Reactions to Australian Budget

The Australian Budget, delivered by Treasurer Jim Chalmers in Parliament, has sparked a range of reactions.
Different stakeholders have expressed varying opinions on the budgetary measures, reflecting diverse perspectives on its effectiveness and implications.
Here are the assorted responses to Chalmers’ presentation of the Australian Budget, with no particular order:

Budget Fails Healthcare Needs

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has criticized the Federal Budget, stating it offers little relief for Australians struggling to afford essential healthcare. RACGP President Dr. Nicole Higgins expressed disappointment, noting that the budget neglects urgent healthcare funding needs and fails to address rising out-of-pocket costs.
“This budget has dropped the ball for Australians struggling to afford essential healthcare, and it’s a huge disappointment for GPs, practice teams, and our patients. The government took the first step to repair decades of devastating underfunding of Medicare and general practice care last year – now this work will stall,” said Dr. Higgins.
Dr. Higgins also highlighted the lack of support for rural and regional patients and those with chronic conditions, emphasizing the misaligned government priorities. The budget’s disregard for increasing Medicare rebates was specifically pointed out as a missed opportunity for providing cost-of-living relief.
Furthermore, Dr. Higgins criticized the budget’s failure to support the training of more GPs, noting only 10.5 per cent of medical students are choosing to specialize as GPs, which exacerbates the critical workforce shortage.
The RACGP calls for more government funding to support GP training, particularly in underserved areas.

Aged Care Reforms Stalled

Catholic Health Australia (CHA) has expressed deep disappointment over the federal government’s decision to delay essential aged care reforms, as outlined in the latest budget.
According to CHA, representing 350 Catholic not-for-profit aged care facilities, this delay jeopardizes quality care for older Australians both now and in the future.
CHA Director of Aged Care Policy, Laura Haylen, criticized the government’s inaction, stating, “It’s been six months since the Aged Care Taskforce delivered its recommendations and the government has not even responded to them.
The decision to neglect the Aged Care Taskforce recommendations in this budget is incredibly disappointing and frustrating.”
Haylen highlighted the urgent need for funding, particularly in regional and rural communities, to improve care facilities and models for Australia’s aging population. “With most facilities operating at a loss and many at risk of closure, we are running out of time to secure quality and sustainable aged care for our loved ones,” she said.
Despite the criticism, CHA supports the government’s move to fund significant wage rises for aged care staff and the deferral of the new Aged Care Act to July 2025, which aims to better prepare the legislation.
However, Haylen notes that much more is needed to address the immediate issues facing the sector, including waitlists for home care packages.

Budget Boosts Educational Equity

The Smith Family has praised the 2024 Federal Budget for its focus on enhancing educational opportunities for disadvantaged students through tertiary education reforms.
Doug Taylor, CEO of The Smith Family, emphasized the importance of the announced measures, stating, “With an estimated nine out of ten new jobs in the next decade requiring a post-school qualification, the measures announced will ensure that more students move from secondary school into post-school training and study.”
Taylor highlighted how the reforms would assist students by easing the transition to university or TAFE, supporting them during their studies with the new Prac Payment for student placements, and reducing the burden of student debt after graduation. He welcomed the introduction of 20,000 new fee-free TAFE places and $350 million for fee-free Uni Ready courses, which will aid students in preparing for and completing university studies.
The Smith Family also supports the budget’s commitment to addressing cost-of-living pressures, including rent assistance and energy bill rebates, which Taylor noted are crucial for the families they assist. “Easing the burden for these families will make it easier for them to support the education of their children,” Taylor said.
He also called for similar equity commitments in the National School Reform Agreement to extend the support to primary and secondary students.

Budget Lacks Housing Reform

National Shelter, representing low-income Australians, acknowledges the Federal Budget’s continued investment in social and affordable housing but calls for more ambitious reforms.
Emma Greenhalgh, CEO of National Shelter, commented, “The Commonwealth government has made significant investment towards solving the housing crisis since coming to office and this Budget builds on that investment by targeting initiatives to remove impediments to the construction of housing including training construction workers and funding enabling infrastructure.”
While welcoming the budget’s additional support measures, such as increased Commonwealth Rent Assistance and energy bill relief, Greenhalgh stressed the need for more substantial efforts to address poverty and cost-of-living issues for low-income households.
“We still need to see a more meaningful response to poverty and cost-of-living for low-income households by significantly increasing income support and allowances,” she said.
Greenhalgh also expressed concerns about the new National Agreement on Social Housing and Homelessness (NASHH), noting a lack of scaled investment to meet existing demand and a diversion of funds from housing maintenance to homelessness services.
She emphasized the necessity for structural reforms, including changes to tax concessions and a comprehensive National Housing and Homelessness Plan, to truly address the housing crisis.

Budget Backs Clean Future

The Climate Council has praised the 2024-25 Federal Budget for prioritizing investments in clean industries such as critical minerals, renewable hydrogen, and clean energy manufacturing, marking a significant shift towards a sustainable energy future for Australia.
Climate Council CEO Amanda McKenzie highlighted the budget’s commitment to moving away from fossil fuels, stating, “Gas and coal are not part of the budget’s vision for a Future Made in Australia, underlining that our next era of prosperity can be built on cleaner foundations.
This is an essential signal across our entire economy.
Building a renewable future and clean industrial base will deliver good jobs and greater prospects for Australians. This is critical to slash climate pollution and protect our kids’ future.”
Dr. Jennifer Rayner, Climate Council Head of Policy and Advocacy, emphasized the need for robust policies and bipartisan support to realize these goals. “To make these budget investments work, we now need two things: stronger policies to get all parts of our economy pulling in the same pollution-free direction, and clear bipartisan commitment to seize Australia’s clean energy potential,” she said.

Electrification Finance Boost

In a pivotal move toward universal home electrification, yesterday’s federal budget revealed substantial investments aimed at enhancing Australia’s clean energy capabilities.
Initiatives include clean energy manufacturing expansion, energy market reforms, and an upgrade of the national electrical skill base, as detailed by Rewiring Australia.
Dr. Saul Griffith, chief scientist and co-founder of Rewiring Australia, highlighted the necessity of these advancements.
“Australia needs to massively expand its pool of electricians and energy workers so they can install solar, storage and electric appliances on millions of homes and build renewable energy on the grid,” he explained. The government has pledged $91 million to speed up the development of a clean energy workforce, a step Dr. Griffith deemed “vital and overdue.”
Further economic and climate resilience is expected as the government commits $22.7 billion to fostering clean energy industries.
Dr. Griffith noted, “It makes sense to invest in Australian manufacturing in industries where we have a competitive advantage, like green minerals and metals.”
Dan Cass, executive director of Rewiring Australia, underscored the importance of a proposed low-cost loan scheme to enable Australians to switch from gas and petrol to more affordable solar energy, electric vehicles, and electric appliances.
“The next step on Australia’s journey to Net Zero is for the Australian government to create a low-cost loan scheme for the millions of Australians who cannot afford the up-front investment,” said Cass. He believes this approach is crucial for credible climate policy and enjoys wide-ranging support.
Cass also anticipates further advances in electrification, especially with a $27.7 million federal pledge to better integrate community energy resources into the grid.
This initiative aims to open up electricity markets to household competition, allowing families to generate, store, and sell their solar energy on par with large energy corporations.
“After this budget, we will continue to work with the government to bring households to the center of energy and climate policy,” Cass concluded.
This strategy is expected to significantly reduce energy bills and help households transition from fossil fuels to cleaner, solar-generated electricity.

Budget’s Housing Strategy Falls Short

Master Builders Australia CEO Denita Wawn has voiced concerns that tonight’s federal budget, while recognizing the need for a holistic approach to address the housing crisis, does not fully support the businesses essential for these developments.
Wawn pointed out that the budget acknowledges the necessity for a coordinated effort across multiple portfolios to effectively tackle the housing crisis but falls short in delivering the required business support.
“The Federal Budget has finally recognised the importance of a holistic, cross-portfolio approach to solving the housing crisis and made some inroads but has fallen short of supporting the businesses required to deliver on those projects,” Wawn stated.
She stressed the critical economic balance the budget attempts to maintain, noting that it includes steps toward boosting housing supply which are essential but insufficient on their own.
“To ensure the industry can build the 1.2 million new homes under the Housing Accord, Government Ministers must sing from the same hymn sheet and focus all efforts on boosting housing supply,” Wawn emphasized.
The complexity of the housing crisis, she noted, requires a unified approach involving skills, migration, infrastructure, industrial relations, defense, social services, and industry.
Master Builders research indicates that factors such as workforce shortages, industrial relations, and material costs are diminishing the impact of federal government housing funding.
“We must reduce the time it takes to build and minimize increasing construction cost blowouts in infrastructure, commercial and housing projects,” Wawn added.
On a positive note, the budget includes measures to alleviate some urgent supply issues, like extending housing programs and increasing funding for bond aggregator financing, along with efforts to expand student housing. Wawn welcomed the $1.5 billion per year per apprentice incentive for Group Training Organisations, which reflects the significant role these organizations play in training future builders.
However, Wawn expressed disappointment in the limited support for the 440,000+ small businesses in the construction industry crucial for sustaining employment.
“Overall, we have seen measures to support workers but very little for the businesses who are struggling to keep those very workers employed,” she remarked.
The budget also aims to enhance local manufacturing and ensure more reliable global supply chains, alongside improving safety standards in building through federal support.
Yet, Wawn called for a more substantial effort in addressing industrial relations issues that hinder housing construction.
Master Builders Australia now urges the Federal Government to introduce a specialized regulator to address increasing disruptions and unlawful behavior on construction sites, which inflate costs and extend timelines significantly.

Budget Targets Construction Costs

In response to the federal budget released tonight, the Australian Constructors Association has emphasized the critical need to address rising infrastructure costs across the nation.
The budget allocates $10.1 billion specifically to manage cost increases in ongoing projects, signaling a shift in focus from initiating new projects.
Jon Davies, CEO of the Australian Constructors Association, expressed concern over the sustainability of current practices.
“We can’t afford to continue with business as usual; planning needs to be improved and construction costs need to be lowered to ensure the country can afford the infrastructure it needs,” he stated.
Davies advocates for the adoption of modern methods of construction (MMC), which he believes can transform project delivery by transferring more work to controlled factory settings.
This approach not only enhances productivity but also reduces site-based risks and improves work safety and flexibility.
“MMC has the potential to revolutionize project delivery,” Davies remarked.
He also highlighted MMC’s alignment with Australia’s net-zero emission goals, noting its capacity to decrease waste and lessen dependency on fossil fuels.
The CEO emphasized the government’s crucial role in fostering MMC adoption through optimized project designs and component standardization across various infrastructures.
He suggested that creating a viable market for MMC could involve matched investments and short-term demand underwriting by state and federal governments.
Davies concluded with a focus on the broader economic impact, suggesting that closing the productivity gap in construction could potentially boost the economy by $56 billion annually, providing substantial funding for essential services and infrastructure developments.
“Investing in MMC might not be as glamorous as quantum computing or solar farms, but it could transform Australia’s construction sector,” he said.

