Anti-poverty advocates term Federal Budget “missed opportunity”

Cost of living remains front of mind for many Australians, with inflation devastating household finance.

Treasure Jim Chalmers announced some of the biggest tax reform proposals Australia has seen in decades. Limits on negative gearing and changes to capital gains tax discounts aim to rebalance the tax system and improve home affordability for first home-buyers.

While welfare payments remain stagnant, some allocations have been proposed to address young people at risk of homelessness with community housing.

Anti-poverty advocates agree reforms are necessary, but are critical the Budget is a “missed opportunity,” concerned it fails to address poverty, leaving many behind.

Image: Source – Sam Georgiou

Produced By: Sam Georgiou, Emma Wotzke, and Taylah Viskic

Featured In Story: Samantha Skinner – Campaigns Co-Coordinators at the Anti-Poverty Network , Mel Fisher – Artist and Advocate at Anti-Poverty Network South Australia, Donna – Grannies for Action, and Vincent Anti-Poverty Network member

First aired on The Wire, Thursday 14 May 2026