Is the government really on an ‘out-of-control’ spending splurge? It’s complicated
Recent analysis questions whether Australia’s federal budget is in an ‘out‑of‑control’ spending spree. While overall outlays have risen, the bulk of the increase stems from mandatory costs such as defence procurement, the National Disability Insurance Scheme and health services. Treasury chief Jim Chalmers faces limited options to curb these expenditures, as many are politically and legally entrenched.