Chesters on cost of living relief

WITH the Federal Government’s cost-of-living measures having taken effect on Monday, Labor MPs have been busily selling the various initiatives while insisting there will be no contribution to rising inflation.

Among those promoting the moves was Member for Bendigo Lisa Chesters, who visited the Eaglehawk Community House to offer details about how they would benefit local families.

Ms Chesters said the initiatives were “vital” and would benefit everyone in the electorate.

“I know that people in the Bendigo electorate are under pressure right now, which is why the federal Labor government is delivering responsible cost-of-living relief without adding to inflation,” Ms Chesters said.

“The cost-of-living measures that start on July 1 are fair, reasonable and will help local households make ends meet.”

Ms Chesters said the tax cut for every Australian taxpayer – an issue which has been a topic of extensive debate – would directly benefit 66,000 people in the Bendigo electorate, while every local household and 11,187 small businesses would receive $300 and $325 in energy bill relief respectively.

Ms Chesters said wider plans included a freeze on the cost of Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme medications for the next five years, meaning pensioners and concession card holders would not pay more than $7.70 for their medications.

And a third consecutive pay rise for 2.6 million low-paid workers including cleaners, dental nurses and retail workers, and an expansion of paid parental leave from 20 weeks to 22 weeks also were set to come into force, she said.

Paid parental leave is planned to reach 26 weeks by July 2026.

“It builds on cost-of-living measures the government has already delivered, such as cheaper childcare, fee-free TAFE and the biggest investment ever in expanding bulk-billing,” Ms Chesters said of the government’s efforts.

“All this is part of a longer-term economic plan, helping Bendigo and Central Victorians right now.”