Budget Overlooks Student-Centered Training

The 2024 Federal Budget, while investing significantly to address workforce skills shortages, has missed a critical opportunity to center students in the skills training framework, according to the Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia (ITECA).
This organization represents independent skills training, higher education, and international education providers.
ITECA Chief Executive, Troy Williams, acknowledged the government’s investment but pointed out shortcomings in its approach.
“The Australian Government’s investment in skills training is broadly welcomed; however, more could have been done to put students at the heart of the skills training system,” Williams expressed.
He criticized the budget for its lack of focus on student needs, noting that the allocation does not sufficiently empower students to choose training providers that best meet their individual career and life goals.
“The problem with this budget is that skills funding isn’t student-centred. It fails to empower students with the opportunity to study with the provider that’s best able to help them achieve their life and career goals, whether that’s an independent training provider or a public TAFE college,” Williams stated.
The budget continues to support the National Skills Agreement, which facilitates collaboration between Australian, state, and territory governments to finance skills training for vital sectors.
ITECA also welcomed continued funding for Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA) and the introduction of ten new Jobs And Skills Councils (JSCs).
“Working together, JSA and the JSCs can take a considered approach to workforce planning to identify where future skills needs will be,” Williams said.
Despite these investments, ITECA remains committed to advocating for a training system that prioritizes student choice, supporting a model where government funding follows the student, whether they opt for an independent Registered Training Organisation (RTO) or a public TAFE college.
Williams highlighted the substantial role of independent RTOs, which cater to 89.4 percent of the 4.5 million students engaged in skills training, as per data from the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER).

Budget Overlooks Student-Centered Training

The 2024 Federal Budget, while investing significantly to address workforce skills shortages, has missed a critical opportunity to center students in the skills training framework, according to the Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia (ITECA).
This organization represents independent skills training, higher education, and international education providers.
ITECA Chief Executive, Troy Williams, acknowledged the government’s investment but pointed out shortcomings in its approach.
“The Australian Government’s investment in skills training is broadly welcomed; however, more could have been done to put students at the heart of the skills training system,” Williams said.
He criticized the budget for its lack of focus on student needs, noting that the allocation does not sufficiently empower students to choose training providers that best meet their individual career and life goals.
“The problem with this budget is that skills funding isn’t student-centred. It fails to empower students with the opportunity to study with the provider that’s best able to help them achieve their life and career goals, whether that’s an independent training provider or a public TAFE college,” Williams stated.
The budget continues to support the National Skills Agreement, which facilitates collaboration between Australian, state, and territory governments to finance skills training for vital sectors.
ITECA also welcomed continued funding for Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA) and the introduction of ten new Jobs And Skills Councils (JSCs).
Williams commented, “Working together, JSA and the JSCs can take a considered approach to workforce planning to identify where future skills needs will be.”
Despite these investments, ITECA remains committed to advocating for a training system that prioritizes student choice, supporting a model where government funding follows the student, whether they opt for an independent Registered Training Organisation (RTO) or a public TAFE college.
Williams highlighted the substantial role of independent RTOs, which cater to 89.4 percent of the 4.5 million students engaged in skills training, as per data from the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER).

Budget Begins University Reform

The National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) has acknowledged the federal budget as a preliminary step toward significant reform in the university sector, which is currently facing numerous challenges.
The federal government has committed $1.1 billion over the next five years to support the implementation of the Universities Accord’s recommendations. Dr. Alison Barnes, NTEU National President, emphasized the need for further investment to address the sector’s crises effectively.
“This budget must be the first step on the road to the major reforms needed to combat the explosion in insecure work, rampant wage theft, and a broken governance model,” Dr. Barnes stated.
She expressed a cautious optimism, noting that while the government seems to take the Universities Accord’s final report seriously, a more substantial effort is necessary to resolve the profound issues within higher education.
Dr. Barnes also stressed the importance of including staff in the decision-making process for what she considers essential reforms.
“Staff must have a seat at the table in overseeing what must be the most significant university reforms in a generation,” she said.
The union has been an active advocate for reducing student debt, and Dr. Barnes welcomed the budget’s initial steps toward addressing this issue.
However, she called for clarity on the government’s strategy regarding international student numbers and its implications for university funding.
“Already-stretched university staff simply can’t afford more funding cuts after a disastrous decade under the coalition,” Dr. Barnes remarked, highlighting the ongoing financial pressures on university personnel.
Looking ahead, the establishment of the Australian Tertiary Education Commission is seen as a potential positive development, but Dr. Barnes emphasized the need for genuine staff representation in this new body.
“The NTEU will ramp up its fight for better universities, which serve Australia’s best interests for generations to come,” she concluded, signaling the union’s continued commitment to advocating for substantial improvements in the sector.

CFMEU Supports Budget Measures

The Construction, Forestry, Maritime Employees Union (CFMEU) has endorsed new federal budget allocations aimed at supporting apprentices and women in the construction industry.
Under the budget, building and construction apprentices will receive $5,000 to assist in completing their training.
Employers will also receive a matching subsidy of $5,000 to help offset costs.
Additionally, the Building Women’s Careers program will invest $55.6 million over four years to create flexible, safe, and inclusive job opportunities for women in the construction sector.
CFMEU National Secretary Zach Smith highlighted the significance of these measures.
“Apprentice tradies are in a world of pain thanks to the cost-of-living crisis, so this extra help will mean fewer drop out because of the financial squeeze,” he stated.
Smith emphasized the critical role of increasing apprentice completion rates in addressing national challenges such as the housing crisis and the transition to renewable energy.
“While the CFMEU is at the forefront of helping more women find well-paid jobs in construction, a government scheme that assists our work is a really important step,” Smith added.
He acknowledged the challenges women face in the industry, particularly around flexibility and balancing work with caregiving responsibilities.
“Australia needs more women and young people in well-paid construction careers that help our nation build those major projects like housing, road and rail, renewables, and manufacturing,” he concluded.

AWU Praises Labor Budget

The Australian Workers’ Union (AWU) has expressed strong support for the Albanese Government’s second budget, heralding it as a significant boon for Australian workers both today and in the future.
AWU National Secretary Paul Farrow praised the budget’s orientation towards the needs of workers. “This forward-looking and compassionate Labor budget is a breath of fresh air compared to the sloppy, wasteful, and myopic budgets handed down by the previous government,” he stated.
Farrow emphasized that the budget prioritizes the immediate relief from the cost of living and invests in the long-term development of industries crucial for future generations.
“This is clearly a budget that has the interests of everyday working people as its main focus,” he said.
Highlighting the budget’s strategic initiatives, Farrow noted, “Australia has the resources and workforce to be a world leader in hydrogen, critical minerals, and green metals, but we won’t get there without the government, working with industry to build scale and ensure we aren’t left behind.”
The AWU has committed to collaborating with the government to ensure that the Future Made in Australia program results in safe, secure, and well-paid jobs, with strong labor standards integral to all related investments.
“This budget lays bare the differences between the Albanese Government and the Dutton Coalition. Where the government delivers compassion, vision, and ambition for Australian workers, the Coalition promises only a vacuum of negativity and a capitulation to the very worst instincts of vested corporate interests,” Farrow concluded, affirming the government’s commitment to significant national projects.

Budget Boosts Mum’s Super

The 2024 Federal Budget has launched a significant investment aimed at enhancing the financial security of Australian parents, particularly mothers, to help bridge the gender superannuation gap.
This comes in the form of a reform to pay superannuation on Government Paid Parental Leave starting next July, coupled with funding for anticipated pay increases in sectors predominantly staffed by women, such as childcare and aged care.
Super Members Council CEO Misha Schubert hailed the move as a major advancement. “The historic announcement to pay super on parental leave takes Australia another major stride closer to ending the financial motherhood penalty many women face when they have children,” she stated. This change is expected to increase the retirement savings of a mother-of-two by approximately $14,500, benefiting around 180,000 Australian families annually.
“It’s a watershed reform that will powerfully strengthen retirement savings for Australian mums and help to narrow the gender gap at retirement,” Schubert added.
The budget also addresses the low pay rates in feminized industries, a significant factor contributing to the gender super gap. With pay rises expected to result from upcoming Fair Work Commission decisions, these changes aim to reduce retirement savings disparity for women.
In preparation for the payday super reforms set to start on July 1, 2026, this year’s budget also allocates $60 million over four years to the Productivity, Education and Training Fund. This is designed to boost productivity and assist workplaces in adapting to new policies like payday super.
Additionally, the budget includes $290 million in cash flow support and $25 million to expedite payments for small businesses.
“Unpaid super costs workers $1,700 a year on average – and our modelling shows payday super reforms could add up to $36,000 to the retirement balances of the lowest 20 per cent of wage earners,” Schubert explained.
The new budget also injects $6.2 billion into social and affordable housing, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to improving financial and living conditions for Australians, aiming to facilitate more Australians owning their homes.

Budget Boosts Nursing Sector

The Australian College of Nursing (ACN) has applauded the Federal Budget’s focus on the nursing profession, recognizing the significant role nurses play in delivering quality healthcare across Australia.
Interim ACN CEO, Emeritus Professor Leanne Boyd, praised the budget for its comprehensive support for the nursing sector.
“This Budget contains measures that respect nursing and recognize the unique and valued role that nurses play across the health system in so many settings,” said Professor Boyd.
She highlighted the budget as a crucial part of the government’s health reform agenda, particularly the Unleashing the Potential of our Health Workforce-Scope of Practice Review.
“Nurses, Nurse Practitioners, and Midwives stand ready to work to their full scope of practice to complement a stressed and strained medical workforce,” Boyd added, emphasizing the potential for nurses to provide essential care, especially in underserved rural, remote, and regional areas.
The budget introduces several key supports for nurses, including Commonwealth Prac Payments for compulsory training work placements and HECS/HELP relief to reduce student debt.
Additionally, the Primary Care Nursing and Midwifery Scholarship Program will enable nurses and midwives to acquire higher qualifications necessary for prescribing medications, ordering pathology, and making patient referrals.
Professor Boyd also noted the establishment of 29 new Urgent Care Clinics and the success of nurse-led walk-in clinics in the ACT, which have alleviated pressures on emergency departments and highlighted the value of nursing expertise.
Significant allocations have also been made to support women with endometriosis and other complex gynaecological conditions, complementing ACN’s partnership with Endometriosis Australia to train specialty nurses.
The budget includes measures to improve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander vaccination rates, reduce costs for PBS medications for First Nations patients, and enhance the aged care system through additional home care packages and support for nursing careers.
Furthermore, the budget addresses the needs of a predominantly female nursing workforce with initiatives aimed at improving housing, addressing family and domestic violence, implementing tax cuts, increasing wages in aged care and childcare, and extending superannuation payments to publicly funded Paid Parental Leave.
ACN plans to further analyze the budget documents and will provide additional comments in the coming days.

Budget Targets HIV Elimination

The Albanese Government has committed $43.9 million in tonight’s budget towards efforts aimed at virtually eliminating HIV transmission in Australia, announces Health Equity Matters, the nation’s federation for HIV and LGBTIQA+ health.
This funding will enhance access to PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis), support the national deployment of HIV self-testing vending machines, and improve health education within culturally diverse communities. Additionally, the initiative includes continued support for the HIV Online Learning Australia program, which serves as a crucial resource for the HIV workforce.
Mark Orr AM, President of Health Equity Matters, expressed optimism about Australia’s potential to lead globally in ending HIV transmission. “Australia now has the potential to become the first country to achieve virtual elimination of HIV,” he stated.
Orr praised the budget’s comprehensive approach, which includes funding for key HIV organizations and aligns with the recommendations of the HIV Task Force led by Health Minister Mark Butler and Assistant Health Minister Ged Kearney.
“This Budget commitment lights a bright path, focusing on Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), testing, treatment, and awareness. It leverages the robust and impactful collaboration between community, healthcare professionals, researchers, and government that has been instrumental in Australia’s success since the beginning of the HIV epidemic,” Orr elaborated.
Despite a significant reduction in HIV diagnoses over the past decade, as reported by the Kirby Institute, challenges remain, particularly among heterosexual individuals, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and in specific regions. Dash Heath-Paynter, chief executive of Health Equity Matters, emphasized the importance of sustained efforts. “When attempting to overcome an epidemic, the final stretch will be the most challenging,” he said.
“This is why the Government’s commitment to ending HIV transmission is so crucial. We must maintain our momentum.”

