We all know how tough it is to make ends meet these days. The cost of living seems to be increasing every day, with what feels like little being done to help vulnerable Aussies cope with their new reality.

But there could soon be some relief for those who are doing it tough, with the announcement that welfare payments will be increased for millions of Australians.

With the advocacy for a rise in welfare payments being a major push in recent weeks, Independent Senator David Pocock announced on Sunday that he has come to an agreement with the Labor government to support their industrial relations bill.

However, the support is conditional – Pocock said that he agreed to back the legislation very recently if 'numerous amendments' will be made to the legislation to address the concerns of a wide range of groups.

Centrelink recipients could expect a boost in their payments soon as a new reviewing body will monitor the budget. Credit: Pexels.

The senator remarked: 'This is now a substantially different bill to the one introduced in the House of Representatives a month ago. It is better for business, better for workers and makes sure the most vulnerable in our community are no longer left behind.'

'I have worked with the government to push them as far as they would go, and then a step further to ensure they addressed key concerns raised with me.'

'This legislation introduces significant reforms to the Australian industrial relations system that will benefit women and low-paid workers in particular.'

Mr Pocock described the bill as a 'game changer' for people living below the poverty line in Australia, saying that the government will also receive expert advice from an independent body.

He also added that the expert body will make their recommendations — which will detail the improvements that need to be done to ensure that the most vulnerable in our community are no longer left behind — available to the public at least two weeks before the budget.

However, it is not expected that the increase will be as significant as the last one, which was announced in September, in line with price indexation, and increased the Age Pension, Disability Support Pension and Carer Payments by $38.90 per fortnight for singles (from $936.80 to $975.70) and $58.80 per fortnight for couples (from $1,412.40 to $1,471.20).

The senator said that in addition to reforming the labour system and providing women and low-paid workers with benefits, the legislation will also better support small businesses and better protect low-paid workers who are reliant on government assistance.

'Support payments are inadequate and not keeping pace with inflation, meaning those who need support are living in deepening levels of poverty,' he added.

'A recent report showed one in six children are living in poverty.'

Senator David Pocock revealed that he will be supporting the Labor government’s industrial relations bill if ‘numerous amendments’ will be made to it to cater to different demographics. Credit: Twitter/@DavidPocock.

Key Takeaways
Centrelink payments could soon increase for millions of Australians after an agreement was made between Senator David Pocock and the Labor government.
The increase in payments will be depending on the advice from an independent review body and is not expected to be as big as the last increase.
The increase in payments will be welcomed by many Australians who are struggling to make ends meet.

Aside from the pension payments, JobSeeker, Parenting Payment, ABSTUDY, and Rent Assistance payments will also receive boosts.

JobSeeker for singles without children saw their payments go up by $25.70 per fortnight to $677.20, while Parenting Payment Single rose by $35.20 to $927.40. The rate for partnered JobSeeker Payment and Parenting Payment recipients increased by $23.40 to $616.60.

What are your thoughts, members? Should the government make increases in welfare payments every time the Consumer Price Index (CPI) goes up? Share your insights with us in the comments below!

 

[JayKay]

We mustn't jump out hurdles until we get to them....this hasn't been passed, and I'm not holding my breath.
However, we can all remain hopeful.

 

[Glenys R]

I live on half of what the pensioners receive, if that - worked for years to pay for pensions for others but not entitled to one myself! How about looking after the forgotten poor - the self funded retirees - like me!!

 

[Rjwatto]

We all know how tough it is to make ends meet these days. The cost of living seems to be increasing every day, with what feels like little being done to help vulnerable Aussies cope with their new reality.

But there could soon be some relief for those who are doing it tough, with the announcement that welfare payments will be increased for millions of Australians.

With the advocacy for a rise in welfare payments being a major push in recent weeks, Independent Senator David Pocock announced on Sunday that he has come to an agreement with the Labor government to support their industrial relations bill.

However, the support is conditional – Pocock said that he agreed to back the legislation very recently if 'numerous amendments' will be made to the legislation to address the concerns of a wide range of groups.

Centrelink recipients could expect a boost in their payments soon as a new reviewing body will monitor the budget. Credit: Pexels.

The senator remarked: 'This is now a substantially different bill to the one introduced in the House of Representatives a month ago. It is better for business, better for workers and makes sure the most vulnerable in our community are no longer left behind.'

'I have worked with the government to push them as far as they would go, and then a step further to ensure they addressed key concerns raised with me.'

