COVID disaster relief payment reinstated reduces Australians’ concerns about losing income while isolating

Welfare groups have welcomed the Albanese Government reinstating the $750 emergency pandemic payment, saying it will continue to help those struggling to scrape by. The Federal Government has extended the COVID disaster payment until the end of September to help those people who need to isolate. The disaster payment was set to end on June 30 despite a surge in COVID cases, causing backlash throughout the nation. Overnight on Tuesday, 39,046 cases were reported, bringing the total active cases across Australia to 341,204. Foodbank Geraldton manager Jamie O’Brien said those barely keeping up with the cost of living would be relieved the pandemic payment would be made available again. “Majority of people would be incredibly happy,” he said. “People are struggling with what they’ve got and any assistance would be a big help.” Mr O’Brien said the store had seen a steady influx of people seeking affordable alternatives to fill their pantries and it was important people felt supported enough to isolate. “In the last three months we’ve seen a huge increase of people in need of our services,” he said. “It’s important we take the measures we can.” Regional Alliance West operations manager Chris Gabelish said there was no doubt the lump sum payment would ease pressure for the larger community, and if the payment was canned, it could prevent people from following isolation requirements. “It’s a good idea for the people who are in that situation,” he said. “We have people in Geraldton who value the payment as well as the rest of Australia.” Mr Gabelish said another effective Government initiative to reduce pressure on the cost of living and the disadvantaged need for help was the low and middle income tax offset. “On another front, the payment for low and middle income earners,” he said. “That payment has shown a large reduction in help needed from us.”