Labor hints at 'big' cost of living measures in upcoming federal budget

Staying afloat amidst the rising tide of expenses can be daunting, especially for those grappling with the ever-increasing cost of living.

But there's a beacon of hope on the horizon with the Australian government's promise of a 'massive' package to ease the financial burden.



Education Minister Jason Clare recently hinted at a comprehensive package coming in May, which intends to put more money back into the pockets of Australians.

Mr Clare emphasised the gravity of this issue, stating, 'The big issue for all Aussies, whether they are in Dunkley or around the country, is the cost of living.'

'That’s what's on everybody’s mind. Whether they’re paying bills at the supermarket or paying down their mortgage.'


shutterstock_269108219.jpg
Labor’s upcoming budget plans may potentially help alleviate the financial burden on many Australians. Image source: Shutterstock.


'The tax cuts will help with that, inflation going down will help with that, wages going up will help with that. But we’re very conscious that's the biggest issue Aussies face right now.'

'It’ll be a big part of the budget. That is the biggest issue in the country at the moment, it’s what all Australians are focused on, and it’s what we’re focused on as well.'



The concern is palpable across the nation as data from the Australia Bureau of Statistics revealed that food prices increased by 8 per cent, travel and accommodation escalated by 25 per cent, and household electricity bills soared by a sharp 15.5 per cent over the past year.

Thankfully, the latest Consumer Prices Index (CPI) data indicated a pause in the relentless inflation climb, holding steady at a 3.4 per cent increase in January from the year prior.

This plateau brought a hint of encouragement as it suggested that the rate of price rises has momentarily ceased its acceleration.



The upcoming federal budget aims to build on these small glimpses of economic breathing space.

Part of the plan may include revamping the current stage 3 income tax cuts scheduled for July.

These tax cuts could potentially help alleviate the pressure many face from recurring household expenses.

Meanwhile, Opposition finance spokeswoman Jane Hume has also indicated that the Coalition is also in the midst of crafting its own cost-of-living strategies.

'We all want to see inflation come back to band. But the problem is it’s staying higher for longer because of the decisions this government is making,' Ms Hume said.

'Watch this space,' she added.
Key Takeaways
  • Education Minister Jason Clare has hinted a significant cost-of-living package will be included in the May federal budget as Australians grapple with rising expenses.
  • The government acknowledges the cost of living as a central concern for Australians and aims to address it with various measures, including tax cuts and monitoring inflation.
  • Food prices, travel and accommodation, and electricity bills have surged significantly, putting additional pressure on households.
  • The Labor government is considering additional relief measures, such as changing university tuition indexation, while the opposition finance spokeswoman Jane Hume indicated the Coalition is developing its own cost-of-living policies.
What are your thoughts on this latest news? Share them with us in the comments below.
 
Sponsored
15.5%increase on electricity ....try 200%....I went from $230 to $ 800+ I keep reading about these figures, same with food from$100 pw to$160...where is the 10 -15%from?...if businesses are using electricity who is paying for their overheads..us ..Aust is one of the most expensive places on earth with the worlds highest wages when will we learn that if wages reach a million dollars a week ...the price of bread will be in line with a million dollars...we really are always looking for someone to blame ...well blame us ...we are stupid!!
There are many other additional costs apart from wages, such as rent, energy. Business keep whinging about wages, but say nothing about other cost increases. How much has insurance increased? The sky is always going to fall in with a wage increase but so far never has.
Time to stop the furphy about wage increases. Where is the evidence we have the highest wages? Iceland, Switzerland and the US among others have higher wages than Australia. We do not make the top 5.
 
Last edited:
They talk about Cost of living expenses like its nothing to worry about. They talk about tax cuts, but they don't help pensioners. They give us a whopping $29.20 for married customers, where that will do nothing to alleviate the cost living for us. So Labor what are you doing for pensioners in the May Budget, I bet, Nothing
Ya can bet your bottom $ that he is behind the cashless society..... 'Don't want to rock to the boat'....... 'Play the game"... as it goes
 
  • Like
Reactions: ARL
Spell check
Yes you guys need spell check,
LABOR is the Americanised english word.
LABOUR is the way the rest of the ENGLISH SPEAKING WORLD SPELL IT.
Don't believe, check it out on Google.
Proper way to spell =Labor or Labour.
Problem solved We are in Aussie and speak the KINGS ENGLISH !!! ✅🔤
 

Labor hints at 'big' cost of living measures in upcoming federal budget​

The joke of the year, I'm rolling on the floor beside myself......$10.76 a fortnight or $5.38 a week.. last of the big spenders... I think I'll take an extra breath of air. LOL
What in ch**** name will $5.36 get you the way everything is going up in price.
 

Join the conversation

News, deals, games, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.

Seniors Discount Club

The SDC searches for the best deals, discounts, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.
  1. New members
  2. Jokes & fun
  3. Photography
  4. Nostalgia / Yesterday's Australia
  5. Food and Lifestyle
  6. Money Saving Hacks
  7. Offtopic / Everything else

Latest Articles

  • We believe that retirement should be a time to relax and enjoy life, not worry about money. That's why we're here to help our members make the most of their retirement years. If you're over 60 and looking for ways to save money, connect with others, and have a laugh, we’d love to have you aboard.
  • Advertise with us

User Menu

Enjoyed Reading our Story?

  • Share this forum to your loved ones.
Change Weather Postcode×
Change Petrol Postcode×