Lambie suggests change to childcare subsidies to cut spending
The independent senator says the government should "means test it all", warning Australians will continue to face economic pressure for the next couple of years.
Senator Jacqui Lambie has proposed means-testing existing government subsidies, including childcare and those for electric vehicles, to cut spending ahead of the December budget update. She also suggested introducing a tax on gas exports as a way to generate billions of dollars in revenue. The government is facing a tough task in passing its gas reservation bill, which currently lacks support from the Greens and the Coalition.
Treasurer Jim Chalmers is under pressure to reduce government spending due to cost-of-living pressures, including inflation and interest rate hikes. Lambie suggested means-testing child care subsidies based on income levels, using an example of a couple earning $500,000. She argued for better-targeted assistance to those in need.
Lambie also proposed a 20% tax on gas exports, which she believes could raise significant revenue. While the opposition supports the idea, the government is hesitant, citing concerns about trade relationships and existing tax mechanisms.
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