'This legislation introduces significant reforms to the Australian industrial relations system that will benefit women and low-paid workers in particular.'

Mr Pocock described the bill as a 'game changer' for people living below the poverty line in Australia, saying that the government will also receive expert advice from an independent body.

He also added that the expert body will make their recommendations — which will detail the improvements that need to be done to ensure that the most vulnerable in our community are no longer left behind — available to the public at least two weeks before the budget.

However, it is not expected that the increase will be as significant as the last one, which was announced in September, in line with price indexation, and increased the Age Pension, Disability Support Pension and Carer Payments by $38.90 per fortnight for singles (from $936.80 to $975.70) and $58.80 per fortnight for couples (from $1,412.40 to $1,471.20).

The senator said that in addition to reforming the labour system and providing women and low-paid workers with benefits, the legislation will also better support small businesses and better protect low-paid workers who are reliant on government assistance.

'Support payments are inadequate and not keeping pace with inflation, meaning those who need support are living in deepening levels of poverty,' he added.

'A recent report showed one in six children are living in poverty.'

Senator David Pocock revealed that he will be supporting the Labor government’s industrial relations bill if ‘numerous amendments’ will be made to it to cater to different demographics. Credit: Twitter/@DavidPocock.

Key Takeaways
Centrelink payments could soon increase for millions of Australians after an agreement was made between Senator David Pocock and the Labor government.
The increase in payments will be depending on the advice from an independent review body and is not expected to be as big as the last increase.
The increase in payments will be welcomed by many Australians who are struggling to make ends meet.

Aside from the pension payments, JobSeeker, Parenting Payment, ABSTUDY, and Rent Assistance payments will also receive boosts.

JobSeeker for singles without children saw their payments go up by $25.70 per fortnight to $677.20, while Parenting Payment Single rose by $35.20 to $927.40. The rate for partnered JobSeeker Payment and Parenting Payment recipients increased by $23.40 to $616.60.

What are your thoughts, members? Should the government make increases in welfare payments every time the Consumer Price Index (CPI) goes up? Share your insights with us in the comments below!wow so generous

We all know how tough it is to make ends meet these days. The cost of living seems to be increasing every day, with what feels like little being done to help vulnerable Aussies cope with their new reality.

But there could soon be some relief for those who are doing it tough, with the announcement that welfare payments will be increased for millions of Australians.

With the advocacy for a rise in welfare payments being a major push in recent weeks, Independent Senator David Pocock announced on Sunday that he has come to an agreement with the Labor government to support their industrial relations bill.

However, the support is conditional – Pocock said that he agreed to back the legislation very recently if 'numerous amendments' will be made to the legislation to address the concerns of a wide range of groups.

Centrelink recipients could expect a boost in their payments soon as a new reviewing body will monitor the budget. Credit: Pexels.

The senator remarked: 'This is now a substantially different bill to the one introduced in the House of Representatives a month ago. It is better for business, better for workers and makes sure the most vulnerable in our community are no longer left behind.'

'I have worked with the government to push them as far as they would go, and then a step further to ensure they addressed key concerns raised with me.'

'This legislation introduces significant reforms to the Australian industrial relations system that will benefit women and low-paid workers in particular.'

Mr Pocock described the bill as a 'game changer' for people living below the poverty line in Australia, saying that the government will also receive expert advice from an independent body.

He also added that the expert body will make their recommendations — which will detail the improvements that need to be done to ensure that the most vulnerable in our community are no longer left behind — available to the public at least two weeks before the budget.

However, it is not expected that the increase will be as significant as the last one, which was announced in September, in line with price indexation, and increased the Age Pension, Disability Support Pension and Carer Payments by $38.90 per fortnight for singles (from $936.80 to $975.70) and $58.80 per fortnight for couples (from $1,412.40 to $1,471.20).

The senator said that in addition to reforming the labour system and providing women and low-paid workers with benefits, the legislation will also better support small businesses and better protect low-paid workers who are reliant on government assistance.

'Support payments are inadequate and not keeping pace with inflation, meaning those who need support are living in deepening levels of poverty,' he added.

'A recent report showed one in six children are living in poverty.'

Senator David Pocock revealed that he will be supporting the Labor government’s industrial relations bill if ‘numerous amendments’ will be made to it to cater to different demographics. Credit: Twitter/@DavidPocock.

Key Takeaways
Centrelink payments could soon increase for millions of Australians after an agreement was made between Senator David Pocock and the Labor government.
The increase in payments will be depending on the advice from an independent review body and is not expected to be as big as the last increase.
The increase in payments will be welcomed by many Australians who are struggling to make ends meet.

