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Modelling finds 'outdated' law costing teens $411m in superannuation
Australia🏛️ PoliticsLean Progressive3 hr. ago

Modelling finds 'outdated' law costing teens $411m in superannuation

New modelling indicates that Victorian teenagers are losing approximately $115 million in superannuation benefits annually due to current laws that exclude under-18s from guaranteed super contributions unless they work over 30 hours per week for a single employer. The Super Members Council, representing profit-to-member superannuation funds, highlights that this exclusion disproportionately affects young workers, many of whom earn wages in sectors like retail, hospitality, and community services. Their analysis estimates that 156,000 Victorian teens will miss out on an average of $735 in super by 2026–27, with similar issues reported in New South Wales and a national total of $411 million in lost super contributions. The council argues that the law is outdated and discriminatory, advocating for its removal to align with community expectations and ensure early super contributions that benefit long-term savings. Federal politicians, including the Greens and Treasurer Jim Chalmers, have shown support for potential reforms.

2 reports

ABC News (Australia) logoABC News (Australia)State / PublicCenter3 hr. ago
Modelling finds 'outdated' law costing teens $411m in superannuation

New modelling indicates that Victorian teenagers are losing approximately $115 million in superannuation benefits annually due to current laws that exclude under-18s from guaranteed super contributions unless they work over 30 hours per week for a single employer. The Super Members Council, representing profit-to-member superannuation funds, highlights that this exclusion disproportionately affects young workers, many of whom earn wages in sectors like retail, hospitality, and community services. Their analysis estimates that 156,000 Victorian teens will miss out on an average of $735 in super by 2026–27, with similar issues reported in New South Wales and a national total of $411 million in lost super contributions. The council argues that the law is outdated and discriminatory, advocating for its removal to align with community expectations and ensure early super contributions that benefit long-term savings. Federal politicians, including the Greens and Treasurer Jim Chalmers, have shown support for potential reforms.

Bias read (Center): The article presents data and perspectives from the Super Members Council and mentions political figures such as the Greens and Treasurer Jim Chalmers, but does not exhibit overtly biased language or one-sided sourcing. It reports on a policy debate without taking a clear stance, thus maintaining a

The Australian logoThe AustralianIndependent🔒Progressive4 days ago
Union-backed super giant warns Chalmers on stealth tax

The article reports that a union-backed superannuation fund has raised concerns about a 'stealth tax' proposed by Treasurer Jim Chalmers. The term 'stealth tax' refers to potential hidden costs or fees within superannuation funds that could effectively increase the tax burden on Australians. The fund argues that such measures could negatively impact retirement savings and financial stability for individuals. While the article highlights the concern from the union-backed entity, it does not provide detailed policy proposals or counterarguments from other stakeholders.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the issue as a criticism of the government's fiscal policies, using the term 'stealth tax' which implies a covert or unfair taxation strategy. This phrasing suggests a critique of the government's approach, aligning more closely with progressive or left-leaning perspectives. The '

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