Struggling to make a new start
Single unemployed people are entitled to $35 a day to pay for food, clothing, transport and bills on the Federal Government's Newstart allowance. Could you survive on this?
The Brotherhood assists hundreds of disadvantaged job seekers in Victoria through its Work and Learning Centres . Our centre in Geelong, run in partnership with Northern Futures , featured in a Four Corners story on the ABC on Monday night. It's a moving story about how people are struggling to survive on Newstart while looking for work.
A senate inquiry report released this month concludes welfare benefits are set too low at $35 a day. With the rising cost of living, rent absorbs the bulk of these payments which means life for the unemployed becomes harder and harder.
For most people, finding a good job is the foundation for a good life. Therefore the Brotherhood aims to move jobseekers away from Government assistance and into full time employment through their Work and Learning Centres. Assisting job seekers with a training and employment pathway, ultimately helps those struggling on welfare to get back on track.
On The Brink explores what it's like to lose your job, home and become dependent on welfare. Take a look at this powerful story.