Reforms to help the unemployed find a way back to work were given the green light by the Senate.

The Financial Assistance Amendment Act, tabled in the Senate by senator Arianna Hodgson, will introduce the creation of employment plans for the able-bodied unemployed.

The legislation also clarifies polices for disabled people who apply for financial assistance.

Under the new rules, those with disabilities will be required to include a medical opinion outlining their condition and, where applicable, their eventual ability to go back to work.

Ms Hodgson said the amendments were part of a wider reform effort by the Government to support clients and get them back into the workforce where possible.

Robin Tucker, the Shadow Minister for Social Development and Seniors, said it was disappointing that the Government might need to require unemployed people to take part in workforce training, but said the legislation itself was positive.

Marcus Jones, an OBA senator, supported the introduction of employment plans because they would help people see a way out of their circumstances.