New senator lays out welfare reform plan

A newly minted crossbench senator has detailed her plans for welfare reform in Australia.

Independent senator Lucy Gichuhi told Weekend Sunrise on Saturday that the government should ensure welfare payments are accompanied by a strong financial education.

"We all need financial intelligence," Senator Gichuhi said.

The government should achieve this in collaboration with banks and schools, she said.

Senator Gichuhi took the seat of Family First senator Bob Day following a vote recount in April this year after he was ruled ineligible to stand for election.

She also criticised Pauline Hanson for a stunt on Thursday, where the One Nation senator wore a burqa in Senate question time, and praised the government's response.

"It was the saddest day for me in the Senate and I applauded George Brandis for the way he showed courage," Senator Gichuhi said.