This report examines the way in which housing tax concessions are undermining affordability in Australia, by subsidising the removal of homes from the long-term rental market altogether. The report estimates the cost in foregone revenue to the Federal Budget of negative gearing deductions claimed on short-stay investment properties. The report argues that this policy failure...

Individual income taxes in Australia raise nearly half of federal government revenue. This note offers a new perspective on the efficiency and equity implications of the individual income tax system. The findings paint two starkly different pictures of horizontal and vertical equity in effective tax rates at high and low levels of income.

The 2025-26 Tasmanian budget forecast a significant increase in the state’s debt. This is despite the fact that the state will generate increased revenues. The cost of the yet-to-be-built Macquarie Point Stadium has become a lightning rod for debate about the state government’s priorities. This paper outlines how the state could increase revenue.

The outlook summarises the 2025–26 Budget and forward estimates for the general government sector, the public trading enterprise sector and the total Australian Capital Territory Government. It provides details of the projected Budget results, and background information including economic conditions and federal financial relations. An overview of initiatives and the infrastructure investment program are provided.

Australian states and territories are set to earn over $73 billion in mining royalties between 2024–25 and 2027–28. This report highlights the role of mining royalties in funding public services and infrastructure and warns against jeopardising this revenue stream. It provides policy recommendations and examines alternative mechanisms for capturing resource value.