THE HON STEPHEN JONES MP
ASSISTANT TREASURER
MINISTER FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES
MEMBER FOR WHITLAM

ALISON BYRNES MP
MEMBER FOR CUNNINGHAM

The Albanese Government is providing further cost-of-living relief for Illawarra and Southern Highlands residents from today.

It’s part of the Government’s comprehensive plan to help Australians right now, while working to tackle inflation and deliver a Future Made in Australia.

From 1 July, Labor is delivering:

• A tax cut for every Australian taxpayer, with the average tax cut locally to be more than $1,500.
• $300 energy bill relief for every Australian household and $325 for small businesses.
• A freeze on the cost of PBS medicines for every Australian.
• Two weeks more paid parental leave.
• More funding to build more homes in every part of the country.

This comes on top of a third consecutive pay rise for 2.6 million workers, backed by the Albanese Government.

These latest cost-of-living measures come on top of supports already delivered, such as cheaper child care, fee-free TAFE and the biggest investment ever in expanding bulk-billing.

We’re delivering this vital cost-of-living relief now, while building on our responsible economic plan to fight inflation and invest in future growth.

Quotes attributable to Member for Whitlam Stephen Jones:

“We know that people in the Illawarra and Southern Highlands are doing it tough at the moment. That’s why our Government is delivering more cost-of-living relief without adding to inflation.

“This latest support will make a real difference to locals’ wallets. It’s part of our plan to ensure people earn more and keep more of what they earn while we continue to manage the nation’s economy responsibly and rebuild domestic manufacturing.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Cunningham Alison Byrnes:

“From today, 98 per cent of young Australians and 90 per cent of women will earn more and keep more of what they earn under Labor’s tax cuts.

“We are acting responsibly with additional targeted relief including energy bill rebates for every household, a wage rise for 2.6 million workers, freezing the cost of PBS medicines, and increasing Paid Parental Leave by two weeks.

“We know there’s more to do, but we are laser focused on supporting Australians struggling with the cost-of-living.”