Thread by @kristin8X

To be extremely clear: the gov restricts freedom of movement for ppl on JS

1 of the many problems w the MOs bill they tried & failed to force through: the dept couldn't answer my q about how new 'incentives' to relocate interact w rules that *prevent* ppl choosing where to live.

https://twitter.com/JeremyPoxon/status/1479296674010841090

There are obviously many problems with rules that punish people for moving.

First and foremost: it is a human rights violation.

2nd: People are prevented from moving somewhere where it might be easier to survive on the JS pittance.

3rd: It traps people in unsafe situations.

4th: There are many reasons poor ppl go to the GREAT EXPENSE of moving. Such as accessing healthcare or being closer to family/other supports that help them survive on JobSeeker.

5th: Long-term unemployed ppl are actively prevented from gaining skills by perverse MO requirements

6th: It is nearly impossible to find somewhere to live on JobSeeker. Landlords DO NOT want to approve leases. In places where the local economy is in a downturn you have a slightly better chance of HAVING SOMEWHERE TO LIVE.

Between 'mutual' obligations, forced labour + restrictions on movement, the gov exerts a sickening level of control over the lives of unemployed workers

And yet they wonder why those forced to survive on JobSeeker for any length of time see their mental health tumble off a cliff

Meanwhile, the government is pushing ads on unemployed people promoting the 'Move to More' website, which is about relocating to regional areas. As you'd expect, there's zero info on it about the risks to payments being cut for people on income support.

movetomore.com.au

THEY WERE LITERALLY JUST PROMOTING AN AD TELLING PEOPLE TO MOVE TO BALLARAT LAST WEEK