Concetta Fierravanti-Wells (NSW, Liberal Party, Minister for International Development and the Pacific) Share this | Hansard source

The Turnbull government's changes to the pension work bonus will be of great interest, especially to older Australians in regional areas. In addition to the changes to the income limit, the accrual amount will increase to a maximum of $7,800, up from $6,500. This will mean that people in regional areas, if they are working in industries that are seasonal, will be able to bank up any unused part of the fortnightly $300 and accrue it and exempt future earnings. Not only is this good news for people in seasonal rural industries; it is great news for older Australians, who might be able to more fully take advantage of opportunities during retail peaks like Christmas and Easter.

As I was saying in relation to COTA, it has said to fight ageism in the workforce we should:

… tap into the experience of older Australians and provide financial flexibility in retirement—

(Time expired)