Aside from the pension payments, JobSeeker, Parenting Payment, ABSTUDY, and Rent Assistance payments will also receive boosts.

JobSeeker for singles without children saw their payments go up by $25.70 per fortnight to $677.20, while Parenting Payment Single rose by $35.20 to $927.40. The rate for partnered JobSeeker Payment and Parenting Payment recipients increased by $23.40 to $616.60.

What are your thoughts, members? Should the government make increases in welfare payments every time the Consumer Price Index (CPI) goes up? Share your insights with us in the comments below!

Wow so generous everything has gone up $10 and they give you $5 it is a dog chasing its tail it will just mean more hardship for those struggling the pension is now well below the poverty line and is barely enough to survive on with all these massive price rises and more price hikes forecast

We all know how tough it is to make ends meet these days. The cost of living seems to be increasing every day, with what feels like little being done to help vulnerable Aussies cope with their new reality.

But there could soon be some relief for those who are doing it tough, with the announcement that welfare payments will be increased for millions of Australians.

With the advocacy for a rise in welfare payments being a major push in recent weeks, Independent Senator David Pocock announced on Sunday that he has come to an agreement with the Labor government to support their industrial relations bill.

However, the support is conditional – Pocock said that he agreed to back the legislation very recently if 'numerous amendments' will be made to the legislation to address the concerns of a wide range of groups.

Centrelink recipients could expect a boost in their payments soon as a new reviewing body will monitor the budget. Credit: Pexels.

The senator remarked: 'This is now a substantially different bill to the one introduced in the House of Representatives a month ago. It is better for business, better for workers and makes sure the most vulnerable in our community are no longer left behind.'

'I have worked with the government to push them as far as they would go, and then a step further to ensure they addressed key concerns raised with me.'

'This legislation introduces significant reforms to the Australian industrial relations system that will benefit women and low-paid workers in particular.'

Mr Pocock described the bill as a 'game changer' for people living below the poverty line in Australia, saying that the government will also receive expert advice from an independent body.

He also added that the expert body will make their recommendations — which will detail the improvements that need to be done to ensure that the most vulnerable in our community are no longer left behind — available to the public at least two weeks before the budget.

However, it is not expected that the increase will be as significant as the last one, which was announced in September, in line with price indexation, and increased the Age Pension, Disability Support Pension and Carer Payments by $38.90 per fortnight for singles (from $936.80 to $975.70) and $58.80 per fortnight for couples (from $1,412.40 to $1,471.20).

The senator said that in addition to reforming the labour system and providing women and low-paid workers with benefits, the legislation will also better support small businesses and better protect low-paid workers who are reliant on government assistance.

'Support payments are inadequate and not keeping pace with inflation, meaning those who need support are living in deepening levels of poverty,' he added.

'A recent report showed one in six children are living in poverty.'

Senator David Pocock revealed that he will be supporting the Labor government’s industrial relations bill if ‘numerous amendments’ will be made to it to cater to different demographics. Credit: Twitter/@DavidPocock.

Key Takeaways
Centrelink payments could soon increase for millions of Australians after an agreement was made between Senator David Pocock and the Labor government.
The increase in payments will be depending on the advice from an independent review body and is not expected to be as big as the last increase.
The increase in payments will be welcomed by many Australians who are struggling to make ends meet.

Aside from the pension payments, JobSeeker, Parenting Payment, ABSTUDY, and Rent Assistance payments will also receive boosts.

JobSeeker for singles without children saw their payments go up by $25.70 per fortnight to $677.20, while Parenting Payment Single rose by $35.20 to $927.40. The rate for partnered JobSeeker Payment and Parenting Payment recipients increased by $23.40 to $616.60.

What are your thoughts, members? Should the government make increases in welfare payments every time the Consumer Price Index (CPI) goes up? Share your insights with us in the comments below!

We all know how tough it is to make ends meet these days. The cost of living seems to be increasing every day, with what feels like little being done to help vulnerable Aussies cope with their new reality.

But there could soon be some relief for those who are doing it tough, with the announcement that welfare payments will be increased for millions of Australians.

With the advocacy for a rise in welfare payments being a major push in recent weeks, Independent Senator David Pocock announced on Sunday that he has come to an agreement with the Labor government to support their industrial relations bill.

However, the support is conditional – Pocock said that he agreed to back the legislation very recently if 'numerous amendments' will be made to the legislation to address the concerns of a wide range of groups.

