Second Reading Speeches

Social Services Legislation Amendment (Strengthening Income Support) Bill 2021

Type
Government
Portfolio
Social Services
Originating house
House of Representatives
Status
Act
Parliament no
46

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Summary

Amends the

Social Security Act 1991
to: increase, from 1 April 2021, the maximum basic rates of all working age social security payments by $50 per fortnight; extend, until 30 June 2021, the criteria for a person to qualify for youth allowance (other) or jobseeker payment in circumstances where the person is in quarantine or self-isolation or caring for a family member or household member in quarantine or self-isolation due to COVID-19; extend, until 30 June 2021, the portability period for certain age pensioners and recipients of the disability support pension unable to return to, or depart from, Australia within 26 weeks due to the impact of COVID-19; and permanently increase the ordinary income-free area for jobseeker payment, youth allowance (other), parenting payment partnered and related payments to $150 per fortnight.

We acknowledge the traditional owners and custodians of country throughout Australia and acknowledge their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to the people, the cultures and the elders past, present and emerging.

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