Peter Gutwein must lobby the Federal Government not to wind back the JobKeeper scheme, and risk putting further pressure on the economy.
Shadow Treasurer David O’Byrne said any move by the Prime Minister to slash the scheme before its legislated end in late September must be strongly opposed by the state government.
“JobKeeper is a sensible measure to keep workers connected with employers, and help ensure a rapid return to normal business operation once the COVID-19 crisis is over.
“But almost as soon as the first payments have reached employers, we hear that the Federal Government is considering winding it back early.
“Withdrawing it too early, or reducing the number of businesses and workers that benefit, risks forcing thousands more people into unemployment.
“Even the suggestion of early withdrawal of the payment risks damaging consumer confidence and could dampen spending, leading to further economic downturn.”
Mr O’Byrne said rather than cutting back the JobKeeper scheme, the Federal Government should be looking at expanding it.
“Too many people have been overlooked. Casual workers, local government employees, and people on temporary work visas have all missed out on JobKeeper.
“People who provide valuable service in their communities have been left behind.
“Legislation passed by Federal Parliament last month enacting the JobKeeper scheme includes discretion for the Federal Government to vary eligibility for the payments.
“They should be using that power to include more people in need, rather than looking for ways to shut people out.”
David O’Byrne
Shadow Treasurer
