The Australian government this week announced that job seekers payments will be doubled for the next six months to help those in our community who are being affected by job losses due to the Coronavirus. Payments are now up to a maximum of $1100 a fortnight. The extra allowance of $550 will be paid fortnightly to existing and new recipients of Job Seekers Allowance, Youth Allowance, Parenting Payment, Farm Household Allowance and Special Benefit. Students on Youth Allowance, Austudy and Abstudy are also now included.
What’s changing?
Under changes to the welfare system, those that are applying for these benefits will no longer be required to show their liquid assets which means that people will have access to benefits without first having to spend their savings. They also no longer have to wait a week before they can claim.
The effects of job losses
Queues have been long outside Centrelink offices as those affected already by the closure of pubs, clubs, restaurants, gyms and other businesses that are no longer able to operate turn to Centrelink for support.
If you have lost your job or your income has been reduced and you don’t have a CRN (customer reference number) you must call 132 850. The phone lines are open Monday to Friday between 8 am – 8 pm and Saturday and Sunday 9 am – 5 pm. These numbers are busy at the moment so be prepared to wait. If you already have a CRN you are able to apply for Job Seekers allowance online 24/7.
Job Seeker Allowance
To qualify for Job Seekers Allowance you must be aged between 22 years old and Age Pension age and meeting residence rules. To be a resident you must be an Australian Citizen, a permanent resident visa holder or a protected special category visa holder.
To make you claim online click here: Centerlink Job Seeker Payment How To Claim
Reference: Coronavirus: JobSeeker payments to double with an extra $550 a fortnight