Centrelink recipients could expect a boost in their payments soon as a new reviewing body will monitor the budget. Credit: Pexels.

The senator remarked: 'This is now a substantially different bill to the one introduced in the House of Representatives a month ago. It is better for business, better for workers and makes sure the most vulnerable in our community are no longer left behind.'

'I have worked with the government to push them as far as they would go, and then a step further to ensure they addressed key concerns raised with me.'

'This legislation introduces significant reforms to the Australian industrial relations system that will benefit women and low-paid workers in particular.'

Mr Pocock described the bill as a 'game changer' for people living below the poverty line in Australia, saying that the government will also receive expert advice from an independent body.

He also added that the expert body will make their recommendations — which will detail the improvements that need to be done to ensure that the most vulnerable in our community are no longer left behind — available to the public at least two weeks before the budget.

However, it is not expected that the increase will be as significant as the last one, which was announced in September, in line with price indexation, and increased the Age Pension, Disability Support Pension and Carer Payments by $38.90 per fortnight for singles (from $936.80 to $975.70) and $58.80 per fortnight for couples (from $1,412.40 to $1,471.20).

The senator said that in addition to reforming the labour system and providing women and low-paid workers with benefits, the legislation will also better support small businesses and better protect low-paid workers who are reliant on government assistance.

'Support payments are inadequate and not keeping pace with inflation, meaning those who need support are living in deepening levels of poverty,' he added.

'A recent report showed one in six children are living in poverty.'

Senator David Pocock revealed that he will be supporting the Labor government’s industrial relations bill if ‘numerous amendments’ will be made to it to cater to different demographics. Credit: Twitter/@DavidPocock.

Key Takeaways
Centrelink payments could soon increase for millions of Australians after an agreement was made between Senator David Pocock and the Labor government.
The increase in payments will be depending on the advice from an independent review body and is not expected to be as big as the last increase.
The increase in payments will be welcomed by many Australians who are struggling to make ends meet.

Aside from the pension payments, JobSeeker, Parenting Payment, ABSTUDY, and Rent Assistance payments will also receive boosts.

JobSeeker for singles without children saw their payments go up by $25.70 per fortnight to $677.20, while Parenting Payment Single rose by $35.20 to $927.40. The rate for partnered JobSeeker Payment and Parenting Payment recipients increased by $23.40 to $616.60.

What are your thoughts, members? Should the government make increases in welfare payments every time the Consumer Price Index (CPI) goes up? Share your insights with us in the comments below!

Everything and i mean everything has gone up and pensioners will get further behind and have to live below the poverty line prices have gone up $10 and they think they are doing a great job by giving you $5 get ready for massive power and gas price hikes next year 50% rise is forecast

 

[Nanatish]

We all know how tough it is to make ends meet these days. The cost of living seems to be increasing every day, with what feels like little being done to help vulnerable Aussies cope with their new reality.

But there could soon be some relief for those who are doing it tough, with the announcement that welfare payments will be increased for millions of Australians.

With the advocacy for a rise in welfare payments being a major push in recent weeks, Independent Senator David Pocock announced on Sunday that he has come to an agreement with the Labor government to support their industrial relations bill.

However, the support is conditional – Pocock said that he agreed to back the legislation very recently if 'numerous amendments' will be made to the legislation to address the concerns of a wide range of groups.

Centrelink recipients could expect a boost in their payments soon as a new reviewing body will monitor the budget. Credit: Pexels.

The senator remarked: 'This is now a substantially different bill to the one introduced in the House of Representatives a month ago. It is better for business, better for workers and makes sure the most vulnerable in our community are no longer left behind.'

'I have worked with the government to push them as far as they would go, and then a step further to ensure they addressed key concerns raised with me.'

'This legislation introduces significant reforms to the Australian industrial relations system that will benefit women and low-paid workers in particular.'

Mr Pocock described the bill as a 'game changer' for people living below the poverty line in Australia, saying that the government will also receive expert advice from an independent body.

He also added that the expert body will make their recommendations — which will detail the improvements that need to be done to ensure that the most vulnerable in our community are no longer left behind — available to the public at least two weeks before the budget.

However, it is not expected that the increase will be as significant as the last one, which was announced in September, in line with price indexation, and increased the Age Pension, Disability Support Pension and Carer Payments by $38.90 per fortnight for singles (from $936.80 to $975.70) and $58.80 per fortnight for couples (from $1,412.40 to $1,471.20).

