Govt expects to wind back pandemic support payments by end of year

Federal Finance Minister and South Australian Senator Simon Birmingham says he expects the need for federal COVID-19 support payments to be wound back by the end of the year once virus-affected states ease their restrictions.

Tax office rips $200m from returns over claimed Centrelink debts

The Australian Taxation Office has collected more than $200 million in the past three years from the tax refunds of Centrelink recipients to recoup overpayments.

Employment Minister Michaelia Cash says the government is very serious about the "mutual obligation" of people receiving welfare payments. Photo: AAP/Joel Carrett

Govt talks up dole penalties as Newstart pay debate bites

UPDATED: The Federal Government has reignited the “dole bludger” stereotype amid debate about the adequacy of unemployment benefits, releasing figures showing a majority have payments suspended because they miss appointments.