Malcolm Turnbull (Wentworth, Liberal Party, Prime Minister) Share this | Hansard source

At a high, philosophical level, our commitment is to taxes that are lower, fairer and simpler. We want to ensure that the tax system works as effectively as possible and applies the least handbrake or deadweight loss to the economy. That is why we have reviewed the tax system very carefully. The conclusions of that review or any changes arising therefrom will be set out in the budget in the normal way.

There are some changes that have been proposed since I have been Prime Minister, and obviously the one we mentioned earlier today in question time, creating tax incentives for investment in start-up companies, is one, and that is a good example of us endeavouring to use changes to the tax system to promote investment. But what the honourable member is asking is this. He wants to know the contents of the budget on 16 March. Yes, they want us to present the budget in March! Well, the contents of the budget and tax changes contained therein will be delivered on budget night in the normal way.

The honourable members opposite were reckless and unwise enough to publish their own tax plans.

Opposition members interjecting—

Oh yes. This is their special formula: to undermine housing prices, to put up—

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