Tracey Roberts (Pearce, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

I rise to speak about how the Albanese Labor government is addressing the pressing issue of the cost of living in Australia. We have just heard from the Leader of the Opposition, we have just heard from members of the opposition, and I say one thing: actions speak louder than words. That's why I'm on this side of the House. When I'm out and about in my community in Pearce, which is one of the fastest- and largest-growing areas in the nation, with a median age of 36 and approximately eight babies born per day, the most significant and appreciated measure introduced by the Albanese Labor government is the tax cut for every taxpayer. My constituents are so appreciative of not just a one-off payment but an ongoing pay increase every fortnight in their pay packets. Starting 1 July 2024, every taxpayer has received a tax cut, including those earning $45,000 or less who previously received no benefit under the previous government's tax plan.

Given the previously mentioned demographics of Pearce, my community's also very appreciative that the government has reduced childcare costs and enhanced the government paid parental leave. From 1 July, parents have received 22 weeks of paid parental leave, resulting in more support as parents take time out of work to care for their newborns. The scheme will continue to expand each year until the government's Paid Parental Leave scheme reaches 26 weeks in July 2026. When fully rolled out to 26 weeks, families will receive around $24,000 in government-funded parental leave.

The Albanese Labor government has also raised the Medicare levy low-income threshold, benefiting more than a million Australians. This ensures that more low-income earners either pay a reduced levy rate or are exempt from it altogether, further enhancing their financial situation.

In addition to tax relief, the government is also providing energy bill relief. From 1 July, every household should receive a rebate of $300 on their electricity bills, while one million small businesses will benefit from a rebate of $325. This measure is critical, providing relief from rising global energy prices. By offering these rebates, the government aims to help families manage their expenses, while simultaneously exerting downward pressure on inflation.

Another critical area where the Albanese Labor government is making progress is in wages. After a decade of stagnant wages under the previous government, the Albanese Labor government is taking decisive action to get wages moving again. This includes supporting consecutive increases in the median wage and delivering a historic 15 per cent rise for aged-care and early childcare workers, increasing the payment for these essential workers and acknowledging they are taking the time and they are absolutely valued.

To further enhance the quality of aged care, today the Albanese government has announced a $5.6 billion package of investment and reforms towards high-quality, safe and compassionate care. This will allow our older generation to live independently and to live with dignity and respect as they age.

Healthcare affordability is also a priority. The government is committed to making medicines cheaper. In the recent budget, $3 billion has been allocated to support pharmacies and reduce the cost of medications. The maximum cost for PBS prescriptions will be frozen at $31.64 a year. For those with pension or concession cards, the price will remain at $7.70 for five years. This ensures that essential medications remain accessible to those who need them most. I had a community member make a beeline for me in the shopping centre recently so she could thank the Albanese Labor government. She realised she could now afford to get her full prescription at the pharmacy rather than having to pick and choose what she could and couldn't afford.

Furthermore, the government is committed to ensuring a fair deal for consumers by strengthening the competition watchdog and introducing a mandatory grocery code of conduct. The government is working to hold supermarkets accountable and to secure fairer prices at the check-out. This is an essential step in combatting the rising cost of living and in ensuring that people are not unfairly burdened.

The Albanese Labor government is actively addressing the cost-of-living crisis through comprehensive measures that support taxpayers, provide energy relief, boost wages, make health care affordable, invest in education, ensure fair consumer practices and support families. Without doubt, the Albanese Labor government is supporting our communities and is committed to building a sustainable future for all Australians, and that's why I sit on this side of the House.

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