But housing experts warn this, coupled with changes to JobKeeper and JobSeeker, could spark a surge in evictions and homelessness.
JobKeeper is set to end on Sunday and the coronavirus supplement to follow on Wednesday - meaning those on JobSeeker will have $150 less to work with each fortnight.
In New South Wales, more than 40 renters’ groups and charities penned an open letter to the government, warning a wave of evictions could inevitably lead to a sudden spike in homelessness.
But, preparing for the worst, charities like the Jesuit Refugee Service are now bracing for a surge in demand for their assistance.
They help feed and house asylum seekers, many of whom had no access to government support payments during the pandemic.
