The Australian Council of Social Services (ACOSS) has congratulated the Liberal-National Coalition on being re-elected in the federal election and called for the Morrison Government to consider lifting the rate of the Newstart unemployment benefit.

ACOSS CEO Cassandra Goldie said in a press release that they will work with the Morrison Government to support people in need and to tackle the challenges Australians face as a country.

“We welcome Mr Morrison’s commitment last night to work on policies that ‘will keep Australians together’ and urge the Coalition Government to work collaboratively and inclusively to deliver on this promise and together tackle the challenges we face.

“The economy is fragile and the climate crisis is impacting people, our regions, the economy and the environment. More than 3 million people across Australia are struggling, especially women, to make ends meet and keep a safe secure roof over their heads. Employment is uncertain for millions, including young people, older people, and people in regional areas.

“We urge the Morrison Government to work collaboratively across the community, with First Nations leaders, the community sector, the union movement, business groups and regional groups to find the common ground that will deliver the solutions for a fairer sustainable future.

“We firstly urge Mr Morrison to reach out to First Nations leaders as a first priority in forming his new government to establish these relationships of trust for the long term. This must be a priority for a newly elected Federal Government of Australia.

“In bringing the community together, we urge Mr Morrison to consider the real and broad support for increasing to Newstart, including from regional communities.”

ACOSS has been advocating for a $75 per week increase to Newstart since 2018. Newstart is currently A$277.85 per week and has not increased above inflation for over 20 years.

 

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