Changes to Employment Services

Announced in 2014, changes to the federal government’s employment services system are fast approaching. Taking effect on 1 July, the new system will see the federal government invest more than $5 billion over three years to better support and meet the needs of jobseekers, employers and service providers.

But what do the changes mean for jobseekers? Under the new rules, jobseekers will need to:

• undertake 20 job searches each month (employment service providers can tailor this requirement depending on the jobseeker’s individual needs)
• agree to a Job Plan that outlines how they will improve their work readiness and follow through on commitments
• complete Work for the Dole or another approved activity (such as part-time work or volunteering) for 25 hours per week for six months of each year they are unemployed if they are under 30 years of age or 15 hours if they are aged 30 to 59.

For employers, the idea is that jobseekers will be better equipped to enter and remain in the workforce. Training completed by jobseekers will be relevant to employers’ needs and job opportunities, ensuring real preparation for the working environment. Employers will also be able to access a range of wage subsidises to take on jobseekers, including young people, mature age people, Indigenous people and the long-term unemployed.

See the Department of Employment website for further information.