This piece was first published in Canberra Daily on Sunday 25 June 2023.
The start of a new financial always come as a bit of shock. It means half the year has already gone, mid-year school holidays are near, and it’s time to get busy with tax time.
But this year, 1 July also brings several important changes to improve the lives of Australians and shape a brighter future for the nation. These changes are the result of a number of Albanese Labor Government policies that will fix aged care, combat climate change, support families, and promote accountability.
Many Canberra families who have been feeling the bite of rising costs-of-living will get a reprieve when childcare subsidies increase from 10 July. We know the early years are precious, so Australian children should be able to access the great benefits of early childhood education, while enabling parents to balance work and parenting. About 30,400 families in the ACT will benefit from these increased subsidies.
At the same time, Labor’s extended Paid Parental Leave will take effect, which will allow partnered couples to claim up to 20 weeks between them, while single parents can access the full 20 weeks. This expansion will give families more support during the early stages of parenthood, fostering a nurturing environment in which children can thrive.
The National Anti-Corruption Commission will also start operations from 1 July – a significant step towards safeguarding the integrity and transparency of our democracy. This independent body will work to identify and address corruption, promoting a culture of accountability and trust within government institutions.
Accountability and transparency in aged care will also be bolstered through the Inspector General of Aged Care – an independent body that will investigate, monitor, and report on the aged care system, ensuring that the highest standards of care and ethical practices are maintained. Other Labor reforms to improve aged care will also take effect, including the requirement that aged care facilities have a registered nurse onsite 24/7, ensuring enhanced care for our elderly. About 250,000 hardworking aged care workers will also receive a substantial pay rise, acknowledging their dedication and the skilled nature of their work.
Climate action under Labor will continue with the Net Zero Authority, which will steer the transition to a net-zero economy, officially commencing operations on 1 July.
Safeguard Mechanism reforms will also take effect, requiring large mining, manufacturing, oil and gas, and transport facilities to reduce their emissions, aligning with the net-zero by 2050 target.
To address the housing crisis, the capacity of the National Housing and Finance Investment Corporation will be expanded to unlock additional support for social and affordable housing. Simultaneously, amendments to the Home Guarantee Scheme will broaden eligibility, enabling more Australians to realise their dream of owning a home.
Last weekend, Labor announced a $2 billion Social Housing Fund Accelerator payment, with $50 million allocated to the ACT, to deliver thousands of new social homes across Australia this year.
This July will mark a transformative step forward for Australia, and I look forward to talking with Canberrans about what these changes will mean for them.
This piece was first published in Canberra Daily on Sunday 25 June 2023.
