Mr SAWFORD —My question is addressed to the Minister for Family Services. My question concerns the proposed removal of the means test exemption for superannuation assets for those aged over 55 now receiving carers pensions, disability support pensions, or the mature age allowance. Is it the government's intention that a man in his late 50s with no other financial assets who is forced to leave work to care for his sick wife will now have his carers pension reduced simply because he is just over the $30,000-mark in a superannuation fund?

Mrs MOYLAN —I cannot verify whether that calculation is correct or incorrect in that specific case. But I am happy to take the member's question on notice and come back to him with an answer.