A federal treasurer’s speech on budget night isn’t a reflection of every aspect of the country, it nevertheless paints a picture of the nation. While its focus is economics, a budget speech reveals something about the condition of our politics and our culture.

On Tuesday night, Jim Chalmers listed 11 achievements in the 2024-25 budget. They ranged from “a tax cut for every taxpayer” to “a fairer go at every checkout” to “stronger Medicare in every community”. “An economic plan where growth and opportunity go together” was mentioned last.