Boost for Women’s Health

The Interventional Radiology Society of Australasia (IRSA) has expressed its support for the federal government’s recent budget allocation aimed at improving health services for women with endometriosis and complex gynaecological conditions. While welcoming the $49.1 million funding boost, IRSA is calling for broader access to minimally invasive treatments, such as uterine embolisation, to lessen the financial burden and enhance patient outcomes.
The budget’s introduction of two new Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) items in July 2025 to support extended gynaecological appointments is a step forward. However, IRSA emphasizes the necessity for greater accessibility to minimally invasive procedures delivered by interventional radiologists, which currently face MBS restrictions that limit patient referrals and increase financial pressures.
Professor Warren Clements, an IRSA Executive Committee Member, highlighted the low adoption of uterine embolisation as a barrier leading to health and financial difficulties for women. “It is positive to see the government recognize funding needs in women’s health, but more tangible actions need to take place to reduce the access and financial barriers to interventional radiology treatments,” he said. Clements points out that uterine fibroid embolisation, a less invasive alternative to hysterectomy, offers quicker recovery and less visible scarring, yet access remains limited by the current referral and insurance systems.
Dr Chris Rogan, President of IRSA, further emphasized the potential benefits of expanding access to these treatments. “If we truly care about improving women’s health, we need to embrace change that allows women to have more knowledge and access to procedures that support quicker recoveries, reduce stress on their bodies and reduce financial burden,” Dr Rogan stated.
IRSA believes that embracing minimally invasive procedures like uterine embolisation can revolutionize patient care by offering a less invasive, lower-cost, and quicker recovery option than traditional surgeries, ultimately leading to a reduction in the overall financial burden on the healthcare system.

Budget Bolsters Veteran Support

The Albanese Labor Government has committed an additional $477 million to enhance services for over 340,000 veterans and their families, according to a joint media release from Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles and Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh.
This investment aims to implement the first recommendation of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide by introducing simplified and harmonized veteran compensation legislation. The 2024-25 Budget allocates $222 million to improve veteran and family entitlements under this new framework, streamlining access to necessary support.
“The Albanese Government recognises the important role that the Australian Public Service plays in delivering services for Australians,” stated the ministers. In response to the Royal Commission’s findings, the government initially invested over $233.9 million to hire 500 new frontline staff at the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA), successfully eliminating the veteran compensation claims backlog ahead of schedule.
Building on this progress, the government will now invest an additional $186 million to employ 141 more staff, aimed at preventing future backlogs and expediting claim processing.
Furthermore, the budget enhances the Veterans’ Home Care and Community Nursing Programs with an added $48.4 million, ensuring uninterrupted service delivery. This funding maintains DVA’s budget at the highest level in three decades, reflecting the government’s ongoing commitment to supporting Defence personnel, veterans, and their families.

Expanded Support for Veterans

The Albanese Labor Government has announced an additional $477 million investment to enhance services for Australia’s veterans and their dependents, a move that impacts over 340,000 individuals affiliated with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA).
The increased funding aims to simplify and harmonize veteran compensation legislation, a key recommendation from the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. The 2024-25 Budget specifically allocates $222 million to improve veteran and family entitlements under the new legislation, making support more accessible and understandable for veterans and their families.
Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles and Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh stated, “The Albanese Government recognizes the important role that the Australian Public Service plays in delivering services for Australians.” Following the Royal Commission’s advice, an initial $233.9 million was allocated to recruit 500 new frontline DVA staff to address the backlog of veteran compensation claims, a goal that has been achieved ahead of schedule.
Building on this success, the government is allocating an additional $186 million to employ 141 more staff to ensure the backlog does not reoccur and to expedite the processing of new claims.
This budget also increases funding for the Veterans’ Home Care and Community Nursing Programs by an additional $48.4 million, ensuring no gaps in service delivery. This continued investment keeps DVA funding at its highest level in three decades, affirming the government’s commitment to providing necessary services and support to defense personnel, veterans, and their families.

Boosting Australia’s Green Future

Mark Croudace, CEO of MGA Thermal, lauds the Federal Budget’s commitment to green energy, particularly the $835 million allocated under the Future Made in Australia policy for the Solar Sunshot program, aimed at ramping up solar panel production. Croudace emphasizes the critical need for advancements in energy storage to complement this growth in solar capacity.
“While it’s imperative to expand solar capacity, the real challenge lies in effectively storing and time-shifting this power to meet demand when solar cannot—primarily during the evening,” Croudace stated. He highlights the importance of government intervention in developing storage solutions that extend beyond the capabilities of current lithium-ion battery technology.
The transition to renewable energy is marked as a significant shift in the global economy, likened by the Treasurer to the Industrial Revolution. “We’ve started with essential front-of-meter solutions like solar and wind. However, as we start seeing excess power generation during peak times, it’s clear we need to diversify our approach,” Croudace noted.
MGA Thermal is advocating for an increased focus on behind-the-meter energy storage systems to stabilize the grid and manage the overproduction of solar energy during daylight hours. These systems are crucial for utilizing excess energy and ensuring it is available when demand peaks.
Moreover, Croudace discusses the potential of innovative thermal energy storage technologies in manufacturing, offering a sustainable alternative to natural gas that can generate clean industrial steam around the clock. “These technologies not only help in reducing carbon emissions but also ensure that industries can operate continuously without the constraints posed by intermittent renewable sources,” he explained.
By supporting the development and integration of these technologies, Croudace believes that Australia can maintain its industrial productivity while transitioning to more sustainable energy solutions. He calls for policies, incentives, and funding that promote the commercialization of these technologies, ensuring a balanced approach to meeting Australia’s energy demands and environmental goals.

Urging Energy Strategy Overhaul

Jack Curtis, co-founder of Neara, has voiced concerns regarding the Australian government’s current approach to the clean energy transition, particularly in light of the $3.5 billion energy bill relief scheme announced in the Federal Budget. While this initiative aims to lessen the financial burden on households and small businesses struggling with rising electricity costs, Curtis warns that these measures are insufficient given the broader challenges of transitioning to renewable energy.
“The $300 energy bill relief package for homeowners is a step in the right direction, but it barely scratches the surface of the underlying issues driving up energy costs,” said Curtis. He emphasized that without a more comprehensive and cost-effective strategy, the transition could exacerbate financial pressures on consumers, potentially doubling costs within six years.
Curtis highlighted the need for a holistic approach that encompasses all aspects of generation and network capacity while leveraging new technologies to optimize efficiency. “Australia lacks the financial depth of countries like the United States with its Inflation Reduction Act, making it crucial for our federal and state governments to strategically deploy funds and ensure each component of the energy transition is cost-effective before implementation,” he explained.
Addressing the challenges of integrating solar energy into the national grid, Curtis criticized the slow progress in overcoming permitting and planning delays and network accessibility issues. “If additional generation can’t be connected to the grid due to these bottlenecks, our energy transition efforts could hit a wall,” he cautioned.
Despite the $835 million Solar Sunshot program and $523 million Battery Breakthrough Initiative, Curtis believes these efforts alone will not meet the 82 per cent renewable energy target by 2030 without a more coordinated and technology-driven approach. “We need to move beyond isolated projects and develop integrated solutions that consider transmission challenges and network optimization to truly advance Australia’s clean energy objectives,” Curtis concluded.

Urging Energy Strategy Overhaul

Hydrogen Funding Fuels Transition

Andrew Clennett, CEO and co-founder of Hiringa Energy, praised the Australian Federal Government’s recent budget allocation, which includes a substantial $19.7 billion to accelerate investment in priority industries, with $8 billion earmarked specifically for renewable hydrogen production. This funding is part of the Future Made in Australia Act, which Clennett describes as a pivotal move to level the playing field with fossil fuels and fast-track the availability of low-carbon products.
“The government’s investment underscores the critical role of hydrogen in our energy transition and provides the necessary support to expand this emerging industry,” Clennett stated. He emphasized the importance of diverse decarbonization pathways and the need for government policies that facilitate the development of a broad range of viable technologies.
Clennett also highlighted the introduction of the Hydrogen Production Tax Incentive and Contract for Difference (CfD) mechanisms, which are expected to catalyze the nascent hydrogen industry in Australia. “These financial mechanisms are crucial for developing the infrastructure needed for large-scale hydrogen production and ensuring that projects deliver low-emission products where and when they are needed,” he explained.
Additionally, Clennett commended ongoing government policies such as the Safeguard Mechanism, Guarantee of Origin (GO), and Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin (REGO) schemes, as well as new mandates for climate-related financial disclosures. These initiatives, he noted, contribute to the integrity and accountability required for a successful transition to low-emission technologies.
Despite the promising outlook, Clennett pointed out the challenges faced by new energy sectors like green hydrogen, which competes against well-established fossil fuel industries. “While green hydrogen has the potential to rapidly achieve economies of scale and reduce costs, it currently lacks the level playing field enjoyed by fossil-derived fuels,” he said, underscoring the need for continued policy support to foster equitable growth and investment in green technologies.
Hiringa Energy remains optimistic about Australia’s role in the global shift towards sustainable energy solutions, advocating for ongoing support and policy evolution to fully realize the potential of green hydrogen and other low-carbon technologies.

Budget Misses Skills Strategy

Damien Andreasen, VP APJ of HiBob, has highlighted a significant gap in the recent federal budget, pointing out the lack of measures to address Australia’s skills shortages in sectors outside of construction. Andreasen noted the ongoing challenge Australian employers face in attracting skilled workers, particularly in high-demand fields such as technology, AI, science, and engineering.
“During the pandemic and the economic difficulties that followed, Australia’s closed borders and other challenges severely impacted our ability to fill critical skill gaps,” Andreasen explained. He emphasized that the current budget was an ideal opportunity to introduce initiatives aimed at enhancing education and training for domestic talent and to create visa incentives to attract highly skilled international workers.
Furthermore, a recent study by HiBob identified salary as the primary factor influencing job changes among tech workers. “Employers have invested heavily in creating supportive and diverse workplaces, but with the current skills shortage, they find themselves competing on salary to attract top talent,” Andreasen stated. He stressed the importance of strategic workforce planning in this competitive environment to ensure businesses can meet their staffing needs effectively.

AI Boost for Healthcare Urged

Dr. Aengus Tran, co-founder and CEO of Harrison.ai, has called for increased investment in AI research and adoption within Australia’s healthcare sector, citing significant potential for improving patient outcomes. This comes in response to the government’s “Health Research for a Future Made in Australia” package, which Dr. Tran acknowledges as a positive step towards integrating technology in healthcare.
Despite the government’s efforts, including the National Digital Health strategy, Dr. Tran emphasizes that Australia lags behind other nations in harnessing AI for healthcare. “Australia still remains far behind many other nations when it comes to investment in AI research and adoption for healthcare,” he noted. This gap, according to Dr. Tran, limits the potential to fully enhance patient care and system efficiency.
Dr. Tran advocates for policies that support the integration of medical AI into clinical practice, stressing the importance of scientific validation to meet both regulatory requirements and the practical needs of healthcare providers. “Dedicated funding for AI research would enable healthcare professionals to gather evidence of its role in improving our healthcare system,” he explained.
Furthermore, Dr. Tran highlighted the need for creating reimbursement pathways for digital health technologies, such as AI, which could facilitate quicker adoption and integration into healthcare practices. He cited the UK’s funding model for AI tools as an example that Australia could emulate to accelerate the deployment and utilization of AI in diagnosing and treating patients.
By addressing these critical areas, Dr. Tran believes that Australia can significantly advance its healthcare capabilities and better meet the challenges posed by an ageing population and ongoing workforce shortages.

