Anthony Albanese (Grayndler, Australian Labor Party, Prime Minister) Share this | Hansard source

In 2025 there have indeed been three interest rate cuts and that has provided real relief for people. Of course, two of those were after the budget that was handed down on 25 March. We know that those opposite have spoken about the culture of dependency when it comes to providing assistance for Australians. So, in the coalition's opinion, if you are an Australian who is getting cost-of-living help, we know you are opposed to that. For those working in the public sector, well, we know that you are opposed to them continuing to work in the public sector. Or if you're working in essential services, you are an economic burden and you are bad for our national character.

They think that Australians' wages, Australians' jobs and support for Australians deserves to be cut. That's really what they're saying in their subliminal—or not so subliminal—message when they speak about the 'culture of dependency'. Remember when Joe Hockey was here? He had similar language when he came to office about the 'lifters and leaners'. Those opposite think everyone but them is a leaner. They think that; we don't think that.

But who are the Australians they're attacking? It's pensioners and people caring for a relative or young kids. It's people getting study allowance at uni or rent assistance. It's the nurses, teachers, doctors, public servants all getting support. The ADF personnel—

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