The ACT Government has called on the Federal Government to commit to further increases in the supportive JobSeeker payment to workers caught up in the COVID pandemic to allow them a more sustainable, liveable and permanent rate above the poverty line.
Minister for Disability and Assistant Minister for Family and Community Services, Emma Davidson said the Federal Government’s decision to increase the JobSeeker payment by $50 per fortnight wasn’t enough.
“We need a permanent rise in income and welfare support payments,” Ms Davidson said.
“Across the country there has been a rise in the number of young people with a disability living on below poverty level welfare benefits,” she said.
“This is unacceptable and we cannot create an inclusive community if at-risk people have to choose between housing, food or medication.”
Ms Davidson said a permanent increase to the rate would also address food security and reduce pressure on food banks and charities for something that was a fundamental necessity.
Minister for Homelessness and Housing Services, Rebecca Vassarotti said the additional $50 per fortnight was a marginal increase and wouldn’t help the most vulnerable Canberrans live above the poverty line.
“We need a payment level that enables people to live a life of dignity – where they can afford to feed themselves and their families, pay for essential services, medication and the basics of life,” Ms Vassarotti said.
“The end of the JobSeeker supplement will throw almost 20,000 Canberrans into poverty and increases their risk of homelessness,” she said.
