“Pensioners are effectively taxed at 70 per cent because after they reach the threshold, they lose 50c in every dollar and then have to pay 20 per cent tax on whatever is left,” he said.
“It is ridiculous, the whole system needs an overhaul.
“We’re in such a tight job market with everyone looking for staff and I know there’s a lot of pensioners out there that would like to help but are hamstrung; whether this will help enough, I’m not sure.”
A Cumberland VIEW Club spokesperson says whatever can be done to help pensioners and veterans is a good move.
“Otherwise how will they cope with the rising costs of rent, food and power,” she said.
“It is so incredibly difficult at the moment.”
Greater Cumberland Chamber of Commerce President Immanuel Selvaraj has also praised the initiative.
“This will surely help boost staffing especially in the retail and hospitality sector,” he said.
“Younger people are preferring more independence and working behind the keyboard [at home].
“So this provides a great opportunity for older Australians to continue working and be productive while alleviating the severe staffing shortages we are currently facing.”
