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๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡บ Australia /Economy & Trade

Australians on JobSeeker Face Hardship on $68 Daily

From ABC Australia · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • Australians receiving the JobSeeker payment are living on approximately $68 per day.
  • Experts warn that the current payment rate is insufficient to cover the rising cost of living.
  • Despite calls for an increase, the base rate of JobSeeker payments has not changed in the federal budget.

Many Australians relying on the JobSeeker payment are struggling to survive on just $68 a day. This meager amount is proving increasingly inadequate as the cost of living continues to climb, according to experts.

Despite widespread calls from advocacy groups and experts to increase the base rate of JobSeeker payments in the recent federal budget, the government has made no changes. This inaction means that those most vulnerable in society are bearing the brunt of escalating expenses for essentials like housing, food, and utilities.

The current payment rate was set years ago and has not kept pace with inflation or the rising costs of basic necessities. This has created a significant financial strain on recipients, many of whom face difficult choices between paying for rent, food, or healthcare. The situation highlights a growing concern about poverty and financial insecurity among unemployed Australians.

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by ABC Australia in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.