Jobseekers can access the Australian governments social security system when faced with financial hardship.
The Australian unemployment rate continues at 5.7 per cent for the ninth consecutive month, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics February 2017 data.
Jobseekers are placed into one of four assistance streams based on their ability to find work. For example, stream 1 jobseekers are considered work ready whilst those in stream 4 are deemed to have severe barriers to employment.
A single person with no children on Newstart can receive up to $528.70 per fortnight.
An unemployed couple, on the other hand, receives $477.40 each per fortnight.
These rates are revised annually on 20 March and 20 September.
You can earn up to $104 before tax each fortnight and still receive Newstart.
Your payment is reduced by 50 cents per dollar if you earn between $104 to $254 per fortnight.
The reduction rate is $75 plus 60 cents for each dollar over $254.
Australian residents whove lived in the country for at least two-years are eligible to receive Newstart.
Recipients need to meet the income and assets tests as well as the Mutual Obligation Requirements.
Recipients are expected to participate in an approved activity or Work for the Dole programme for six months of the year to claim their payments under the Mutual Obligation Requirements.
Job seekers must also negotiate and follow a Job Plan with their employment services provider.
Owen Bennett recommends job seekers do their homework to know their rights before finalising the Mutual Obligation Requirements or Job Plan.
Other types of unemployment benefit include Youth Allowance for full-time jobseekers between age 16 to 21 and the Disability Support Pension for people between 16 years of age to pension age who are unable to work due to a physical, intellectual or psychiatric condition.
