Part 5/9:
The economic landscape is described as "sick," with multiple sectors — construction, hospitality, media, and entertainment — suffering particular hardship. State governments, notably Victoria, are accused of exacerbating business woes through increased taxes and levies like land taxes, payroll taxes, and workcover premiums in a bid to reduce mounting debts. Meanwhile, energy costs continue to spike, with consumers receiving bills that are increasingly difficult to justify, further straining household budgets.