Media Release by Senator the Hon Anne Ruston

Mutual Obligations arrangements extended

Joint Media Release with:

  • Senator The Hon Michaelia Cash
    Minister for Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business

The Morrison Government will continue the suspension of mutual obligation until 27 April 2020 to support job seekers through this difficult period.

As demand remains high on government services, the suspension of mutual obligation requirements will alleviate some of this congestion and give certainty to the sector.

This announcement means jobseekers will not be penalised for being unable to either attend, or report their attendance, at appointments or activities. Payments will be not be suspended and no compliance action will be taken.

These arrangements will continue to be reviewed regularly.

During these challenging times jobseekers are encouraged to stay job ready and connected to their employment services provider in their local area.

This arrangement by the Morrison Government further supports Australians through the extreme challenges the COVID-19 pandemic presents.