“CPSA welcomes the announcement of the inquiry into the Newstart Allowance,” said Research and Policy Officer, Amelia Christie.
“A review into Newstart is long overdue.
“The gap between pensions and allowances is currently $133 per week and continues to rise, to the detriment of those on the lower allowance payments who struggle to pay for essentials.
“A recent survey by The Australia Institute found that Australians believe that a single unemployed adult should receive $329 per week, $84 more than what they actually receive.
“The number of people over 50 on the payment continues to grow.
“According to the latest publicly available information, there are 90,000 people over 50 on Newstart, with little hope of finding employment and this is something that needs to be urgently addressed.
“Over 50s on Newstart spend an average of 70 weeks on the payment; double that of their younger counterparts. It is no longer a short term payment and its inadequacy affects people’s ability to pay for a roof over their head, electricity, medical bills and ample food,” said Ms Christie.
CPSA represents pensioners of all ages, superannuants and low-income retirees. CPSA has 137 Branches and Affiliated Organisations, with a combined membership of 30,000 people.
Media Contact: Amelia Christie, Research and
Policy Officer
Mobile: 0410 612 182