2016-04-29
The Australian Greens have welcomed KPMG's calls to increase Newstart, the rate of payment is totally inadequate and is a barrier to people entering work.
“It was unexpected to hear a multinational tax firm join my longstanding calls for an increase to Newstart but it is most welcome”, Australian Greens Senator Rachel Siewert said today.
“KPMG is right in acknowledging that political rhetoric has prevented the payment from going up, despite it being increasingly inadequate.
“The demonisation of our vulnerable Australian’s seeking income support by the Government has ramped up blatantly in the lead up to the budget. I dread to think what they have in store for these people on income support who need our support.
“The current payment is too low and entrenching poverty. I urge the Government to consider my private members bill that would increase the payment”.