Overview
- Treasurer Jaclyn Symes tabled the budget Tuesday, forecasting a $727 million operating surplus in 2025–26 and $1 billion in 2026–27.
- The surplus counts federal grants and excludes big construction projects, and higher Commonwealth revenue helped lift the balance.
- Net debt is projected to reach $199.3 billion by 2029–30, pushing annual interest costs to about $11.8 billion or roughly $32 million a day.
- The budget confirms pre‑announced cost‑of‑living relief, including two months of free public transport then half‑price fares and a 20% car‑registration refund worth about $1.2 billion combined.
- Credit ratings remain investment‑grade with stable outlooks, but agencies warn temporary giveaways and looming wage deals could weaken fiscal metrics if not offset.