News Articles for Anne Ruston

A $10 billion fund that will be used to build thousands of social and affordable homes has passed the Senate after months of negotiations.

Anthony Albanese wants federal, state and territory healthcare systems to work together better but faces calls from leaders to increase Commonwealth spending.

The prime minister has defended the government's decision to end COVID-19 isolation payments, ahead of a snap national cabinet meeting over rising case numbers.

Opposition leader Anthony Albanese effectively put a figure on Labor's position, supporting a wage increase of 5.1 per cent, in line with the highest inflation spike in two decades.

The federal government has flagged filling gaps in essential service roles with temporary visa holders, older Australians and the unemployed.

Targeted action plans providing more tailored support will form the centrepiece of the government's new plan to help people with disability.

The royal commission into abuse and neglect of people with a disability will get an extra 17 months to report.

Almost 289,000 jobs were available in February, the highest level in at least eight years, including a 45 per cent lift in Western Australia.

Putting some of Australia's welfare recipients on cashless debit cards to restrict their spending is costing taxpayers $70 million.

Unemployed Australians will receive about $44 a day in welfare support from April.

Senior government ministers have rejected claims vital decisions in the defence sector are on hold due to Defence Minister Linda Reynolds extending her leave.

The Morrison government will continue facing questions about rape allegations levelled at the attorney general unless an independent investigation occurs, the opposition argues.

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg says a new package of support for the tourism and travel sector will be announced within days.

Unemployed workers will receive a permanent $50 a fortnight increase to the JobSeeker payment once the coronavirus supplement is scrapped.

Cashless debit cards for welfare recipients are not worth the human cost, senators have been told.

Unemployed Australians should know by December what the rate of JobSeeker will be next year, with elevated payments likely to continue temporarily.

Thousands of millionaires have been claiming the dole throughout the coronavirus pandemic but are set to be kicked off later this week when the asset test returns.

The Morrison government will allow other states and territories to join Victoria in accessing $1,500 pandemic payments for workers without sick leave.

Charities will get more government funding to hand out food vouchers, financial counselling and help with basics in bushfire-affected communities.