Sensible economists know these sorts of measures are stimulatory; they simply push price pressures into the future, when subsidies are finally removed. But Jim Chalmers is hoping that the laws of economics don’t apply to him.
The sad reality is that Victoria has now very little going for it, apart from rapid population growth spurred by excessive international migration. It’s a masterclass in mismanagement.
The real issue at the budget is whether the permanent migration numbers actually matter that much when compared with the inflow of temporary migrants on uncapped visas.
The budget should not be making any additional demands on the economy; indeed, it should be withdrawing any stimulus.
The special GST deal for Western Australia is often singled out by economists as the worst public policy mistake of the century. But it’s got nothing on the NDIS.
You wouldn’t buy a fridge that only works a third of the time or a stove that only works a third of the time. But we are expected to believe renewable energy is the route to cheaper electricity and economic prosperity.
Just because other countries are introducing wasteful policies, this shouldn’t be an excuse to follow suit.
It’s no surprise many are feeling cranky; with migration at an all-time high, the stress on the rental market and demand pressures are pushing up inflation – hitting people across the board.
Unlike PJK, the incumbent Treasurer is effectively minding the shop, has no authority or persuasive powers in cabinet and is mainly hoping for the best.
What started as a market-based trading scheme in the 1990s has descended into a chaotic combination of federal and state rules and subsidy arrangements.
Original URL: https://www.theaustralian.com.au/author/judith-sloan/page/11