Editorial: Few surprises in Gunner’s first Budget as Treasurer

CHIEF Minister and Treasurer Michael Gunner’s first budget was typical of a first year budget in a four-year election cycle. To use one of his own terms, it is a lot of sizzle but not much steak.

Chief Minister and Treasurer Michael Gunner at a business community event yesterday after delivering his government's 2020-2021 Budget. Picture: Che Chorley

• Who are the Winners and who are the Losers out of NT Budget 2020/21

CHIEF Minister and Treasurer Michael Gunner’s first budget was typical of a first year budget in a four-year election cycle.

To use one of his own terms, the budget is a lot of sizzle but not much steak.

However, with a burgeoning debt now predicted to hit $8.4bn on the back of the coronavirus pandemic, this budget was never going to be one for the ages.

There are some sensible measures being implemented and while unions are disappointed about the public service wage freeze, we believe it’s time they pulled their weight.

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The private sector has been smashed by COVID-19 and thousands of Territorians have lost their jobs.

Public servants, however, have maintained their job throughout the pandemic.

A wage freeze for four years might seem aggressive but it will save taxpayers $424m and that’s an amount not to be sneezed at.

The government is doing the right thing listening to the Economic Reconstruction Commission, which is filled with smart people who have some great ideas to spark up our flailing economy.

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Yes, the budget may be somewhat lacklustre but now is the time for everyone, including politicians and business leaders, to get on with the job and start growing the Territory to its full potential.

There is not a day to waste.