PolicyEconomyPolitical leadershipOpinionThe dark truth behind NSW and Queensland’s ‘relief’ budgetsBoth state governments should have returned their budgets to surplus by now, but political reasons are preventing them from tightening the fiscal screws.Gene TunnyEconomistThis week’s NSW and Queensland state budgets show both governments are clearly struggling to deliver sound finances while also trying to meet community expectations for cost-of-living relief and improved public services.Queensland’s budget is further complicated by the enormous costs associated with preparing for the 2032 Olympic Games, and ratings agencies are watching closely for evidence of credible fiscal repair.Subscribe to gift this articleGift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe.Subscribe nowAlready a subscriber? Latest In EconomyFetching latest articlesMost Viewed In Policy
The dark truth behind NSW and Queensland’s ‘relief’ budgets
Both state governments should have returned their budgets to surplus by now, but political reasons are preventing them from tightening the fiscal screws.
TL;DRAI
NSW, Queensland defer budget surplus returns amid relief spending; Olympic costs compound Queensland's fiscal pressure. Tightened state budgets reduce government IT investment, signaling headwinds for tech vendors serving public sector digital transformation.
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