Mitch Fifield (Victoria, Liberal Party, Minister for Communications and the Arts) Share this | Hansard source

Newstart is primarily a payment designed to assist people transition through the labour market. For this reason, Newstart recipients are able to earn income from work or other sources before their payment is affected. Around two-thirds of those granted Newstart exit income support within 12 months, and over 99 per cent of Newstart recipients receive more than just the base rate of Newstart. For example, their payment may include the energy supplement, rent assistance for those in the private rental market and family tax benefit for those raising children. We do absolutely remain committed to ensuring that social security payments are well targeted and sustainable into the future.