Last night, I joined leaders and ministers from over 30 countries in a virtual conference to discuss what support can be given to Beirut and the Lebanese people following the explosion disaster last week. As part of a broader global response Australia lifted our commitment $5 million to support relief efforts in Lebanon. This will be delivered through longstanding international partners including the World Food Programme, UNICEF and the Red Cross. It’s to help ensure food, medical care and essential items are provided to those affected by this tragedy. Australia is home to a large Lebanese community, with more than 230,000 Australians having Lebanese heritage. Our hearts go out to them, the people of Lebanon and all those affected by this disaster. Thank you to President Macron and the UN Secretary-General for hosting the conference. I’ve joined with them and others calling for a full, impartial and credible investigation into the explosion.

The Australian Government is providing an additional $2.6 million to assist Victorians with severe mental illness. Read more: https://lbr.al/xg08

#LIVE: Press conference from Parliament House, Canberra

We’re expanding JobKeeper to help even more people following the introduction of increased restrictions in Victoria. This additional $15.6 billion investment brings our total commitment to JobKeeper to over $100 billion. Many people and businesses are doing it tough right now. That’s why we’re expanding JobKeeper as well as providing further childcare relief for Victorians, the new Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment and more mental health support.