Morrison Government to roll out new phase of JobSeeker from September
A new phase to the JobSeeker payments is being considered once the current $1115 payment ends in September. But what comes next will not be there forever.
QLD News
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THERE will be a new phase of JobSeeker payments after the September cliff is reached, rather than a snap back to old dole payments, it can be revealed.
It comes amid reports Treasury has finalised its report to the Morrison Government on how to move forward with the multi-billion Jobseeker and JobKeeper payments.
But is not expected to release the detail until after its July budget update.
The Sunday Mail revealed a $75 increase to the old Newstart payments, now known as Jobseeker, was the favoured option on senior Ministers at the moment.
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But the Morrison Government yesterday sought to play down any suggestion there would be a permanent increase to the dole payments.
It is understood that instead there will be a new phase of Jobseeker payments after September, with a range of options being considered.
Whatever option is endorsed by Cabinet, and announced after July 23, is expected to be a temporary measure.
Jobseeker payments were $565.70 a fortnight, but have been increased to $1115.70 under the six-month coronavirus supplement.
Social Services Minister Anne Ruston said the government was not looking at long-term changes to unemployment benefits right now, but instead was focused on the immediate recovery.
“We’re absolutely focused at the moment about dealing with the here and now. We’re in a transition, we’re dealing with temporary measures and that’s what we’re focused on,” she said.
“Any speculation here and now, it would be completely premature because at the moment we’re still considering the report and the review into the JobKeeper payment.”
Even prior to the coronavirus there had been growing calls from within the Coalition, particularly from the National party, for a permanent increase to dole payments.
Opposition social services spokeswoman Linda Burney a “snap back” to the base rate of $565 would push people into poverty.
“The base rate is so low it’s a barrier to finding work, with many people unable to afford essentials, transport, clothing, training and tools they need to find work,” she said.
“People are afraid and worried about their future – and there are over two million people in this country relying on Jobseeker and wanting to know what their future is.”
There is also growing pressure on the Morrison Government to extend JobKeeper, at least for particular industries like tourism, aviation and hospitality, as the pandemic shutdown continues to impact on business.