Government Work Bonus Scheme sees 14.4% rise in pensioner tourism employment

The Federal government has made permanent a post-COVID scheme that benefits pensioners and the tourism industry.

As part of the $48 million Supporting Tourism and Travel package, pensioners could still receive a pension while working in the sector.

The scheme was launched in 2022, and changes to the Work Bonus programme have been credited with a 14.4 per cent increase in the number of pensioners employed in the sector. In the same period, from December 2022 to June 2023, wages earned by pensioners jumped 21 per cent, or $155 million, compared to the previous corresponding period.

Restaurant 350Q owner Barry Iddles used a mixture of senior and junior staff to fill necessary slots during this period.

“I thought, ‘I’m nearly 70 and I work 14 to 15 hours a day. I’m sure there would be others like me out there with plenty of energy who don’t want to sit around singing Kumbaya,’” Iddles told The Australian.

“My oldest worker is 79. She’s an absolute cracker, swims every morning, she’s super fit.

“Then there’s Ken, he’s 72. His wife came in and said, ‘My husband was going to apply but he doesn’t have a resume.’ He’s fantastic. Taken to hospitality like a duck to water.”

Under the scheme seniors can earn up to $11,800 without affecting their pensions.

“I’d love it if our government was the same as those in New Zealand and Canada where they take the view that seniors have paid taxes all their lives and any work after retirement shouldn’t affect their pension at all,” Iddles said.

Far North Queensland’s Paronella Park has also benefitted from an older workforce.

The award-winning restaurant has 20 per cent of staff aged over 55 including retired farmers and tradies.

“They are committed and enjoy what they do and this translates into a great experience for our guests,” owners Mark and Judy Evans told The Australian.

Tourism Minister Don Farrell applauded the changes to the Work Bonus scheme.
“Connecting experienced workers with our tourism sector when it was rebuilding its workforce after the pandemic made perfect sense,” Senator Farrell said. “I am very pleased to see that our campaign made a such a significant impact and very positive difference.”

Farrell is encouraging more older workers to join the tourism workforce.

“Australia’s tourism sector offers exciting jobs in amazing places, sharing the best of our country with visitors,” Senator Farrell said.

According to Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth older Australians now have more further incentive to take up work, or work more hours and share their knowledge, skills and experience.

“These changes are helping to ensure pensioners know they are supported and rewarded if they choose to work,” she said.

Jonathan Jackson, 18^th June 2024