Deputy Liberal leader Jane Hume said the Coalition would consider allowing Australians earlier access to their superannuation savings, after Pauline Hanson called for the rules to be relaxed to help workers in financial distress. Hume said the proposal had not yet reached the Coalition's shadow cabinet but would be part of the normal policy consideration process.
Hume said superannuation remained highly valued by Australians but was intended for retirement rather than working life. She cited the Productivity Commission report, saying Australians believed the current system was unfair and cost more than originally projected.
A major Australian bank reported rising levels of loans flagged for monitoring, reflecting current and potential financial strain among customers. The bank's profits increased despite the signs of household stress.
