Overview

• Labor's pre-election costings project a $1 billion improvement in the federal budget over four years, driven by $6.4 billion in consultant savings and $760 million from increased visa fees.
• Treasurer Jim Chalmers claims the budget is stronger at the end of the campaign than at its start, emphasizing responsible economic management.
• S&P Global warns Australia's triple-A credit rating could be jeopardized by increased deficits, debt, and reliance on off-budget funding for projects like the NBN and clean energy.
• Labor accuses the Coalition of hiding 'secret cuts' to fund nuclear energy projects and calls for immediate disclosure of its costings.
• Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor promises the Coalition will release its costings soon, guaranteeing no new taxes and pledging a stronger fiscal position.