This is my latest update to provide you with information about the impact of Coronavirus (COVID-19) on our community.
The Federal government has now adopted Labor’s suggestion of a wage subsidy for Australian workers.
This will see eligible employees receive a flat payment of $1,500 (before tax) per fortnight through their employer.
The payment will be open to eligible businesses that have seen a reduction in revenue of 30 per cent or more because of the Coronavirus.
For businesses with a turnover of more than $1 billion the reduction in revenue must be 50 per cent or more to qualify.
The payments will be paid to employers in May, for up to six months, for eligible workers.
Full time and part time employees, including stood down employees, are eligible to receive the payment.
Casual employees that have been with their employer for at least the previous 12 months will be eligible for the payment.
Self-employed individuals are also eligible to receive the payment.
Eligible businesses can register their interest via ato.gov.au and apply for the payment online.
Labor has been calling for some time for wage subsidies to help employers keep their employees on the books. I am glad the government has now listened so that people can receive this support.
The Federal government is also temporarily expanding access to the JobSeeker Payment and establishing a Coronavirus Supplement of $550 per fortnight.
Labor has been successful in ensuring the government increased the partner income exclusion for the JobSeeker Payment from $48,000 to $79,000 before their Coronavirus assistance payments cut out.
For more information about payments, support or other COVID-19 issues please visit australia.gov.au.
My staff and I are here to help you with enquiries. Please call my office on 9349 6007, email matt.thistlethwaite.mp@aph.gov.au or reach me via Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
