The Australian government has announced those receiving Jobseeker payments and those receiving rent assistance will receive a much needed boost. Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth has confirmed that the base rate of Jobseeker will increased by $16 a fortnight from September, taking the base rate to $749.20.
This increase is in line with the government’s proposed $40 increase to the Jobseeker payment that was announced in the May budget.
The increase is estimated to benefit more than 1.3 million Australians receiving Jobseeker payments. This increase comes at a much needed time, with many Australians struggling to make ends meet due to the economic downturn. The increase is also expected to provide a financial boost to those receiving rent assistance, which is currently estimated at around 450,000 people.
Ms Rishworth told ABC’s Insiders on Sunday morning that she was able to confirm that the rate will be $56, as the government indexes some Centrelink payments to bring them in line with inflation twice a year.
In particular, she noted the September indexation was calculated at 2.2 per cent, which is in line with the inflation figures over the past six months.
She, however, could not assure other benefits, such as the aged pension and parenting payment (for single parents), would be raised at the same rate.