Budget misses opportunity to help Selwyn families

By the time inflation, GST increases and increased costs in childcare are passed on, most families in Selwyn will be worse off under National’s tax swindle, says Labour List MP, Maryan Street.

“This budget has meant middle and low income earners will at the end of the day be significantly out of pocket. This isn’t the tax step change John Key promised. It’s a tax swindle,” said Maryan Street.

“A family with 2 young kids even end up $55 per week worse off after GST, inflation and ECE charges are all taken into account.

“The reality is the people on very high incomes are much better off following yesterday’s budget, while people on average incomes are worse off,” she said.

“In Selwyn, 67% of incomes are $40,000 or less. This includes wages and salaries, superannuation and all main benefits. Just like last year, when they did not receive a promised tax cut at all, they will receive this year no net gain from Mr Key’s tax swindle.

“This year ACC premiums have gone up, health services are being cut and now GST has been increased, as have childcare costs. It is simply not fair that the majority of New Zealanders are paying for the tax cuts of a few people on very high incomes.

“People who were already struggling will continue to struggle following yesterday’s budget.

“Labour strongly opposes the increase on GST, the cuts to health services and the increase in costs of childcare to parents.

“Kiwi families realise that while National have offered them tax cuts, price increases will mean they will be no better off,” said Maryan Street.

ENDS

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