As the cost of living in Australia continues to rise, many people need help to make ends meet.

From increasing utility bills to rising food and housing costs, everything is getting more expensive by the day.

In the face of these challenges, many Australians are looking to the government for help in the form of relief programs and assistance.

With mounting pressure on the government to provide relief, the question on everyone's mind is whether these programs will be enough to make a real difference.

As prices continue to climb and wages fail to keep up, it's clear that something needs to be done.

The upcoming federal budget holds a lot of hope for many Australians, especially those struggling with cost-of-living pressures.

Advocacy groups are urging the government to consider their recommendations for the upcoming federal budget. Credit: Shutterstock.

Leading welfare organisation, the Australian Council of Social Services (ACOSS), have released their budget submission, which calls on the government to provide more support for people on the lowest incomes.

ACOSS demanded that the government increase the number of unemployment benefits granted to recipients from the current $48 to at least $76. This would likely have flow-on effects for other payments such as the pension.

The social advocacy organisation also urged the government to take advantage of the budget to set the foundation for a more inclusive and prosperous future by investing in essential social services that will improve the esteem and quality of life of people from all walks of life, from the lowest income earners to the most privileged.

Cassandra Goldie, the head of ACOSS, described it as a disgrace that despite Australia being one of the wealthiest nations in the world, its unemployment benefits are among the lowest when compared to the rest of the OECD.

She pointed out that it was the right time for the government to step in and address the issues regarding the adequacy of the country's most essential social security systems to improve the quality of life and productivity of the citizens.

Ms Goldie remarked: ‘The government has the tools to build a more equal Australia ... every budget is about choice, and it does actually set up the values of the country.’

‘We very strongly think the budget should be about tackling inflation (and) we should be focusing on measures that are not harming those who are most at risk.’

Goldie also said that many Australians are taking measures that go beyond their standard level of living to make ends meet.

'This is not about the cost of a cup of coffee; this is about the essentials of life,' she said.

ACOSS also suggested that the government achieve higher levels of sufficient funding by halting the $18 billion per year stage three tax cuts, which they claimed only to benefit the wealthiest 20 per cent of Australian citizens.

The contentious tax cuts, which are set to take effect starting in 2024, have been a hot topic of debate in the country, with some believing that it would benefit the middle and working class while others saying that it would only help the rich.

The group also advocated for increased funding for community services via proper indexation and investments in solar and energy efficiency for low-income households.

Goldie emphasised the need for the budget to prioritise gender equality measures and dedicate more funding to social housing.

She said: 'This is a budget we want to see that actually speaks to the government’s commitment that nobody is going to be left behind.’

A summary of ACOSS’ recommendations for the upcoming federal budget. Credit: Seniors Discount Club.

In January, Treasurer Jim Chalmers said he was aware of cost-of-living pressures and plans to provide 'responsible cost-of-living relief' in the upcoming budget.

'My job is to try and make it all add up in the context of a trillion dollars of debt and all of those other budget pressures,' he remarked.

'We will do what we can to provide responsible cost-of-living relief, electricity bills, cheaper early childhood education, a pay rise for aged care workers; these will all be in the Budget in May.'

‘If there are other steps that we can consider and that we can afford, then obviously, we’ll contemplate that as well.’

Key Takeaways

• The Australian Council of Social Services (ACOSS) has released its budget submission, calling for people on the lowest incomes to be prioritised.
• ACOSS urges the government to use the upcoming budget to lay the foundations for a more inclusive future.
• ACOSS is calling for measures to be taken to increase community services funding, with specific investments in energy efficiency and solar retrofits for low-income households.
• Treasurer Jim Chalmers has said the government will do what it can to provide responsible cost-of-living relief in the upcoming budget.

Here at the Seniors Discount Club, we make it our mission to keep our members updated with all of the latest news and developments from the upcoming federal budget.

We also previously shared an article where we detail some of the government relief programs that you can take advantage of.

What are your thoughts on ACOSS' proposal? What measures would you like to see in the upcoming federal budget to make your life easier? Let us know in the comments below!

 

[Happy Jon]

As the cost of living in Australia continues to rise, many people need help to make ends meet.

From increasing utility bills to rising food and housing costs, everything is getting more expensive by the day.

In the face of these challenges, many Australians are looking to the government for help in the form of relief programs and assistance.

With mounting pressure on the government to provide relief, the question on everyone's mind is whether these programs will be enough to make a real difference.

As prices continue to climb and wages fail to keep up, it's clear that something needs to be done.

The upcoming federal budget holds a lot of hope for many Australians, especially those struggling with cost-of-living pressures.

View attachment 15706

Advocacy groups are urging the government to consider their recommendations for the upcoming federal budget. Credit: Shutterstock.

Leading welfare organisation, the Australian Council of Social Services (ACOSS), have released their budget submission, which calls on the government to provide more support for people on the lowest incomes.

ACOSS demanded that the government increase the number of unemployment benefits granted to recipients from the current $48 to at least $76. This would likely have flow-on effects for other payments such as the pension.

The social advocacy organisation also urged the government to take advantage of the budget to set the foundation for a more inclusive and prosperous future by investing in essential social services that will improve the esteem and quality of life of people from all walks of life, from the lowest income earners to the most privileged.

Cassandra Goldie, the head of ACOSS, described it as a disgrace that despite Australia being one of the wealthiest nations in the world, its unemployment benefits are among the lowest when compared to the rest of the OECD.

She pointed out that it was the right time for the government to step in and address the issues regarding the adequacy of the country's most essential social security systems to improve the quality of life and productivity of the citizens.

Ms Goldie remarked: ‘The government has the tools to build a more equal Australia ... every budget is about choice, and it does actually set up the values of the country.’

‘We very strongly think the budget should be about tackling inflation (and) we should be focusing on measures that are not harming those who are most at risk.’

Goldie also said that many Australians are taking measures that go beyond their standard level of living to make ends meet.

