I am FURIOUS

Hi Scott,

I am FURIOUS.I study full time (business at UTS) and work round the clock in real estate to support myself, while all my uni friends bludge off the Government. Last year I earned $48,000, and to my absolute disgust my accountant tells me I’ll be up for HECS even though I am still studying! This is wrong on so many levels. You should do something about this.

Sarah

Hi Sarah,

As Tony Jones says on Q&A, “I’ll take that as a comment”.

What old stubby-fingers your accountant was telling you is true. The Government has reduced the amount you need to earn to start repaying your HECS debt to $45,881, regardless of whether you are still studying.

Is that unfair?

I don’t think so. Your HECS debt is effectively an interest-free loan, tied to the general rate of inflation. So it’s a lot better than the massive student debts that burden students in America.

My advice?

Don’t be furious, and quit comparing yourself to your friends: it’s a recipe for unhappiness.

Besides, paying tax is a good thing: it means you’re earning money. And the more money you make, the quicker you’ll get rid of your HECS debt!

Scott