Opened the debate
Stanley argued that the government had inherited a large debt burden and stagnant wage growth but had since improved the budget position by $45 billion and reduced debt by nearly $200 billion. Stanley stated that this responsible management enabled the introduction of permanent tax cuts, including a $1,000 instant tax deduction for workers and a $250 working Australians tax offset. Stanley claimed these measures, combined with previous cuts, would return nearly $3,000 to the average worker. Stanley also noted that small businesses would benefit from a permanent $20,000 instant tax write-off and a two-year loss carry-back provision. Furthermore, she highlighted improvements in healthcare access, citing increased bulk-billing rates and the establishment of urgent care clinics. Stanley concluded by mentioning investments in local infrastructure, housing assistance for young people, and free TAFE training.