COVID-19 supplement helped jobseekers afford groceries, feel dignity and look for work

Publicly released:
Australia; VIC; ACT

Receiving the $550 Coronavirus Supplement during the first COVID-19 wave helped people meet their basic needs,  improved their well-being, and helped them engage further in employment-related activities, according to an Australian survey.  While the survey of 92 people was small, the authors say that their research suggests that low payments and mutual obligations may be having the opposite effect of what the government is trying to achieve. They say the multiple negative impacts of social security policies may be making it more difficult –not less –for individuals to engage with meaningful employment.

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Journal/
conference:
Australian Journal of Social Issues
Research:Paper
Organisation/s: The Australian National University, Swinburne University of Technology
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