Budget housing measures good for older Territorians
Older Territorians have welcomed the Henderson government’s budget, especially its housing measures. These include an $8,500 stamp duty concession for seniors and the building of three new seniors’ villages.
Commenting on the Northern Territory budget announcement, National Seniors territory policy group chair, Margaret Borger, said this was excellent news.
“National Seniors has long been calling for a reduction in stamp duty for seniors. Hopefully the $8,500 concession will be a first step to the abolition of stamp duty for seniors who want to downsize their home.
“Two out of three people will move house between the ages of 55 and 75, many because they want to downsize to a smaller property that is easier to maintain. Stamp duty can be a real obstacle that forces older Territorians to remain in homes that are too large for them to look after.”
“We are pleased that the government has also recognised that not all seniors own their own home. The building of three new seniors’ villages will help meet the needs of the Territory’s ageing population,” said Ms Borger.
National Seniors also welcomed the health investment announced in the budget.
“Seniors spend more money on healthcare, have higher hospitalisation rates and are more likely to have long-term health conditions than other groups, so we welcome the moves to increase the number of nurses and provide a 24-hour mental health line.”
“The proposed investment in infrastructure will also create employment opportunities for older Territorians,” said Ms Borger.
