Statement - Indexation of Support Payments

The St Vincent de Paul Society in Australia welcomes today's announcement by Minister for Social Services, the Hon Amanda Rishworth MP, that support payments will increase from 20 September due to regular indexation.

While we recognise this announcement is a sign of a Government that seeks to look after the most disadvantaged citizens, we note the 4 per cent increase will still leave recipients of JobSeeker, rental assistance and parenting payments unable to keep up with the surging cost of living.

Indeed, we are concerned that the rising costs of the essentials of life will leave many Australians at risk of slipping further into poverty.

The Society is calling on the Albanese Government to drop the inequitable and unaffordable stage 3 tax cuts that start in mid-2024 in order to provide a meaningful lift in JobSeeker, other working age payments and rental assistance.