Scrapping JobKeeper would impact more than 29,000 Ipswich workers, ripping about $22 million a week out of the local economy, Member for Bundamba Lance McCallum said today.

“JobKeeper continues to be a lifeline for many people across our local community who still need that critical support,” Mr McCallum said.

“Stopping this support on 28 March – as the Morrison Federal Government plans to do – will affect the lives of thousands of local workers, our small businesses, and the Ipswich economy as a whole.

“JobKeeper is currently supporting about 7,700 Ipswich businesses and organisations, representing 29,393 workers and $22 million a week to our economy.

“It’s not only an issue for Ipswich – the ongoing closure of international borders is having a huge impact on communities all over the state.

“Total numbers indicate JobKeeper is supporting more than 160,000 Queensland businesses and about 608,500 workers.

“Prematurely cutting Jobkeeper will put at risk our safe and strong recovery.

“The pandemic isn’t over – Jobkeeper is essential during these unprecedented times – and we’re urging the Prime Minister to extend it while international borders remain closed.”