Aid Budget Falls Short

The Australian Council for International Development (ACFID), the principal body for international development and humanitarian action in Australia, has expressed concerns over the static nature of Australia’s aid budget amid rising global humanitarian needs. The budget, which sees an increase of $193 million to $4.961 billion, maintains the aid commitment at 0.18 per cent of Gross National Income (GNI).
Marc Purcell, Chief Executive of ACFID, noted the importance of the investments in climate initiatives such as the Green Climate Fund and the Pacific Resilience Facility, which received new funding allocations. However, he pointed out that these funds were previously announced and do not represent new financial commitments.
“The sector welcomes the introduction of a new five-year $20 million South-East Asia Gender-based Violence Prevention platform, yet we acknowledge that this funding is not new and additional,” Purcell said. He also highlighted a modest $1.1 million increase in the Central Disability Allocation, bringing the total to $14.0 million for 2024-25.
Purcell expressed disappointment over the lack of significant new funding to address the global humanitarian crises vividly present in media coverage around the world. “This budget provided the Government with an opportunity to show real humanitarian leadership, which it did not fully seize. The failure to lift the Humanitarian Emergency Fund is particularly disappointing,” he stated.
With Australia’s position as the world’s 13th largest economy but ranked 26th out of 31 in the OECD donor rankings, Purcell called for a more substantial commitment to humanitarian and development aid. “Australia needs to do better on development and humanitarian assistance as a percentage of gross national income to uphold the rules-based order and strengthen its bid for a UN Security Council seat,” he emphasized.

ACDC Funding Forgotten

The Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA) has criticized the Albanese Government for failing to allocate funds to the Australian Centre for Disease Control (ACDC) in its latest budget. Despite promises of improved pandemic preparedness, the government’s omission has raised concerns about Australia’s readiness for future health crises.
Adjunct Professor Terry Slevin, CEO of PHAA, expressed disappointment over the lack of funding for the ACDC, which remains unfunded following an initial $90 million allocation over two years in the 2023 budget. “The absence of any budget line item for the ACDC suggests pandemic amnesia four years after the lives of everyone in Australia was upended,” said Slevin.
The PHAA had hoped the budget would outline clear resources and timelines for the ACDC to lead Australia’s preparations against future pandemics. However, these expectations were not met, raising doubts about the government’s commitment to its 2022 election promise.
In contrast to the underfunding of the ACDC, the budget includes positive allocations for other health initiatives, such as $43.9 million to combat HIV/AIDS and $126 million for testing, treatment, and prevention programs. Additionally, $71 million has been dedicated to cancer prevention, screening, and treatment, alongside funding for tobacco and vaping control.
Despite these investments, Slevin pointed out that Australia spends less than two per cent of its health budget on public and preventive health measures. He advocates for increasing this to five per cent to significantly impact the health of Australians. “Investing a mere five per cent of health spending in prevention would make a real difference to the health of people in Australia both now and over the long term,” Slevin concluded.

Budget Misses Key Solutions

The Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS) has criticized the federal budget for its failure to adequately address the needs of Australia’s most vulnerable despite recognizing the country’s significant economic and social challenges.
ACOSS CEO described the budget as having diagnosed the correct problems, including a slowing economy, rising unemployment, and the ongoing housing and climate crises, but failing to offer the necessary solutions. “There is a gaping hole at the heart of this budget,” said the CEO.
While the budget includes some positive measures such as investments in Services Australia, the Remote Jobs Program, and modest increases in rent assistance, ACOSS condemned the government for not providing sufficient support to those on unemployment benefits. “At a time when unemployment is being deliberately increased to curb inflation, the government is cruelly denying people receiving unemployment payments decent income support,” they stated.
The budget delivers significant tax cuts for the wealthiest Australians but only offers a $300 energy rebate for those on JobSeeker and Youth Allowance, which ACOSS argues is “extraordinarily wasteful” and fails to target the most needy.
ACOSS also highlighted the need for investment to help the lowest income earners transition to renewable energy, such as installing rooftop solar on their homes. “People on the lowest incomes are worst affected by the climate crisis but have the least resources to manage the transition,” the CEO explained.
Despite a slight increase in Commonwealth Rent Assistance, ACOSS pointed out that private renters on JobSeeker or Youth Allowance continue to face deep housing stress, with many paying half of their income in rent alone.
The budget includes a $777 million investment over five years for the Remote Jobs Program to create 3,000 jobs, which ACOSS welcomed as a step towards improving employment opportunities in remote areas. However, they noted the Remote Area Allowance has not been increased in over 20 years.
Additionally, ACOSS praised the adjustments to the Carer Payment and the $600 million per year over three years for frontline staff at Services Australia, aimed at reducing the backlog of claims.
Despite these measures, ACOSS argues that the government has failed to take bold action needed to effectively address the housing crisis and provide adequate social housing, leaving many Australians without an affordable home. “This budget was an opportunity for the government to take bold action to address the serious issues the country faces. While it has identified these challenges, its actions fall well short of delivering solutions,” concluded the CEO.

Budget Overlooks Housing Needs

Maiy Azize, spokesperson for Everybody’s Home, has criticized the federal government’s recent budget for failing to address the escalating housing crisis in Australia. According to Azize, the budget does little to alleviate the high costs facing Australians in an increasingly tough housing market.
“The federal government has delivered a Budget that will keep pushing up housing costs for Australians who are already battling a brutal housing market,” Azize stated. She highlighted that the purported ‘new’ funding for social housing merely repackages existing initiatives, providing loans instead of real funding, and continues routine agreements with states and territories similar to those for education and health.
Azize also noted that while there is an increase in Commonwealth Rent Assistance, it offers only short-term relief and is insufficient to keep pace with rising rents. “It isn’t enough to keep up with rising rents, and it doesn’t go to all of the people who need it,” she explained.
“If the government was serious about tackling this crisis, it would build more social housing to end the massive shortfall,” Azize argued, dismissing private sector targets as ineffective for providing affordable homes. She also criticized the government for continuing to use tax incentives that benefit landlords and investors at the expense of ordinary homebuyers and renters.
With the housing crisis at an all-time high, Azize emphasized the need for decisive action: “Fixing it will mean spending real money to build social housing for more renters, and putting people who need homes ahead of investors.”
She concluded by pointing out the strong public demand for housing reform and the urgency for the government to prioritize building social housing over facilitating investor profits, especially with an election looming. “Housing will be front of mind for many voters when they cast their ballots in a year’s time. The government has no more time to waste – it needs to step up and build social housing, not investor profits.”

Budget Fuels CleanTech Drive

The Federal Government’s latest budget has committed a significant $21 billion towards advancing Australia’s clean technology sector under the Future Made in Australia Act, marking a substantial move towards enhancing the country’s green energy capabilities.
Tim Buckley of Climate Energy Finance welcomed the announcement, noting the strategic importance of the funding: “CEF has been calling for $100 billion of capital and budget support over the coming decade to accelerate and turbocharge the development of zero-emissions industries of the future here in Australia. In tonight’s Budget we saw an excellent $21 billion down-payment.”
The budget highlights several initiatives aimed at bolstering Australia’s green energy sector, including a new $7 billion Production Tax Credit for critical minerals, $3.2 billion for ARENA technology commercialisation, and a $6.7 billion Hydrogen Production Tax Incentive. Additional measures include $209 million for the Net Zero Economy Authority and $500 million for the Battery Breakthrough Initiative.
“This will leverage Energy Minister Bowen’s 82 per cent Renewables by 2030 initiative, turbocharged by the 32GW Capacity Investment Scheme which is driving the rollout of utility scale firmed renewables,” Buckley added. He underscored the strategic importance of public intervention to compete on a global stage and emphasized the urgent need for Australia to capitalize on its clean energy potential.
Buckley expressed satisfaction with the budget’s direction but urged the government to consider more ambitious capital support in future budgets to accelerate renewable energy development and secure Australia’s position in the clean technology supply chain.
“While tonight’s result is pleasing, we would encourage the government to consider more ambitious capital support in future budgets to massively accelerate renewable energy and electrify everything,” Buckley stated. He highlighted the importance of strategic capital support in terms of debt, private equity, infrastructure, and equity to support majority Australian ownership and derisk private capital investments.
Despite the significant investment, Buckley noted some areas needing further support, including household electrification and grid modernization, which are essential for ensuring cheap, clean, and secure energy for all Australians. He remains hopeful that the government’s substantial investment marks the beginning of a committed effort to position Australia as a leader in zero-emissions trade and investment, harnessing the economic, employment, and climate benefits that come with it.

Renewable Regions Seek More

RE-Alliance and the Community Power Agency, two organizations dedicated to supporting regional communities hosting renewable energy projects, have acknowledged the $22.7 billion dedicated to Australia’s renewable future in the latest federal budget. However, they emphasize the need for greater efforts to build trust with these critical regional partners.
Andrew Bray, National Director of RE-Alliance, praised the $20.7 million allocated to improve community engagement and benefits. “This commitment is promising, and we look forward to working with the government to ensure regional communities can fully tap into the benefits of hosting renewable projects. While this is a good start, we hope to see increased ambition in the mid-year budget update,” Bray stated.
Additionally, Bray welcomed the $10 million over two years aimed at delivering public information on the net zero transition, noting its potential to better inform regional communities about the changes and opportunities ahead.
Jarra Hicks, Director of the Community Power Agency, highlighted the importance of paralleling infrastructure and technology investments with efforts to foster trust and local participation in the renewable transition. “We need to front load the benefits for regional communities and communicate honestly about the changes and what they mean for regional and rural Australia,” Dr. Hicks said.
Despite these positive steps, both organizations noted a missed opportunity in the budget: the proposed network of 50 independent Local Energy Hubs in renewable-rich regions, which was not funded.
RE-Alliance plans to host a webinar on Monday, May 20, at 1 pm to discuss the budget’s implications for renewable energy regions further.

Budget Boosts Renewable Diesel

The Australian Constructors Association (ACA) has expressed its approval of the Federal Government’s commitment to the low-carbon liquid fuel industry, as announced in the recent Federal Budget. The focus will be on developing renewable diesel to facilitate emissions reduction within the construction sector.
Jon Davies, CEO of the ACA, highlighted the significant role renewable diesel will play in bridging the gap until more sustainable solutions, such as electrification, become viable. “The construction industry is a ‘hard to abate’ sector, and while electrification remains the ultimate goal, current technology constraints mean it is not a short-term solution,” Davies explained.
Davies welcomed the budget announcement, noting that renewable diesel would allow for necessary emissions reductions in the short term without the need to modify existing machinery. “Renewable diesel enables necessary emission reductions in the short term without modifications to existing machinery,” he stated.
Furthermore, Davies emphasized the broader benefits of establishing a domestic renewable diesel industry, which include not only construction decarbonization but also improved air quality, enhanced energy security, and the potential for local employment and economic growth stemming from both feedstock production and refining processes.
The ACA has been a strong advocate for this initiative and looks forward to a collaborative effort with the government to advance the renewable diesel industry in Australia.

