One in four on Newstart Allowance has significant disability

There were 173,060 Newstart Allowance recipients with a disability at March 2014, and 24.9 per cent were receiving support from a Disability Employment Service or had a “partial capacity to work”.

More than 133,000 Newstart recipients were assessed as having a work capacity of less than 29 hours a week (at December 2013).

The main disability types are assessed, and broken down by the top 10 medical conditions. The main health barrier experienced by jobseekers on Newstart was physical disabilities, which affected the largest cohort of jobseekers.

Maree O’Halloran, of the Nat­ional Welfare Rights Network, said the figures were alarming.

“Some jobseekers have more than one disability and 100,600 jobseekers had physical disabilities affecting their limbs, shoulders and upper arms, spine and another musculo-skeletal disorder,” she said.

These jobseekers had problems lifting, walking long distances or standing for long periods.

“Over 72,000 jobseekers experienced depression or were dealing with psychiatric/psychological disorders or coping with anxiety. Other common disabilities included hypertension, which affected 12,410 jobseekers, and circulatory system problems, which was a serious problem for 10,365 people on Newstart.

“It is extremely common for people to experience both a physical disability (and) a mental health condition.

“At Welfare Rights, we see large numbers of unemployed people battling major health issues; many are also impacted by housing problems or are experiencing family violence. Sometimes, the employment service system fails to adequately support these jobseekers.

“The extra costs of managing their disability is a constant challenge on an inadequate Newstart of less than $260 a week. Some are going without food or essential medications to cover accommodation,” Ms O’Halloran said.

Social Services Minister Kevin Andrews said “taxpayers expect their money to be used to support those in genuine need and our approach is making sure this happens. More than 2000 people apply for the (Disability Support Pension) every week, so we need a thorough process to ensure that those who need financial assistance get access to the benefit.”

The government said in 2012-13 there were 127,173 DSP claims.

Welfare Rights said there was a danger that the Newstart Allowance would become the main payment for people with disabilities as governments imposed tighter conditions on the DSP.

“It is essential that Newstart is increased to a rate that allows people to meet the essential costs of living.”