Commonwealth must not wind-down support as the pandemic escalates

MEDIA RELEASE

The Federal Government is being urged to shelve plans to end a series of economic support measures for Victorians, as millions head back into lockdown.

Free childcare, JobKeeper payments, the bolstered JobSeeker allowance, and cash supports for businesses and NFPs must be continued, according to the Victorian Council of Social Service.

VCOSS CEO Emma King said:

“These measures were put in place to help us through the worst of the pandemic. Well, the worst isn’t over yet.”

“It’s completely infeasible to be winding down support for Victorians just as the virus is rearing its head again.”

“A Melbourne lockdown means businesses closing their doors once more. It means kids’ schooling in limbo. It means more people in isolation and hardship.”

Ms King is also urging funding for mental health, family violence and homelessness services to be boosted, and for a pause to the reintroduction of unfair jobseeker compliance requirements.

“Now is the time to be doing more, not less,” Ms King said.

“This issue should be front of mind for the Prime Minister, and must be discussed at the next meeting of the National Cabinet.”