2 April 2019

Doorstop interview, Parliament House, Canberra

Note

Subjects: 2019-20 Budget.

This is a transcript of the Hon Josh Frydenberg's doorstop interview in Canberra. The main topic discussed was the 2019-20 Budget.

JOSH FRYDENBERG: Well, tonight’s Budget sets Australia up for the next decade. It builds a stronger economy and secures a better Australia for every Australian, and we do that without increasing taxes. Tonight’s surplus is no accident. It’s the product of responsible decisions and an economic plan that is working. There is more to do, but the Australian people can trust us to do it. Are there any questions?

QUESTION:

Can you double the projected surplus from MYEFO?

JOSH FRYDENBERG:

Well, tonight, we will deliver the first surplus in more than a decade. It’s the product of responsible decisions, difficult but necessary decisions. Discipline when it comes to budget management is absolutely important, because if we can get debt under control, we can ensure more spending on the essential services that people need and deserve.

QUESTION:

What can average families expect, Treasurer?

JOSH FRYDENBERG:

Average families can expect out of this Budget that their cost of living pressures will be eased, that there will be more money in their pocket, congesting busting infrastructure that will allow them to get to work earlier and to get home sooner, and guaranteed essential services of hospitals, schools, aged care, disability support. They’re the things that are important to the Australian people, and they’re the things that will be in tonight’s Budget.

QUESTION:

And tax cuts?

JOSH FRYDENBERG:

The Coalition believes that every Australian should earn more, and that every Australian should keep more of what they earn, and that will be reflected in this Budget tonight. Thank you.