for Defence) (14:45): If the Senator understood exactly what the food or larder allowance was, he would understand that the changes we have made—in fact, that the CDF has made—are very reasonable changes. It is recognised that living away from families incurs living expenses that members would not normally be required to meet. Food allowance was paid fortnightly to members categorised as those who live off-base to assist with food expenses and setting up a new pantry. However, the normal need for an ADF member to provide for their own meals is not considered to be one of those living expenses, and the member would be required to fund their own meals if they were living with their dependents. In addition, single members who live out are required to provide their own meals. On this basis, food allowance has been ceased and replaced with a one-off larder payment. This payment recognises the expense a member faces setting up a second pantry away from their primary residence. A range of other benefits remain— Senator Conroy: $4,500 worse off, then! The PRESIDENT: Senator Conroy, you have asked your question. Senator JOHNSTON: which include reunion travel, assistance with utility costs, separation allowance and the waiver of rental contributions for members who live in off-base accommodation. ADF members categorised as members with dependents who live in on-base accommodation will retain the free meal entitlement when using mess facilities. Senator Wong: Are they worse off or not? The PRESIDENT: Order on my left! Senator Wong, you have your deputy leader on his feet. Order on my right as well.