The senator said that in addition to reforming the labour system and providing women and low-paid workers with benefits, the legislation will also better support small businesses and better protect low-paid workers who are reliant on government assistance.

'Support payments are inadequate and not keeping pace with inflation, meaning those who need support are living in deepening levels of poverty,' he added.

'A recent report showed one in six children are living in poverty.'

Senator David Pocock revealed that he will be supporting the Labor government’s industrial relations bill if ‘numerous amendments’ will be made to it to cater to different demographics. Credit: Twitter/@DavidPocock.

Key Takeaways
Centrelink payments could soon increase for millions of Australians after an agreement was made between Senator David Pocock and the Labor government.
The increase in payments will be depending on the advice from an independent review body and is not expected to be as big as the last increase.
The increase in payments will be welcomed by many Australians who are struggling to make ends meet.

Aside from the pension payments, JobSeeker, Parenting Payment, ABSTUDY, and Rent Assistance payments will also receive boosts.

JobSeeker for singles without children saw their payments go up by $25.70 per fortnight to $677.20, while Parenting Payment Single rose by $35.20 to $927.40. The rate for partnered JobSeeker Payment and Parenting Payment recipients increased by $23.40 to $616.60.

What are your thoughts, members? Should the government make increases in welfare payments every time the Consumer Price Index (CPI) goes up? Share your insights with us in the comments below!

Good News - we certainly need it, always scrapping the barrel on day-to-day living, this will help a little

 

[Mikeyboy2012]

I didn't realise that this applied to pensioners. I knew it applied to the unemployed. Well, as a pensioner I naturally welcome any help to meet the rising cost of living. I'm not an economist, but I don't believe that this should add to inflation, unlike raising wages which inevitably increase prices.

We all know how tough it is to make ends meet these days. The cost of living seems to be increasing every day, with what feels like little being done to help vulnerable Aussies cope with their new reality.

But there could soon be some relief for those who are doing it tough, with the announcement that welfare payments will be increased for millions of Australians.

With the advocacy for a rise in welfare payments being a major push in recent weeks, Independent Senator David Pocock announced on Sunday that he has come to an agreement with the Labor government to support their industrial relations bill.

However, the support is conditional – Pocock said that he agreed to back the legislation very recently if 'numerous amendments' will be made to the legislation to address the concerns of a wide range of groups.

Centrelink recipients could expect a boost in their payments soon as a new reviewing body will monitor the budget. Credit: Pexels.

The senator remarked: 'This is now a substantially different bill to the one introduced in the House of Representatives a month ago. It is better for business, better for workers and makes sure the most vulnerable in our community are no longer left behind.'

'I have worked with the government to push them as far as they would go, and then a step further to ensure they addressed key concerns raised with me.'

'This legislation introduces significant reforms to the Australian industrial relations system that will benefit women and low-paid workers in particular.'

Mr Pocock described the bill as a 'game changer' for people living below the poverty line in Australia, saying that the government will also receive expert advice from an independent body.

He also added that the expert body will make their recommendations — which will detail the improvements that need to be done to ensure that the most vulnerable in our community are no longer left behind — available to the public at least two weeks before the budget.

However, it is not expected that the increase will be as significant as the last one, which was announced in September, in line with price indexation, and increased the Age Pension, Disability Support Pension and Carer Payments by $38.90 per fortnight for singles (from $936.80 to $975.70) and $58.80 per fortnight for couples (from $1,412.40 to $1,471.20).

The senator said that in addition to reforming the labour system and providing women and low-paid workers with benefits, the legislation will also better support small businesses and better protect low-paid workers who are reliant on government assistance.

'Support payments are inadequate and not keeping pace with inflation, meaning those who need support are living in deepening levels of poverty,' he added.

'A recent report showed one in six children are living in poverty.'

Senator David Pocock revealed that he will be supporting the Labor government’s industrial relations bill if ‘numerous amendments’ will be made to it to cater to different demographics. Credit: Twitter/@DavidPocock.

Key Takeaways
Centrelink payments could soon increase for millions of Australians after an agreement was made between Senator David Pocock and the Labor government.
The increase in payments will be depending on the advice from an independent review body and is not expected to be as big as the last increase.
The increase in payments will be welcomed by many Australians who are struggling to make ends meet.

Aside from the pension payments, JobSeeker, Parenting Payment, ABSTUDY, and Rent Assistance payments will also receive boosts.

JobSeeker for singles without children saw their payments go up by $25.70 per fortnight to $677.20, while Parenting Payment Single rose by $35.20 to $927.40. The rate for partnered JobSeeker Payment and Parenting Payment recipients increased by $23.40 to $616.60.

