Treasurer Tim Pallas can’t be trusted when he suggests the Allan Labor Government is considering reforms to stamp duty.
Just weeks ago, the Treasurer rejected repeated calls by the Liberals and Nationals to reform the tax, claiming a transition to a yearly land tax would cost the budget $30 billion.
Furthermore, last month Premier Jacinta Allan ruled out transitioning from stamp duty to land tax, stating the idea “is not before the government through this budget process”.
The Liberals and Nationals have taken stamp duty reforms to the last two state elections, as the tax continues to distort the housing market, inflate prices, and disproportionately hurt first home buyers who do not have existing equity.
Shadow Treasurer, Brad Rowswell, said: “The Liberals and Nationals continue to call on Labor to stop their addiction to taxes.
“How are Victorians meant to believe that Labor is open to reforming stamp duty when the Treasurer won’t even rule out imposing new or increased taxes in the upcoming State Budget?”
Shadow Minister for Home Ownership and Housing Affordability, Evan Mulholland, said: “This is a cruel hoax onthose looking to buy their first home, existing homeowners, and those moving toward retirement.
“If Labor are serious about acting rather than giving Victorians false hope, they must commit today to reducing stamp duty in the upcoming State Budget.”
