Social Services and Other Legislation Amendment (Strengthening the Safety Net) Bill 2023

Summary: National Seniors Australia (NSA) submitted a proposal to the Social Services and Other Legislation Amendment (Strengthening the Safety Net) Bill 2023. NSA supports the increase in Commonwealth Rent Assistance (CRA) by 15% to help renters cope with rising living costs. They advocate for policies to build affordable housing for seniors to improve housing options and reduce rental costs. NSA also welcomes the increase in Job Seeker payments for people over 55 who have been unemployed for more than 9 months. They support the $40 per fortnight increase in government payments but suggest future increases may be necessary to offset rising living costs. NSA recommends changes to income test rules to encourage workforce participation and reduce taper rates for all government payments to support people transitioning into and out of work.