HIGH welfare versus low basic wage show both are below the poverty line for many.
Maybe relocate the line lower.
Luckily, full-time workers are thankful for the low-income subsidy, super 9 per cent going up to 12 per cent, usually plus a life insurance policy, 17 and a half per cent on holiday loading, overtime possibly and protective clothing and redundancy pay.
Skills, certificates and licences industry gained are pluses.
Also the ability to negotiate bonuses and wage increases with any reasonable employer.
Failing this, the ability to take protected strike action for pay rises up to 10 per cent.
On welfare, a home or car loan is difficult to get.
A health care card is available to full-time employees where applicable.
Many on welfare take part-time work.
This reduces their allowance and is often the weekend and public holiday work - that is, what is left over.
One can have the satisfaction of looking back with pride on their week's work and achievements, so it is not just about money.
They, the 94.6 per cent, are not exactly queuing up at Centrelink to get the dole, only 5.4 per cent.
If sacked, a worker can claim unfair dismissal, but if Centrelink dumps you, that is inapplicable, as it is no golden handshake.
COLIN HOLMES
Ballarat