Bill Shorten calls for tougher superannuation laws

No doubt you’ve heard plenty of talk about the government’s proposed changes to superannuation laws.

Well, now the Opposition has had their say – and they’re calling for the changes to go even further.

Opposition Leader Bill Shorten has told the Australian Financial Review the government’s proposed changes don’t go far enough and won’t deliver “substantial budget repair”.

Labor is pushing for the government to adopt three extra changes to proposed superannuation laws.

So, what is the government proposing?

Well, the government is proposing to impose a yearly cap of $100,000 on non-concessional (also known as after tax) contributions.

It’s also proposing a $1.6 million cap on super retirement accounts.

What about Labor?

Well, Labor wants to yearly cap to be dropped to $75,000 and is calling for super contributions to be taxed at 30% if they go over the income threshold of $200,000 (the current threshold is $300,000).

The Australian Financial Review is also proposing the government dump tax deduction for personal superannuation contributions for people under 75 using certain funds.

Meanwhile, Kelly O’Dwyer accused Labor of having more positions on superannuation than Karma Sutra.

“We’ve got a superannuation package that is fair and stable,” she said in a press conference earlier today.

So, what’s next?

Well, the government plans on introducing their proposed changes to parliament the week after next and hopes to pass the laws by December 1.

The Australian Financial Review reports that Labor is will support the government’s proposed changes, even if they don’t take any of Labor’s ideas on board.

“We won’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good,” shadow treasurer Chris Bowen said.

It’s being reported that if the government doesn’t take any of Labor’s suggestions on board, the changes will form part of Labor’s policy at the next election.