Minister John Barilaro has suggested the Federal Government reconsider their position on Newstart today at NCOSS’s ‘Putting Regional Needs on the Map’ event.
The comments made by the Deputy Minister are strongly supported by CPSA.
“Newstart is too low for everyone, including 185,000 Newstart recipients aged over 55, most of whom will never find work again” said CPSA Policy Officer Luke Medic.
“Deputy Premier Barilaro is correct in challenging the Federal Government’s position on Newstart”
“Regional areas are hurting. Lack of jobs and brutal environmental conditions mean that people in regional areas are doing it tough. Economic stimulus is pivotal to improving the wellbeing of Australia’s regions. An increase to Newstart would provide a much needed boost.
“There are great deals of over-55 year olds on Newstart living in regional areas. They are living in deep financial crisis, restricting their chance to regain employment and potentially forcing people to move out of regional Australia in search for work.
“Advocacy groups, big business, and now the NSW Deputy Premier are calling on the Government to take action on the inadequacies of Newstart
“It’s time to raise the rate”, said Medic.
Media contact: Luke Medic, Policy Officer
Mobile: 0433 32 07 97