'This is not about the cost of a cup of coffee; this is about the essentials of life,' she said.

ACOSS also suggested that the government achieve higher levels of sufficient funding by halting the $18 billion per year stage three tax cuts, which they claimed only to benefit the wealthiest 20 per cent of Australian citizens.

The contentious tax cuts, which are set to take effect starting in 2024, have been a hot topic of debate in the country, with some believing that it would benefit the middle and working class while others saying that it would only help the rich.

The group also advocated for increased funding for community services via proper indexation and investments in solar and energy efficiency for low-income households.

Goldie emphasised the need for the budget to prioritise gender equality measures and dedicate more funding to social housing.

She said: 'This is a budget we want to see that actually speaks to the government’s commitment that nobody is going to be left behind.’

View attachment 15736

A summary of ACOSS’ recommendations for the upcoming federal budget. Credit: Seniors Discount Club.

In January, Treasurer Jim Chalmers said he was aware of cost-of-living pressures and plans to provide 'responsible cost-of-living relief' in the upcoming budget.

'My job is to try and make it all add up in the context of a trillion dollars of debt and all of those other budget pressures,' he remarked.

'We will do what we can to provide responsible cost-of-living relief, electricity bills, cheaper early childhood education, a pay rise for aged care workers; these will all be in the Budget in May.'

‘If there are other steps that we can consider and that we can afford, then obviously, we’ll contemplate that as well.’

Key Takeaways

• The Australian Council of Social Services (ACOSS) has released its budget submission, calling for people on the lowest incomes to be prioritised.
• ACOSS urges the government to use the upcoming budget to lay the foundations for a more inclusive future.
• ACOSS is calling for measures to be taken to increase community services funding, with specific investments in energy efficiency and solar retrofits for low-income households.
• Treasurer Jim Chalmers has said the government will do what it can to provide responsible cost-of-living relief in the upcoming budget.

Here at the Seniors Discount Club, we make it our mission to keep our members updated with all of the latest news and developments from the upcoming federal budget.

We also previously shared an article where we detail some of the government relief programs that you can take advantage of.

What are your thoughts on ACOSS' proposal? What measures would you like to see in the upcoming federal budget to make your life easier? Let us know in the comments below!

More help for those on low incomes especially unemployed or retired in rental accommodation. As it is even with the recent rises, we are just paying Peter to pay Paul.

 

[Petra]

As the cost of living in Australia continues to rise, many people need help to make ends meet.

From increasing utility bills to rising food and housing costs, everything is getting more expensive by the day.

In the face of these challenges, many Australians are looking to the government for help in the form of relief programs and assistance.

With mounting pressure on the government to provide relief, the question on everyone's mind is whether these programs will be enough to make a real difference.

As prices continue to climb and wages fail to keep up, it's clear that something needs to be done.

The upcoming federal budget holds a lot of hope for many Australians, especially those struggling with cost-of-living pressures.

View attachment 15706

Advocacy groups are urging the government to consider their recommendations for the upcoming federal budget. Credit: Shutterstock.

Leading welfare organisation, the Australian Council of Social Services (ACOSS), have released their budget submission, which calls on the government to provide more support for people on the lowest incomes.

ACOSS demanded that the government increase the number of unemployment benefits granted to recipients from the current $48 to at least $76. This would likely have flow-on effects for other payments such as the pension.

The social advocacy organisation also urged the government to take advantage of the budget to set the foundation for a more inclusive and prosperous future by investing in essential social services that will improve the esteem and quality of life of people from all walks of life, from the lowest income earners to the most privileged.

Cassandra Goldie, the head of ACOSS, described it as a disgrace that despite Australia being one of the wealthiest nations in the world, its unemployment benefits are among the lowest when compared to the rest of the OECD.

She pointed out that it was the right time for the government to step in and address the issues regarding the adequacy of the country's most essential social security systems to improve the quality of life and productivity of the citizens.

Ms Goldie remarked: ‘The government has the tools to build a more equal Australia ... every budget is about choice, and it does actually set up the values of the country.’

‘We very strongly think the budget should be about tackling inflation (and) we should be focusing on measures that are not harming those who are most at risk.’

Goldie also said that many Australians are taking measures that go beyond their standard level of living to make ends meet.

'This is not about the cost of a cup of coffee; this is about the essentials of life,' she said.

ACOSS also suggested that the government achieve higher levels of sufficient funding by halting the $18 billion per year stage three tax cuts, which they claimed only to benefit the wealthiest 20 per cent of Australian citizens.

The contentious tax cuts, which are set to take effect starting in 2024, have been a hot topic of debate in the country, with some believing that it would benefit the middle and working class while others saying that it would only help the rich.

The group also advocated for increased funding for community services via proper indexation and investments in solar and energy efficiency for low-income households.

Goldie emphasised the need for the budget to prioritise gender equality measures and dedicate more funding to social housing.

She said: 'This is a budget we want to see that actually speaks to the government’s commitment that nobody is going to be left behind.’

View attachment 15736

A summary of ACOSS’ recommendations for the upcoming federal budget. Credit: Seniors Discount Club.

In January, Treasurer Jim Chalmers said he was aware of cost-of-living pressures and plans to provide 'responsible cost-of-living relief' in the upcoming budget.

'My job is to try and make it all add up in the context of a trillion dollars of debt and all of those other budget pressures,' he remarked.

'We will do what we can to provide responsible cost-of-living relief, electricity bills, cheaper early childhood education, a pay rise for aged care workers; these will all be in the Budget in May.'

‘If there are other steps that we can consider and that we can afford, then obviously, we’ll contemplate that as well.’

Key Takeaways

• The Australian Council of Social Services (ACOSS) has released its budget submission, calling for people on the lowest incomes to be prioritised.
• ACOSS urges the government to use the upcoming budget to lay the foundations for a more inclusive future.
• ACOSS is calling for measures to be taken to increase community services funding, with specific investments in energy efficiency and solar retrofits for low-income households.
• Treasurer Jim Chalmers has said the government will do what it can to provide responsible cost-of-living relief in the upcoming budget.

