BSL welcomes a fairer tax system and a more sustainable revenue base for Australia

The Brotherhood of St. Laurence (BSL) welcomes the likely passage of the Federal Government’s tax reform legislation, describing it as an important step toward a fairer and more sustainable tax and transfer system.

The changes are long-overdue, especially to negative gearing and capital gains tax. BSL also supports amendments that have strengthened the integrity of the reforms and how they will operate in practice - such as closing loopholes in superannuation investment. 

BSL Executive Director Dr Travers McLeod said the changes will ensure income earned through investments and income earned through work are taxed more consistently - an important step towards a more equal Australia where everyone has the opportunity to plan, build and live the lives to which they aspire. 

  “These reforms are about fairness, addressing inequality, access to housing, and about building a more predictable and sustainable revenue base,” McLeod said. 

“That revenue underpins the services Australians rely on every day from healthcare and education to income support, housing, and aged care.” 

BSL noted successive Treasury Intergenerational Reports have highlighted the growing fiscal pressures associated with an ageing population, rising demand for care services, and the costs associated with climate change. 

“Without reform, the tax system would continue to lean too heavily on income from work and grow inequality. That is neither fair nor sustainable.” 

“It’s impossible to have a national agenda and strategy on growing equity and reducing poverty across Australia without comprehensive tax reform.” 

“We commend the federal government for making this a priority at a time of global uncertainty.”

Media contact:
Bridie Riordan
BSL Media & Communications Manager
media@bsl.org.au
0419 159 256