The Victorian Government is claiming a budget surplus — but take a closer look, and the numbers tell a very different story.
That so-called “surplus” is being propped up by a questionable lottery deal that raises serious concerns about transparency and long-term financial responsibility.
Instead of genuine economic strength, what we’re seeing is a one-off financial manoeuvre dressed up as good management. Selling off future revenue streams to make today’s books look better might create a headline — but it leaves Victorians paying the price down the track.
At the same time, everyday Victorians are being hit with a new $5.4 billion Emergency Services Tax. Firefighters, who are on the frontline protecting communities, aren’t seeing that money translate into better equipment, trucks, or resources where it’s needed most.
So where is the money really going?
Victorians deserve honesty — not accounting tricks. They deserve a government that invests in essential services properly, rather than relying on short-term deals to paper over deeper budget problems.
This isn’t a real surplus. It’s smoke and mirrors.
And the public has every right to ask questions.
#JacintaAllan #labor #victoria
