Anthony Albanese (Grayndler, Australian Labor Party, Prime Minister) Share this | Hansard source

He has made very clear that we understand that there are pressures on the cost of living, and that is why the measures that we have put in place have been aimed at alleviating the pressure on the cost of living without putting further pressure on inflation.

That's why we designed the Energy Price Relief Plan in the way that we did. It will take three-quarters of a per cent off the inflation rate, according to Treasury and the Reserve Bank. That's why we prioritised cheaper child care, which will boost the workforce participation of women and boost productivity.

That's why we're addressing supply chain issues through fee-free TAFE, with 180,000 delivered and 300,000 to come—opposed by those opposite and seen as wasteful spending. We regard this as an investment that will boost productivity, that will boost the economy whilst not putting pressure on inflation. It's why we have a policy to assist households with cheaper medicines, already delivering substantial amounts through our measures on January 1, but with more to come.

It's why we have our three-point plan to deal with inflationary pressures, including dealing with supply chain issues, through our creation of the National Reconstruction Fund—opposed by those opposite. It's why we're dealing with skills shortages, through the creation of Jobs and Skills Australia—opposed by those opposite, like they opposed fee-free TAFE.

This government is determined to make a difference to people. It contrasts with those opposite who sat by and watched robodebt and the evidence that came amongst some of the most vulnerable. Melanie, who appeared at the commission, said this: 'I had to sell everything I could sell, just to get a little bit by. I had to go to the Salvation Army for the first time ever in my life, and it was quite degrading. It made me feel like I was a criminal.'

See this speech in context