Bowman, D; Mupanemunda, M; Wickramasinghe, S
(Brotherhood of St Laurence, 2021-04-19)
The COVID-19 pandemic has been described as a women’s pandemic because of its unequal social and economic impacts. While there are some signs of recovery, the future remains uncertain, due to the unpredictability of outbreaks, uncertainty about the effectiveness of vaccines, and the complex global context. Some commentators are concerned that federal government policy is favouring austerity, which will hamper recovery and lead to increased unemployment and economic insecurity. There is also concern that proposed industrial relations legislation could undermine workers’ protections. The policy choices made will affect the lives of many, both now and into the future. Rather than austerity, investment is needed to build brighter futures for low income women and their families