Jim Chalmers defends delay in reinstating Covid leave payments as cases rise

The $750 payment for those who need to isolate due to Covid has been extended through September, following pressure on the government

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Reinstating Covid-19 isolation payments was a necessary move in the wake of rising cases despite criticism the government was slow in doing so, according to the treasurer, Jim Chalmers.

With infections continuing to increase, a decision was made on Saturday to restore the leave pay measure until the end of September.