South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas has faced criticism following his comments directed at One Nation voters questioning how elderly citizens would be cared for in light of population growth concerns. His remark, which asked rhetorically, 'Who's going to feed you and bathe you and wipe your bum when you're 90?', was made during a discussion on the future of the state's economy and the significance of skilled migration. Critics argued that the comments were insensitive and not reflective of the nuanced discussion that surrounds the issue of aged care and migration in the region.

A government spokesperson has defended the Premier’s comments, clarifying that they were taken out of context. They emphasized that Mr. Malinauskas was engaging in a thoughtful discourse about the economic implications of population growth and skilled migration, essential for sustaining the aged care workforce and other sectors in South Australia. The spokesperson urged the public to consider the broader context of the remarks and the need for community conversations about these pressing issues.

This incident underscores the delicate balance that political leaders must maintain when addressing sensitive topics such as aged care and population dynamics. With ongoing debates about immigration and workforce sustainability, the Premier’s comments highlight the complexities of addressing public concerns while also advocating for policies that support economic growth and care for an aging population. As South Australia navigates these challenges, public dialogue will remain crucial to ensure that all perspectives are acknowledged and considered in policymaking.