Peter Van Onselen: The Proof Albo and Jim Have Botched Inflation

Introduction

Peter Van Onselen, a renowned political commentator, has strongly criticized the Albanese government's handling of inflation, asserting that both Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Treasurer Jim Chalmers have failed to effectively address the issue. Van Onselen argues that the government's actions have exacerbated the problem, leading to a significant increase in the cost of living for Australians.

Failed Monetary Policy

Van Onselen contends that the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has been too slow to raise interest rates, a move that could help curb inflation by reducing demand. The RBA has raised rates several times in recent months, but Van Onselen believes that these increases have been insufficient and have come too late.

He further argues that the government's decision to increase spending has also contributed to inflation. The government has introduced a number of new spending measures, such as the cost-of-living payments, which Van Onselen believes have put upward pressure on prices.

• Failed Monetary Policy
• Insufficient Interest Rate Hikes
• Government Spending Increase

Lack of Fiscal Discipline

Van Onselen also criticizes the government's lack of fiscal discipline, arguing that it has failed to control spending and reduce the budget deficit. The deficit has increased significantly in recent years, and Van Onselen believes that this is contributing to inflation by putting upward pressure on interest rates.

He further argues that the government's decision to increase taxes has also contributed to inflation. The government has introduced a number of new taxes, such as the carbon tax, which Van Onselen believes have increased the cost of living for Australians.

• Lack of Fiscal Discipline
• Uncontrolled Spending
• Increased Budget Deficit

Conclusion

Van Onselen concludes by arguing that the Albanese government has botched the inflation crisis. He believes that the government's actions have exacerbated the problem and have led to a significant increase in the cost of living for Australians. He calls on the government to change its approach and to adopt policies that will help to bring inflation under control.