Minh Nguyen describes the Howard Government's development of 'mutual obligation' into a national policy brand. Wherever this brand is applied, from the welfare system to foreign aid, it points the finger at the disadvantaged and implies there is something intrinsically wrong with their behaviour, requiring systems of reward and punishment. After ten years the phrase is here to stay, says Nguyen, so it's time for supporters of a fair and responsible Australia to ensure that the obligation in 'mutual obligation' is actually mutual.