Part 5/7:
A core concern underpinning these discussions is the potential for tax hikes rather than spending restraint. Carling highlighted that any tax reform must be aimed at improving productivity rather than merely raising revenue, warning that the government might use upcoming reforms as a green light for increased taxes.
This concern was echoed in recent comments by the Treasurer, suggesting that a "super tax" aims primarily to generate revenue for budget balancing rather than addressing systemic fiscal issues. With more than half of Australians now relying on government for the majority of their income, the nation faces serious long-term challenges regarding entitlement dependency.