Hannah Hammoud
Calwell residents are set to receive an increase in Jobseeker, rent assistance and bulk billing after the federal government handed down its budget on Tuesday, May 9.
Australians on Jobseeker, including approximately 14,885 people in Calwell, will receive a $40 increase in their fortnightly payments.
With jobseekers aged 55 to 59, including 435 people in Calwell, to receive an increase of $92.10 for their fortnightly payments.
In Calwell, 8775 households will benefit from a 15 per cent increase to the maximum rates of Commonwealth Rent Assistance.
Bulk billing incentives for general practitioners were also increased, which will apply to over 100,000 people in Calwell.
More than 36,000 residents living in Calwell will be able to buy two months’ worth of medicine for the price of a single prescription for over 300 common PBS medicines.
Calwell MP Maria Vamvakinou said the budget is delivering cost of living relief across the board, taking the pressure off household budgets.
“The largest investment in bulk billing in the history of Medicare and cheaper medicines will increase access to GPs and strengthen our primary care,” Ms Vamvakinou said.
The budget also provided funding to prevent a growing decline in apprentices finishing their trade course.
Increased funding to apprenticeship support will help drive completion rates, including the 3345 apprentices currently in training in Calwell.
“This is a significant and responsible federal budget that also delivers on our promise to broaden opportunities for our community by investing heavily in jobs, skills and training,” Ms Vamvakinou said.
