Rudd Government Tackling Long-Term Challenges
Date: 02 February 2010
RUDD GOVERNMENT TACKLING LONG-TERM CHALLENGES
The Intergenerational Report released by the Treasurer outlines the big challenges facing Hindmarsh and Australia over the next 40 years, Hindmarsh MP Steve Georganas said.
Steve Georganas said the report, Australia to 2050: Future Challenges, details important issues like an ageing population, escalating pressures on the health system, and the environmental and economic challenges of climate change.
“These things will put a lot of pressure on our economy, on living standards here in Hindmarsh and the federal budget over the next 40 years.
“As one of the oldest electorates in the country, families here in Hindmarsh know that we have a big job on our hands to ensure we are well prepared for the challenges and opportunities our ageing population present.
“That’s why it’s so important that we start to tackle these challenges now – the longer we leave it the more difficult it will get.
“The proportion of Australia’s population aged 65 and over is projected to almost double over the next 40 years.
“Today there are 5 working-aged people for every person aged 65 and over but by 2050 this will be almost cut in half – down to only 2.7 people.”
Steve Georganas said the best way to deal with these challenges was to boost our economic productivity by working smarter and being more efficient.
“That’s why the Rudd Government is investing now in vital infrastructure like the Adelaide to Glenelg Pipeline, the National Broadband Network, skills and training, the Education Revolution and cutting business red tape.
“Every local school hall we're building, and every local infrastructure project, like the one at Henley Beach Primary School are a down payment on a more productive Australia and will help tackle some of the challenges this report highlights.
“The steps we take now to boost workforce participation and provide incentives and reward for those Australians who choose to remain in the workforce in their later years are critical.
“The decisions taken now and in the next few years will be crucial to the economic prospects and living standards of future generations.
“That’s why the Rudd Government is determined to tackle the big future challenges, so we can leave a stronger, fairer and healthier Australia to future generations.”
