Politics
Federal
We asked these Australians what they thought of the budget. This is what they told us
We spoke to people about their thoughts and concerns ahead of, and immediately after, the budget. Here’s what they had to say.
- by Olivia Ireland, Josefine Ganko, Jessica McSweeney, Jim Malo, Alex Crowe, Megan Gorrey and Cara Waters
Latest
Opinion
Federal budget
This budget will make us better off now, worse off later
It seems the top priority of Anthony Albanese’s government is not to have any priorities.
- by Ross Gittins
Live
Federal budget
Budget 2024 LIVE updates: Treasurer reveals $3.5b energy subsidy plan to fight inflation
Treasurer Jim Chalmers is delivering his third federal budget. Tune in for rolling coverage, including live updates from the treasurer’s address and all the analysis from our team of experts.
- by Josefine Ganko
The budget explained in seven charts
The government is attempting to tiptoe a tricky path out of strife. Here are seven charts that break everything down.
- by Josh Gordon and Craig Butt
Perspective
Federal budget
Billions of dollars to bolster SEQ, but migration and Olympics loom large
The Albanese government underestimated how many Australians would move to Qld and will now face criticism that it has short-changed the state.
- by Sean Parnell
Analysis
Federal budget
Is this the budget we needed? Our experts deliver their verdicts
Jim Chalmers’ third budget sought to strike a balance between inflation and cost of living. Here’s what our experts thought.
- by David Crowe, Shane Wright, Jacqueline Maley, Peter Hartcher and Ross Gittins
Labor backs compulsory fee payment to student unions
The government is mandating universities pass on 40 per cent of student amenities fees to student unions.
- by Angus Thompson and Natassia Chrysanthos
Small businesses get cost relief amid renewables push
The budget includes tax incentives for critical minerals and green hydrogen, and cost relief for small businesses, including an energy rebate and an extension of the instant asset write-off scheme.
- by Millie Muroi
Editorial
Federal budget
Chalmers is often compared to Keating but all three budgets have lacked ambition
It is time for Chalmers to rise to the challenge and outline a reform vision.
- The Herald's View
Victoria’s GST windfall could be short-lived
While billions of dollars will flow to infrastructure projects and bulk-billing clinics, the state’s GST take remains the same.
- by Annika Smethurst
The Minns government’s worst budget fears have been realised
The Albanese government’s budget has delivered a $1.9 billion blow to NSW, putting the state’s finances under further pressure.
- by Alexandra Smith