CA ANZ Eyes Tax Reform

Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ) has welcomed some aspects of the Federal Budget but continues to advocate for comprehensive tax reform. The organization highlighted the budget’s lack of significant new initiatives to address the heavy reliance on personal income tax, which CA ANZ believes could impact Australia’s international competitiveness and intergenerational equity.
Ainslie van Onselen, CA ANZ CEO, emphasized the necessity for a sustainable tax system. “The structural deficit means it’s well and truly time to discuss the sustainability of Australia’s heavy reliance on personal income tax collections,” van Onselen stated. She expressed satisfaction with the increase in staff for ASIC by 14 per cent, hoping it signifies a stronger, better-funded regulator.
Susan Franks, CA ANZ’s Senior Tax Advocate, noted the extension of support for small businesses but voiced concerns over the backlog of unenacted tax measures. “Small business clients keep asking Chartered Accountants obvious questions: why keep tinkering with the instant asset write-off and why not make it permanent?” Franks said. She also expressed disappointment that the government did not continue the 120 per cent boost for training and transitioning to energy-efficient assets for small businesses.
The budget includes additional funding for the Australian Tax Office (ATO), aimed at maintaining tax system integrity and combating fraud, notably in the wake of the Operation Protego scandal. However, Franks highlighted that the Inspector General of Taxation and Taxation Ombudsman (IGTO) did not receive significant additional funding, raising concerns about support for taxpayer disputes.
On the superannuation front, Tony Negline, CA ANZ’s Superannuation and Financial Services Leader, described the budget as “very quiet” regarding superannuation and financial advice. He welcomed the government’s commitment to fund superannuation on government-funded Parental Leave and the retention of current deeming rates to assist part-pensioners.
CA ANZ remains committed to pushing for a roadmap towards the long-term, sustainable simplification of the superannuation, age pension, and aged care regulatory environments.

Budget Lacks Small Business Boost

CPA Australia has expressed disappointment in the Federal Budget’s lack of significant support for small businesses, according to CEO Chris Freeland AM. Despite recognizing some positive measures, Freeland highlighted that the budget falls short of providing substantial relief or incentives to the small business sector, which is crucial for economic growth and job creation.
“The budget could have done more to encourage small business,” Freeland stated. “While we welcome the instant asset write-off extension, small businesses need more robust and lasting support, especially those in energy-intensive sectors facing high operational costs.”
Freeland also noted the minimal energy cost relief offered in the budget, which is unlikely to significantly impact most small businesses grappling with fuel costs, power bills, and other inflationary pressures. “Small businesses – most of which already have very thin margins – desperately needed a budget that would help alleviate the cost pressures they are facing on a daily basis,” he said.
The budget does include some investment in supporting businesses in distress and addressing mental health issues, but Freeland argues that there is a lack of funding for programs that prevent business troubles and enhance business owners’ skills for growth.
Highlighting the importance of innovation and the use of new technology, Freeland pointed out that Australian small businesses lag behind their Asia-Pacific counterparts, which affects their growth potential. “Government support for initiatives like cybersecurity will help Australian small businesses catch up to their regional counterparts,” he said.
Freeland also commented on the need for more young Australians to start or buy businesses, which would positively influence business growth and productivity. He looks forward to the proposed National Small Business Strategy, which aims to foster collaboration between business, community, and government to nurture and expand the economy.
“While the range of targeted small business support in this budget makes sense, a more comprehensive look at the sector is needed,” Freeland concluded, emphasizing that the budget did not fully seize the opportunity to significantly bolster small businesses.

Budget Targets Small Business Relief

Bruce Billson, the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, has welcomed the federal budget’s targeted measures aimed at easing the pressures facing small and family businesses. The budget includes a modest energy bill relief of $325 for one million eligible small businesses, extending the instant asset write-off for another year, and increased funding for mental health and debt management support.
“Small and family businesses facing punishing input costs will welcome the modest energy bill relief of $325,” Billson stated. “Every saving helps those who are doing it tough in our community.”
Despite the relief, Billson highlighted the ongoing uncertainty caused by delays in passing the instant asset write-off legislation, urging for it to be made permanent to aid business planning and investment. He also emphasized the importance of the $7.7 million funding extension for the New Access for Small Business Owners program and the $3.1 million for the Small Business Debt Hotline.
The budget also increases funding for the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) to support small businesses in disputes with the Tax Office and other business conflicts, including franchising issues. Additionally, there is $20.5 million allocated for the Fair Work Ombudsman to assist small businesses with complex workplace laws and $10 million to help administer the revised paid parental leave scheme.
Billson expressed concern over the budget’s economic growth forecast, noting that sluggish growth, combined with challenges like tight labour markets and supply chain issues, continue to burden small and family businesses. “We need to shift the mindset from minimising headwinds to maximising the ‘wind in the sails’ of our hard-working small and family businesses,” he said.
Overall, while welcoming specific measures, Billson calls for more comprehensive support to ensure that small business remains a viable and attractive option for Australians.

Mixed Review for Federal Budget

The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry has given a lukewarm reception to the 2024-25 Federal Budget, praising certain initiatives aimed at stimulating business growth while highlighting missed opportunities in tax reform and fiscal strategy.
The Chamber noted that the budget addressed 17 of its 19 recommendations, either fully or partially.
Paul Guerra, Chief Executive of the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, commented, “This is a glass half full budget for business, with enough in there to sow seeds of confidence for Victoria’s business community, especially with the instant asset write-off extension, energy rebates, and small business support.”
Key allocations for Victorian businesses include $290 million to extend the instant asset write-off, a $22.7 billion Future Made in Australia Package to boost private sector investment, and $325 energy bill relief for one million small businesses. Additionally, the budget will fund a new National Hydrogen Technical Skills Training Centre and a $566 million plan by Geoscience Australia to map critical minerals and rare earths.
Further support includes $1.5 billion for manufacturing clean energy technologies, $10.8 million for small business owners’ financial and mental wellbeing, and significant investments in regional infrastructure such as a $102 million upgrade for regional airports and $288.1 million for the Government’s Digital ID Scheme.
Guerra also pointed out the importance of the budget’s provisions for housing and education, including $1 billion to boost housing supply and $88.8 million for 20,000 additional Fee-Free TAFE and VET places. “This Federal Budget presents promising opportunities for our business community to work with the Victorian Government to secure some of the budgeted initiatives for Victoria,” he said.
However, the Chamber expressed concerns about the lack of a bold plan for future debt and regulatory reform. “While this modest budget surplus sends the right signal, the Victorian Chamber is concerned about the future forecast debt trajectory and would have liked to see plans for bolder tax and regulatory reform,” Guerra concluded.

Budget Overlooks Inequality Issues

Oxfam Australia has criticized the 2024 federal budget for its lack of significant measures to address rising global crises and inequality.
Interim Director of Programs Rod Goodbun voiced concerns over the budget’s limited scope in tackling these urgent challenges.
“In a time of unprecedented global crises, conflict, and rising inequality, the Australian Government’s federal budget lacks ambition to truly tackle inequality at home and abroad,” Goodbun stated.
He highlighted the government’s decision to maintain aid and humanitarian funding at historically low levels as a major missed opportunity.
Despite modest increases, Australia’s Official Development Assistance remains at a record low of 19 cents per $100 of income, far below the international target of 70 cents and the Labor Party Platform’s goal of 50 cents per $100 of income.
“The number of people on the brink of famine has almost doubled since last year, and the climate crisis rages on as Australian fossil fuel corporations continue to pollute and profit without end,” Goodbun added.
Goodbun acknowledged the government’s effort to enhance tax fairness earlier this year, which provided some relief against the surging cost of living.
However, he argued that the budget falls short in addressing the broader issue of inequality.
“While this budget has provided some further relief for those in the community doing it tough, it does not go far enough to address growing inequality both at home and abroad,” he said.
Highlighting the disparity in government spending, Goodbun noted that companies owned by Australia’s richest billionaire received over $1 billion for mining projects, while increases to international aid and JobSeeker necessary to lift millions out of poverty in Australia were overlooked.
“If the Australian Government is serious about addressing inequality long-term, it must implement a systemic and wide-ranging increase in taxation of the super-rich, in line with increasing momentum on this at the UN and G20 this year,” Goodbun concluded, calling for a greater commitment to reducing poverty and investing in essential public services.

Rural Health Budget Falls Short

The National Rural Health Alliance has expressed disappointment in the 2024-25 Federal Budget’s failure to address the stark health care inequity between rural and urban areas in Australia. Nicole O’Reilly, Chairperson of the Alliance, criticized the government’s lack of action towards sustainable health reforms for rural communities.
“The Budget falls short of our expectations. It is disheartening to observe the government’s lack of responsiveness to rural voices and its failure to commit to comprehensive reforms that would offer sustainable and long-term benefits for rural communities,” O’Reilly said.
Rural Australians face significant health disparities, including lower life expectancy and higher rates of preventable illnesses compared to their urban counterparts. Many rural residents lack access to primary healthcare within an hour’s drive and use Medicare up to 50 per cent less frequently than city dwellers.
“Each person in rural and remote Australia is missing out on nearly $850 per year of healthcare access equating to a total annual rural health underspend of $6.5 billion,” O’Reilly explained.
While the Alliance welcomed new initiatives such as the Charles Darwin University Menzies Medical Program, which aims to train homegrown doctors, and additional funding for the Royal Flying Doctors Service, O’Reilly emphasized that these measures are insufficient.
“There are many struggling rural and remote primary health care services that are on the brink of closure and need support and significant reform,” O’Reilly stated, urging the government to make a stronger commitment in future budget allocations.
“We need to ensure that our rural communities are looked after. There is much more to be done to address the inequity in health care outcomes for rural and remote Australians,” she concluded.

HESTA Praises Budget’s Super Steps

HESTA has expressed support for several measures in the Federal Budget, notably the decision to pay superannuation on Commonwealth Parental Leave Pay, which CEO Debby Blakey described as a significant advancement for women’s financial security in retirement.
“Tonight’s Budget was good news for women, with measures to improve their retirement outcomes, increase wages in female-dominated industries and ease cost-of-living pressures,” said Blakey. She highlighted the importance of the long-awaited funding for super on paid parental leave as a vital investment that will help narrow the gender super gap.
The budget also includes other significant announcements such as cost-of-living relief and support for Australia’s energy transition with a $22.7 billion commitment over the next decade. “It’s fantastic to see the long-awaited allocation of funding for paying super on paid parental leave. This is a great investment in the financial future of women across Australia that will narrow the gender super gap, all the while sending a clear message that unpaid caring work is valued,” Blakey stated.
Additionally, Blakey welcomed the budget’s focus on enhancing retirement savings for women and lower-income earners, emphasizing the need to adjust the Low-Income Super Tax Offset (LISTO) to reflect current tax and super settings.
“It’s unfair low-income earners, many of whom are women, continue to pay more tax on their super contributions than their wages. That’s why we want to see the LISTO updated to reflect current tax and super settings,” she said.
The budget’s commitment to the energy transition was also praised, particularly the exploration of future-facing commodities vital for the energy transition. “We need to accelerate the transition to clean energy and away from fossil fuels, as this can help mitigate climate change-related risks to our members’ retirement savings, and create new investment opportunities,” Blakey noted.
Finally, Blakey commended the budget measures that directly support HESTA’s membership base, predominantly women in health and community services, such as funding for aged care and early childhood education wage increases, and increased flexibility for carers. “These professionals already face significant hurdles in achieving financial security in retirement, so it’s encouraging to see this year’s Budget provide targeted cost-of-living relief and support for many of our members,” she concluded.

