THE SOUTH AUSTRALIAN BUDGET 2017/18:
WHAT WE KNOW:
- The government will spend big on hospitals, allocating more than $1 billion for new facilities and upgrades including $500 million for a new women's hospital.
- The budget will focus on job creation, with a $5000 incentive for companies to take an apprentice or trainee as well as more payroll tax relief for small businesses.
- Treasurer Tom Koutsantonis will reaffirm the government's energy security plan including construction of a new gas-fired power station and a battery to store renewable energy.
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WHAT WE EXPECT:
- The budget is likely to forecast a surplus for 2017/18, although a boost to infrastructure spending is likely to put a dent in the final figure.
- There's unlikely to be many, if any, nasties for taxpayers with the government heading to an election in March.
- The treasurer could also look to ease cost-of-living pressures on households, particularly those associated with soaring energy prices.
WHAT OTHERS WANT:
- Business SA says the budget has to be all about jobs, especially jobs for young people. It also wants accelerated stamp duty reforms on business transfers and a $150 million infrastructure fund.
- The South Australian Council of Social Services argues the government must look to its revenue measures (taxes) to help improve vital community services and consider where it can raise more money.
- The Property Council says the government should introduce a flat land tax, push for council amalgamations to reduce waste, slash residential stamp duty and establish a task force to attract big companies back to SA.
- The Civil Contractors Federation wants the treasurer to be brave enough to increase state borrowings to fund an expanded infrastructure program that will create jobs and boost economic growth.
