Premier calls for JobKeeper to be extended

Peter Gutwein,Premier

The 'good news' that the JobKeeper forecasts have been massively overestimated by $60 billion presents an opportunity for the scheme to be extended.

The scheme is an excellent one and is doing what was intended to with all eligible workers being paid.

However, now that it is apparent that it will cost significantly less than first thought, the scheme should be extended for a longer period targeting additional support at those industries such as tourism and hospitality that will take longer to recover.

Furthermore, as there is significant additional capacity available, the Federal Government should also consider further support for job rich infrastructure projects that support the national interest such as Battery of the Nation and the Marinus Link.

I'm certain that most States and Territories will be of a similar view and I look forward to discussing this with National Cabinet when we meet this week.

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