Don Farrell (SA, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Trade and Tourism) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator Smith for her question and the great job she's doing for the people of South Australia. And I can answer her question. This government—but particularly terrific Minister Rishworth—understands that many Australians are doing it tough. We know that households are feeling the pinch as a result of cost-of-living pressures. That's why we sent through this budget to address these pressures, providing responsible, targeted relief as the No. 1 priority in our budget.

As the Treasurer announced last night, our $14.6 cost-of-living plan includes help with bills, record investment in Medicare bulk-billing and cheaper medicines. We're also increasing working age, student payment rates and Commonwealth rent assistance. These increases are responsible and targeted to help vulnerable people and strengthen the social safety net. Rates of JobSeeker, youth allowance, partnered parenting payments, Austudy, Abstudy, the youth disability support pension and special benefits will rise by $40 a fortnight. This will benefit around 1.1 million Australians.

We're also expanding eligibility for the existing higher rate of JobSeeker to single recipients aged 55 and over who have been on income support for nine or more continuous months, which currently applies from age 60. We will provide additional support for renters, with the largest increase in Commonwealth rent assistance in more than 30 years—yes, 30 years. The budget will increase the maximum rates of this payment by 15 per cent. Combined, these changes provide additional support to around two million people. They provide responsible, balanced support to those who need it most. (Time expired)