Fifteen years after Stephen Jones delivered his first speech as the 1,076th member of the House of Representative, saying government “must see the world through the eyes of working men and women”, he stood to deliver his valedictory speech.
The Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services told the House last week it’s not the things you start as an MP, it’s the things you stop.
“I was very proud to be a part of an opposition where I worked with my friends former prime minister Keating and former prime minister Rudd, and the Treasurer and the Prime Minister to stop this idea that we were going to freeze the superannuation entitlements of Australians at 9.5 per cent,” he said.
“It always struck me as crazy for us to suggest that we should collect 15 [percent] but the mob should only get nine-and-a-half percent.
“At the end of June this year, all Australians will be receiving 12 per cent superannuation, and that’s a damn good thing.”
In further reflecting on the superannuation sector, Jones conceded the industry’s service standards “…are just nowhere near where they need to be, and they need to lift their game”.
…all Australians will be receiving 12 per cent superannuation…
“We need to do so much more to provide a better retirement experience, more retirement products, and ensure that the purpose of superannuation is seen through for the five million Australians who are either at or approaching retirement,” he said.
He also told the House the superannuation system is stronger than it was, and is proud to have been a part of a government that “…sees the importance of delivering and improving financial advice”.
He has also referenced his support for the banning of genetic testing for access to life insurance.
“I say this in front of the Prime Minister: this is Labor government policy, and we will ensure that this is legislated.”
Click here to read the full speech.
See our report: Feedback Wanted on Genetic Test Ban