ANMF Cheers Budget Funding

The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) has praised the Albanese Government’s allocation of $8.5 billion for health in the latest budget, which includes substantial investments in Medicare and aged care. The funding aims to continue implementing the Royal Commission’s recommendations with $2.8 billion earmarked for strengthening Medicare and $2.2 billion allocated for aged care enhancements.
Annie Butler, ANMF Federal Secretary, highlighted the significance of the budget for healthcare workers. “This Budget is good news for our ANMF members,” she said. The budget introduces new Medicare rebates for midwives, additional bulk-billed urgent care clinics, higher Medicare rebates for gynaecological services, and expanded free mental health services, along with new Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) listings for critical health conditions.
Furthermore, the budget includes $1.1 billion in superannuation contributions for Paid Parental Leave (PPL), funding for wage rises for aged care workers, and support for nursing and midwifery students, including reductions in Higher Education Contribution Scheme (HECS) debts, which Butler noted would help alleviate cost-of-living pressures for frontline workers.
Butler also urged the government to implement bold reforms that empower nurses and midwives to work to their full scope of practice, noting that additional Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) items for midwives introduced in the budget are a promising step forward.
“We are calling on the Government to commit to bold reforms, which empower nurses and midwives to work to their full scope of practice – and the additional MBS items in tonight’s Budget for midwives, is a promising first-step for our members,” Butler stated. She emphasized the need for removing historic barriers that prevent Australians from accessing quality care timely and efficiently.
“Placing nurses and midwives at the forefront of patient-centred care is the answer to fixing and future-proofing health and aged care,” Butler concluded.

Budget Mixed for Health Priorities

Better Access Australia has critiqued the recent federal budget, pointing out both advancements and shortcomings in several critical health areas, suggesting it as a budget of winners and losers in an election year. The group highlighted the failure to fulfill the election commitment on national newborn bloodspot screening and addressed the issue of Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) co-payments ensuring vital support for those struggling financially.
“The indexation freeze on PBS co-pays will benefit those facing economic hardships, but we’re still witnessing significant delays, like the tender for Continuous Glucose Monitoring, which is already six months late, risking access for Australia’s 2 million diabetes patients,” stated a spokesperson from Better Access Australia.
The organization also criticized the government’s approach to women’s health, pointing out the urgent need to return to fundamental services like contraception, which serves both reproductive purposes and cancer prevention.
Regarding the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), Better Access Australia acknowledged the necessity of reviews to ensure sustainability but advocated for the introduction of means testing and co-pays, aligning it with other health and aged care services.
The group expressed concerns over the distribution of subsidies. “Blanket subsidies for all are flawed. We cannot make funds available for those most in need if we are handing out money to those who don’t need it,” the spokesperson added.
Better Access Australia calls for the government to support cheaper medicine costs to improve patient access and urges a broader consideration of their budget submission for 2024-25, which includes detailed requests aimed at enhancing access for those in need while taking decisive actions for those who are fiscally secure.

Bupa Praises Budget Health Measures

Bupa, one of Australia’s largest aged care providers, has expressed approval of the federal government’s latest budget initiatives aimed at enhancing aged care and health services. The company highlighted the positive impact of increased Award wages for aged care workers, especially in filling workforce shortages in regional areas.
“We welcome the additional funding aimed at easing the transition of older people from extended hospital stays to appropriate aged care settings,” stated a Bupa spokesperson.
This move is crucial for the care of older Australians and the sustainability of the aged care sector.
The confirmation of the implementation date for the new Aged Care Act was also noted as providing much-needed clarity for the sector to prepare for significant changes.
Bupa lauded the continued investment in My Health Record, which aims to modernize the health system by enhancing digital healthcare integration, thereby creating a more connected health care experience centered around consumers.
With the ongoing cost of living challenges, Bupa reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the Australian health system continues to deliver high-quality, accessible, and affordable care.
“The government’s attention to mental health and support for women with endometriosis is a step in the right direction,” the spokesperson added, underscoring the importance of addressing these critical health issues swiftly.
Bupa also urged continued reform in the private health sector to respond to evolving health and wellbeing needs, emphasizing the necessity for policy updates that enhance value for customers, expand out-of-hospital care, and encourage more young people to participate in health plans.
“We look forward to collaborating with the Federal Government and our partners across the sector to implement these vital reforms and continue providing essential healthcare services to our community,” concluded the Bupa representative.

Budget Overlooks Disability Needs

The recent Federal Budget has provided some cost-of-living relief but has largely overlooked necessary systemic reforms crucial for people with disability, according to People with Disability Australia (PWDA).
PWDA President Marayke Jonkers acknowledged the 10 percent increase to Commonwealth Rent Assistance and the higher rate of JobSeeker as positive steps, yet emphasized the need for more comprehensive measures. “While these increases help, they barely scratch the surface of the real cost of living and healthcare needs that people with disabilities face daily,” Jonkers stated.
The budget’s provisions for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) sparked concern over future support and service quality. Jonkers highlighted the $14.4 billion forecast to cut Scheme growth, fearing it could compromise essential services. “We need assurances that any savings won’t be at the expense of those who depend on these services the most,” she said.
PWDA calls for more inclusive consultations on NDIS reforms, emphasizing that disability representative organizations and individuals should lead, not just participate. “True reform comes from those who live the reality, not just those who govern it,” Jonkers added.
The organization also responded cautiously to the new NDIS Evidence Advisory Committee and the navigator role, stressing the importance of proper implementation led by NDIS participants themselves.
Funding for the National Disability Abuse and Neglect Hotline and the Complaints Resolution and Referral Service was welcomed, yet Jonkers noted, “Advocacy services need secure funding to truly make an impact.”
Disappointment was expressed over housing measures, which did not prioritize or sufficiently include people with disability. PWDA Treasurer Presley Chihuri criticized the oversight, “We must be prioritized in new housing plans to ensure we have control over our living situations. Currently, this budget fails to do that.”
Employment initiatives for people with disability were seen as inadequate. “Mere adjustments won’t shift the entrenched issues of segregated employment and lack of access to mainstream opportunities,” Jonkers explained.
The budget also missed addressing violence against women with disability, a significant oversight given their higher risk and unique challenges.
Jonkers concluded, “This budget was a chance to act on the Disability Royal Commission’s recommendations for radical changes. Sadly, it’s a missed opportunity that fails to address the fundamental reforms needed for true equality.”

Budget Boosts Dementia Support

Dementia Australia has applauded the Federal Budget’s allocation of $2.2 billion for ongoing aged care reforms, highlighting its significant potential to enhance the quality of life for Australians living with dementia, as well as their families and carers.
Dementia Australia’s Executive Director of Services, Advocacy and Research, Dr. Kaele Stokes, emphasized the importance of the budget’s focus on dementia. “This budget marks a crucial advancement in addressing the vital needs within the aged care sector, especially for those living with dementia,” she stated.
The investment aligns with key recommendations from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, ensuring dementia remains a priority. The budget details specific allocations for dementia care, including $56.8 million to expand the Commonwealth’s Acute to Residential Care Transition Service for dementia and $30.4 million to continue the Specialist Dementia Care Program across states and territories. Additionally, $1.7 million will support the Australian Dementia Network (ADNeT) to enhance system readiness for new developments in dementia care, including biomarkers and disease-modifying therapies.
Dr. Stokes also highlighted the commitment to broadening support for less common forms of dementia, which underscores the government’s recognition of the need for a health system adaptable to emerging therapeutic advances.
“With over 421,000 Australians living with dementia, we remain dedicated to collaborating with the government to ensure that their experiences and needs are central to the ongoing aged care reforms,” Dr. Stokes concluded.

Private Hospitals Overlooked in Budget

Catholic Health Australia (CHA) has voiced strong criticism of the Federal Government for failing to address the needs of the private health sector in the latest federal budget. CHA CEO, Jason Kara, emphasized the vital role private hospitals play in the healthcare system, particularly noting their responsibility for two-thirds of the country’s elective surgeries. Kara expressed concern that neglecting this sector could increase the burden on public hospitals, which are already beyond capacity, thereby worsening patient access to timely medical services and escalating costs for taxpayers.
Kara highlighted a troubling trend of closures in the private health sector, with 71 private hospital services shutting down in the past five years due to workforce shortages and insufficient funding from insurers. He warned that without immediate government intervention, the situation could deteriorate further, forcing more private patients into the overburdened public system.
To combat these challenges, CHA is urging the government to implement several key measures: mandating insurer coverage for hospital in-home care, which is preferred by 89 percent of patients; linking insurance premium increases to the actual benefits returned to patients; encouraging state and territory governments to utilize private sector capacity to reduce public surgery wait times; and providing specific support for private maternity and mental healthcare providers, which are among the most vulnerable.
Additionally, Kara acknowledged some positive steps, such as the government’s recent decision to keep General Use items on the Prescribed List—a move CHA advocated for that will save patients and not-for-profit hospitals up to $80 million a year. He also noted the government’s commitment of $882.2 million to support older Australians and alleviate pressure on public hospitals through community outreach, as well as $90 million to fund the implementation of health-related recommendations from the Kruk Review. Despite these developments, Kara emphasized the urgent need for more focused support to ensure a balanced and accessible healthcare system across Australia.

Budget Eases Cost Pressures

The Brotherhood of St. Laurence (BSL) has acknowledged several positive measures in the Federal Budget, providing crucial support to various segments of the Australian population. However, the organization emphasizes that significant efforts are still required to ensure fairness and alleviate poverty across the country.
BSL’s Executive Director, Travers McLeod, highlighted the importance of addressing immediate cost-of-living pressures, especially amidst a challenging economic climate. Measures such as increasing rent assistance, boosting wages in early childhood and aged care, enhancing support for carers, and implementing superannuation payments on parental leave are welcomed steps that will benefit many, particularly those supported by BSL.
While acknowledging the government’s adoption of some recommendations, McLeod expressed disappointment that no further changes were announced regarding the base rates of Jobseeker or its indexation, nor adjustments to the Activity Test for the Child Care Subsidy.
BSL also noted surprise at the lack of means testing for energy bill relief, advocating for more targeted support for low-income households to ensure enduring relief, particularly for electrification.
Positively, the extension of programs like Saver Plus and continued funding for the Youth Transition Support program were welcomed by BSL, emphasizing their importance in promoting financial wellbeing and supporting young people from refugee and migrant backgrounds.
Looking ahead, the Budget signals significant reform in various areas, including employment services, early childhood, and support for people with disabilities. BSL encourages the Federal Government to maintain the same level of ambition and clarity in social services reform, emphasizing its potential to improve lives and generate broader economic and social benefits for all Australians.

Engineering Community Applauds 2024 Budget Agenda

Engineers Australia CEO Romilly Madew AO has hailed the Federal Budget as an ambitious blueprint for a smarter, greener Australia. Madew emphasizes the pivotal role of engineers in advancing the nation’s agenda, tackling financial, workforce, environmental, and global challenges. The budget’s focus on skills, innovation, sovereign capability, and the global energy transition aligns with Engineers Australia’s vision for progress.
Under the “Future Made in Australia” framework, the budget prioritizes strategic investments to accelerate the transition to net zero. Madew lauds funding for clean energy initiatives, including solar, hydrogen, critical minerals, and batteries, highlighting hydrogen’s potential to drive sustainable growth across sectors. Engineers Australia calls for extending support to engineering students through initiatives like the Commonwealth Prac Payment, emphasizing the importance of nurturing future engineering talent.
Addressing workforce shortages and boosting STEM skills are key priorities highlighted by Madew. The budget’s initiatives, including those from the Universities Accord and support for women, aim to upskill the workforce for the energy transition, enhance manufacturing, and strengthen digital capabilities. Madew stresses the need for continuous learning and adaptation to maintain Australia’s competitiveness in the global engineering landscape.
In the realm of sustainability, Madew emphasizes the imperative of engineering innovation to expedite the transition to clean energy. While welcoming climate-focused initiatives, Engineers Australia calls for a detailed, collaborative plan for long-term infrastructure development to ensure economic prosperity.
On defence investments aligned with the 2024 National Defence Strategy, Engineers Australia underscores the importance of skilled engineers in safeguarding national security and supporting initiatives like AUKUS. The budget’s boost for artificial intelligence (AI) research and development is lauded as a significant step forward, with Madew highlighting the importance of responsible AI technologies.
Overall, Engineers Australia sees the 2024 budget as a positive step towards a smarter, greener future, emphasizing the critical role of engineers in driving innovation and sustainability.

