National Seniors Australia (NSA) has released 16 policy recommendations as part of its annual submission to Treasury in the areas of cost of living, health, aged care, banking, and superannuation ahead of the Federal Election.
Informed by NSA’s 256,000 community members, the recommendations reflect the diverse and unique needs of older Australians and provide valuable guidance and insight to help government improve the lives of seniors.
NSA CEO Chris Grice said the recommendations, which include cost estimates, have been carefully developed to benefit the needs of different senior cohorts, including pensioners, part pensioners, self-funded retirees, and pre-retirees.
“Our well-researched and innovative policies seek to relieve current cost-of-living pressures and address more long-term issues related to the pension, employment, private health, dental, and housing, among others,” Mr Grice said.
“There really is something for everyone.”
NSA’s key policy recommendations call to: • Exempt all work income from the Age Pension income test to Let Pensioners Work • Continue the deeming rate freeze while interest rates remain high
- Immediately release more Home Care Packages to reduce waiting times for care at home
- Support Australia Post to deliver full banking services in regional, rural, and remote Australia
“Older Australians are an integral part of society and the economy,” Mr Grice said.
“The upcoming election provides an opportunity for parties and candidates to show seniors they want to help them manage real problems such as rising living costs, home care delays, and bank closures.”
Mr Grice said it was time for parties and candidates to be bold.
“They can either adopt inadequate policies that keep inching towards positive change or they can adopt strong policies that make meaningful change happen,” he said.
“It’s why, after all, many people enter politics – to make an impact and to make a difference.
“We urge all candidates to consider NSA’s strong policy recommendations for older Australians of today and for generations to follow.”