Here at the Seniors Discount Club, we make it our mission to keep our members updated with all of the latest news and developments from the upcoming federal budget.

We also previously shared an article where we detail some of the government relief programs that you can take advantage of.

What are your thoughts on ACOSS' proposal? What measures would you like to see in the upcoming federal budget to make your life easier? Let us know in the comments below!

I have seen, many times, at McDonalds (because I have to drive past this place and there is a traffic light), how elderly people bought a kid's happy meal for themselves, sitting outside on a bench, eating it. This kind of thing, makes me very sad.

 

[Petra]

I think all payments for the 'dole' should be stopped. Young adults are coming off year 12 straight onto the 'Dole' and not bothering to look for work. They say they earn more on the 'dole' than if they were working, so just spend their time at home. Businesses are crying out for staff everywhere yet there are so many young, able, people not working. Why????? This money could be better used elsewhere by the Government. Aged care for one.

@margiiazul Are you for real? The moment you stop the "dole" - crime will rise (even more x 100%) .... They will get money for whatever reason, to buy food, and/or for addictions. And they will get it from me and you, taxi-drivers ..... just take a moment to think about it.

 

[Catherines]

As the cost of living in Australia continues to rise, many people need help to make ends meet.

From increasing utility bills to rising food and housing costs, everything is getting more expensive by the day.

In the face of these challenges, many Australians are looking to the government for help in the form of relief programs and assistance.

With mounting pressure on the government to provide relief, the question on everyone's mind is whether these programs will be enough to make a real difference.

As prices continue to climb and wages fail to keep up, it's clear that something needs to be done.

The upcoming federal budget holds a lot of hope for many Australians, especially those struggling with cost-of-living pressures.

View attachment 15706

Advocacy groups are urging the government to consider their recommendations for the upcoming federal budget. Credit: Shutterstock.

Leading welfare organisation, the Australian Council of Social Services (ACOSS), have released their budget submission, which calls on the government to provide more support for people on the lowest incomes.

ACOSS demanded that the government increase the number of unemployment benefits granted to recipients from the current $48 to at least $76. This would likely have flow-on effects for other payments such as the pension.

The social advocacy organisation also urged the government to take advantage of the budget to set the foundation for a more inclusive and prosperous future by investing in essential social services that will improve the esteem and quality of life of people from all walks of life, from the lowest income earners to the most privileged.

Cassandra Goldie, the head of ACOSS, described it as a disgrace that despite Australia being one of the wealthiest nations in the world, its unemployment benefits are among the lowest when compared to the rest of the OECD.

She pointed out that it was the right time for the government to step in and address the issues regarding the adequacy of the country's most essential social security systems to improve the quality of life and productivity of the citizens.

Ms Goldie remarked: ‘The government has the tools to build a more equal Australia ... every budget is about choice, and it does actually set up the values of the country.’

‘We very strongly think the budget should be about tackling inflation (and) we should be focusing on measures that are not harming those who are most at risk.’

Goldie also said that many Australians are taking measures that go beyond their standard level of living to make ends meet.

'This is not about the cost of a cup of coffee; this is about the essentials of life,' she said.

ACOSS also suggested that the government achieve higher levels of sufficient funding by halting the $18 billion per year stage three tax cuts, which they claimed only to benefit the wealthiest 20 per cent of Australian citizens.

The contentious tax cuts, which are set to take effect starting in 2024, have been a hot topic of debate in the country, with some believing that it would benefit the middle and working class while others saying that it would only help the rich.

The group also advocated for increased funding for community services via proper indexation and investments in solar and energy efficiency for low-income households.

Goldie emphasised the need for the budget to prioritise gender equality measures and dedicate more funding to social housing.

She said: 'This is a budget we want to see that actually speaks to the government’s commitment that nobody is going to be left behind.’

View attachment 15736

A summary of ACOSS’ recommendations for the upcoming federal budget. Credit: Seniors Discount Club.

In January, Treasurer Jim Chalmers said he was aware of cost-of-living pressures and plans to provide 'responsible cost-of-living relief' in the upcoming budget.

'My job is to try and make it all add up in the context of a trillion dollars of debt and all of those other budget pressures,' he remarked.

'We will do what we can to provide responsible cost-of-living relief, electricity bills, cheaper early childhood education, a pay rise for aged care workers; these will all be in the Budget in May.'

‘If there are other steps that we can consider and that we can afford, then obviously, we’ll contemplate that as well.’

Key Takeaways

• The Australian Council of Social Services (ACOSS) has released its budget submission, calling for people on the lowest incomes to be prioritised.
• ACOSS urges the government to use the upcoming budget to lay the foundations for a more inclusive future.
• ACOSS is calling for measures to be taken to increase community services funding, with specific investments in energy efficiency and solar retrofits for low-income households.
• Treasurer Jim Chalmers has said the government will do what it can to provide responsible cost-of-living relief in the upcoming budget.

Here at the Seniors Discount Club, we make it our mission to keep our members updated with all of the latest news and developments from the upcoming federal budget.

We also previously shared an article where we detail some of the government relief programs that you can take advantage of.

What are your thoughts on ACOSS' proposal? What measures would you like to see in the upcoming federal budget to make your life easier? Let us know in the comments below!

We are fortunate not to have to turn to the government for a pension however I wouldn’t say this is a ‘boost’ - more like a few dollars extra to help pay SOME bills only but definitely not a boost for those who are struggling.

 

[Catherines]

I have seen, many times, at McDonalds (because I have to drive past this place and there is a traffic light), how elderly people bought a kid's happy meal for themselves, sitting outside on a bench, eating it. This kind of thing, makes me very sad.

Yes, that’s possibly true but so also is the fact they are probably no longer big eaters, hence a smaller meal. And, in case you didn’t know, a happy meal is more expensive than a cheeseburger which probably allows for the cheap toy included - they probably buy this meal for the toy included for their grandchildren.

My husband and I often go for just a cheeseburger at night should we be out as we don’t eat much and our main meal is at lunch; we don’t go to bed on full stomachs.

 

[saundy]

Yeh stop giving so much money overseas and give more to our needy

You hit the nail right on the head

 

[Suzanne rose]

I think all payments for the 'dole' should be stopped. Young adults are coming off year 12 straight onto the 'Dole' and not bothering to look for work. They say they earn more on the 'dole' than if they were working, so just spend their time at home. Businesses are crying out for staff everywhere yet there are so many young, able, people not working. Why????? This money could be better used elsewhere by the Government. Aged care for one.

There is no way Youth allowance (dole) is the same as working. My daughter just finished school and has gone straight into uni to do Nursing ( which hospitals are screaming for)
She gets $395 a fortnight so just under $200 aweek. With this she has to pay for fares , laptop, internet which both laptop and internet are a necessity.
She is an Asthmatic and spends $25 a fortnight on medication one of these alone is $32 amonth. Then there is food on top of this.
Lucky she is at home otherwise she could not afford even shared rent.

Through school she worked week ends and after school in a Cafe and made just over $500 aweek and that was for around 25 hours a week.
How does $500 compare to the $200 she now gets.

With her classes , tutorials, lectures, travelling of 3 hours each day and study it's pretty hard to work.

We need to support our future Nurses, Doctors and teachers

 

[Nana Zorak]

My rent will go up by $50.00 a week in May but the big hit is the extra we have to pay for the bond another $200.00 We also have a severe car defect that needs fixing as we really need the car for my doctor trips each month.

 

[Glen44]

As the cost of living in Australia continues to rise, many people need help to make ends meet.

From increasing utility bills to rising food and housing costs, everything is getting more expensive by the day.

In the face of these challenges, many Australians are looking to the government for help in the form of relief programs and assistance.

With mounting pressure on the government to provide relief, the question on everyone's mind is whether these programs will be enough to make a real difference.

As prices continue to climb and wages fail to keep up, it's clear that something needs to be done.

The upcoming federal budget holds a lot of hope for many Australians, especially those struggling with cost-of-living pressures.

View attachment 15706

Advocacy groups are urging the government to consider their recommendations for the upcoming federal budget. Credit: Shutterstock.

Leading welfare organisation, the Australian Council of Social Services (ACOSS), have released their budget submission, which calls on the government to provide more support for people on the lowest incomes.

ACOSS demanded that the government increase the number of unemployment benefits granted to recipients from the current $48 to at least $76. This would likely have flow-on effects for other payments such as the pension.

The social advocacy organisation also urged the government to take advantage of the budget to set the foundation for a more inclusive and prosperous future by investing in essential social services that will improve the esteem and quality of life of people from all walks of life, from the lowest income earners to the most privileged.

Cassandra Goldie, the head of ACOSS, described it as a disgrace that despite Australia being one of the wealthiest nations in the world, its unemployment benefits are among the lowest when compared to the rest of the OECD.

She pointed out that it was the right time for the government to step in and address the issues regarding the adequacy of the country's most essential social security systems to improve the quality of life and productivity of the citizens.

Ms Goldie remarked: ‘The government has the tools to build a more equal Australia ... every budget is about choice, and it does actually set up the values of the country.’

‘We very strongly think the budget should be about tackling inflation (and) we should be focusing on measures that are not harming those who are most at risk.’

Goldie also said that many Australians are taking measures that go beyond their standard level of living to make ends meet.

'This is not about the cost of a cup of coffee; this is about the essentials of life,' she said.

ACOSS also suggested that the government achieve higher levels of sufficient funding by halting the $18 billion per year stage three tax cuts, which they claimed only to benefit the wealthiest 20 per cent of Australian citizens.

The contentious tax cuts, which are set to take effect starting in 2024, have been a hot topic of debate in the country, with some believing that it would benefit the middle and working class while others saying that it would only help the rich.

The group also advocated for increased funding for community services via proper indexation and investments in solar and energy efficiency for low-income households.

Goldie emphasised the need for the budget to prioritise gender equality measures and dedicate more funding to social housing.

She said: 'This is a budget we want to see that actually speaks to the government’s commitment that nobody is going to be left behind.’

View attachment 15736

A summary of ACOSS’ recommendations for the upcoming federal budget. Credit: Seniors Discount Club.

In January, Treasurer Jim Chalmers said he was aware of cost-of-living pressures and plans to provide 'responsible cost-of-living relief' in the upcoming budget.

'My job is to try and make it all add up in the context of a trillion dollars of debt and all of those other budget pressures,' he remarked.

'We will do what we can to provide responsible cost-of-living relief, electricity bills, cheaper early childhood education, a pay rise for aged care workers; these will all be in the Budget in May.'

‘If there are other steps that we can consider and that we can afford, then obviously, we’ll contemplate that as well.’

Key Takeaways

• The Australian Council of Social Services (ACOSS) has released its budget submission, calling for people on the lowest incomes to be prioritised.
• ACOSS urges the government to use the upcoming budget to lay the foundations for a more inclusive future.
• ACOSS is calling for measures to be taken to increase community services funding, with specific investments in energy efficiency and solar retrofits for low-income households.
• Treasurer Jim Chalmers has said the government will do what it can to provide responsible cost-of-living relief in the upcoming budget.

Here at the Seniors Discount Club, we make it our mission to keep our members updated with all of the latest news and developments from the upcoming federal budget.

We also previously shared an article where we detail some of the government relief programs that you can take advantage of.

What are your thoughts on ACOSS' proposal? What measures would you like to see in the upcoming federal budget to make your life easier? Let us know in the comments below!

