COVID-19 cases have significantly decreased. Today, New South Wales reported just one new case, while Victoria recorded its lowest number in three months at 170. This positive trend comes as businesses and workers continue to rely on the JobKeeper Payment for financial support during the recovery period.
JobKeeper Payment Extension
The JobKeeper Payment has been extended until 28 March 2021 to support businesses and not-for-profits still impacted by COVID-19. Initially set to end in September, the government extended it with new eligibility rules.
JobKeeper Payment Periods
The extension includes two payment periods:
- 28 September 2020 – 3 January 2021 (seven fortnightly payments)
- 4 January 2021 – 28 March 2021 (six fortnightly payments)
Changes in Employee Eligibility
To claim the JobKeeper Payment for August fortnights, including newly eligible employees under the 1 July test, businesses must enroll by 31 August. If you haven’t enrolled, we can help. As experienced accountants in Ashfield, Sydney, and Adelaide, we offer expert assistance. Call 1800 841 312 or email hello@endurego.com.
Eligible employees must:
- Have been employed by an eligible employer on 1 July 2020 as a full-time, part-time, fixed-term, or long-term casual worker.
- Be 18 or older (16-17-year-olds qualify if independent or not in full-time study).
- Be an Australian resident under social security or tax law or hold a Subclass 444 visa.
Changes in Business Eligibility
From 28 September 2020, businesses must reassess eligibility based on actual turnover in:
- July–September 2020 to qualify for payments until 3 January 2021.
- October–December 2020 to qualify for payments from 4 January to 28 March 2021.
Businesses must prove a 30% decline in turnover (for sales under $1 billion), excluding JobKeeper payments received during that period.
JobKeeper Payment Rates
First Period (28 Sept 2020 – 3 Jan 2021)
- Employees working 20+ hours per week: $1,200 per fortnight
- Employees working less than 20 hours per week: $750 per fortnight
Second Period (4 Jan 2021 – 28 Mar 2021)
- Employees working 20+ hours per week: $1,000 per fortnight
- Employees working less than 20 hours per week: $650 per fortnight
How to Assess Employee Work Hours
To determine eligibility, employers must calculate an employee’s average weekly hours from 1 March 2020 to 1 July 2020.
Need Help with JobKeeper?
As leading tax agents in Ashfield and Adelaide, we assist businesses in claiming the JobKeeper Payment. Contact us at 1800 841 312 or hello@endurego.com.
