Denis Napthine’s Pensioner Cash Grab

Media Release.

Tuesday, 18 June 2013

Member for Jagajaga, Jenny Macklin MP, has slammed Victorian Liberal Premier Denis Napthine’s decision to take part of the Federal Government’s pension increase from more than 1,300 pensioners in Jagajaga.

 

“I know that pensioners on a fixed income have the least room to move in their budgets. That’s why it’s so important that when prices go up, the pension goes up to match it,” Ms Macklin said.

 

“The Federal Labor Government is delivering a boost for pensioners to help them make ends meet.

 

This increase is designed to help pensioners, not Denis Napthine’s Budget bottom line.

 

In March, pensioners started receiving an increase in their fortnightly pension payments as part of the Federal Government’s Clean Energy Supplement. Single pensioners are now receiving an extra $350 a year and pensioner couples are receiving an extra $530 a year to help them with the modest impacts of the carbon price.

 

Pensioners in public housing in Victoria pay 25 per cent of their pension in rent. The Victorian Government’s decision to include this money in rent calculations means a single pensioner will now have to pay an extra $87.50 a year in rent.

 

“This is a cruel and cynical cash grab from a Liberal Premier who cares more about his own hip pocket than looking out for local pensioners,” Ms Macklin said.

 

“This cash grab shows the Liberal Party can’t be trusted to give pensioners the support and security they need.

 

“Labor will stand up for Australia’s pensioners – Denis Napthine wants to take money out of their pockets,” Ms Macklin said.