When changes to Australia’s welfare system take effect on July 1, the duties of job searchers will change, some payments will increase, and medications will cost less.
As of July 4, a new “points-based activation system” (PBAS) will take the place of the current jobseeker obligation programme, eliminating the requirement for Australians receiving unemployment benefits to apply for 20 jobs each month.
To qualify for the 20 occupations listed under their “mutual obligation requirements” under the present programme, individuals had to apply.
Instead, PBAS will require individuals to accrue points from job-seeking activities, with a monthly goal of 100 points.
Point values for various job-seeking activities will vary.
The requirement for job searchers to submit at least five applications every month, at a minimum of 25 points, will remain in the scoring system.
Additionally, they can earn points by taking part in tasks like job interviews, getting paid labour, studying, getting training, or participating in an activity.
“Participants will have flexibility and choice in deciding what tasks and activities they complete to earn points.”
“Each task and activity has a points value, with more intensive activities attracting more points,” a Department spokesperson said.
The department claims that activities can be modified to match a person’s unique circumstances and the local labour market dynamics.