Imagine being told that after a lifetime of working hard, paying taxes, saving diligently, and raising a family, you've somehow become part of Australia's problem.

 

That your success – owning a home, saving in superannuation, or simply living longer – is now evidence of "intergenerational unfairness."

 

That's the message emerging from the Albanese government's latest policy buzzword – the so-called "intergenerational lens."

 

But is this really about fairness… or about finding new ways to tax those who've worked, saved, and contributed for decades?

 

In this episode of Demographics Decoded, leading demographer Simon Kuestenmacher and I unpack what "intergenerational equity" actually means — and whether this new policy approach is based on sound data or simply political theatre.

 

If you care about Australia's economic future, housing affordability, and intergenerational trust, this episode is essential listening.

 

Takeaways 

 

·         Intergenerational equity is a complex issue that requires careful measurement.

·         Older Australians may not necessarily be better off than younger generations.

·         Housing market dynamics significantly impact intergenerational wealth.

·         Government policies can inadvertently favor property owners over first home buyers.

·         Superannuation was designed to reduce reliance on the pension system.

·         Generational envy can lead to political distractions and ineffective policies.

·         Real fairness comes from growing the economy, not shifting wealth between generations.

·         Younger generations need to feel positive about their economic prospects.

·         Taxing mining wealth could provide a solution for funding intergenerational fairness.

·         Cooperation between generations is essential for Australia's prosperity.

 

Chapters 

 

00:10 – What "Intergenerational Fairness" Really Means 

03:11 – How Governments Measure Equity Across Age Groups 

06:19 – Income, Wealth and Why Generational Comparisons Mislead 

10:32 – Housing Affordability, Envy Narratives and Asset Gaps 

15:13 – First-Home Buyer Policies, Superannuation and Tax Debates 

21:47 – Real Solutions: Productivity, Migration and Avoiding Generational Conflict

 

About Simon Kuestenmacher

 

Simon Kuestenmacher  is co-founder and Director – The Demographics Group

 

Simon is a prolific media commentator on demographic and data matters and a columnist for The New Daily and The Australian newspapers.  

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