Australian workers need to emerge out from 'under the doona' of subsidy programs

SA Liberal Senator Alex Antic says the government’s wage subsidy programs have proved successful for Australian workers and business but it is time they are revised to reduce their immense cost.

“I think the entire program has been a great success, we’re hearing that loud and clear … the suite of packages really have allowed businesses to stay afloat in these times," he told Sky News.

The JobSeeker payment was set to be reduced starting on Friday.

Mr Antic said her had heard stories from employers who were frustrated because some employees were unwilling to turn up to work because they were receiving support payments.

“There are parts of the package which just are always going to be a one size fits all, so the refining of this program I think is going to be welcomed,” he said.

“The truth is we’re spending $300 billion on these programs and at some point … we have to come out from under the doona and get people re-engaged with the labour market and I think employers and employees will welcome that.

“At the end of the day this program is costing real money … at the end of the day we have to find an exit out and I think this is a very reasonable, staged program.”

Видео Australian workers need to emerge out from 'under the doona' of subsidy programs канала Sky News Australia