What does it mean for other groups?

Obligations for mature age people on Newstart will be more closely aligned with those for younger recipients. The Government will expand assistance to help the very long-term unemployed find work. However, those who have not made an adequate effort to seek work may be required to participate in full-time work for the dole.

Mature age people on Newstart

From 1 July 2006, Newstart recipients aged 50-64 will be obliged to seek full-time work in the same way as younger recipients. However, they will not be required to participate in work for the dole and those over 55 can meet their obligations through part-time and voluntary work.

Very long-term unemployed

Wage Assist will be introduced from 1 July 2006 to enable Job Network members to offer an employer a wage subsidy for up to six months to employ a very long-term unemployed person. Up to 7,000 places will be available each year.

Very long-term unemployed people who have a pattern of job avoidance may be required to participate in compulsory work for the dole for 25 hours per week for 10 months of the year.

Other job seekers who make a genuine effort to find work will continue to receive Job Network assistance as occurs currently.

Some will also receive a comprehensive work capacity assessment to check their payment eligibility and service needs.

Other working age payments

Recipients of Carer Payment and payments from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs will be unaffected.

Services for the very long-term unemployed to apply from 1 July 2006

6 2005-06 Budget