MEDIA RELEASE - OVER 1,000 PENSIONERS IN GREENWAY FACE PENSION CUT ON NEW YEAR’S DAY - 13 DECEMBER 2016

13 December 2016

Michelle Rowland MP, Federal Member for Greenway, has expressed her deep concern that approximately 1,370 local pensioners will face significant cuts to their pension from New Year’s Day because of cuts made by the Turnbull Government and the Greens. 

Around 980 Greenway pensioners will see an average cut to their pension of $134 a fortnight.

A further 390 local pensioners will lose their pension entirely, leaving them on average worse off by $179 a fortnight.

Ms Rowland said Malcolm Turnbull is the Grinch who Stole Christmas for local pensioners.

“Pensioners and families already face huge financial pressures this holiday season and the last thing they need is a cut to their pension,” Ms Rowland said.  

“Labor voted against this cut to pensioners in the Parliament and we will continue to fight for a fair go for pensioners.

“This is exactly what I warned would happen under a Liberal Government during the election campaign.

“Cutting the pension shows how out of touch Malcolm Turnbull really is. 

“They are taking money off pensioners at Christmas while trying to give a $50 billion handout to big business and the banks.

“My office has already been approached by many locals who have received a letter on this matter. If you contact my office on (02) 9671 4780, or via email at [email protected], I will make representations to the Minister for Social Services about this dreadful decision on your behalf,” Ms Rowland said.