What are your thoughts, members? Should the government make increases in welfare payments every time the Consumer Price Index (CPI) goes up? Share your insights with us in the comments below!

 

[JehazFNQ]

An increase is needed for all, living on Newstart for over 55yrs old who do the required volunteer work but not able to do paid work because of medical reasons and unable to get disability pension due to the harsh requirements needed by centrelink. Cost of living is rising all the time including food, electricity, fuel, medical appointments where bulk billing is not available, rents increasing, etc but not getting reasonable and often increases in centrelink payments.

Ji agree. I was placed on Newstart after a workplace incident and was u noble to work . Be8ng on Newstart forced me to use up all my savings, all my payout just to be able to pay my mortgage. So now, I rely on the basic Aged Pesnion and at 70 am trying to find work again.

 

[Aussie all the Way]

You cannot label all unemployed as bludgers. Many have disabilities, psychiatic problems, cancer (if not terminal), etc. Specialists and hospitals are under duress due to a backlog caused by COVID. Some people have "long covid". Some conditions are not curable eg. chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis (they can only be managed). The people you speak of - who get tattoo's, smoke, drink and buy take away, - do they live with their parents? Unemployed renters cannot afford those things. My friend in Melb. has a neighbour (an alcoholic), who just landed a job in a factory, he is over the moon, as he desperately wanted
a job. He loves a routine and is a renter. My friend often gave him food and loans to get by while he was
unemployed and always encouraged him about finding a job.

No they don't live with parents, they get enough to do these things, their rent assist pays most of the rent, cut rego, electricity, gas,etc I've seen them in Centrelink and nearly all of them are off outside to smoke, if you can afford to smoke you don't need anymore money, just look at them covered in tattoo's, I worked my whole life and these people get $100 less than me for what nothing, I have no time for the lazy ones, the people with health issues whole different story. But no not ALL unemployed but a hell of a lot of them just LAZY.

 

[Jen77au]

How can it be a loss? If for example the increase is $30 per fortnight and they lose 25% for rent, then they will still have an increase in their total income.

When you’re struggling to survive as it is…

 

[Jen77au]

I live on half of what the pensioners receive, if that - worked for years to pay for pensions for others but not entitled to one myself! How about looking after the forgotten poor - the self funded retirees - like me!!

Yes. You can’t even get assistance for in-house care if needed. Disgraceful

 

[RobD]

So the pension may well be increased slightly, OK. Then prices will increase, the cost of utilities will increase, the cost of living will increase! So I'll still be on the poverty line! Nobody wins except the rich! It's the price we pay for living/existing in a capitalist society! (Beats living in poverty in a socialist/communist society though!)

 

[Sloopy]

Sorry, but this article is poorly written and likely to cause confusion.

The increase in September was simply a larger-than-usual (due to inflation) scheduled increase. These happen automatically every march and September, and have nothing to do with the new committee Sen. Pocock has negotiated, or with what political party is in government. There will be an adjustment in March.

The new committee will advise the government as to whether the level of payments is fit for purpose two weeks PRIOR TO THE BUDGET, due in May. Unlike the regular 6-monthly adjustments, the government is in no way bound to act according to the recommendations of the committee, merely to receive them.

 

[JIM JONES]

A STEP IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION IF YOU LOOK AT CANADA THE PENSION IS THE AVERAGE WAGE !!! IF YOU LOOK AT AUS T. IT'S FAR LESS AND WE ARE THE LUCKY ONE'S !!

 

[Sloopy]

No they don't live with parents, they get enough to do these things, their rent assist pays most of the rent, cut rego, electricity, gas,etc I've seen them in Centrelink and nearly all of them are off outside to smoke, if you can afford to smoke you don't need anymore money, just look at them covered in tattoo's, I worked my whole life and these people get $100 less than me for what nothing, I have no time for the lazy ones, the people with health issues whole different story. But no not ALL unemployed but a hell of a lot of them just LAZY.

You have absolutely no idea, and are simply spouting untrue 'facts' along with your resentment.

 

[JIM JONES]

IDON'T LLLIKE THE WAY WE ARE BEING RIPTED OFF "! OIL IS NOW ONLY ABOUT $80 PER BARREL 5 YEARS AGO IT WAS $99-00 ARE FUEL SHOULD BE LESS THAN IT WAS 5YEARS AGO !! I THINK WE SHOULD OFFER TO NATIONALISE A COUPLE OF ENERGY COP'S. & PAY THEM BACK OVER 10 YEARS !