Record ARENA Funding Boost

The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) is set to receive a significant funding increase, with $7.1 billion allocated for various programs in the 2024-25 Federal Budget, marking a substantial commitment to propel Australia toward its net zero targets. This package includes a $1.9 billion increase to ARENA’s baseline funding, emphasizing the government’s confidence in the agency’s pivotal role in the energy transition.
Included in the budget are $2 billion for the second round of the Hydrogen Headstart program and $1.7 billion for the Future Made in Australia Innovation Fund, which complements the $1 billion earmarked for the Solar Sunshot program and $500 million for the Battery Breakthrough Initiative. These initiatives are designed to enhance Australia’s capabilities in renewable technologies and industrial advancements.
ARENA’s CEO, Darren Miller, expressed gratitude for the ongoing government support, noting the critical nature of accelerating emission reduction efforts. Since its inception in 2012, ARENA has facilitated 727 projects with $2.60 billion in funding, leveraging nearly $12.51 billion in total investment in the renewable sector.
The additional funding for the Hydrogen Headstart program aims to bolster Australia’s position as a leader in the global renewable hydrogen market, building on the strong interest and investment from the private sector. The Solar Sunshot program, managed by ARENA, aims to kickstart domestic manufacturing of solar photovoltaic panels, enhancing Australia’s role in the renewable energy supply chain.
Further supporting regional and community energy resilience, ARENA is also overseeing the $400 million Powering the Regions Industrial Transformation Stream, a $125 million Regional Microgrids Program, and a $120 million Community Batteries program. These initiatives represent a comprehensive approach to fostering sustainable energy solutions across Australia.

Budget Boosts Gaza Family Aid

In response to the escalating crisis in Gaza, the Australian Federal Budget has allocated significant funding to aid families fleeing the conflict. Settlement Services International (SSI), a non-profit that serves about 50,000 people annually, has applauded the government’s decision to extend Medicare eligibility until June 30, 2025, for Bridging Visa E holders from the affected regions of Israel and Palestine.
SSI’s CEO, Violet Roumeliotis, highlighted the dire circumstances of these families, many of whom have found themselves dependent on charity due to restrictions associated with their visa status, preventing them from working and accessing government support. The situation has led to severe living conditions, with some families resorting to sleeping in cars or overcrowding in small apartments.
Roumeliotis welcomed the $900k Medicare extension, emphasizing its critical role in providing healthcare access to families grappling with the transition to life in Australia amidst rising living costs. She also acknowledged the government’s emergency relief funding but stressed the need for more comprehensive support for refugees, akin to that provided to Ukrainian conflict refugees.
Moreover, the budget introduces a $120.9 million initiative to strengthen settlement services for refugees and migrants, aimed at enhancing their integration and success in Australia. However, Roumeliotis expressed disappointment over the static humanitarian intake cap at 20,000 places, despite the unprecedented global displacement crisis.
She called for an increase in Australia’s humanitarian intake to address the global resettlement shortfall and facilitate family reunions for refugees already in Australia. This would also reinforce Australia’s stance as a proactive global citizen.
The budget also addresses women’s safety, with Roumeliotis noting the frightening current climate for women in Australia. The new budget measures, including significant funding for economic security, violence prevention, and support for victim-survivors of intimate partner violence, are steps toward making Australia safer and more equitable for women.
Additionally, the budget allocates funds to improve services for young refugees and migrants, reform disability employment services, stabilize the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), and enhance support for people with disabilities.

Community Legal Centers Face Cuts

Community Legal Centres Australia has expressed serious concerns following the recent Federal Budget, which they claim fails to adequately fund the sector for the 2024-25 financial year and beyond. According to a March 2024 report, chronic underfunding is causing community legal centers to deny services to over a thousand people daily, diminish outreach efforts, and contribute to staff burnout.
The sector urgently requested an additional $125 million for the upcoming fiscal year and a guarantee of continuous funding past June 2025. However, the budget only allocated an additional $44.1 million for legal assistance services, with $9.3 million directed towards community legal centers. This allocation falls significantly short of the sector’s needs.
Tim Leach, CEO of Community Legal Centres Australia, highlighted the dire implications of the budget. “The government’s failure to deliver sufficient legal assistance funding or long funding security means people and communities across Australia face the very real risk that free legal services they rely on will not be available in the near future,” he stated.
The allocated $9.3 million will be used partially for a 4 per cent indexation of some funding and to help reduce pay disparities within the sector. Despite this, the funding does not cover all aspects of community legal service budgets, nor does it provide for legal assistance in the forward estimates, leaving the sector with only 13 months of financial security.
Leach further criticized the budget’s shortfalls, stating, “With just 13 months’ funding left, and no funding security beyond June 2025, community legal centers across the country will be forced to make impossible decisions about which outreaches to close and which areas of law to stop practicing in.”
The lack of prolonged funding is a departure from the previous government’s approach, which provided three years’ bridging funding to aid during transitions between national legal assistance agreements.
While the sector appreciated the recognition of inadequate indexation and a crisis driven by low remuneration, the budget’s provisions are seen as insufficient.
Leach argued that the modest funding increase would only allow some centers to “limp on,” emphasizing the need for a clearer government commitment to legal assistance funding beyond June 2025.

Aid Budget Fails Women

ActionAid Australia has expressed disappointment over the Federal Government’s 2024-25 budget, which they argue fails to adequately address critical global issues affecting women. The budget has increased aid nominally, yet it remains stagnant at 0.19 per cent of Gross National Income (GNI), far below the government’s target of 0.5 per cent and the international commitment of 0.7 per cent.
According to Michelle Higelin, Executive Director of ActionAid Australia, Australia is one of the least generous aid donors, particularly on issues of climate change, conflict, and gender inequality. “From Gaza to Sudan to Afghanistan, communities, especially women and girls on the frontlines of conflict, are experiencing immense suffering. There’s an urgent need for significantly increased humanitarian assistance,” she stated.
The government’s upcoming International Gender Equality Strategy, Higelin argued, lacks sufficient funding to combat the escalating threats to women’s rights globally. She highlighted a UN Women finding, which states achieving gender equality could take over 300 years at current progress rates without further investment.
Furthermore, Higelin criticized Australia’s climate finance contributions as insufficient. The country provided $619 million in 2022-23, which is only about 15 per cent of what she terms as Australia’s fair share of the current annual USD 100 billion climate finance goal. “The failure to increase Australia’s climate finance in the budget misses a crucial chance to demonstrate a genuine commitment to progressive climate action,” she added.
As the world approaches the COP29 where a new post-2025 climate finance goal will be adopted, Higelin calls for Australia to significantly boost its funding to meet the needs of those facing climate disasters and to support economic transitions in low-income countries.

Australia’s Green Budget Boost

Climateworks Centre has praised the 2024-2025 Federal Budget’s focus on green initiatives through the Future Made in Australia package, viewing it as a crucial step towards achieving national climate goals. Sustainable Economies Lead Kylie Turner highlighted the package’s potential to act as a “national ‘net zero filter’,” strategically directing industry investments to support Australia’s transition to a green economy. The Future Made in Australia framework is set to receive $22.7 billion over the next decade, with special incentives for green hydrogen and critical minerals, sectors where Australia holds significant potential.
Turner noted, “This is a crucial year for Australia’s climate ambition,” with the release of the government’s sector decarbonisation plans expected later in the year.
These plans cover Electricity and Energy, Industry, Resources, Transport, Buildings, and Agriculture and Environment, aiming to consolidate Australia’s efforts towards a net zero future.
Luke Brown, Climateworks Head of Policy and Engagement, also welcomed increased funding for international climate efforts, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation in tackling decarbonisation, particularly in the Pacific and Southeast Asia, the world’s most disaster-prone region.

Budget Boosts Clean Energy

Yesterday’s federal budget revealed significant investments aimed at advancing Australia’s clean energy sector and enhancing the national electrical skill base, pivotal for the universal electrification of homes, according to Rewiring Australia. Dr. Saul Griffith, chief scientist and co-founder, emphasized the necessity of expanding the electrician and energy worker pool to support the installation of solar, storage, and electric appliances across millions of homes. “Australia needs to massively expand its pool of electricians and energy workers so they can install solar, storage and electric appliances on millions of homes and build renewable energy on the grid,” he noted, applauding the government’s $91 million commitment to this cause.
Griffith also lauded the Future Made in Australia’s announcement of $22.7 billion to foster clean energy industries. He stressed the strategic importance of investing in sectors where Australia has a competitive edge, such as green minerals and metals. This includes funneling capital into startups and supporting educational and research initiatives in these fields.
Executive Director Dan Cass highlighted the next critical step in the nation’s Net Zero journey: introducing a low-cost loan scheme to help Australians transition from gas and petrol to solar, electric vehicles, and electric appliances. Cass described this move as essential to any credible future climate policy and noted broad political and community support for such initiatives.
Cass is optimistic about further progress toward electrification, citing the government’s $27.7 million pledge to better integrate community energy resources into the grid, which will help reduce transition costs for households. He added, “Following this budget, we will continue to work with the government to bring households to the centre of energy and climate policy,” emphasizing the role of household-generated solar electricity in competing with energy giants and reducing energy costs.

Budget Targets HIV Elimination

The Albanese Government has committed $43.9 million in the latest budget to push Australia towards the virtual elimination of HIV transmission. This funding is set to expand access to Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), roll out HIV self-testing, enhance outreach to culturally diverse communities, and bolster resources for the HIV workforce, according to Health Equity Matters, Australia’s HIV and LGBTIQA+ health federation.
The budget will facilitate the national deployment of self-testing vending machines, which have shown success in engaging communities that need frequent testing. Additionally, a pilot health education program will be launched to better educate culturally diverse communities on HIV prevention. The established HIV Online Learning Australia program, providing crucial resources to the HIV workforce, will also continue.
Funding restoration for Australia’s peak HIV organizations, Health Equity Matters and NAPWHA, marks a significant step in this budget.
“The budget allocation reflects the findings of the HIV Taskforce, led by Health Minister, the Hon Mark Butler and Assistant Health Minister, the Hon Ged Kearney,” stated Mark Orr AM, President of Health Equity Matters. “Australia now has the potential to become the first country to achieve virtual elimination of HIV. This Budget commitment lights a bright path, focusing on PrEP, testing, treatment, and awareness.”
The latest Kirby Institute HIV surveillance report noted a halving of diagnoses over the past decade, with 555 cases in 2022. Despite these advances, challenges persist among heterosexual individuals, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and in specific states and territories.
“This is why the Government’s commitment to ending HIV transmission is so crucial. We must maintain our momentum,” said Dash Heath-Paynter, chief executive of Health Equity Matters. “When attempting to overcome an epidemic, the final stretch will be the most challenging.”

