STATUTES AMENDMENT (COMMUTATION FOR SUPERANNUATION SURCHARGE) BILL

 Adjourned debate on second reading.

The Hon. M.J. ELLIOTT: I rise on behalf of the Democrats to indicate our support for the Bill. As the previous speaker stated, it does not increase benefits in any way but does give the capacity to meet the surcharge as it arises, which makes more sense to me than any explanation I have heard about how the surcharge works. Having sat through some briefings, I must say that I left even more mystified and thought that for the first time in my life I might have to use an accountant—something I have tried to keep away from, just as I have tried to keep away from lawyers. This might still enable me to keep away from accountants, which would be a blessing. I also note that the unions representing the various people in the public sector who are affected by this change are all supportive.

The Hon. R.I. LUCAS (Treasurer): I thank members for their indications of support. As the Hon. Mr Elliott concluded in his succinct second reading contribution, this is not a provision which applies only to members of Parliament: it does apply to public sector unions or public servants generally. The unions representing those employees support this provision. Members of Parliament are being treated equally with members of those public sector unions.

Bill read a second time and taken through its remaining stages.