Finding Savings in Budget Getting ‘Harder’: Labor

Finance Minister Katy Gallagher has flagged more spending in the upcoming federal budget as economists warn to keep it in check. The Albanese government will hand down its third budget in less than two weeks, with experts calling for caution in spending to prevent it from being inflationary. Senator Gallagher said the government will deliver $1 billion (US$660 million) in savings on consultants and contractors, but this was becoming more difficult. Asked if Labor’s total savings in the upcoming budget were going to be more than new spending, she replied “finding savings is harder.” “You’ll see a big focus in this budget is cost of living, obviously dealing with inflation, and then putting down the foundations for growth,” the finance minister told ABC’s Insiders on Sunday....