The figures quoted tonight regarding the impact of the GST on boarding house rents were incorrect.
The final report by Econtech showed only minimal difference between the concessional GST treatment of boarding house rents and input taxing such rents in the short-term.
In the long-term the study found that boarding house rents subject to concessional GST treatment were substantially lower than those input taxed.
It should be noted this is not Government modelling, but independent modelling by Econtech.
Econtechs results were as follows:
Estimated percentage increase in rents
Short-term Long-term
Boarding Houses 4.0 1.5
Concessional GST
Boarding Houses 3.6 3.1
Input taxed
The short-term results are broadly similar, particularly given they are only indicative estimates.
In addition, the long-term savings may flow through sooner than assumed by Econtech. A new entrant to the boarding house market or an existing supplier providing services with new buildings or furnishings after tax reform would be able to operate at a lower cost. This competitive pressure would lower all rents.
Increases in rents will be more than compensated through both increased pensions and higher rent assistance.