Ballooning debt, soaring taxes – Labor’s legacy

The Nationals Member for Ovens Valley, Tim McCurdy, has slammed the Allan Labor Government’s worsening financial mismanagement, warning that regional Victorians are being hit hardest.

Victoria’s state debt is projected to reach a staggering $194 billion by 2028/29, costing nearly $29 million in interest payments every single day. That’s over $1 million every hour being wasted on interest instead of going into roads, schools, and health services.

In just ten years, Labor has introduced or increased more than 60 taxes. Their latest cash grab, the new Emergency Services Levy, will raise an extra $3 billion, driving up household bills, industrial rates, and rental costs across the state.

Skyrocketing property taxes are pushing up the cost of living and driving away investment in much-needed new housing. Combined with high payroll, land and business taxes, Labor’s heavy-handed approach has put a handbrake on job creation and economic growth.

Adding to the concern, over $12 billion has been handed out through Treasurer’s advances, showing Labor has completely lost control of the budget.

Victorians deserve better than spiralling debt and never-ending tax hikes. Families, farmers and small businesses in the Ovens Valley are being left behind by a government that refuses to rein in waste or manage money responsibly.

As we look ahead to the 2026 election, The Nationals will continue to stand for responsible financial management and a fairer deal for regional communities.

Labor can't manage money, and regional Victorians are paying the price.