The largest rescue package in Australian history has passed Parliament, with $130 billion to be pumped into keeping around six million Australians in jobs.
Eligible businesses will receive a flat rate wage subsidy worth $1,500 for each worker they employ. Businesses which do not pass this on to their staff could face a fine of up to $600,000. Labor tried and failed to extend the package to an additional one million casuals who fell through the cracks.
But the government again re-iterated those left behind can apply for the boosted JobSeeker welfare payment. Speaking with Sky News, Treasurer Josh Frydenberg lauded the package, which will kick in from the start of May. “Scott Morrison has made it very clear to the nation that he expects this to go for six months or more so our legislation has been sunsetted… for around six months.
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