Introducing A Preparing For Work Agreement

“Job seekers will be in a position to most effectively get their fair share on the new jobs created by the National-Liberal Government’s policies through the Preparing for Work Agreement,” according to Community Services Minister Larry Anthony.

“The agreement aims to actively get people out of welfare and into paid employment – a direct contrast to Labor’s tired passive welfare handouts.”

The new Preparing for Work Agreement for all unemployed people seeking income support will be introduced on 1 July 2000, and aims to help unemployed people focus on finding work immediately when they claim income support, identify barriers and develop strategies earlier to combat these barriers.

“This Agreement will ensure that job seekers are aware of their rights and obligations from the day they apply for payment,” said Mr Anthony.

“It will set out any early intervention strategies for the job seeker and their ongoing responsibilities if they remain on payment.

“The agreement is an important part of the Government’s mutual obligation strategy.

“Mutual obligation is based on the proposition that unemployed people supported financially by the community should actively seek work, constantly strive to improve their competitiveness in the labour market and give something back to the community.

“This leaves people with a sense of pride and belonging, overcoming the degrading effect of Labor’s ‘handout for nothing’ approach,” said Mr Anthony.

Endnote: The way that the GST affects Budget estimates, accounting statements and appropriations is described in Budget Paper No.4