In an effort to quell ongoing discontent following recent changes to fire services, the Victorian government has assured residents that the upcoming state budget will not introduce any new or increased taxes. Treasurer Jaclyn Symes is expected to confirm this during the budget announcement.
A significant focus of the budget is health, with reports indicating that an unprecedented $11.1 billion will be allocated to the health sector, including a substantial $9.3 billion earmarked for hospitals. This investment aims to provide health services with greater stability for future planning.
Ahead of the budget release, the government has also disclosed plans for free public transport for children starting next year, as part of their strategy to offer meaningful support in the face of rising living costs. Premier Jacinta Allan promised “real help, right now” for residents managing these challenges.
Initially predicted to generate a surplus of $1.5 billion, the budget’s surplus has now been revised down to $600 million. Symes has defended this decision, suggesting that the government prioritised backing Victorians over simply increasing surplus figures.
The opposition has been critical, with Shadow Treasurer James Newbury advising citizens to be sceptical of government claims, arguing that residents are facing higher taxes while receiving fewer services. Besides the previously announced adjustments to fire services and congestion levies, Symes has reiterated that there will be no alterations to current tax settings.
Despite the large expenditures outlined in pre-budget announcements, the government has been somewhat reticent about potential cuts necessary to balance the budget. While highlighting the importance of “responsible decisions,” both Symes and Allan acknowledged that there will be a reduction in public service staff; however, specifics on the number of cuts and the anticipated financial savings remain vague.
Symes expressed confidence in the budget’s overall balance, noting the challenges of attempting to please everyone with government policies.