Campaigning for Change: Fair Income, Dignity & Superannuation for Carers, DSP Recipients and Parents

Our Call for Meaningful Reform

At Caring4Change.au, we are built on the foundation of recognising and supporting the invaluable contributions of carers across Australia. We know the immense value – both economic and social – that carers, people receiving the Disability Support Pension (DSP), and parents receiving income support bring to our communities.

However, recognition alone doesn't pay the bills. The current reality is that the income support provided often falls drastically short of the national minimum wage, leaving many struggling to cover basic living costs and denying them the financial security they deserve. Furthermore, the absence of superannuation contributions within these payments creates long-term financial insecurity, particularly in retirement.

It's Time for Fair Pay and Future Security

We believe a fundamental change is necessary. Caring4Change.au is advocating for systemic reforms to ensure fairness and dignity:

Lifting Income Support to Minimum Wage: We propose that key income support payments, specifically the Carer Payment, Disability Support Pension (DSP), and Parenting Payment, be raised to equate to the national minimum wage (currently $915.90 per 38-hour week or $47,626.80 per year as of July 1, 2024). This reflects the essential, often full-time, commitment involved and provides a basic standard of living. Mandatory Superannuation Contributions: Just like other working Australians, individuals receiving these primary support payments deserve the right to build retirement savings. We advocate for mandatory superannuation contributions to be included with these payments, ensuring a pathway to greater financial security in later life.

Petitioning for Change

Words and recognition are important, but action is crucial. Caring4Change.au is in the process of developing an official petition to the Australian Government. This petition will formally outline our proposals for fair income support levels and the inclusion of superannuation. We aim to build a powerful, collective voice demanding these essential changes. We encourage you to watch this space for updates on how you can add your name and support this vital campaign.

Reforming 'Work for the Dole'

Our advocacy extends to reforming the 'Work for the Dole' system. We believe the current structure requires significant changes to ensure it is fair and genuinely beneficial:

Fair Compensation: Payment rates must be lifted significantly above levels that can feel like exploitation, reflecting the time and effort participants contribute.

Meaningful Opportunities: The focus must shift towards providing high-quality training, tutoring, and genuine pathways to sustainable employment, rather than simply fulfilling activity requirements.