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Mutual obligations are being overhauled. Job seekers are confused and fearful

Job seekers are worried about changes to the controversial Jobactive program.

Job seekers are worried about changes to the controversial Jobactive program. Photo: TND

The ABC reports about 169,000 “job-ready” participants will be moved to WorkForce Australia’s online portal, while more than 590,000 others will be referred to new face-to-face employment service providers.

Australia Institute senior economist Matt Grudnoff said the changes could be beneficial by softening an otherwise “punitive” system.

“They’re giving more flexibility around what sort of job search activities the unemployed, or people looking for work, could do, rather than just applying for jobs,” he said.

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