Australians who have lost their jobs during the coronavirus pandemic will receive a new fortnightly “job keeper” payment of 1,500 Australian dollars ($920).
The new measure announced today is worth 130 billion Australian dollars ($80 billion). It takes the total amount of Australian government support during the pandemic to more than $320 billion Australian dollars ($197 billion) or 16.4% of GDP, the government said.
“This unprecedented level of support reflects the unprecedented moment we’re in. This is how Australians can get to the other side of this coronavirus crisis,” said Australian Treasurer Josh Frydenberg.
How the payment compares to regular salaries: According to the government, payments represents around 70% of the median wage, and about 100% of the median salary in the sectors most affected by the coronavirus — retail, hospitality, and tourism.
Who is eligible? The payment is available to full and part-time workers, sole traders, and casuals who have been with their employers for 12 months or more.
