Australians have just weeks before the coronavirus supplement payment ends, returning those on unemployment and underemployment benefits to lower rates.
Currently, the coronavirus supplement is being paid at $150 per fortnight until 31 March, 2021.
That means from April 1, Australians being paid the base JobSeeker rate will revert back to normal rates, plus the $50 a fortnight raise announced last week.
Confused? No worries – we have a comprehensive explainer on welfare changes here.
READ MORE: How to get the second $250 coronavirus payment
What are people paid now?
The amount of benefits you receive depends on your living situation, such as the number of children you care for, and whether you have a partner or a disability.
Currently, an eligible single person with no children is paid $715.70 a fortnight.
Of this, $565.70 consists of the JobSeeker payment and $150 consists of the coronavirus supplement.
READ MORE: JobSeeker rate increases by $50 a fortnight
The coronavirus supplement ends on March 31, 2021.
The new JobSeeker rate will therefore start from April 1 at $620.80 a fortnight, equating to $310.40 a week, or just over $44 a day.
When compared to pre-pandemic levels, the increase results in a real-world increase of $4 a day for recipients.
READ MORE: Explained: JobKeeper payments slashed
What will JobSeekers need to do to receive payments?
The government will introduce mutual obligation requirements for people receiving Jobseeker payments.
Unemployed people will have to conduct 15 job searches a month, and then on July 1, 20 job searches a month.
"We will also, after six months of being on welfare, require people to enter into an intensive training stage," Employment Minister Michaelia Cash said.
"In other words, we're going to give them the best chance they can to do a short course to enhance their skills or to do some work experience."
READ MORE: How to get your $250 coronavirus payment
Employers will also now be able to contact the government if an unemployed person is offered a job and turns it down.
"Remember, this is all about getting people off welfare and into work," Senator Cash said.
"The best form of welfare is a job, and we will do everything that we can to move people from welfare into work."
The information provided on this website is general in nature only and does not constitute personal financial advice. The information has been prepared without taking into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on any information on this website you should consider the appropriateness of the information having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs.
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