Australia faces reality while New Zealand ignores it
Press release: ACT New Zealand
24 March, 2014, 12:00pm
Australian Treasurer Joe Hockey’s statement to the G20 that he is prepared to lead a discussion about raising the
retirement age to 70 as part of a structural reform package highlights the lack of courage of the National Party on the
retirement age issue, said ACT Leader Dr Jamie Whyte.
“Bill English has said its matter of trust and he is right. We need honesty on the looming superannuation and
healthcare affordability crisis” said Dr Whyte.
“It’s a fundamental breach of trust not being upfront. Pretending it’s not a problem is not the answer. It is time for
a discussion about this.
“New Zealanders should be able to count on National to do the right thing and give them plenty of time to adjust to the
eventual increase in age of eligibility for super.
“New Zealanders should be able to count on National to lead the discussion about how we are going to be able to afford
healthcare in our old age.
“Being honest with Kiwis about these issues is more important that sticking to a rash promise made in Opposition.
“ACT will be addressing these issues even if National doesn’t want to” said Dr Jamie Whyte.
ENDS