 

[Glen44]

Tax cuts for the wealthiest are as all ways rediculis, that's for the Liberals to hand out when they are in power .
The lowest paid , pensioners and unemployed .
Need help as they have been left behind for so long pensioners after all are the people who have been paying taxes for years and as they get older they need government help to let them have a decent life not constantly worrieing how to pay bills.

The Medicare payment to Doctors needs to be raised so Doctors will keep bulk billing
Another huge issue for older Australians
And these things need to be done now.

 

[Lelly]

I understand what you are saying! Those in private rentals are even worse off as our rents are going up by over $50 a week in many cases! It is such a sad state of affairs and it is a worry for all pensioners.

I agree. I am a pensioner living on my own in a small country town. I pay $720 a fortnight, due to be reviewed! At least in DOH it is never more than 25%. If I apply for DOH, I’ll be long dead before I reach the top of the list. I feel if the government looked at the dignity of its citizens a lot of crime would change as well. When you have no dignity you have no self respect without self respect you feel it’s okay to take what others have. I am BTW not a criminal in anyway but involved in volunteer social work and I see this all the time. The “what does it matter!! I get treated like scum so I might as well act like scum”. It’s a sad reflection of a society where the rich get richer and the poor poorer.
That’s my to bobs worth anyway

 

[donellefeltham@ gmail.com]

As the cost of living in Australia continues to rise, many people need help to make ends meet.

From increasing utility bills to rising food and housing costs, everything is getting more expensive by the day.

In the face of these challenges, many Australians are looking to the government for help in the form of relief programs and assistance.

With mounting pressure on the government to provide relief, the question on everyone's mind is whether these programs will be enough to make a real difference.

As prices continue to climb and wages fail to keep up, it's clear that something needs to be done.

The upcoming federal budget holds a lot of hope for many Australians, especially those struggling with cost-of-living pressures.

View attachment 15706

Advocacy groups are urging the government to consider their recommendations for the upcoming federal budget. Credit: Shutterstock.

Leading welfare organisation, the Australian Council of Social Services (ACOSS), have released their budget submission, which calls on the government to provide more support for people on the lowest incomes.

ACOSS demanded that the government increase the number of unemployment benefits granted to recipients from the current $48 to at least $76. This would likely have flow-on effects for other payments such as the pension.

The social advocacy organisation also urged the government to take advantage of the budget to set the foundation for a more inclusive and prosperous future by investing in essential social services that will improve the esteem and quality of life of people from all walks of life, from the lowest income earners to the most privileged.

Cassandra Goldie, the head of ACOSS, described it as a disgrace that despite Australia being one of the wealthiest nations in the world, its unemployment benefits are among the lowest when compared to the rest of the OECD.

She pointed out that it was the right time for the government to step in and address the issues regarding the adequacy of the country's most essential social security systems to improve the quality of life and productivity of the citizens.

Ms Goldie remarked: ‘The government has the tools to build a more equal Australia ... every budget is about choice, and it does actually set up the values of the country.’

‘We very strongly think the budget should be about tackling inflation (and) we should be focusing on measures that are not harming those who are most at risk.’

Goldie also said that many Australians are taking measures that go beyond their standard level of living to make ends meet.

'This is not about the cost of a cup of coffee; this is about the essentials of life,' she said.

ACOSS also suggested that the government achieve higher levels of sufficient funding by halting the $18 billion per year stage three tax cuts, which they claimed only to benefit the wealthiest 20 per cent of Australian citizens.

The contentious tax cuts, which are set to take effect starting in 2024, have been a hot topic of debate in the country, with some believing that it would benefit the middle and working class while others saying that it would only help the rich.

The group also advocated for increased funding for community services via proper indexation and investments in solar and energy efficiency for low-income households.

Goldie emphasised the need for the budget to prioritise gender equality measures and dedicate more funding to social housing.

She said: 'This is a budget we want to see that actually speaks to the government’s commitment that nobody is going to be left behind.’

View attachment 15736

A summary of ACOSS’ recommendations for the upcoming federal budget. Credit: Seniors Discount Club.

In January, Treasurer Jim Chalmers said he was aware of cost-of-living pressures and plans to provide 'responsible cost-of-living relief' in the upcoming budget.

'My job is to try and make it all add up in the context of a trillion dollars of debt and all of those other budget pressures,' he remarked.

'We will do what we can to provide responsible cost-of-living relief, electricity bills, cheaper early childhood education, a pay rise for aged care workers; these will all be in the Budget in May.'

‘If there are other steps that we can consider and that we can afford, then obviously, we’ll contemplate that as well.’

Key Takeaways

• The Australian Council of Social Services (ACOSS) has released its budget submission, calling for people on the lowest incomes to be prioritised.
• ACOSS urges the government to use the upcoming budget to lay the foundations for a more inclusive future.
• ACOSS is calling for measures to be taken to increase community services funding, with specific investments in energy efficiency and solar retrofits for low-income households.
• Treasurer Jim Chalmers has said the government will do what it can to provide responsible cost-of-living relief in the upcoming budget.

Here at the Seniors Discount Club, we make it our mission to keep our members updated with all of the latest news and developments from the upcoming federal budget.

We also previously shared an article where we detail some of the government relief programs that you can take advantage of.

What are your thoughts on ACOSS' proposal? What measures would you like to see in the upcoming federal budget to make your life easier? Let us know in the comments below!

Is anyone out there going to listen too what I’ve been trying too for over 10 years now, tell Pensioner’s live in Government Housing, they are being Ripped off and it was the Liberal Government of the day who decided, that now we would have to pay rent from our Supplements. This all happened around 10, years ago. Until then we'd only paid rent on our Basic Pension, our Supplements were supposed to help us pay for our our Utilities, Medical, Dental expences . As Government Housing Tennent’s we are not able too apply for Rent Assistance even though our rent’s we pay, even though the rent we pay, would make us eligible for the full amount if we were renting privately but that’s not why I think we are being ripped off. Around 10 years ago we received notification that on we Would have to pay 25% of our Supplements in rent. Don’t get me wrong I’m grateful for my home of 20 years

As the cost of living in Australia continues to rise, many people need help to make ends meet.

