2020/08/27 by Steven Hamilton · 1 citation
Economics, Econometrics and Finance · Health Professions · #Healthcare Policy and Management #Employment and Welfare Studies #Health Systems, Economic Evaluations, Quality of Life
paper · doi:10.17310/ntj.2020.3.09
In July 2020, COVID-19 had been suppressed in Australia but continued to spread across the United States. Both countries instituted lock-downs and fiscal support, but Australia experienced a milder recession, highlighting the role of public health measures in protecting the economy. Cash stimulus is less useful than in a normal recession, justifying wage subsidies encouraging businesses to retain workers. The Australian wage subsidy, delivered via the tax authority, was better targeted, more generous, more accessible, but slower than the American wage subsidy delivered via banks. The experience highlights the need for investments in IRS infrastructure to better prepare for future crises.