Killing a golden goose THE AGE | A piece of broker research came out last week that described the budget as a sensible one but an almost suicidal one for a government four months out from an election. Instead of trying to buy votes, it seemed intent instead on putting as many noses out of joint as it possibly could.
22nd May
Tinkering undermines the system THE AGE | In last week's budget, the government missed what will probably be its last opportunity to make the superannuation system fairer and more sustainable. While the government made some tough decisions, such as reneging on promised tax cuts, one of the fastest-growing expenses is the tax concessions for superannuation.
The mother of all super shortfalls THE AGE | Last week's budget was a bit of aho-hum affair on many levels related to superannuation, because most of the changes to the system had been announced back in April. The transfer of the Baby Bonus into an extra (reduced) payment for families eligible for Family Tax Benefit Part A, has drawn the light fairly and squarely on the costs of bearing and raising children. The recent debate about the opposition's Paid Parental Scheme versus the government's less-generous scheme has added fuel to the fire.
22nd May
Tradies call for rescue after builder collapse THE AGE | Tradies caught out by the collapse of National Buildplan Group have called for a financial "rescue" package and an investigation into the failure of the company.
22nd May
Deal close on Amcor site THE AGE | Amcor may be a step closer to selling its redundant Alphington factory after community groups moved to support proposed planning changes for the site.
22nd May
Gold Coast, western Sydney offer clue to banking outlook THE AGE | Investor confidence in Australian retail banks stands at a record high. The market capitalisations of Commonwealth Bank and Westpac have charged past $100 billion and the big four are ranked among the world's top 11 by market capitalisation.