From increasing utility bills to rising food and housing costs, everything is getting more expensive by the day.

In the face of these challenges, many Australians are looking to the government for help in the form of relief programs and assistance.

With mounting pressure on the government to provide relief, the question on everyone's mind is whether these programs will be enough to make a real difference.

As prices continue to climb and wages fail to keep up, it's clear that something needs to be done.

The upcoming federal budget holds a lot of hope for many Australians, especially those struggling with cost-of-living pressures.

View attachment 15706

Advocacy groups are urging the government to consider their recommendations for the upcoming federal budget. Credit: Shutterstock.

Leading welfare organisation, the Australian Council of Social Services (ACOSS), have released their budget submission, which calls on the government to provide more support for people on the lowest incomes.

ACOSS demanded that the government increase the number of unemployment benefits granted to recipients from the current $48 to at least $76. This would likely have flow-on effects for other payments such as the pension.

The social advocacy organisation also urged the government to take advantage of the budget to set the foundation for a more inclusive and prosperous future by investing in essential social services that will improve the esteem and quality of life of people from all walks of life, from the lowest income earners to the most privileged.

Cassandra Goldie, the head of ACOSS, described it as a disgrace that despite Australia being one of the wealthiest nations in the world, its unemployment benefits are among the lowest when compared to the rest of the OECD.

She pointed out that it was the right time for the government to step in and address the issues regarding the adequacy of the country's most essential social security systems to improve the quality of life and productivity of the citizens.

Ms Goldie remarked: ‘The government has the tools to build a more equal Australia ... every budget is about choice, and it does actually set up the values of the country.’

‘We very strongly think the budget should be about tackling inflation (and) we should be focusing on measures that are not harming those who are most at risk.’

Goldie also said that many Australians are taking measures that go beyond their standard level of living to make ends meet.

'This is not about the cost of a cup of coffee; this is about the essentials of life,' she said.

ACOSS also suggested that the government achieve higher levels of sufficient funding by halting the $18 billion per year stage three tax cuts, which they claimed only to benefit the wealthiest 20 per cent of Australian citizens.

The contentious tax cuts, which are set to take effect starting in 2024, have been a hot topic of debate in the country, with some believing that it would benefit the middle and working class while others saying that it would only help the rich.

The group also advocated for increased funding for community services via proper indexation and investments in solar and energy efficiency for low-income households.

Goldie emphasised the need for the budget to prioritise gender equality measures and dedicate more funding to social housing.

She said: 'This is a budget we want to see that actually speaks to the government’s commitment that nobody is going to be left behind.’

View attachment 15736

A summary of ACOSS’ recommendations for the upcoming federal budget. Credit: Seniors Discount Club.

In January, Treasurer Jim Chalmers said he was aware of cost-of-living pressures and plans to provide 'responsible cost-of-living relief' in the upcoming budget.

'My job is to try and make it all add up in the context of a trillion dollars of debt and all of those other budget pressures,' he remarked.

'We will do what we can to provide responsible cost-of-living relief, electricity bills, cheaper early childhood education, a pay rise for aged care workers; these will all be in the Budget in May.'

‘If there are other steps that we can consider and that we can afford, then obviously, we’ll contemplate that as well.’

Key Takeaways

• The Australian Council of Social Services (ACOSS) has released its budget submission, calling for people on the lowest incomes to be prioritised.
• ACOSS urges the government to use the upcoming budget to lay the foundations for a more inclusive future.
• ACOSS is calling for measures to be taken to increase community services funding, with specific investments in energy efficiency and solar retrofits for low-income households.
• Treasurer Jim Chalmers has said the government will do what it can to provide responsible cost-of-living relief in the upcoming budget.

Here at the Seniors Discount Club, we make it our mission to keep our members updated with all of the latest news and developments from the upcoming federal budget.

We also previously shared an article where we detail some of the government relief programs that you can take advantage of.

What are your thoughts on ACOSS' proposal? What measures would you like to see in the upcoming federal budget to make your life easier? Let us know in the comments below!

 

[donellefeltham@ gmail.com]

I agree. I am a pensioner living on my own in a small country town. I pay $720 a fortnight, due to be reviewed! At least in DOH it is never more than 25%. If I apply for DOH, I’ll be long dead before I reach the top of the list. I feel if the government looked at the dignity of its citizens a lot of crime would change as well. When you have no dignity you have no self respect without self respect you feel it’s okay to take what others have. I am BTW not a criminal in anyway but involved in volunteer social work and I see this all the time. The “what does it matter!! I get treated like scum so I might as well act like scum”. It’s a sad reflection of a society where the rich get richer and the poor poorer.
That’s my to bobs worth anyway

Yeh stop giving so much money overseas and give more to our needy

My daughter had a massive stroke 2 years year’s ago and 9 months later her relationship broke down and when she went to Centrelink to apply for help, they put her on Jobseeker and I don’t know know they expect her to work, as not only has she lost the use of her right arm she can walk but has a prominent limp and her speech has also been affected. She should be on aDisability Pension, how Centrelink can say she’s fit for work is beyond me. Even though they’ve seen her disabilities they still except her to look for work. She is only 31 and has 3 young children, who does her best to look after, fortunately she and her kids live with me and I can help her if she needs it. This is another LNP stuff up in there endeavour to keep their foot on the poor . Fortunately we now have an advocate working for for us now and they have told us a huge amount of people have been treated like this by the previous Government. So at least we have a good chance now, however I think previous Government have left things in a terrible mess.

 

[Trudi]

I think all payments for the 'dole' should be stopped. Young adults are coming off year 12 straight onto the 'Dole' and not bothering to look for work. They say they earn more on the 'dole' than if they were working, so just spend their time at home. Businesses are crying out for staff everywhere yet there are so many young, able, people not working. Why????? This money could be better used elsewhere by the Government. Aged care for one.

