Howard pushes baby bonus as Australia's birthrate hits record low
John Howard argues his baby bonus should be restored to reverse Australia's record-low fertility rate, but the Coalition has ruled it out.
Australia's fertility has fallen to a record low, prompting former prime minister John Howard to call for restoring his baby bonus policy. Howard said the $3,000 lump sum he introduced in 2004 helped lift the fertility rate and should never have been removed.
Liberal shadow treasurer Tim Wilson rejected reviving the bonus, saying he remains sceptical it would solve the problem. Former immigration minister Philip Ruddock also doubted it worked long-term, arguing people choose family size based on their circumstances.
Social researcher Mark McCrindle said tax benefits for couples in their twenties might help, though unaffordable housing is the real barrier. Surveys show Gen Z want children but delay them because they cannot afford homes.
The Federal Government is investing $17 billion this financial year in universal childcare subsidies. Hungary exempts women under 30 from income tax, and Singapore offers parental grants worth around $78,000 Australian dollars.
- $3,000 lump sum introduced in 2004
- Baby bonus amount
- $17 billion this financial year
- Childcare investment
Why it mattersAustralia's shrinking fertility rate affects future workforce size, tax revenue and aged-care costs, so how to reverse it is a serious policy question all parties are grappling with.
AustraliaThis shapes whether Australians will see tax changes to encourage family-building and how the government tackles an ageing population.
Corroborated by7news.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 4 h ago
