Prospective Cost of Living Relief Rules Out Cash Handouts

Financially stressed Australians could soon receive more support for living costs as the government explores additional assistance. However, support may not be in the form of cash handouts, as Prime Minister Anthony Albanese worries it might worsen inflation. “Our priority will be to provide cost of living relief whilst taking pressure off inflation,” Mr. Albanese announced on Dec. 3. He said the Treasury and the Department of Finance are working on new cost-of-living policy ideas ahead of the May budget. While Treasury and Finance will decide the specifics, Mr. Albanese highlighted the energy price relief plan as an effective example of reducing financial pressure. ...