Intergenerational Report highlights need for fair reform that leaves no one behind
The Brotherhood of St. Laurence (BSL) urges the Australian Government to focus on people experiencing disadvantage so they are not left behind as our country navigates a more uncertain future.
The Australian Intergenerational Report (IGR) has confirmed the significant transformations society faces over the coming decades, including:
- slower population growth
- an ageing population
- increasing demand for aged care, health and disability supports
- growing fiscal pressures
- the escalating impacts of climate change, and
- the unfolding impacts of artificial intelligence (AI).
The IGR makes clear that without ongoing reform, these transformations will intensify concerns about intergenerational equity and risk eroding Australia’s strong democratic and social cohesion as well as economic security. However, the IGR also identifies key actions underway to address these challenges.
BSL Executive Director Dr. Travers McLeod said the IGR highlighted the vital importance of policy decisions that build a fairer and more inclusive Australia.
"There is enormous opportunity amid the challenges Australia faces over the coming decades. It is essential we help to improve the lives of all Australians, especially those experiencing poverty and disadvantage, as we manage these transitions and ensure Australia is fit for the future,” Dr McLeod said.
“Younger Australians and people experiencing poverty need to see a pathway forward, be supported through these changes, and share fulsomely in the benefits.
“As more people need support, including in aged care and disability services, the focus must be on building sustainable systems that uphold dignity, inclusion and opportunity. There is an opportunity to build and sustain the care workforce our ageing population will need while also providing the jobs of the future, meaningful careers and the economic prosperity that we all hope for.”
The IGR also reinforces the need to address climate change as an economic opportunity and an environmental and social imperative. Dr McLeod observed low-income households were the least able to absorb rising energy costs and other impacts of climate change.
"Any equitable response to climate change and the renewable energy transition must ensure those doing it toughest are not further disadvantaged,” he said.
The long-term spending pressures identified should also prompt a renewed conversation about how Australia raises the revenue needed to promote fairness, fund essential services and support future generations.
"If we want strong public services, a robust safety net and the investments needed to prepare Australia for the future, we must have an ongoing conversation about revenue and tax reform."
"The tax system should support both economic prosperity and social fairness. People on the lowest incomes should not bear the brunt of budget repair or decisions about how we fund future spending pressures."
BSL, alongside others in the community sector, is calling for a sustained conversation about tax reform that can reasonably fund the services Australians rely on while reducing inequality.
The IGR notes AI offers potential productivity and economic benefits, while also posing risks to jobs, data security, confidentiality and decision making. AI must be used to accelerate equity and better outcomes for all, not in a way that grows inequity and poverty.
The choices we make today about the structure of our economy, the place of care within it, climate, taxation and AI will shape the kind of Australia we live in and that future generations inherit. Fairness must be at the centre of those decisions.