 

[mcg]

As a part-time pensioner I can earn around $12,000 a year without affecting my pension. But as my wife is 15 years younger, she wanted a part-time job and works 3 days a week for 4 hours a day. I have to show this to Centrelink which reduces my part pension considerably. There is a social issue here in that women wanting to go out to work for the well-being as well as some extra money. What I would ask is why not reduce it to $8,000 a year but let both of us earn that money before a pension is hit with a deduction?

 

[Aussie all the Way]

You have absolutely no idea, and are simply spouting untrue 'facts' along with your resentment.

I have no resentment I just don't like LAZY people being rewarded for NOTHING

 

[KarenS]

The Age Pension has been increased in March and September, according to rises in the CPI, for many years, already. the larger than usual increase last September was only because the CPI had also gone up by a larger than what has recently been the usual amount.
What needs to increase is the basic rate being paid for the Age, Disability & other payments. Also JobSeeker, AusStudy & Abstudy, and various other payments which are FAR below the Age & Disability Pensions, to bring them in line with the Age & Disability Pensions. It is acknowledged by many organisations etc that Pensions are way below the poverty line, and the other payments are way below the pension rates! No wonder the number of homeless is reaching epidemic numbers, and while employers are allegedly screaming for staff, they don't seem to want anyone who is of pension age, or who doesn't turn up for an interview without looking like the latest fashion-plate. Pensioners are too old; JobSeekers are too poor to have fancy clothes! Catch-22 again!
Other increases should be in the rental assistance to all those who receive it - given how rents have increased in the last year or so, the maximum amount of rental assistance is woefully short of the amount by which rents have increased. So those who get Rental Assistance are going backwards big-time for a start, without all the other increases in basic and essential spending like food and energy prices. A friend who is on the full Age pension has recently had her rent increased by $20 per week, but her Rental Assistance is only increasing by about $25 a month!
When even employers and business groups claim that JobSeeker is an insufficient payment for the unemployed, something is drastically wrong with the system! They have recognised that the miserable amount of JobSeeker, and it's onerous requirements, is such that many people cannot afford to actually successfully apply for jobs! People can't afford fares to get to interviews, or to dress appropriately, or to even keep their phone plan at a sufficient level to be able to access job sites, in order to apply for the jobs in the first place - everything seems to have to be done online now, so one has to have ready access to the internet to fulfil obligations. And not everyone is within reach of public libraries or other sites where they can use wifi for free.
The whole social welfare system needs a major overhaul, which is hopefully what the proposed reviews will do, but until that happens, we are all still going out backwards at a rate of knots!!

 

[Marian M]

We all know how tough it is to make ends meet these days. The cost of living seems to be increasing every day, with what feels like little being done to help vulnerable Aussies cope with their new reality.

But there could soon be some relief for those who are doing it tough, with the announcement that welfare payments will be increased for millions of Australians.

With the advocacy for a rise in welfare payments being a major push in recent weeks, Independent Senator David Pocock announced on Sunday that he has come to an agreement with the Labor government to support their industrial relations bill.

However, the support is conditional – Pocock said that he agreed to back the legislation very recently if 'numerous amendments' will be made to the legislation to address the concerns of a wide range of groups.

Centrelink recipients could expect a boost in their payments soon as a new reviewing body will monitor the budget. Credit: Pexels.

The senator remarked: 'This is now a substantially different bill to the one introduced in the House of Representatives a month ago. It is better for business, better for workers and makes sure the most vulnerable in our community are no longer left behind.'

'I have worked with the government to push them as far as they would go, and then a step further to ensure they addressed key concerns raised with me.'

'This legislation introduces significant reforms to the Australian industrial relations system that will benefit women and low-paid workers in particular.'

Mr Pocock described the bill as a 'game changer' for people living below the poverty line in Australia, saying that the government will also receive expert advice from an independent body.

He also added that the expert body will make their recommendations — which will detail the improvements that need to be done to ensure that the most vulnerable in our community are no longer left behind — available to the public at least two weeks before the budget.

However, it is not expected that the increase will be as significant as the last one, which was announced in September, in line with price indexation, and increased the Age Pension, Disability Support Pension and Carer Payments by $38.90 per fortnight for singles (from $936.80 to $975.70) and $58.80 per fortnight for couples (from $1,412.40 to $1,471.20).

