Unemployment benefits should be seen as a payment that requires effort in return

Unemployment benefits should not be seen as an entitlement but as a payment that requires something in return. That’s the whole concept of mutual obligation that is entrenched in our welfare system.

UNEMPLOYMENT benefits should not be seen as an entitlement but as a payment that requires something in return.

That’s the whole concept of mutual obligation that is entrenched in our welfare system.

Revelations in The Courier-Mail today that Queensland jobseekers have the highest rate of cancellations to their dole payments for failing to turn up to job interviews should alarm everyone.

It shows there is a hard core of the unemployed who are not seriously attempting to find work.

More than 23,000 Queenslanders had their access to welfare payments cancelled entirely last year. Payments are only cancelled when there are multiple breaches of the rules, which are policed using a demerit points system.

There are also a disturbingly high number of people who had their payments suspended, rather than cancelled. This includes 106,279 people who missed appointments, 41,727 people who missed work for the dole, volunteer work or work experience and 94,647 people who sabotaged their job search.

At the worst end of the spectrum, 133 people were penalised for failing to accept suitable work and 196 for failing to start a job they were offered.

In one positive sign, the data shows most individuals who have their payments suspended improve after one or two penalties, suggesting the infringement system is working.

If someone has a genuine reason for failing to show up for an interview or work, they are able to avoid these penalties.

Some of those penalised could represent people who have health or other reasons that prevent them working. If this is the case, they should be on other forms of welfare, such as disability payments.

There may be other reasons that are not being reported by jobseekers and these should be checked in case people with health or family crises are falling through the gaps.

But there is clearly a small but determined cohort of unemployed who are content to pocket taxpayer funds to sit around without seriously trying to find work.

These people are not only ruining their own lives but sadly some will also be setting their children onto a path of welfare dependency.

Those who are trying to rip off the system also do a disservice to other jobseekers by hardening community attitudes towards “dole bludgers”.

Most unemployed people are desperately searching for work. Many, particularly the long-term unemployed and older Australians, also face challenges trying to get a job and should be offered assistance to do so.

There is a live debate about the adequacy of Newstart, with some on both sides of politics receptive to arguments that the payments entrench poverty and make it harder for people to search for work. While there may be merit in these arguments, it is crucial the dole is not seen as a lifestyle choice by anyone.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison is fond of saying “the best form of welfare is a job”. He’s right.

We must do everything possible to ensure those who are unemployed have the best chance of finding work. Suspending welfare payments may be a form of tough love. But if it forces people to help themselves, that is a good thing.

KEEP CHEERING THE BRONCOS

AFTER a triumphant first year, the undefeated Brisbane Broncos head into the NRLW competition carrying the weight of expectation.

The line-up for the women’s team has changed considerably since last year’s premiership-winning side, but a quick look at the pedigree of the athletes should give Broncos supporters reason to hope for a repeat performance for the reigning champions.

Five members of last year’s Broncos will this time line up for the Dragons, and Brisbane back rower Chelsea Lenarduzzi will be out for at the first game due to injury.

But the Broncos have gained Tazmin Gray from the Roosters and Annette Brander from the Dragons, as well as other stars, including Wallaroos representative Millie Boyle, rugby 7’s gold medallist Amy Turner and touch footy player Tarryn Aiken.

They have our best wishes as they line up to defend their title against St George Illawarra at Bankwest Stadium in the first game of the NRLW competition on Sunday.

As well as showcasing their sporting prowess, they will also be helping to grow the appeal of women’s rugby league. We urge league fans to get behind the team as they aim for another season of glory.

Responsibility for election comment is taken by Sam Weir, corner of Mayne Rd & Campbell St, Bowen Hills, Qld 4006. Printed and published by NEWSQUEENSLAND (ACN 009 661 778). Contact details are available at www.couriermail.com.au/help/contact-us