The Federal Government has introduced legislation that it promises will help more Australians into work by providing greater incentives and support for jobseekers.

Federal Minister for Workplace Relations, Bill Shorten, said that the Social Security Amendment (Supporting Australians into Work) Bill 2013 would deliver almost $300 million in additional help, including:

  • $258 million to allow around 800,000 Australians on income support earn $100 a fortnight, up from $62, before their payment is affected;
  • $39.7 million to provide eligible single parents with $62.40 per fortnight for education and training or $31.20 for a concessional study load; and
  • $2.2 million that extends access to the Pensioner Concession Card.

“These measures will help more unemployed Australians transition into work and share in the benefits of the nation’s economic strength,” Mr Shorten said.

The Bill, introduced in the House of Representatives today, also includes a $39.7 million to provide single parents on Newstart Allowance with extra help for study and training.

From 1 January 2014, around 90,000 single principal carer parents receiving Newstart Allowance who take up approved study will be entitled to the Pensioner Education Supplement (PES).

The PES is paid at a rate of $62.40 per fortnight or $31.20 per fortnight for a concessional study load and is designed to help principal carers gain valuable skills and qualifications to compete in the labour market.