OECD report backs UF on student allowances
Media statement For immediate release Tuesday, 30 January 2007
OECD report backs UF on student allowances
United Future is about to finalise a proposal that will put an end to the unfair treatment of adult students, according to the party's education spokesperson, Judy Turner MP.
"A recent OECD review says that the 25 year age threshold to be free from parental testing is far too high for student allowances.
"United Future does not believe that any student should still be considered financially dependent on their parents until the age of 25. It is unrealistic and unfair.
"Those same parents cannot claim 'Working for Families' entitlements for those same 'adult' children.
"Inconsistency and contradiction exists between two ministries' concepts about when parental responsibilities for children cease," says Mrs Turner.
"United Future is close to completing a proposal to Dr Cullen that would see the parental income assessment age incrementally reduced per annum from 25 to 18.
"That would make the student allowance system consistent and fair," says Mrs Turner.
ENDS