The Government's 2014 budget is touted as family-friendly.

However, it did little to help the poor or address growing inequality in this country.
I attended university for 10 years, have two Masters degrees and four professional qualifications. I'm at the peak of my wisdom, knowledge, skills and experience in teaching, writing and administration.

I'm physically fit, mentally alert, with seasoned perspective and maturity. But despite scores of applications, I can't get a full-time job. Could the reason be I'm over 60? The Australian Government is giving a $10,000 per year subsidy for businesses which employ people over 50. Perhaps that's what we need here. My peers testify to a similar level of rejection on the job front. Anti-discrimination legislation doesn't work in our case. Ageism is rampant in the workplace.

In the last financial year, by cobbling together a range of casual and adhoc income streams, I managed to earn $20,000, from which $3000 tax was deducted. A mere $17,000 in our society, is simply not enough to survive on.

Such a low income imposes limitations seldom appreciated by those well-off. I'm in debt. I'm unable to properly maintain my car, house or section. I can't afford to visit the doctor or dentist, or engage professionals.

I'm not unique – some are equally limited or worse off. Poverty is increasing. I know senior citizens who are destitute.

It's therefore mystifying and perplexing our government mostly continues to give the same benefits and subsidies to rich as it does to poor. The rich don't need them.
The poor do. Most are in the position through no fault of their own.

They work hard (if given the opportunity) but simply don't earn enough to manage.
The ‘Closing the Gaps' campaign highlights an issue becoming more and more cogent. If not addressed repercussions will eventually be destructive.

I hope some in the corridors of power are beginning to listen.

P Donnell, Tauranga City.