It seems when the Budget takes one step forward, the display of priority drags them many steps back. This Budget does not prioritise social reform, student poverty or welfare support, leaving vulnerable Australians who seek guidance or support during cost-of-living crises in a bottlenecked welfare system.
Starting in July 2025, university and TAFE students who complete mandatory placements studying courses like teaching, nursing, social work, and midwifery will receive payments of over $300 a week during the duration of their placements.
Brennan then spoke noting that “everybody that turned up knew the risk… we put our bodies on the line.” Brennan kicked the hornet’s nest, and specifically called out one faction: “I want to call out Socialist Alternative here, you guys weren’t there.”