The Albanese government reckons we’re all winners this time around—especially with the second round of tax cuts and energy rebates. But as always, some Aussies have been handed bigger victories than others, while a few groups have definitely drawn the short straw.
Winners
🖥️ Households without internet
At long last, the NBN rollout is poised to connect tens of thousands of under-served homes, with a major $3bn boost to finish the job and upgrade nearly 622,000 households.
🛒 Aussie-made devotees
There’s $20m set aside to encourage Aussies to “Buy Australian,” plus $3bn in grants to help iron and aluminium producers go green.
👷 Tradies
Electricians will need only one licence to work nationwide, and construction apprentices get boosted support—double the financial incentive, up to $10,000.
🍺 Brewers & Pubs
A freeze on the draught beer excise helps keep your pint’s price from bubbling over. Wine and beer producers also score higher tax offsets.
❤️ Aged Care Workers
Extra funding ensures wage rises are secure thanks to Fair Work Commission changes.
🕵️ Spies
Intelligence agencies get $45m for training and other top-secret goodies.
🐼 Pandas
Yes, pandas! Adelaide zoo’s furry pair receive $7.6m in federal funding, and the endangered Maugean skate also gets a $3m lifeline.
Losers
🏠 Renters & First Home Buyers
Help to Buy is expanded, but only 40,000 spots are up for grabs, and there’s no new rent assistance this time around.
🤝 Consultants & Contractors
The government slashed another $720m from consultant spending.
🦹 Tax Evaders & Dodgy Agents
The ATO gets nearly $1bn to crack down on under-reporting, while the Tax Practitioners Board is beefed up.
💨 Vape & Illicit Ciggie Traders
A $160m crackdown means bigger fines and more policing.
💸 Debt & Deficit Haters
After two surpluses, we’re back in deficit—rising to over $1 trillion in gross debt.
🌏 Foreign Home Buyers
A two-year ban on established housing means fewer real estate options for non-residents.
Visit the government’s budget website for more information:
budget.gov.au