April 9, 2014
Centrelink customers are being encouraged into the workforce, with new incentives.
The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said people receiving Newstart Allowance, Widow Allowance, Partner Allowance, Sickness Allowance or Parenting Payment Partnered can now earn $100 per fortnight before their payment is affected.
Mr Chester said the changes made it easier for Centrelink customers to take up casual or part-time work as a stepping stone to more permanent employment.
“Centrelink customers have previously been limited to earning just $62 per fortnight before their payments were affected, which made it difficult to accept causal or part-time work as a stepping stone to something more permanent,” Mr Chester said.
“These changes will make it easier and more attractive for Centrelink customers to gain some workplace experience and network in a business environment.”
Mr Chester said the experience of being in a workplace and the social benefits that came from networking with others helped to build self-esteem.
“We need to be encouraging people to enter the workforce and develop the confidence and skills which will help to give them economic independence and reduce the strain on the public purse.
“These changes are another step towards helping all Australians achieve their full potential rather than relying solely on Centrelink benefits, wherever possible.”