The senator said that in addition to reforming the labour system and providing women and low-paid workers with benefits, the legislation will also better support small businesses and better protect low-paid workers who are reliant on government assistance.

'Support payments are inadequate and not keeping pace with inflation, meaning those who need support are living in deepening levels of poverty,' he added.

'A recent report showed one in six children are living in poverty.'

Senator David Pocock revealed that he will be supporting the Labor government’s industrial relations bill if ‘numerous amendments’ will be made to it to cater to different demographics. Credit: Twitter/@DavidPocock.

Key Takeaways
Centrelink payments could soon increase for millions of Australians after an agreement was made between Senator David Pocock and the Labor government.
The increase in payments will be depending on the advice from an independent review body and is not expected to be as big as the last increase.
The increase in payments will be welcomed by many Australians who are struggling to make ends meet.

Aside from the pension payments, JobSeeker, Parenting Payment, ABSTUDY, and Rent Assistance payments will also receive boosts.

JobSeeker for singles without children saw their payments go up by $25.70 per fortnight to $677.20, while Parenting Payment Single rose by $35.20 to $927.40. The rate for partnered JobSeeker Payment and Parenting Payment recipients increased by $23.40 to $616.60.

What are your thoughts, members? Should the government make increases in welfare payments every time the Consumer Price Index (CPI) goes up? Share your insights with us in the comments below!

I believe senior/disability/carers pensions should be increased to adapt to increases made. It is such a struggle especially if you have a mortgage.

 

[Aussie all the Way]

The Age Pension has been increased in March and September, according to rises in the CPI, for many years, already. the larger than usual increase last September was only because the CPI had also gone up by a larger than what has recently been the usual amount.
What needs to increase is the basic rate being paid for the Age, Disability & other payments. Also JobSeeker, AusStudy & Abstudy, and various other payments which are FAR below the Age & Disability Pensions, to bring them in line with the Age & Disability Pensions. It is acknowledged by many organisations etc that Pensions are way below the poverty line, and the other payments are way below the pension rates! No wonder the number of homeless is reaching epidemic numbers, and while employers are allegedly screaming for staff, they don't seem to want anyone who is of pension age, or who doesn't turn up for an interview without looking like the latest fashion-plate. Pensioners are too old; JobSeekers are too poor to have fancy clothes! Catch-22 again!
Other increases should be in the rental assistance to all those who receive it - given how rents have increased in the last year or so, the maximum amount of rental assistance is woefully short of the amount by which rents have increased. So those who get Rental Assistance are going backwards big-time for a start, without all the other increases in basic and essential spending like food and energy prices. A friend who is on the full Age pension has recently had her rent increased by $20 per week, but her Rental Assistance is only increasing by about $25 a month!
When even employers and business groups claim that JobSeeker is an insufficient payment for the unemployed, something is drastically wrong with the system! They have recognised that the miserable amount of JobSeeker, and it's onerous requirements, is such that many people cannot afford to actually successfully apply for jobs! People can't afford fares to get to interviews, or to dress appropriately, or to even keep their phone plan at a sufficient level to be able to access job sites, in order to apply for the jobs in the first place - everything seems to have to be done online now, so one has to have ready access to the internet to fulfil obligations. And not everyone is within reach of public libraries or other sites where they can use wifi for free.
The whole social welfare system needs a major overhaul, which is hopefully what the proposed reviews will do, but until that happens, we are all still going out backwards at a rate of knots!!

I'm sorry BUT the unemployed have the latest version of phones, the latest fashion, hotted up cars and YES YES YES YES have seen it all when I have been to Centrelink. Don't tell me they are hard done by for gods sake I'm sick of hearing it. Get off your backside and GET A JOB, we did a half Australia trip this year and all we saw in shop windows was wanted vacancy ads, anyone apply, so don't say they can't get a job.

 

[Evol P]

I'm very pleased to hear that the Pension for those who have worked are getting a rise, I still believe those of us that have worked should just get the minimum wage no single or married. BUT those who have never lifted a finger should get pretty much vouchers to get stuff, we really should not have anyone unemployed at the moment because business's are screaming for workers, and there coming from overseas, this is disgusting. Job seeker is not suppose to be enough to live on, where is the incentive to GET A JOB if you can get your tattoo's, smoke, drink, and buy take away. I'm sooooooo sick of listening to these people bitch about not having enough to get by on, boo hoo GET A JOB.

No one seems to say A WORD about the unemployed being asked to fill some of the zillions of job vacancies. The job vacancies can't ALL be specialised jobs that can't be trained for.