11 September 2008
The Age Pension
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It's 100 years now since legislation for the age pension was introduced into the Australian Parliament. In 1908, it was a fairly modest commitment, about 12 per cent of the average male wage. Today, it's 25 per cent of average weekly earnings and there's renewed debate about whether or not the pension should be increased. The politicians are admitting that they couldn't live on the pension but the Prime Minister says there will be no change until a departmental review is completed in February next year.
With most of us now required to contribute to superannuation schemes, what is the age pension expected to deliver? Is it simply a safety net against poverty or is it about providing for our older citizens?
Guests
Jeremy Sammut
research fellow, Health and Ageing Program, Centre for Independent Studies
Michael O'Neill
Chief executive National Seniors Australia
Eva Cox
Social policy researcher, commentator
Helen Johnson
Vice president, Carers Australia
Further Information
Presenter
Paul Barclay
Story Researcher and Producer
Debra McCoy
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