Terrier56, I’m really don’t know what you mean by free government money.
This is about him getting a greater effective income from his stash, not hiding his money in order to get more pension. Franking credits are a strategy widely used by self-funded retirees, especially those over the age of 65. It’s no different to claiming the interest on an investment loan as a tax deduction. I had not previously been aware it may also be useful for part-pensioners. It may or may not be good government policy to allow this, but it’s perfectly legal and legitimate.
As far as inheritance goes, that is a rude accusation. I am helping a family member I care for. My primary motive is for my dad to be less depressed about his situation, and to have sufficient wealth and income to fund his future needs, including end of life care costs, which I think is the main (but unarticulated) reason he’s so keen to maintain his stash. I have told him repeatedly I don’t need his money, and have turned down offers of assistance in the quite recent past when he mistakenly thought we were poor.
He receives a lot less pension than many other households with double or higher net worth, because he lives in a simple house outside of the city. I don’t see this as fair, but I don’t moan about it, it’s just how the rules work.
If you don’t like the rules, try and influence public policy, advocate for your point of view to others, but please don’t question my motives.