Aged Care Reforms Stalled

Catholic Health Australia (CHA) has expressed significant concern over the federal government’s decision to delay essential aged care reforms in the latest budget, risking the quality and dignity of care available to older Australians. Representing 350 Catholic not-for-profit aged care facilities, CHA criticized the government for not implementing the recommendations made six months ago by the Aged Care Taskforce.
CHA Director of Aged Care Policy, Laura Haylen, voiced frustration, stating, “It’s been six months since the Aged Care Taskforce delivered its recommendations and the government has not even responded to them. The decision to neglect the Aged Care Taskforce recommendations in this budget is incredibly disappointing and frustrating.”
Haylen emphasized the urgent need for reform, noting that many facilities are operating at a loss and some are at risk of closure. She highlighted the growing cost of inaction, which leaves older Australians without quality care options, forcing them to remain in hospitals.
The Aged Care Taskforce had recommended allowing for greater personal contributions to fund better, sustainable aged care while ensuring a safety net remains intact.
“Communities, particularly those in regional and rural Australia, urgently need additional funding to upgrade existing facilities and invest in improved care models,” Haylen added.
Despite these setbacks, CHA supports the government’s commitment to significant wage increases for aged care staff, ordered by the Fair Work Commission, to help attract and retain dedicated personnel. Additionally, CHA backs the deferment of the new Aged Care Act to July 2025, allowing more time to refine the legislation.
While a short-term funding boost to reduce waitlists for home care packages is a positive step, CHA stresses that more extensive measures are necessary to support older Australians wishing to continue living at home.

SAF Industry Set to Fly

IFM Investors has welcomed the new measures introduced in the Federal Budget 2024/25 aimed at boosting superannuation investment towards Australia’s energy transition and initiating a local Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) industry. The government has outlined a strategic commitment to low carbon liquid fuels, such as SAF, which play a pivotal role in decarbonizing hard-to-abate sectors including aviation, shipping, and heavy transport.
The budget allocates $18.5 million over four years starting from 2024-25 to develop a certification scheme for these fuels under the expanded Guarantee of Origin scheme. Additionally, the government plans to conduct targeted consultations to identify suitable production incentives and has allocated $1.5 million over two years for regulatory impact analysis on demand-side measures for low carbon liquid fuels.
A significant part of the budget is the establishment of the $1.7 billion Future Made in Australia Innovation Fund, which will support the deployment of innovative technologies and facilities in critical industries such as green metals and low carbon liquid fuels.
With global demand for SAF increasing as the aviation industry seeks to reduce its carbon footprint, Australia is positioned to capitalize on its agricultural strengths and land availability to lead globally in SAF production. IFM Investors, in partnership with GrainCorp, is looking to invest over A$1 billion in developing local SAF production. This investment could increase as the industry develops, contingent on the establishment of conducive policy frameworks by the government.
In addition to SAF initiatives, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to the Capacity Investment Scheme, which underwrites significant investments in battery projects essential for enabling Australia’s energy transition. IFM Investors expressed enthusiasm for continued collaboration with the government to ensure the success of these initiatives, aiming to transform Australia into a leader in sustainable energy and fuel production.

Budget’s Homelessness Efforts

Homelessness Australia has acknowledged some positive steps in the Federal Budget toward addressing homelessness, particularly praising the increase in Commonwealth Rent Assistance to mitigate the impact of expected rent rises in 2024. However, the organization expressed concern over the insufficient lift in income support, which it warns will likely expose more people to homelessness.
The budget has made temporary funding for homelessness under the new federal-state housing agreement permanent, securing the overall funding value. It also focuses investment on combating homelessness through the allocation of previously committed $1 billion from the National Housing Infrastructure Facility, aimed at housing homeless youth and women and children escaping violence. Additionally, the introduction of a $5000 leaving violence payment marks a significant improvement.
Despite these measures, the lack of substantial increases in JobSeeker and Youth Allowance payments, which fail to cover basic living costs including rent, is seen as a continued driver of homelessness. The budget also lacks new investments in First Nations housing outside the Northern Territory.
Kate Colvin, CEO of Homelessness Australia, contrasted the current government’s approach with the previous government’s cuts, calling for a bolder housing investment vision to address the significant shortfall in low-cost rental availability. “The income support and housing measures in this Budget will make an important dent in our crisis, however, they will not resolve it,” Colvin stated. “Australia will continue to have a significant homelessness problem due to the scale of the housing crisis and the flood of need from victim survivors fleeing violence. We will work constructively with the Government to craft and deliver the lasting change needed to end homelessness. Each new dollar invested in income support or in social housing and homelessness means homelessness services can do more to reduce homelessness.”

Budget’s Skills Training Lacks

The Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia (ITECA) has responded to the 2024 Australian Government Budget, noting significant investments in workforce skilling, reskilling, and upskilling, but expressing concern over insufficient focus on skills training provision. ITECA highlights the budget’s lack of stronger support for students choosing independent training providers or public TAFE colleges.
Troy Williams, ITECA Chief Executive, stated, “This budget could have done more to put students at the heart of the skills training system, where the Australian Government backs their decision to study with an independent training provider or public TAFE college.”
The budget does introduce several key investments, including $265.1 million for the Australian Apprenticeships Incentive System, $91.0 million to skill the clean energy workforce, $90.6 million for the construction workforce, and $55.6 million to support women in non-traditional industries through the Building Women’s Careers program. Additionally, it allocates $85.9 million for the VET sector’s response to the Australian Universities Accord and $9.5 million to enhance Jobs and Skills Australia’s data capabilities.
Despite these allocations, Williams criticized the budget for not fully leveraging the capabilities of independent Registered Training Organisations (RTOs), which play a crucial role in the skills training landscape. “The government missed an opportunity to amplify its impact on skills training by not fully backing independent providers. Supporting both independent quality RTOs and public TAFE colleges is key to a comprehensive national skilling strategy,” Williams concluded.

CDU Praises Student Support

Charles Darwin University (CDU) has expressed strong support for the Federal Government’s recent decision to provide paid work placements for students in teaching, nursing, midwifery, and social work. This initiative is seen as a significant move to address the essential worker shortage in northern Australia, particularly in regional and remote areas.
The introduction of the Commonwealth Prac payment, amounting to $319.50 per week during clinical and professional placement periods, was part of CDU’s recommendations to the panel developing the University Accord. CDU Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Reuben Bolt emphasized the importance of this financial support in alleviating the burdens many students face, particularly those from low socio-economic backgrounds who often struggle with the costs associated with required placements.
Professor Bolt highlighted the difficulties students encounter, such as having to pause paid work or relocate to complete placements, sometimes having to choose between travel expenses and basic necessities like food. “The Commonwealth Government establishing a Prac Payment to support students will help ease cost-of-living pressures for our students and we are incredibly happy that the Government has taken the advice of the Universities Accord,” he stated.
He also noted that the provision of paid placements would likely encourage more students to enter vital fields needed in the Territory, enhancing their career decision-making, social skills, and employment prospects post-graduation. While applauding the initiative, Professor Bolt called for the inclusion of more study areas to ensure broader student support. The new policy is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, complementing any existing income support students may receive.

Budget Cuts Hurt Services

Women’s Legal Services Australia has criticized the 2024-25 Federal Budget for its inadequate funding towards legal services aiding women escaping violence.
The organization highlighted that the budget’s minimal investment in community legal centers does not extend to specialized programs for women affected by gender-based violence.
Elena Rosenman, Chair of Women’s Legal Services Australia, expressed significant concerns: “This Budget means many women’s legal services will have to start planning to reduce services to women experiencing gender-based violence.
This includes legal assistance for women separating from violent partners, specialist Domestic Violence Units, Health Justice Partnerships and sexual harassment legal services.”
Rosenman also pointed out the dire implications of insufficient funding: “We are deeply concerned that the Albanese Government has completely overlooked the critical work of women’s legal services. We are already forced to turn away over 52,000 women every year due to lack of adequate resources.”
She emphasized the importance of accessible, adequate legal support for women in crisis: “If we are asking Australian women to trust that the system will be there for them when they flee a violent relationship, we must ensure they can access the trauma-informed, integrated legal services they need.”
Despite the Women’s Budget Statement’s recognition of the community legal sector as a predominantly female workforce, Rosenman noted a mismatch in funding: “The solicitors, social workers and financial counsellors who work in frontline women’s legal services are exposed to significant trauma. They deserve to be paid appropriately for their contribution to our community.”

Billion-Dollar Rail Boost

Caroline Wilkie, ARA Chief Executive Officer, expressed approval of the $540 million from the Commonwealth combined with ARTC’s $500 million for its Network Investment Program.
“The ARA welcomes the decision to invest over $1 billion to upgrade critical sections of the 8,500-kilometre national rail network to help ensure the safe, reliable and efficient delivery of commercial goods to support businesses and families,” Wilkie commented.
She highlighted the crucial role of rail in strengthening the national supply chain and the economic and environmental advantages of a robust rail network.
The funding aims to mitigate severe weather impacts, which have disrupted rail services and cost the economy significantly, including $320 million in 2022 due to east-west line washouts alone.
Details of the government’s investment include $140 million for culvert upgrades to enhance flood resilience across SA, WA, and NSW, and $100 million for replacing lighter rails with heavier ones to accommodate larger trains in WA. Additionally, $150 million each will go towards track rehabilitation between Albury and Sydney and upgrading the Maroona to Portland Line in Victoria.
Wilkie also appreciated the significant national impact of the funding: “It is very pleasing to see the Australian Government acknowledge the significant impact that increasingly frequent extreme weather events have had on our national rail network. This essential investment will help ensure our supply chains keep moving when our communities need it most.”
Further government funding includes $1.4 billion for Perth’s Metronet project, $50 million for planning Canberra’s light rail Stage 2B, and an additional $1.15 billion for the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line in Queensland. Wilkie noted, “Research shows investment in rail projects future-proof communities along the rail corridor, delivering economic, social, safety and environmental benefits, along with thousands of new jobs and affordable homes.”

DailyStraits.com

Budget Fails Healthcare Needs

Aged Care Reforms Stalled

Budget Boosts Educational Equity

Budget Lacks Housing Reform

Budget Backs Clean Future

Electrification Finance Boost

Budget’s Housing Strategy Falls Short

Budget Targets Construction Costs

Budget Overlooks Student-Centered Training

Budget Overlooks Student-Centered Training

Budget Begins University Reform

CFMEU Supports Budget Measures

AWU Praises Labor Budget

Budget Boosts Mum’s Super

Budget Boosts Nursing Sector

Budget Targets HIV Elimination

Boost for Women’s Health

Budget Bolsters Veteran Support

Expanded Support for Veterans

Boosting Australia’s Green Future

Urging Energy Strategy Overhaul

Urging Energy Strategy Overhaul

Hydrogen Funding Fuels Transition

Budget Misses Skills Strategy

AI Boost for Healthcare Urged

Aid Budget Falls Short

ACDC Funding Forgotten

Budget Misses Key Solutions

Budget Overlooks Housing Needs

Budget Fuels CleanTech Drive

Renewable Regions Seek More

Budget Boosts Renewable Diesel

CA ANZ Eyes Tax Reform

Budget Lacks Small Business Boost

Budget Targets Small Business Relief

Mixed Review for Federal Budget

Budget Overlooks Inequality Issues

Rural Health Budget Falls Short

HESTA Praises Budget’s Super Steps

ANMF Cheers Budget Funding

Budget Mixed for Health Priorities

Bupa Praises Budget Health Measures

Budget Overlooks Disability Needs

Budget Boosts Dementia Support

Private Hospitals Overlooked in Budget

Budget Eases Cost Pressures

Engineering Community Applauds 2024 Budget Agenda

Record ARENA Funding Boost

Budget Boosts Gaza Family Aid

Community Legal Centers Face Cuts

Aid Budget Fails Women

Australia’s Green Budget Boost

Budget Boosts Clean Energy

Budget Targets HIV Elimination

Aged Care Reforms Stalled

SAF Industry Set to Fly

Budget’s Homelessness Efforts

Budget’s Skills Training Lacks

CDU Praises Student Support

Budget Cuts Hurt Services

Billion-Dollar Rail Boost

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