Social Services and Other Legislation Amendment (More Support in the Safety Net) 2024

# Social Services and Other Legislation Amendment (More Support in the Safety Net) Bill 2024 ## What it does The government is increasing the amount of rent assistance it pays to three groups: families with children, single parents, and people on jobseeker payments who can only work part-time. It's also making it easier for people caring for others to temporarily reduce their work hours without losing benefits. ## Why it matters Rent has become unaffordable for many Australians, so this puts more money directly into the pockets of struggling renters. The changes for carers recognise that looking after a sick or disabled family member shouldn't force someone to choose between caring and staying on benefits. ## Key details - **Rent assistance increases**: Families with kids get up to $5,000.50 per year (up from $4,807.05), and single parents get $3,803.30 (up from $3,657.30). The bill lists exact new amounts for different household types. - **Jobseeker top-ups**: People on jobseeker who have a partial capacity to work (can't work full-time due to illness or disability) get higher payments. - **Carer flexibility**: Carers can now have more flexibility with work requirements when their caring responsibilities change, without losing their payments. - **Comes into effect immediately** when the bill receives Royal Assent (the Governor-General's final approval).

🔒 Voting closed — this bill has been decided by parliament