Labor wants inquiry on Green Army plan

Labor will seek a parliamentary inquiry into the Abbott government's plan for a Green Army.

The government in February introduced to parliament a bill to roll out a 15,000-strong environmental workforce by 2018.

It is aimed at improving the skills of unemployed people while helping with projects ranging from coastal rehabilitation to tree planting.

Those taking part in the scheme will receive a special allowance but won't be entitled to a social security benefit or pension.

The Labor caucus on Tuesday discussed the laws, but decided to send them to a legislation committee for an inquiry.

The caucus has concerns about workplace protections, the interaction with other welfare payments and the obligation of Green Army employers to provide training.