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Chalmers Slams One Nation’s Super Rate Cut Proposal

9/8/2026

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Summary

Hanson Proposes SuperShift

One Nation leader Senator Pauline Hanson proposed letting workers shift part of their superannuation to pay.
The proposal would lower compulsory super contributions from 12% to 9% for up to three years.
Treasurer Jim Chalmers called it a full-frontal attack on retirement savings, warning tens of thousands could lose savings.
National MP Barnaby Joyce defended the scheme, saying Australians should choose to divert super during financial hardship.

Summary

One Nation Wins

One Nation captured the safe Labor seat of Secret Harbour with an 18.7% swing in the by-election.
New member Luke Herdegen pledged weekly door-knocking, school visits and mobile electorate offices.
Labor announced a plan to increase rental supply in Mandurah to address local housing concerns.
Senior Liberal warned One Nation is “opposition in waiting,” hinting at possible coalition talks before Victoria’s election.

History

Historical Context

In 1992 the Keating government introduced the Superannuation Guarantee, mandating a 3% employer contribution that rose to 9.5% by 2021. The scheme made Australia the fourth-largest holder of pension assets, with AU$3.3 trillion in June 2022. Pauline Hanson and Barnaby Joyce now seek to cut contributions, while Treasurer Jim Chalmers warns it could erase billions from retirees’ balances.

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Hanson Proposes SuperShift

One Nation leader Senator Pauline Hanson proposed letting workers shift part of their superannuation to pay.
The proposal would lower compulsory super contributions from 12% to 9% for up to three years.
Treasurer Jim Chalmers called it a full-frontal attack on retirement savings, warning tens of thousands could lose savings.
National MP Barnaby Joyce defended the scheme, saying Australians should choose to divert super during financial hardship.

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