What a horrible thing to say! So you would like to see people that have lost their jobs for whatever reason, to starve? Unemployment benefits are already a whole lot less than the age pension, which in itself was a disgraceful move by a former Liberal/National government, and you would like to see them get no support at all? I trust you are aware that the absolute majority of unemployed people were previously employed and paid their taxes, just as you may have, unless you spent your life as a housewife.

 

[Catherines]

You hit the nail right on the head

You hit the nail right on the head

My rent will go up by $50.00 a week in May but the big hit is the extra we have to pay for the bond another $200.00 We also have a severe car defect that needs fixing as we really need the car for my doctor trips each month.

I sympathise with all who are struggling. If your ‘rent’ is going up in May I don’t understand why you also have to pay extra into bond. Didn’t you initially pay bond when you moved into this place? It is so, so wrong of them to ask you to pay another $200 towards bond.

 

[Mrs Wood]

As the cost of living in Australia continues to rise, many people need help to make ends meet.

From increasing utility bills to rising food and housing costs, everything is getting more expensive by the day.

In the face of these challenges, many Australians are looking to the government for help in the form of relief programs and assistance.

With mounting pressure on the government to provide relief, the question on everyone's mind is whether these programs will be enough to make a real difference.

As prices continue to climb and wages fail to keep up, it's clear that something needs to be done.

The upcoming federal budget holds a lot of hope for many Australians, especially those struggling with cost-of-living pressures.

View attachment 15706

Advocacy groups are urging the government to consider their recommendations for the upcoming federal budget. Credit: Shutterstock.

Leading welfare organisation, the Australian Council of Social Services (ACOSS), have released their budget submission, which calls on the government to provide more support for people on the lowest incomes.

ACOSS demanded that the government increase the number of unemployment benefits granted to recipients from the current $48 to at least $76. This would likely have flow-on effects for other payments such as the pension.

The social advocacy organisation also urged the government to take advantage of the budget to set the foundation for a more inclusive and prosperous future by investing in essential social services that will improve the esteem and quality of life of people from all walks of life, from the lowest income earners to the most privileged.

Cassandra Goldie, the head of ACOSS, described it as a disgrace that despite Australia being one of the wealthiest nations in the world, its unemployment benefits are among the lowest when compared to the rest of the OECD.

She pointed out that it was the right time for the government to step in and address the issues regarding the adequacy of the country's most essential social security systems to improve the quality of life and productivity of the citizens.

Ms Goldie remarked: ‘The government has the tools to build a more equal Australia ... every budget is about choice, and it does actually set up the values of the country.’

‘We very strongly think the budget should be about tackling inflation (and) we should be focusing on measures that are not harming those who are most at risk.’

Goldie also said that many Australians are taking measures that go beyond their standard level of living to make ends meet.

'This is not about the cost of a cup of coffee; this is about the essentials of life,' she said.

ACOSS also suggested that the government achieve higher levels of sufficient funding by halting the $18 billion per year stage three tax cuts, which they claimed only to benefit the wealthiest 20 per cent of Australian citizens.

The contentious tax cuts, which are set to take effect starting in 2024, have been a hot topic of debate in the country, with some believing that it would benefit the middle and working class while others saying that it would only help the rich.

The group also advocated for increased funding for community services via proper indexation and investments in solar and energy efficiency for low-income households.

Goldie emphasised the need for the budget to prioritise gender equality measures and dedicate more funding to social housing.

She said: 'This is a budget we want to see that actually speaks to the government’s commitment that nobody is going to be left behind.’

View attachment 15736

A summary of ACOSS’ recommendations for the upcoming federal budget. Credit: Seniors Discount Club.

In January, Treasurer Jim Chalmers said he was aware of cost-of-living pressures and plans to provide 'responsible cost-of-living relief' in the upcoming budget.

'My job is to try and make it all add up in the context of a trillion dollars of debt and all of those other budget pressures,' he remarked.

'We will do what we can to provide responsible cost-of-living relief, electricity bills, cheaper early childhood education, a pay rise for aged care workers; these will all be in the Budget in May.'

‘If there are other steps that we can consider and that we can afford, then obviously, we’ll contemplate that as well.’

Key Takeaways

• The Australian Council of Social Services (ACOSS) has released its budget submission, calling for people on the lowest incomes to be prioritised.
• ACOSS urges the government to use the upcoming budget to lay the foundations for a more inclusive future.
• ACOSS is calling for measures to be taken to increase community services funding, with specific investments in energy efficiency and solar retrofits for low-income households.
• Treasurer Jim Chalmers has said the government will do what it can to provide responsible cost-of-living relief in the upcoming budget.

Here at the Seniors Discount Club, we make it our mission to keep our members updated with all of the latest news and developments from the upcoming federal budget.

We also previously shared an article where we detail some of the government relief programs that you can take advantage of.

What are your thoughts on ACOSS' proposal? What measures would you like to see in the upcoming federal budget to make your life easier? Let us know in the comments below!

I’ve read some comments re working pensioners and we were horrified to lose $200 off our payments last week. I can’t navigate my Gov or anything to do with pensions and oldies - let alone make an appointment to actually talk to somebody! Drive out 20ks to nearest site, make appointment, drive home 20ks and return trip to keep appointment. Fuel is prohibitive and I haven’t had a chance to see what the reduction was about but there’s no way we’ve crossed the earnings threshold- and was anybody else ticked off to read pensioners can ‘supplement their income by cleaning and mowing lawns’? Times have been tough with covid and they’re no better with inflation, but we’ve come this far, just suck it up buttercup!

 

[Luckyus]

As the cost of living in Australia continues to rise, many people need help to make ends meet.

From increasing utility bills to rising food and housing costs, everything is getting more expensive by the day.

In the face of these challenges, many Australians are looking to the government for help in the form of relief programs and assistance.

With mounting pressure on the government to provide relief, the question on everyone's mind is whether these programs will be enough to make a real difference.

