Is the Albanese Government About to Rob the Elderly in the Name of 'Fairness'

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.

He ranks as one of the world's Top 10 influencers in data visualisation. If you can't get enough of the kind of data that explains how the world works, make sure to follow Simon on Linked In or X (formerly Twitter) or any of his other social channels.

Click here for a media enquiry or if you would like to book Simon Kuestenmacher for a speaking engagement. His presentations and quirky observations are enjoyed by audiences from the financial services, property, government, education, technology, retail and professional services industries, among others.

About Michael Yardney

Michael Yardney - founder Metropole Property Strategists has been voted one of Australia's 50 most influential Thought Leaders

While he is best known as a property expert, Michael is also Australia's leading expert in the psychology of success and wealth creation.

Michael is a #1 best selling author of 9 books and frequently challenges traditional finance advice with innovative ideas on property investment, personal finance and wealth creation.

Follow Michael on Linked In or Instagram

Are you interested in property investment - let the team at Metropole build you a Strategic Property Plan to help give you clarity, direction and wealth - producing results.

Join Michael and Simon at Wealth Retreat 2026, where Australia's most ambitious investors and businesspeople gather to think bigger, invest smarter, and build intergenerational wealth. MAY 30th – JUNE 4th 2026 – find out more here: http://www.wealthretreat.com.au/