Federal Budget 2025 Response

The Labor Government’s 2025 budget is packed with short-term relief and metro-friendly headlines — but once again, it fails to deliver meaningful support for regional Australia.

While energy rebates, tax cuts and Medicare funding grab the spotlight, many of the Riverina’s core needs have either been ignored or underfunded.

Where the Budget Falls Short for the Riverina

Agriculture & Water Security

There’s little in this budget for farmers or the backbone of Australia’s food supply. No meaningful investment in water infrastructure or regional resilience — despite worsening drought conditions and growing uncertainty in water policy.

Regional Infrastructure

Billions flow to big-city projects, while Inland Rail remains a planning disaster and regional roads and connectivity are neglected. We need investment in the infrastructure that supports freight, farming, and rural communities — not just capital cities.

Housing in the Regions

Despite talk of housing reform, there’s no clear pathway to boost housing supply in rural and regional areas where accommodation shortages are driving up costs and limiting workforce capacity.

What’s Welcome — But Needs Watching

Cost-of-Living Relief

Energy bill rebates, tax cuts and increased rent assistance are welcome — but they’re Band-Aids, not long-term solutions. We need policies that lower power prices permanently and strengthen our local economies.

Medicare & Bulk Billing

Boosts to GP access and mental health support are good news, but rural and regional areas still face a critical shortage of doctors. Funding is only as good as its reach — and the Riverina is often last in line.

What James Stands For

This budget is another reminder of why independent voices like James are so important. He’s not here for party spin or political posturing — he’s here to speak up for the Riverina.

James will continue to fight for:

• Serious investment in regional health, housing, and infrastructure

• Practical cost-of-living relief that supports local businesses and families

• A fair go for farmers, with real support for water security and sustainable agriculture

• A long-term plan that puts regional communities at the centre of national decision-making

"The cities keep getting the billions, and the bush keeps getting the leftovers. It’s time for a voice that puts the Riverina first — not just during an election, but every day in Parliament."

To view the media release as a pdf, please click here 

CONTACT: Cate Povey | 0402 118 958