The Consumer Price Index released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics today shows inflation is out of control, confirming Pyro Jim’s reckless spending is pushing the cost of living higher for Australian families.
Inflation was 3.8 per cent in January, leaving Australian households paying even more for the basics while the Treasurer continues to pour fuel on the fire through reckless spending and rising debt.
Domestic inflation is running even higher at 4.9 per cent - Labor’s cost of living crisis is well and truly homegrown.
As all Australians know by now, Labor has been papering over the true crisis it has unleashed in Australia’s energy system. With the expiry of temporary energy rebates, today’s numbers reveal the true cost of Labor’s failed energy policy. Electricity prices are up 32 per cent in the past year alone.
Australian families with kids also know the cost of going back to school and childcare hit hard this year. Out-of-pocket childcare costs are up 11 per cent in the past year despite Labor’s claims of fixing the system.
This never-ending cost of living crisis is unique to Australia, with inflation running hotter here than in every major advanced economy.
After nearly four years of Labor, Australians are paying more for almost everything:
🛟 Insurance is up 39%.
💡 Energy is up 38%.
🏡 Rents are up 22%.
🏥 Health is up 18%.
📚 Education is up 17%.
🍳 Food is up 16%.
Shadow Treasurer Tim Wilson said Australian families feel the pressure every time they pay for groceries, fuel or the household bills.
“Today’s figures confirm what Australians already know, Pyro Jim’s spending is keeping inflation higher for longer,” Mr Wilson said.
“Government spending is at its highest level outside a recession in 40 years and Labor’s debt is racing towards one trillion dollars.”
“Australians are paying around $50,000 a minute just to service Labor’s debt, money that adds demand to the economy and keeps pressure on prices.”
“At a time when Australians need relief, Labor is making inflation stick.”
“Under Labor, living standards have fallen, with Australia recording the biggest drop in household disposable incomes in the developed world.”
“Until Pyro Jim gets spending under control, Australians will keep paying through higher prices, higher mortgages and weaker living standards.”
“As Liberals, we stand for lower inflation, lower interest rates and lower taxes.”
The Coalition will restore disciplined economic management and fight to bring down costs for Australian families.
When Labor spends, you pay.