As prices continue to climb and wages fail to keep up, it's clear that something needs to be done.

The upcoming federal budget holds a lot of hope for many Australians, especially those struggling with cost-of-living pressures.

View attachment 15706

Advocacy groups are urging the government to consider their recommendations for the upcoming federal budget. Credit: Shutterstock.

Leading welfare organisation, the Australian Council of Social Services (ACOSS), have released their budget submission, which calls on the government to provide more support for people on the lowest incomes.

ACOSS demanded that the government increase the number of unemployment benefits granted to recipients from the current $48 to at least $76. This would likely have flow-on effects for other payments such as the pension.

The social advocacy organisation also urged the government to take advantage of the budget to set the foundation for a more inclusive and prosperous future by investing in essential social services that will improve the esteem and quality of life of people from all walks of life, from the lowest income earners to the most privileged.

Cassandra Goldie, the head of ACOSS, described it as a disgrace that despite Australia being one of the wealthiest nations in the world, its unemployment benefits are among the lowest when compared to the rest of the OECD.

She pointed out that it was the right time for the government to step in and address the issues regarding the adequacy of the country's most essential social security systems to improve the quality of life and productivity of the citizens.

Ms Goldie remarked: ‘The government has the tools to build a more equal Australia ... every budget is about choice, and it does actually set up the values of the country.’

‘We very strongly think the budget should be about tackling inflation (and) we should be focusing on measures that are not harming those who are most at risk.’

Goldie also said that many Australians are taking measures that go beyond their standard level of living to make ends meet.

'This is not about the cost of a cup of coffee; this is about the essentials of life,' she said.

ACOSS also suggested that the government achieve higher levels of sufficient funding by halting the $18 billion per year stage three tax cuts, which they claimed only to benefit the wealthiest 20 per cent of Australian citizens.

The contentious tax cuts, which are set to take effect starting in 2024, have been a hot topic of debate in the country, with some believing that it would benefit the middle and working class while others saying that it would only help the rich.

The group also advocated for increased funding for community services via proper indexation and investments in solar and energy efficiency for low-income households.

Goldie emphasised the need for the budget to prioritise gender equality measures and dedicate more funding to social housing.

She said: 'This is a budget we want to see that actually speaks to the government’s commitment that nobody is going to be left behind.’

View attachment 15736

A summary of ACOSS’ recommendations for the upcoming federal budget. Credit: Seniors Discount Club.

In January, Treasurer Jim Chalmers said he was aware of cost-of-living pressures and plans to provide 'responsible cost-of-living relief' in the upcoming budget.

'My job is to try and make it all add up in the context of a trillion dollars of debt and all of those other budget pressures,' he remarked.

'We will do what we can to provide responsible cost-of-living relief, electricity bills, cheaper early childhood education, a pay rise for aged care workers; these will all be in the Budget in May.'

‘If there are other steps that we can consider and that we can afford, then obviously, we’ll contemplate that as well.’

Key Takeaways

• The Australian Council of Social Services (ACOSS) has released its budget submission, calling for people on the lowest incomes to be prioritised.
• ACOSS urges the government to use the upcoming budget to lay the foundations for a more inclusive future.
• ACOSS is calling for measures to be taken to increase community services funding, with specific investments in energy efficiency and solar retrofits for low-income households.
• Treasurer Jim Chalmers has said the government will do what it can to provide responsible cost-of-living relief in the upcoming budget.

Here at the Seniors Discount Club, we make it our mission to keep our members updated with all of the latest news and developments from the upcoming federal budget.

We also previously shared an article where we detail some of the government relief programs that you can take advantage of.

What are your thoughts on ACOSS' proposal? What measures would you like to see in the upcoming federal budget to make your life easier? Let us know in the comments below!

I wonder if the political elite will get an "Automatic pay rise they can do nothing about this cycle"

 

[Luckyus]

Why not give pensioners free power, water etc, that would take some of the pressure off of us trying to juggle our money

Too easy solution?

 

[lea61]

I think all payments for the 'dole' should be stopped. Young adults are coming off year 12 straight onto the 'Dole' and not bothering to look for work. They say they earn more on the 'dole' than if they were working, so just spend their time at home. Businesses are crying out for staff everywhere yet there are so many young, able, people not working. Why????? This money could be better used elsewhere by the Government. Aged care for one.

Well that's great but I am 62 and get the dole I can't work but have worked since I was 15 until I was 61 so what you are saying is that my payments should stop, not everyone has just finished year 12.

 

[Milica]

I agree. I am a pensioner living on my own in a small country town. I pay $720 a fortnight, due to be reviewed! At least in DOH it is never more than 25%. If I apply for DOH, I’ll be long dead before I reach the top of the list. I feel if the government looked at the dignity of its citizens a lot of crime would change as well. When you have no dignity you have no self respect without self respect you feel it’s okay to take what others have. I am BTW not a criminal in anyway but involved in volunteer social work and I see this all the time. The “what does it matter!! I get treated like scum so I might as well act like scum”. It’s a sad reflection of a society where the rich get richer and the poor poorer.
That’s my to bobs worth anyway

Gee that is still a lot of rent to pay in a small country town - i do hope it does not go up too much for you. And you are correct the time to wait for a DOH rental - this Dept still has no idea of how to house people and when! You are also correct with respect - a person needs to have self respect first to then be able to have the understanding and capacity to have respect for others.
The comment in regards to "what does it matter" i feel hinges more on a person blaming something or someone else for the things that are happening in there lives - if we choose to live a certain way then unfortunatley that is how some will be treated - but if we decide to live a good life with what little we have and seek to somehow improve on this and change our lives, then the choices that we make will help us to feel better & have a better life, improving our future. People don't automatically get treated a certain way - but the way we speak, act and do can attract this type of judgemental attitude, from others as that is all they are seeing and hearing. Families are the first ones that should be helping each other when they see that one of there own - needs help!