The reaction to the federal government's stimulus payments is a great example.

Throwing extra taxpayers' money at unemployed Australians has, in many quarters, gone down like a lead balloon.

The lyrics of Moving Pictures' hit What About Me would be striking a chord for more than a few: "It isn't fair. I've had enough, now I want my share".

What those outraged at an effective doubling of unemployment benefits are missing though is that it's not about what's fair.

The rationale is in the word: "Stimulus".

Scott Morrison and his government are desperate to stave off an almost inevitable recession, or at least to minimise its impact on our economy, and the strategy is to get people spending as soon as possible.

Giving one-off bonuses to taxpayers would not achieve the goal since many of us who work would pay off some debt or, given these uncertain times, put it in the bank.

With the shutdowns, we would hardly be going on holidays, renovating our homes or buying a new car.

By giving extra money to those who struggle the most, the expectation is the funds will flow into businesses and help to keep others employed.

Who better to give it to them than those who have barely survived on the lowest of welfare payments?

Some might question if it's working since in the last few days the shutdowns imposed to try to limit the rate of coronavirus infections have led to immense job losses.

But this grim reality playing out across the country is another good reason for the temporary boost to the JobSeeker Payment.

All the prejudices previously held against the unemployed should be set aside because there are a hell of a lot of people joining their ranks every day.

Those of us who still have jobs should be grateful; those who worry they might lose theirs' can find some relief in knowing there is more assistance available.

And everyone should reflect on trying to be a little more caring of others.

What do you think? You can have your say by sending us a Letter to the Editor: