MERYL SWANSON MP

MEMBER FOR PATERSON

MEDIA RELEASE

ALBANESE LABOR GOVERNMENT'S FEDERAL BUDGET 2024: DELIVERING RELIEF FOR PEOPLE OF PATERSON

The Albanese Labor Government's Federal Budget for 2024 is focused on giving every taxpayer in Paterson, all 75,000 a tax cut.  Easing the pressure of inflation and rising living costs, particularly for those facing financial challenges.  Developing strategies to offer cost of living support without adding to inflation. Through targeted relief and responsible fiscal management, the government wants earnings to stretch further without driving up prices.

Specifically in Paterson, the Albanese Labor Government is committing to the M1 upgrades through further funding of $112 million for the Pacific Motorway extension to Raymond Terrace, and a further $137.5 million for the long overdue duplication of Nelson Bay Road.

The Federal Budget for 2024 aims for long-term prosperity. We're investing in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and small businesses to create jobs and ensure resilience. Addressing energy costs and housing affordability are key, with $32 billion allocated for new homes nationwide, including in Paterson. Additionally, we're cutting student debt for over three million Australians, wiping around $3 billion to ease financial burdens and support education access.  This change will support 15190 persons with a HELP debt in Paterson.

Residents in Paterson have already saved $2,019,868 thanks to the Albanese Government’s commitment to delivering cheaper medicines. Everyone in Paterson who accesses PBS medicines is set to save even more thanks to the freeze on the maximum cost of a PBS medicine.

The pensioners and concession card holders in Paterson won’t pay more than $7.70 for their PBS medications for the next 5 years, thanks to the Albanese Government’s commitment to delivering cheaper medicines.

In the last year 72,114 residents in Paterson accessed 264,152 pathology services. The Government is making sure these pathology tests stay bulk billed by indexing the Medicare rebates for common medical tests – reducing waiting times and catching health problems sooner.

At the heart of this budget is the commitment to putting people first, delivering tax relief, targeted support, and strategic investments for a fairer and more prosperous future.

Quotes attributable to Meryl Swanson MP, Federal Member for Paterson

“I am proud to part of a government that puts people first.  This is a budget that delivers for every taxpayer in Paterson, while building a better Australia in an economically responsible way.

“I am proud to be delivering on my commitment to the M1 upgrades through further funding of $112 million, and a further $137.5 million for the long overdue duplication of Nelson Bay Road, helping locals and tourists with better access while moving in a safe way.”

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Media Contact: Belinda McNab – 0407 655 594