It has today been confirmed that the Andrews Labor Government has delivered budget surpluses every single year, with Victoria’s economy in a strong position, with strong economic growth, low unemployment, and low debt.
The Pre-Election Budget Update (PEBU), released by the Department of Treasury and Finance, shows Victoria’s economy has grown strongly since Labor came to office in 2014, and that Labor has delivered budget surpluses every single year.
This is in stark contrast to when the Liberals were last in Government – Victoria’s economy stagnated, our unemployment was the worst on the mainland, and there were cuts to schools, hospitals, and public transport, including in regional Victoria.
Labor has turned this around, with sound economic management, the right investments, and the commitment to deliver for all Victorians.
Since the Labor Government was elected in 2014, more than 390,000 jobs have been created – the largest percentage increase of any state in the country. Victoria’s unemployment rate of 4.5 per cent is a full 2.2 percentage points below that inherited from the Liberals.
PEBU also confirms that the government’s average annual infrastructure investment remains at over $10 billion a year – more than double the long-term average – as the Labor Government continues to invest in the things that matter to Victorians.
The 2018/19 projected surplus is $2.3 billion, rising to approximately $3 billion by the end of the forward estimates.
Net debt as a percentage of gross state product (GSP) is no higher than 6 per cent over the forward estimates and lower than the level inherited from the former Liberal Government.
Employment and economic growth have both been revised up to 2.5 per cent and 3 per cent respectively in 2018-19, consistent with the strong economy and jobs growth that has been a consistent feature of the last four years.
The Pre-Election Budget Update is published by the Department of Treasury and Finance in accordance with reporting requirements under the Financial Management Act.
As noted by Treasurer Tim Pallas
“The Department of Treasury has confirmed that Victoria’s economic position is strong, with strong economic growth, budget surpluses, low debt, and low unemployment.”
“Since Labor was elected in 2014, more than 390,000 jobs have been created, with the economy growing by $50 billion thanks to our investments in public transport, schools, hospitals and roads.”
“All the progress our state is making is at risk under the Liberals, who have shown time and again they are for cuts and big corporations.”
