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Rise in childcare spend indicates people working more to meet living costs
Families are spending 30 per cent more on childcare than they were a year ago, despite its cost rising 6.8 per cent, in a sign parents are increasing their hours of work to cope with cost-of-living pressures. Source: SMH.
Australia’s rental affordability drops to worst levels in nearly a decade
Australian rental affordability has dropped to its worst levels in nearly a decade, with the average household spending a third of its income on rent, as the impacts of the pandemic continue to be felt on the market. Source: The Guardian.
Centrelink payment boost one step closer for millions of Australians
New laws boosting the rate of JobSeeker, along with other Centrelink payments such as Youth Allowance and disability support pensions, were introduced to the federal Parliament yesterday. Source: Yahoo News.
No-interest loans help Australians get back on their feet
More than 350,000 zero-interest loans have been given to those on low incomes since 2003 – and experts say the financial alternative has changed lives. Source: The Guardian.
Mental health of workers declining as nearly half feel overwhelmed by debt
Mental health experts are urging people to seek help, as new data shows nearly half of Australian workers are feeling overwhelmed by debt. Source: ABC News.
Vulnerable Aussies living on $6 a day amid cost-of-living crisis
Australians are going to extreme measures to stay afloat during the cost-of-living crisis, with thousands of people struggling to afford basic living necessities while sinking into extreme poverty. Source: News.com.au.
Rent assistance has no effect on housing affordability: Anglicare
An increase in Commonwealth rent assistance has been mooted as a Budget measure to ease the housing crisis for those on lower incomes, but Anglicare Australia has warned the payment is not “fit for purpose” and has no effect on affordability. Source: The Guardian.
ACOSS chief says Budget’s electricity bill relief insufficient
Almost $15 billion in cost-of-living relief over four years will be at the centre of the Albanese Government’s second Budget, but a key element – electricity bill relief – is being criticised as insufficient and short-lived. Source: ABC News.
Chalmers promises Budget relief after shock rate rise
Struggling households are being promised a substantial cost-of-living relief package in next week’s federal Budget after a shock decision by the Reserve Bank to drive official interest rates to an 11-year high. Source: The Age.