The Australian Democrats welcome parts of the 2026 Federal Budget that aim to address long-term structural challenges facing Australia, particularly around housing affordability, productivity, and inter-generational fairness. We believe many Australians are looking for practical reform that is grounded in evidence, focused on long-term outcomes, and capable of rebuilding trust in public institutions and decision-making.
Consequently, we support the genuine efforts to improve housing affordability and rebalance economic opportunity across generations. However, tax reform alone will not solve the housing crisis without serious action on housing supply, planning efficiency, infrastructure coordination, workforce capability, and construction productivity. All these things are further hampered by the lack of investment into research and development (R&D) and understanding the potential consequences of the disruptive adoption of AI models.
At the same time, the Australian Democrats believe this Budget highlights the need for deeper structural thinking and greater transparency about how reforms will work in practice. Australian voters all too well understand rising cost of living, housing insecurity, and the feeling of general instability in the world - they deserve politicians that can speak to these things frankly and honestly without laying blame towards their predecessors or parts of Australian society.
We also support responsible economic management and recognise the importance of fiscal sustainability. We caution that economic responsibility must remain balanced with social equity, fairness, and support for vulnerable Australians. This is not reflected by the deepness of cuts to the NDIS and education, though we acknowledge reform to the NDIS was needed. Long-term prosperity depends not only on economic growth, but on maintaining trust, inclusion, capability, and stability within the community.
The Australian Democrats believe Australia needs a more mature and collaborative approach to reform — one that moves beyond political point-scoring and focuses instead on evidence informed policy, transparent decision making, and practical solutions that strengthen both the economy and the wellbeing of Australians.
Our focus remains on thoughtful reform, democratic integrity, inter-generational fairness, and building a country that works better for current and future generations alike. If that resonates with you, perhaps it is time you consider joining us to help keep the bastards honest.
Leonie Green
National President
Australian Democrats
