Budget looks to the future with mental health and superannuation measures

Mission Australia says that the Federal Government’s investment in the areas of health and superannuation will have a positive impact on Australians experiencing, and at risk of, mental illness and improve the sustainability of the income support system.

“This is a package of measures which looks to the future in several areas of key interest to Mission Australia,” said the organisation’s CEO, Patrick McClure.

Among others, Mission Australia is pleased to see the following measures:

• $1.9 billion, over five years, for mental health services – the Commonwealth Government’s contribution to the recently announced COAG agreement.
• Tax free superannuation benefits for people aged 60 and over which are paid from a taxed fund.
• Eligibility for the maximum rate of Family Tax Benefit Part A extended to families with an annual income of up to $40,000.
• A $1,000 one off payment for recipients of the Carer Payment and a $600 one off payment for recipients of the Carer Allowance.
• A range of measures, across several portfolios, aimed at improving the health, employment, business opportunities and capacity of Indigenous individuals, families and communities.

Mr McClure said he was optimistic about the future of mental health in Australia after the Budget.

“Governments of all levels and political colours have struggled with mental health, with mixed results, over the past two decades.

“Mission Australia has been a strong, and long-term, advocate for greater mental health funding, and I think we’re now heading in the right direction. I’m encouraged by what I see in this Budget.

“The superannuation changes are also welcome, particularly in so far as they will alleviate some of the burden on the income support system as Australians grow older and retire in the future.

“The FTB Part A changes will help struggling low income families, and the measures for carers are also positive.

“In regards to mental health, we’d continue to encourage the Commonwealth and State/Territory Governments to build into their five-year plan a specific rural and regional strategy.

“Many of the mental health problems faced by people living in rural and regional areas are acute to their situation – the isolation and a lack of support networks – and need particular focus,” Mr McClure said.

Media inquiries: Paul Andrews (02) 9219 2080 or 0409 665 495