Social Security in Australia

[Aliantha]

Because we're looking at moving, my ex might take the kids during the week for the remainder of this year so they don't have to change schools and give up their sports teams which they're just settling into. I've been looking at what sort of benefits he'd be entitled to if he stops working during the week (he works nights) and just works over the weekend.

According to what I can see, he'll get just over $1200/fortnight or $600/week which is made up of a few different payments.

I was surprised at the amount. I knew single parents here did ok, but it's a lot better now than it was a few years ago. A lot of single income families don't even earn that much per week, and they miss out on the benefits such as almost free pharmaceuticals and other various items.

I know I'm a proponent for social services, and I don't think legitimate single parents should suffer, but I think it really explains why some people, women in particular, like having several children and living off the system.