I move:

That this bill be now read a second time.

This bill will increase the Medicare levy low-income thresholds for individuals and families in line with increases in the consumer price index. The low-income threshold in the Medicare levy surcharge provisions will similarly be increased. These changes will ensure that low-income individuals and families will continue not to have to pay the Medicare levy or surcharge.

The bill will also increase the Medicare levy low-income threshold for pensioners below age pension age to ensure that, where these pensioners do not have a tax liability, they will also not have a Medicare levy liability.

The amendments will apply to the 2005-06 year of income and later years of income.

Full details of the measures in this bill are contained in the explanatory memorandum. I commend the bill to the House.

Debate (on motion by Mr Griffin) adjourned.