The Federal Government revealed its 2025-2026 budget to the public, with key details being both praised and criticised by Warringah MP Zali Steggall.
One of the key promises in the budget includes $17 billion in tax cuts, which Ms Steggall has stated “will benefit working Australians”; however, she highlighted her belief that “the government has again avoided meaningful tax reform.”
Other aspects Ms Steggall praised include “a number of positive measures in health and education, particularly for women’s health and affordable childcare, and continues some investment in future-facing industries like green metals.”
However, the independent MP also criticised the budget’s perceived focus on reducing the cost of living rather than addressing the climate crisis: “It’s a false premise to think we can prioritise a cost-of-living budget over climate measures, as climate change is already costing us, and the longer we wait to mitigate and adapt, the more expensive it will be.”
She continued, “On balance, I give this budget a C+ as it represents cautious fiscal management in challenging geopolitical and economic circumstances—but it lacks the ambition and reform required to address climate risks, close equity gaps, and secure a strong, fair economy for future generations.”
