A superannuation ad on a tram in Sydney.
The federal government is taking a second crack at reforming superannuation in a move that would give more than a million low earners a retirement boost while hitting the nation’s wealthiest with a higher tax rate.
Treasurer Jim Chalmers this morning introduced the Better Targeted Superannuation Concessions bill to parliament.
If passed, the new laws would change how superannuation is taxed for two groups of Australians at opposite ends of the wealth spectrum: about 90,000 people with the highest super balances, and roughly 1.3 million of the nation’s lowest-paid workers.
A superannuation ad on a tram in Sydney.
The government is attempting to pass major changes to the superannuation system for the second time.(Glenn Hunt/Fairfax Media)

The combined adjustments are projected to add approximately $1.6 billion annually to the federal budget through increased tax revenue.

The introduction of today’s bill comes after an aborted attempt to pass similar legislation during the last parliament and following May’s federal election, when the government faced significant criticism, particularly on the proposal to tax unrealised gains and a refusal to index the thresholds for the higher tax rates.

Initially, the legislation included several components, but now, only a higher tax on realized earnings remains, with the thresholds set at $3 million and $10 million, both of which will be indexed.

Despite the modifications, the fate of the current bill remains uncertain. The Coalition stands against the proposed changes, necessitating support from the Greens for the government to secure approval in the Senate.

According to the Australian Financial Review, the minor party could demand more stringent measures targeting wealthy accounts in exchange for its backing.

In the face of this opposition, ASFA has called on both the Greens and the Coalition to endorse the legislation.

“These adjustments collectively contribute to making super tax settings more equitable and sustainable,” stated ASFA’s chief executive, Mary Delahunty.

“I urge the parliament to expedite the passage of this legislation,” she added.

“Aussie workers on low incomes cannot wait another day for the fairness that this package delivers to them.”

If passed, the higher tax rates on wealthy accounts will come into effect on July 1, while the LISTO boost will follow a year later.

NEVER MISS A STORY: Get your breaking news and exclusive stories first by following us across all platforms.

You May Also Like
Viral musician Stephen Sanchez, 23, has cancelled his Australian and New Zealand tour in a lengthy post that takes aim at modern 'pornographic' pop music

Stephen Sanchez Faces Backlash From Australian Fans After Tour Cancellation and “Pornographic” Pop Music Remark

Stephen Sanchez has called off his upcoming tour of Australia and New…
Root has been a model ex-captain, low-maintenance, a shoulder to cry on, and still hungry and able enough to keep churning out the hundreds

Joe Root Emerges as England’s Steadying Force in Crisis as Team Turns to Its Model Captain Once Again

There are routine hospital passes — and then there is the challenge…
Gianni Infantino entered the Iran locker room to address the players at the World Cup

Inside Gianni Infantino’s Awkward Iran World Cup Locker Room Visit as Two Team Stars Were Detained at US Border

New footage has captured an intensely awkward exchange between FIFA president Gianni…
Iran accuse FIFA of 'oppressive' World Cup treatment

Iran Slams FIFA’s “Oppressive” World Cup Treatment Amid Growing Controversy

Iran have fiercely criticized what they described as “oppressive” and “disastrous” treatment…