September 16, 2008
The Labor Party has acted in Federal Parliament to avoid debate on a proposal to increase the single age pension by $30 per week.
The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester says he is disappointed that Labor backbenchers have failed to stand up for older Australians who are struggling to make ends meet on $273 per week.
“The Nationals and Liberal Party Opposition is supporting efforts to increase the level of pensions but the Labor Party is using its numbers in the House of Representatives to prevent debate,” Mr Chester said.
“Despite the fact that everyone from the Prime Minister to the Treasurer has admitted that they couldn’t live on $273 per week, the Labor Party is refusing to take immediate action to support older people.”
Mr Chester, who was elected on a campaign of fighting for a fair go for pensioners in Gippsland, said it was time for both sides of politics to get serious about helping pensioners, carers and people with disabilities.
“I have raised the issue in Parliament on two separate occasions and I have spoken to several of my Coalition colleagues and I believe that there is overwhelming support for immediate action,” Mr Chester said.
“It is appalling to sit in Parliament and listen to the Prime Minister justifying his lack of action by calling for another review which won’t deliver its findings until February 2009.
“Then it will take at least three months to consider the review and make any recommendations as part of the 2009-10 budget process.
“It could be another 12 months before this government actually does anything to help pensioners, carers and people with disabilities.
“I believe we should be debating the issue in Parliament – put it to a vote and find out what Labor backbenchers really think about the level of support for pensioners and carers in this country.
“A wealthy nation with a $22 billion budget surplus can afford to do more to help those who are less fortunate in our community.”