This report provides estimates of expenditure on welfare services in Australia for the period 1998-99 to 2002-03. It also brings together cash and non-cash benefits for people in need of assistance, using an international framework being developed by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). This publication also contains a special feature chapter on child care in Australia. This report provides an important reference for policy makers into field and those working in the community services sector.