Media releases

2008

IMF World Economic Outlook

The IMF's latest World Economic Outlook highlights the difficult international environment Australia confronts as the Rudd Government continues framing the 2008-09 Budget.

Appointments to the Financial Sector Advisory Council

Today I met with the Chair and two other members of the Financial Sector Advisory Council (FSAC), to receive a briefing on recent developments in financial markets and the implications for Australi

Taxation of call options issued by companies

The Government has confirmed that it will amend the income tax law to restore the long­standing taxation treatment of call options issued by companies.

ASIC Review of mortgage entry and exit fees

The Rudd Government today released the Australian Securities and Investments Commission’s review of mortgage entry and exit fees.

Modern Federalism for Australia's Economic Future

At today's Council of Australian Governments meeting the Rudd Government and the States and Territories will substantially advance the Modern Federalism agenda to modernise federal-state relations

Board of Taxation appointments

Today I announce the following reappointments to the Board of Taxation:

New Tax Laws Bill Introduced

The Rudd Government today introduced Tax Laws Amendment (2008 Measures No.

Treasurers advance the Commonwealth-State reform agenda

Important progress was made today by Commonwealth, State and Territory Treasurers, who met to discuss the Commonwealth-State reform agenda central to our combined efforts to modernise the Australia

Approval of deductible gift recipients

Tax deductions are provided to donors who give to organisations that are endorsed as deductible gift recipients (DGRs), subject to certain conditions.  Organisations which do not fall under th

National Accounts - December Quarter 2007

Today's National Accounts show that strong growth in domestic demand has not been matched by increases in the economy's productive capacity.

Balance of Payments – December Quarter 2007

Today's Balance of Payments shows a significant widening in the current account deficit in the December quarter to $19.3 billion, representing 7.1 per cent of September quarter nominal GDP. 

Productivity Commission to investigate paid maternity leave

Delivering on its election commitment, the Rudd Labor Government will ask the Productivity Commission to examine ways the Government can provide improved support to parents with newborn childre

Government improves transparency of foreign investment screening process

Today I release a set of principles to enhance the transparency of Australia's foreign investment screening regime.

Tax Reform Bill introduced to Parliament honouring another Rudd Government commitment

Today I introduced into Parliament personal income tax reform that will boost participation in the labour market and reward the efforts of hard working Australians.

RBA Statement on Monetary Policy

Today's Reserve Bank Statement on Monetary Policy highlights the extent of the inflation legacy we face, and steels the Government's resolve to implement its five-point plan to fight inflation.

Rudd Government Making it Easier for Australian Families to Switch Banks

Today the Rudd Government is pleased to announce a package of measures to make it easier for Australians to switch banks if they are not satisfied with their current provider.

Consultation starts on Rudd Government's First Home Saver Accounts

Today the Rudd Government is releasing the First Home Saver Accounts (FHSA) discussion paper outlining the proposed features of the accounts and how they would operate.

First Home Saver Accounts - making the Australian dream a reality and fighting inflation

Federal Cabinet today formally approved the establishment of First Home Savers Accounts to help first home buyers save for their first home and help fight inflation.

First steps taken to deliver Standard Business Reporting programme

We are pleased to announce that, with the tender process going out yesterday for Standard Business Reporting programme core services infrastructure, the first steps have been taken to meet the Rudd

Consumer Price Index - December Quarter 2007

Today's Consumer Price Index (CPI) outcome shows why combating inflation remains a key economic challenge confronting the Rudd Government.