The JobKeeper program and the Coronavirus Supplement have been extended to continue supporting affected businesses and households in the Hinkler electorate.

Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt said this unprecedented economic support for local businesses and their workers is helping the community through the COVID-19 pandemic and bolstering our economic recovery.

“We are extending the JobKeeper payment beyond September to help keep businesses in business and Australians in jobs as our economy reopens,” he said.

“The program has made a significant difference to local businesses in Bundaberg, Hervey Bay and our small towns in between, by keeping a connection between employers and employees to help them get to the other side of the crisis.”

Under the next phase of support, the JobKeeper Payment will continue at its current level until 27 September, after which it will be extended for a further six months to 28 March 2021. 

A two-tiered payment will also be introduced to better reflect the pre-COVID-19 income of payment recipients.

From 28 September until 3 January next year, the two payments for eligible businesses will be $1,200 and $750 per fortnight, with the lower payment for employees who worked less than 20 hours a week in the month of February pre-COVID-19.

From 4 January to 28 March next year, the two payments will be $1,000 and $650.

The temporary Coronavirus Supplement for those on income support will also be extended until 31 December 2020. The $550 per fortnight Supplement will continue until 24 September. 

From 25 September until 31 December, the Supplement will be $250 per fortnight, reducing by the same amount as the JobKeeper payment.

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said the extension of support recognises that Australia’s economic recovery is still in its early stages and a number of local businesses and individuals remain significantly affected by the global COVID-19 pandemic.

“The Morrison Government’s focus remains on reopening the economy where it is safe to do so, but the extension of these measures recognises that some parts of the economy will continue to be affected and need continued support,” the Treasurer said.

“Sadly, as a result of this global health pandemic, businesses will close and people will lose their jobs, but that is why we have extended the Coronavirus Supplement and announced a new skills package to help people transition from welfare to work,” the Treasurer said.

For more information and factsheets visit: www.treasury.gov.au/coronavirus