Angus Taylor Challenges PM’s Surplus Claim, Citing Increased Taxation and Spending

In contrast to Taylor’s claims, Chalmers stated that the surplus was achieved not by increasing taxes but by reducing spending.

Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor speaks to media during a press conference at the Commonwealth Parliamentary Offices in Sydney, Australia, on Sept. 25, 2024. AAP Image/Dan Himbrechts

On the day the Albanese government celebrated its second surplus budget, Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor called it the “biggest spending, biggest taxing government in Australian history.”

“Taxation since Labor came to power for the year just past is up $104 billion and the vast majority of that they have actually spent,” said Taylor in his first reaction to the budget numbers released by the government on Sept. 30th.