The cost of living crisis: A growing concern for all

WITH NATIONALS’ CANDIDATE FOR BENDIGO, ANDREW LETHLEAN

As Christmas approaches, many families are facing an uncertain financial future. Despite promises of relief, the cost of living continues to skyrocket, leaving households struggling to pay mortgages, rents, grocery bills, and energy bills. Under the current government, families are paying almost 20 per cent more in costs compared to just two years ago.

The numbers are alarming. Insolvencies are up, with manufacturing insolvencies increasing threefold over the last two years. Businesses are closing, and those that remain are squeezing margins, forcing staff layoffs. More and more people are having to take on second and third jobs just to make ends meet.

Since the 2022 election, prices have risen dramatically, the cost of food is up 12.3 per cent, rent is up 16.3 per cent and insurance is up 17.3 per cent.

The Albanese Government’s promises of cheaper mortgages and lower energy bills have proven hollow. Interest rates have risen 12 times under his watch, and energy bills continue to soar. Labor’s response to the cost of living crisis has been to commission review after review, rather than taking concrete action.

The Nationals are committed to getting Australia back on track with a back-to-basics economic agenda that fights inflation and boosts productivity. This includes cutting red tape, securing our energy future, reforming our tax system, and encouraging enterprise and small business.

We will focus on restoring Australians’ way of life, not just commissioning more reviews. Labor’s homegrown inflation is crushing Australian families, and it’s time for strong economic management and reduced wasteful spending.

The Australian people, and the people I want to represent across the electorate of Bendigo deserve better. It’s time for a government that delivers on its promises and puts the needs of families, pensioners, young people and small business first.

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